Alvor

Travel Guide

Tres Irmaos Beach which includes general coastal views and a sandy beach
Tres Irmaos Beach which includes general coastal views, a sunset and rugged coastline
Tres Irmaos Beach showing rugged coastline, night scenes and a beach
Tres Irmaos Beach showing a sandy beach, fishing and a sunset
Tres Irmaos Beach featuring rugged coastline, a beach and general coastal views

Found in the western part of Algarve, Alvor is a charming ancient village on the southern coast of Portimão. Situated at the mouth of the Alvor estuary it offers incredible scenic views, with the Atlantic Ocean to one side and the calm lagoon on the other.

With narrow streets, whitewashed houses, golden beaches and rocky cliffs this fishing village is the perfect match between heritage and natural beauty.

Castle of Alvor

The castle was constructed in the 7th Century AD and would become the basis of a Roman settlement. It was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, however, the wall remain and offer visitors a fantastic panoramic view of the sea. Plus, if you are with the kids, you have the bonus of a children's playground.

Megalithis Monuments in Alcalar

The megalithic tombs of Alcalar are old memorial temples, which date back to the 3rd millennium. They were left undiscovered until the late 19th Century. Today, some of these tombs are now open to the visiting public. There is also a visitor centre where you can learn more about the day-to-day life of this prehistoric community.

Church of the Divino Salvador de Alvor

The Church of the Divino Salvador de Alvor is a magnificent Catholic church with an impressive 18th century Manueline style entranceway. The interior has an intriguing mixture of Baroque and Rococo influences. It’s an impressive attraction that’s well worth taking an afternoon to explore.

Morabito de São João

The St. John Morabito is a curious hermitage-like mosque situated in the local graveyard. There is an inscription that marks the Christianization of the temple:

Ego sum vox clamantis in deserto – ‘I am a voice clamouring in the desert’

A singular attraction, you won’t want to miss getting a snap of this unique piece of architecture.

Villa Abicada

Inhabited between the 1st and 4th century AD, the ruins of this Roman Villa has a geometrical plan with wide views of the lagoon and the sea. Be sure to check out the colourful and beautifully preserved mosaic floors.

Sculpture tribute to the Fisherman

On the waterfront of Alvor, visitors will find a stone sculpture by respected Portuguese sculptor, João Cutileiro. A tribute to the fishing community, this 4 metre tall sculpture depicts a fisherman holding his prized catch of fish aloft in the sky.

Beaches

There are four beaches within easy reach from Alvor: Alvor, Torralta, Three Brothers and Prainha Beaches.

Alvor Beach marks the division between the ocean and the estuary. With great facilities, such as bars and restaurants, and easy parking, this is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve.

Torralta has clear, warm waters, with a long sandy beach. It’s close to several hotels and restaurants, making it very convenient and a favourite with families.

Three Brothers Beach is located on a long, wide sandy stretch, bordered by rocks from which you can view a pretty spectacular sunset. Prainha has a beach club with a nice swimming pool, and a chillout area and bar serving snacks and drinks.

Activities

There’s plenty to keep the active holidaymaker occupied in Alvor. Alvor Beach’s scenic boardwalk is a gem for any runner. If you really want to get the adrenaline pumping, skydiving in the area is spectacular and offers amazing views of the coastline. There’s also plenty of boat tours that let you explore the scenic coastline and local marine wildlife swim to the caves and, if the tide is right, stop at a sand bank to collect shells.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Alvor has a lively bar scene where you can enjoy live music, top DJs, or just have a quiet drink before the setting sun. There’s also a great selection of restaurants serving both traditional Portuguese fish dishes and international cuisine.

Where to stay in Alvor

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Torralta

If you're spending some time in Torralta, Alvor Boardwalk and Tres Irmaos Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Torralta
Tres Irmaos Beach showing night scenes

Prainha

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Prainha. A stop by Tres Irmaos Beach or Prainha Beach might round out your trip.

Prainha
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Alagoas

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alagoas and surrounding area, you can visit Alvor Boardwalk and Tres Irmaos Beach.

Alagoas
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Montes de Alvor

Montes de Alvor is well-liked for its historic sites. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Alvor area, you might plan a trip to Alvor Boardwalk or Tres Irmaos Beach.

Montes de Alvor
Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach

Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach

4 out of 5
Rua do Barinel Praia de Alvor, Portimão
The price is P11,559 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P11,559
P12,519 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (187 reviews)
"Overall I think this property was overpriced for whats offered. The VIP amenity was a 20% discount on Spa but they didnt even have a spa on premises itt was an outsourced service I didnt bother to use it. When I arrived they had my room set up in two single beds I dont know why beecause it was only ..."

Reviewed on Jul 30, 2025

Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach
Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel

Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel

5 out of 5
Praia dos Três Irmaos, Alvor, Portimão
The price is P18,457 per night from Aug 26 to Aug 27
P18,457
P19,830 total
Aug 26 - Aug 27
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star beach hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (465 reviews)
"This is literally one of the best hotels I have ever stayed at. Such a great experience!"

Reviewed on Jul 18, 2025

Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel
Longevity Health and Wellness Hotel - Adults Only

Longevity Health and Wellness Hotel - Adults Only

5 out of 5
Cruz da Bota Lote 28, Estrada de Alvor, Portimão, Faro
The price is P14,587 per night from Aug 26 to Aug 27
P14,587
P15,729 total
Aug 26 - Aug 27
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (119 reviews)
"Really enjoy the stay."

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2025

Longevity Health and Wellness Hotel - Adults Only
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences

Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences

3 out of 5
Praia de Alvor, Alvor, Portimão
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Alvor Beach and Rocha Beach are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (241 reviews)
"Amazing staff. Would definitely return"

Reviewed on Jul 24, 2025

Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences
Pestana Alvor Park

Pestana Alvor Park

4 out of 5
Adega, Quinta do Ribeiro, Alvor, Portimão
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified aparthotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Alvor Beach and Rocha ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (115 reviews)
"One night stay at Pestana Alvor Park. Staff were prompt and polite, and the room more than we needed"

Reviewed on Jun 3, 2025

Pestana Alvor Park
Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos

Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos

4 out of 5
Rua D. Sancho I, n 9 / 11, Alvor, Portimão
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (89 reviews)
"This is the perfect hotel to enjoy Alvor area. Walkable from the old Alvor which is where you want to have dinner and experience nightlife. This hotel is like apartment style with a kitchen. Pool area and rooftop terrace is amazing. Staff was super friendly. The only issue we experienced is that ..."

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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