Are you looking for a tranquil destination after spending a few days of your Algarve itinerary in popular resort towns like Albufeira and Lagos? In that case, Alvor is the perfect place for you.
Despite being such a small town in the shade of Portimão, there are loads of things to do in Alvor Portugal and it’s not surprising it’s such a popular place to stay in Algarve for couples looking for a quiet retreat.
Compared to other towns in Algarve, Alvor boasts a local and serene atmosphere that is perfect for winding down whether you visit the Algarve in winter or summer.
I recently spent a few days there and felt just as relaxed as I did the first time I visited, though there are clearly more tourists coming.
Being among the most charming towns in the Algarve, it’s a colofrul little town overlooking the sand dunes leading down to the mesmerizing beaches.
If you plan to set your holidays to Alvor, this is for you! Read on to find out all the best things to do in Alvor.
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RELATED: How to get from Faro to Alvor
Table of Contents
Things to do in Alvor Portugal
Stroll along Alvor Boardwalk
Alvor Boardwalk stretches over 3 kilometers across the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. Every spring and autumn, you can witness a whole migrating population of different bird species as they stop there on their travels between Africa and northern Europe.
The natural park is also an excellent spot for seeing flamingos on the Algarve.
Next to the Alvor Boardwalk, you reach Alvor Beach which together make a 4.7km hiking trail that is well worth walking.
The boardwalk is perfect for those in a wheelchair or with small children in a stroller to explore the dunes and natural park.
Soak in vitamin D at Alvor Beach
When in Alvor, things to do must include a trip to the beach. Alvor Beach is situated on the western side, connected to Praia dos Tres Irmãos in the east.
You find all the necessary facilities on Alvor Beach. From sunbeds and shade for rent to excellent beach bars and restaurants.
When you’re done toasting in the sun, you can rent kayaks or jet skis to explore the coast from the water.
The beach is set right next to Alvor Boardwalk and there is plenty of parking next to the beach. There is a small wooden boardwalk taking you across the dunes to the beach.
Grab a beer at Bolan
Bolan is my absolute favorite place to grab a beer in alvor. The laidback reggae bar is located halfway up the main street in Alvor where you find most restaurants and bars.
I love all the scribblings and pictures on the walls and of course the reggae music makes it a fantastic place to wind down after a long day on the beach or walking around.
Step inside Igreja Matriz de Alvor
Alvor’s main church, also known as Igreja do Divino Salvador de Alvor, is worth a visit. Dating back to the 16th century, it has the typical façade from the era of Discoveries.
The interior is clean with elegant arches supported by columns leading up to the altar as you can typically see in Portuguese churches from this period.
The church is open to the public all day so you can respectfully pay it a visit while exploring Alvor. Note that the church has been painted white and blue on the outside, while it used to be white and yellow.
So if you see pictures of either color, it’s the same church, not too different ones. (Yes, I’m guilty of looking for the second church haha)
Stroll around Alvor old town
Alvor has truly kept its charm by avoiding high resort buildings lining the coastline. Go for a stroll through its alluring cobblestoned streets where whitewashed houses with traditional colorful paint along walls, windows, and doors remind you that you’re in Portugal.
Little shops with handicrafts sell locally made artifacts and there are cute cafés and bars to sit down for a drink.
The main attractions in Alvor old town is the Matriz Church. But even though there aren’t many attractions, the town truly embraces you and I can’t think of anywhere better to go to relax for a few days on my otherwise busy Algarve trips.
Alvor Castle
As opposed to what you might think, Alvor Castle might not be among the best things to do in Alvor. The castle itself, has been destroyed time after time through history just as much as it has been rebuilt.
However, the 1755 earthquake took a toll on Alvor town and the castle and now there are only the castle walls left.
What I love about it though, is that they have used the castle grounds to build a playground for children. So if you travel with kids, you should take them to play inside the castle (it’s free to enter!)
I still think it’s nice to see, but I’m also a sucker for anything historic ruins.
Walk the promenade
Go for a walk along the promenade is one of the best things to do in Alvor. You can take a rest at any of the cafés and people watch over a coffee or cold beer before continuing the walk.
