In search of the Algarve’s best Instagram spots? You’re in luck! The Algarve is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal and is filled with photogenic hotspots that make for incredible memories.
I got to explore a ton of these places during my solo trip to the Algarve and loved every minute of it!
From some of the world’s most beautiful beaches to hidden caves and unique rock formations, let’s check out the best Instagram spots the Algarve has to offer!
The Best Algarve Instagram Spots
Benagil Cave
Benagil
The famous Benagil Caves, with their stunning rock formations and hidden beach, are a must-visit attraction. Located along the stunning Algarve coast, this mesmerizing sea cave is a natural wonder that was actually pretty unknown until a photo of it went viral on Instagram.
Known for its natural skylight and the spacious golden beach inside the cave itself, it’s a pretty surreal spot. In fact, the only way to reach Benagil Cave is by swimming, kayaking, or boating to the openings.
I enjoyed visiting the caves on a boat tour, but I have to admit, it was a little more crowded than I would’ve liked. Oh, well. It was worth it though for the chance to admire the sunlight filtering through the caves rocky mouth.
Praia Da Marinha
Carvoeiro
Praia Da Marinha is one of the best beaches in the Algarve, famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters. It’s Insta-famous for its distinctive heart-shaped rock formation made from two natural arches close to the beach.
For the best photos, visit during the golden hour when the soft lighting enhances the natural colors. Be sure to capture your shot from the cliff above, the downward angle is what really brings out the heart shape.
Ponta da Piedade
Lagos
Ponta da Piedade is a breathtaking natural wonder located on the south coast of the Algarve. Its dramatic cliffs and rock formations create a mesmerizing landscape that attracts visitors from around the world. This is my favorite spot in the Algarve and I consider it a must-visit for any solo travelers looking to admire Portugal’s natural beauty.
PS: Wondering when to visit to Portugal? While you can’t exactly swim in the Algarve in winter, you can still enjoy the stunning beaches and amazing monuments.
Praia do Camilo
Lagos
The steps at Praia do Camilo are definitely ones you’ll recognize from Instagram! Situated between Praia Dona Ana Beach and Praia da Boneca Beach, Praia do Camilo is accessible by two hundred wooden steps.
But with crystal-clear waters and a stunning group of rock formations, the climb back up is totally worth it. When you’re done, head to O Camilo restaurant for some of the best views in the region!
I sat on their patio enjoying champagne, fresh oysters, and the incredible view, and it was one of the best things I did while traveling solo in Portugal.
READ NEXT: The Ultimate Algarve Travel Guide
Algar Seco
Carvoeiro
No trip to the Algarve is complete without checking out the Algar Seco! Formed over thousands of years by the relentless force of the Atlantic waves, this network of caves and captivating rock formations includes natural pools, sea caves, and unique photo opps.
Don’t miss the famous viewpoint, A Boneca, where the limestone parts like a window with the perfect ocean view!
Praia dos Estudantes Beach
Lagos
Praia dos Estudantes Beach is a secluded beach tucked beneath two large cliffs that has one of the most amazing photo spots Instagram spots in the Algarve. This picturesque, small beach is famous for the unique bridge that arches over the sand, perfect for posing underneath.
Ceramica Paraiso in Vila do Bispo
Sagres
Just ten minutes from Sagres you’ll find Ceramica Paraiso. This ceramics store is decorated with all kinds of colorful plates, making it the perfect backdrop for a photo. A lesser-known spot, it’s unlikely to be too crowded. When you’re done taking photos, head inside to grab some souvenirs!
READ NEXT: 15 Fabulous Day Trips from Faro, Portugal
Arco de Albandeira
Lagos
Situated in Lagos at Praia de Praia da Albandeira, Arco de Albandeira is a stunning natural stone arch that rises majestically out of the sea.
This striking geological feature is best seen during sunrise or sunset, when the soft light accentuates the rugged textures and creates magical reflections on the water.
Ferragudo
Located near Portimão, Ferragudo is a charming fishermen’s village and one of the most beautiful Algarve towns. The whole place feels like a timeless postcard!
With its narrow streets, whitewashed houses adorned with blooming bougainvillaea, and colorful flower pots, Ferragundo is irresistibly photogenic.
For the best photos, stroll through the village in the late afternoon when the golden hour light casts a magical glow. Don’t forget to cross the bridge to capture the fishing boats against the picturesque backdrop of Ferragudo’s iconic white houses.
Praia Dona Ana
Lagos
Praia Dona Ana is another photo-worthy gem you won’t want to miss. Located near Lagos, the beach is famous for its striking golden cliffs and turquoise waters.
With mild temperatures and over 300 days of sunshine per year, you can even check out all the pristine beaches if you visit the Algarve in the winter!
READ NEXT: Instagrammable Lisbon: 37 Best Photo Spots with Map (+Sintra!)