Passing stalls selling tours, restaurants, and bars, you can glance out at the calm water dotted with yachts, sailing boats, and fishing boats.
There is a peaceful feel to Alvor compared to the typical coastal towns in Algarve and the promenade reflects exactly that.
Go bird watching
Ria de Alvor is a bird watcher’s paradise. There are so many different bird species living there and also stopping by during their big migration between Africa and northern Europe.
While I don’t know much about birds, I do enjoy seeing wildlife whenever I’m in nature and I’ve seen some pretty cool birds while walking Alvor Boardwalk.
On my last trip, I met this big guy who was chasing lizards and was far from shy when we walked near him. It was one of those magical travel experiences!
Take a boat trip
Among the most fun things to do in Alvor, make sure you go on this boat and kayaking tour to explore the hidden coves and beaches on the rugged coast.
It’s by far one of my favorite things to do in Alvor and in the Algarve in general. The coastline is so much fun and I always meet new people on the boats which makes each boat trip a unique experience.
What I love about this boat tour is that it stops for a kayak adventure and swim along the way, so you won’t just be sitting on the boat.
POPULAR BOAT TOURS FROM PORTIMÃO
Shop for souvenirs
When it comes to things to do, Alvor offers a lot considering its small size. This includes shopping. Being a small fishing village, you will not find big shopping malls or fancy shops in Alvor.
On the other hand, you will find many cute local shops selling quirky handmade stuff where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts for friends and family to take with you home.
On Sundays, you can also go to the farmer’s market near the Fisherman’s Huts. It is open from around 8:00 to 13:00.
Alvor is the perfect place to shop for those who are sustainable travel conscious as the money you spend shopping will gain the local community.
For those looking for a bigger scale shopping, head into Portimão and you’ll find everything you need.
Relax at Praia dos Tres Irmãos
Recognized by its three rocks in the water, Praia dos Tres Irmãos is most likely the most picturesque beach in Alvor and one you should visit even if it’s not bathing season.
Situated on the eastern side of Alvor, the blue flag beach is connected to Alvor beach by the mesmerizing rock formations, tunnels, hidden caves, and the iconic three rocks in the ocean.
Praia dos Tres Irmãos means “The beach of the three brothers” coming from the three rocks in the water. It is a great destination for snorkeling in the clear water around the rocks and cliffs.
On the beach, you can have fun exploring the caves and tunnels, but be aware of falling rocks, so don’t be tempted to lay down your towel right next to the rock walls. This is truly a fabulous beach to take pictures!
Like Alvor Beach, there are sunbeds and shade for rent, restaurants and bars to eat and drink, and lifeguards covering the first part of the beach.
But the further through to the other beaches you get, the more remote it gets and with it, the beach services and facilities disappear.
Explore the coast by paddleboard
One of the best ways to explore the coast of the Algarve is by paddleboard. Alvor is no different. There are a few places in the town and on Alvor Beach where you can rent a paddleboard or go on a guided group tour if that feels safer.
Exploring the golden cliffs, secluded beaches, and caves from the water is an incredible experience that you should not miss out on.
If you think kayaking is more fun, don’t worry. You can rent that too. Get ready to get adventurous!
Watch the fishermen at work
Being a fisherman town, you can still see the old fishing shacks by the water and fishermen are working there every day.
It’s nice to see them at work and the coast along the promenade is also full of colorful fishing boats that re perfect to take photos of.
Reflections on what to do in Alvor Portugal
So, now that you know what to do in Alvor you should be all set to explore this charming little coastal town. One of the things I like the most about Alvor is that it’s completely overshadowed by the more popular holiday destinations Lagos and Portimão, the latter being one of the most visited cities in Algarve.
Therefore, you won’t find the same crowds and it gives it an easygoing atmosphere so typical to the smaller fisherman’s towns and villages like Santa Luzia and Carvoeiro.
If you are up for a relaxed holiday with a pleasant balance between small-town, beach, and nature walks, there are enough things to do in Alvor Portugal.
On top of that, there are epic places to visit near Alvor if you want to change the pace.
Happy travels!