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Portugal’s best coastal hike, offering breathtaking views of turquoise waters, hidden caves, secluded beaches, and remarkable rock formations. Start at Carvoeiro boardwalk, explore the stunning Algar Seco sea caves, and make sure to visit the iconic Benagil Cave, accessible only by boat or kayak. Discover the beauty of this extraordinary trail and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Algarve coastline.
Praia da Rocha
Portimão
Praia da Rocha is another must-visit Instagram spot in the Algarve, known for its expansive sandy shores and lively nightlife.
For the best photos, head there during sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the landscape.
READ NEXT: The 19 Best Porto Instagram Spots For Picture-Perfect Photos
Praia da Arrifana
Aljezur
Surrounded by rugged cliffs and dotted with colorful fishing boats, Praia da Arrifana is another must-visit beach for any photography enthusiast.
For unique shots, hike up to Ponta da Atalaia viewpoint and capture a panoramic view of this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Praia dos Três Irmãos
Alvor
Praia dos Tres Irmaos is another of the Algarve’s beautiful beaches. A large, sandy beach, it’s typically less crowded than others. Make sure to explore, because there are also several caves, an arch, and interesting rock formations that are great for framing and posing.
Fortaleza de Santa Catarina
Portimão
Fortaleza de Santa Catarina offers panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into the town’s historic fort.
Take a stroll along the walls and capture the stunning scenery, or climb to the top of the tower for an even more impressive perspective. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the charming fishing boats in the harbor below.
Cabo de São Vincente
Sagres
A day trip to Sagres, a small town west of Lagos, allows you to experience the awe-inspiring Sagres Point and Cabo de São Vincente, where a lighthouse stands tall atop a 60-meter cliff, perfect for breathtaking sunsets.
Cidade Velha
Faro
Faro is worth a visit to check out the Cidade Velha (Old Town) invites you to wander through its narrow streets and explore the ancient city walls, while the Arco da Vila showcases impressive 1000-year-old stonework. Don’t miss Arco Da Vila, a gorgeous old gate and symmetrical arch as well as one of the Bone Chapel, one of the Algarve’s best hidden gems.
READ NEXT: Algarve in Winter: Visiting Faro, Lagos & Albufeira
Costa Vicentina
Experience one of the Algarve’s most Instagrammable places at Rota Vicentina, a network of picturesque walking routes in the Algarve and Alentejo region, including the acclaimed Fishermen’s Trail and Historical Way, known for their breathtaking beauty.
The Fishermen’s Trail is a multi-day hike covering over 220 kilometers across the enchanting Costa Vicentina in 13 sections. For a day hike, explore the area’s circular routes like The Dunes of Almograve.
Miradouro da Senhora da Encarnação
Carvoeira
This incredbile viewpoint in Carvoeira overlooks the coastline and sparkling blue waters of the beach below. Perched on a cliff, you’ll also get a great view of the cliff across the way, filled with charming white buildings.
Burgau
White houses with blue doors and bougainvillea spilling over the walls, it’s easy to see why this coastal town is referred to as the ‘Santorini of Portugal.’
With colorful boats, clear turquoise waters, and a quaint, small fishing village vibe, this entire town is one big photoshoot waiting to happen.
Praia da Falésia
Falésia
Praia da Falésia is a stunning stretch of beach located near Albufeira in the Algarve. Known for its impressive red and orange cliffs that contrast beautifully with the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s definitely a unique place as well as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Portugal.
Love Instagrammable places? Check out these beautiful cities:
- Lisbon: Between the fairy-tale-like Sintra palaces and narrow streets of the Alfama, you’ll never run out of Instagram spots in Lisbon.
- Seville: If regal photography is your thing, head to Andalusia where you’ll find some of the most beautiful palaces in Spain! The Royal Alcazar is by far one of the most Instagrammable places in Seville!
- Porto: Every city in Portugal is filled with viewpoints and this northern city is no exception. The views at each Porto miradouro make up some of the most unforgettable Porto Instagram spots.
- Madrid: If food and photography are your things, I’ve got a Spanish city that’s right up your alley! Many of the best Madrid Instagram spots are food-based locations, like the famed market, Mercado San Miguel.
- Madeira: This stunning Portuguese island is filled with lush waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and natural volcanic pools that make up the most beautiful Madeira Instagram spots.
Where To Stay In The Algarve
If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider basing yourself in either Faro or Lagos. As the capital of the Algarve, there are so many easy Faro day trips that will allow you to explore as much of the region as possible. Plus, it’s where the airport is located, making it a super convenient option!
Lagos, on the other hand, is home to, in my opinion, the most beautiful places in the region like Ponta de Piedade and Praia do Camilo.
If your goal is to learn how to surf in the Algarve, check out some of the surf hostels in Sagres and Aljezur.
RELATED POSTS: