Olá from Portugal 🇵🇹 PART I…The Algarve
Why We Chose Portugal in February
Every year, Reza and I try to sneak away somewhere warm during the winter. After comparing destinations all over Europe, Portugal kept rising to the top of the list, and looking back, I can confidently say it was one of the best travel decisions we've made.
Even better? We were able to make the trip almost entirely on points.
Using airline miles for our flights and hotel points for our stays in both the Algarve and Lisbon, this became one of the most affordable European adventures we've ever taken. There's something incredibly satisfying about exploring a destination that's been on your bucket list while knowing you saved thousands of dollars in the process.
Our itinerary gave us the best of two very different sides of Portugal. We started in the Algarve, where dramatic golden cliffs meet the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, picturesque fishing villages line the coast, and some of Europe's most beautiful beaches seem to appear around every corner. After a few days exploring southern Portugal, we continued north to Lisbon to experience its colorful neighborhoods, incredible food, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
Portugal completely exceeded my expectations.
The scenery was breathtaking, the people were incredibly welcoming, the food was phenomenal, and there always seemed to be another castle, hidden beach, scenic overlook, or charming village waiting to be discovered. What started as a simple winter escape quickly became one of our favorite European adventures.
One of the biggest surprises, though, was the weather.
When most people think of Europe in February, they picture cold temperatures, gray skies, and heavy coats. The Algarve couldn't have been more different. We were greeted with sunshine almost every day and found ourselves comfortably exploring from morning until sunset. There were very few crowds, parking was easy, restaurants were relaxed, and we never felt rushed at any of the places we visited. Visiting during the shoulder season ended up being one of the best decisions we made.
This first blog covers everything we loved about the Algarve, while Part II will take you through our adventures in beautiful Lisbon.
Packing for Portugal in February
Packing for Portugal in February turned out to be much easier than I expected.
Before leaving, I checked the weather almost daily. While the forecast suggested daytime temperatures in the upper 50s to low 60s, the sunshine made it feel much warmer. A light jacket was perfect for the mornings and evenings, but during the day I found myself reaching for sundresses far more often than I anticipated.
Here's what I packed:
Mask
Snorkel
Dive computer
Light spring jacket
Windbreaker
Bathing suit
A few sundresses
Several pairs of leggings
Comfortable walking shoes (my Olukai booties were perfect!)
Reusable water bottle
Looking back, I wouldn't change much.
Comfortable walking shoes were by far the MVP of the trip. We spent hours wandering historic towns, hiking along the spectacular cliff tops, and exploring cobblestone streets, so good footwear was essential.
As always, I packed my mask, snorkel, and dive computer. Even when diving isn't the primary purpose of a trip, I have a hard time traveling somewhere with such beautiful water without being prepared just in case.
If you're wondering whether February is a good time to visit southern Portugal, my answer is an enthusiastic yes. The weather was fantastic, the crowds were minimal, and we felt like we experienced the Algarve at a slower, more authentic pace than we would have during the busy summer months.
I always do a pre-trip layout
Getting to Portugal
One of the things that made this trip so easy was finding a nonstop flight from Washington Dulles (IAD) to Lisbon.
Living about an hour from Dulles, we were thrilled to discover a direct overnight flight that got us from Virginia to Portugal in just over seven hours. We considered flying out of Baltimore, but every itinerary required at least one connection. The nonstop option saved us several hours of travel time and meant we could wake up in Europe ready to start exploring.
TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and United
If you travel frequently, I can't recommend TSA PreCheck and CLEAR enough.
Having both meant we breezed through security in just a few minutes, giving us plenty of time to relax in the lounge before boarding. They're two of the best travel investments I've made, especially for international trips.
We flew United using points, which made this adventure even sweeter. Our seats were in United's Economy Plus cabin, giving us a little extra legroom for the overnight flight. We left Virginia in the evening, settled in for a few hours of sleep, and woke up just before landing in Lisbon.
There's something magical about watching the sunrise over Europe as your plane begins its descent.
Arriving in Portugal
Lisbon Airport turned out to be much easier to navigate than I expected.
Despite being Portugal's busiest airport, the terminal was well organized, clearly marked, and surprisingly efficient. Picking up our rental car was just as straightforward since the rental center is conveniently located near the airport.
From there, we pointed the car south toward the Algarve.
The drive to Albufeira took about two and a half hours, and honestly, it was the perfect introduction to Portugal. Rolling green hills, cork oak forests, vineyards, whitewashed villages, and glimpses of the Atlantic made the journey feel like part of the adventure rather than just transportation.
One piece of advice: rent the smallest car you're comfortable driving.
Many of Portugal's historic towns were built centuries before automobiles existed, and the streets definitely reflect that. Between narrow lanes, tight parking spaces, and winding roads, we were incredibly thankful we had chosen a compact car. It made exploring so much less stressful.
First Impressions of the Algarve
The Algarve completely stole my heart.
We visited during the shoulder season expecting mild temperatures and maybe a few cloudy days. Instead, we were welcomed by sunshine, temperatures in the 70s, and some of the quietest beaches I've ever experienced in Europe.
It felt like we had discovered a secret.
The dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water, golden beaches, and charming seaside villages were every bit as beautiful as the photos I'd seen online—if not even more so.
What stood out even more than the scenery, though, were the people.
Everywhere we went, we were greeted with genuine kindness. Restaurant owners took time to chat with us, locals happily offered recommendations, and everyone made us feel incredibly welcome. There are only a handful of destinations where I've felt that level of hospitality—Fiji immediately comes to mind—and Portugal has definitely earned a place on that list.
Throughout the trip, I always felt safe, relaxed, and excited to see what we'd discover next.
Albufeira
Albufeira was the perfect place to begin our Portuguese adventure.
Its historic old town is filled with whitewashed buildings trimmed in colorful tiles, winding cobblestone streets, lively plazas, and inviting cafés. Everywhere you look, there's another charming little alleyway leading toward the ocean.
The town has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere during the off-season. We spent hours wandering through local shops, stopping for coffee, and simply enjoying the slower pace of life.
When we made our way down to the waterfront, we found beach bars serving cold local beers, refreshing cocktails, and fresh seafood just steps from the sand. Sitting with a drink in hand, listening to the waves crash against the cliffs, and watching the sun slowly sink toward the Atlantic was the perfect way to end each day.
If you're looking for a destination that combines incredible scenery, delicious food, welcoming people, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, Albufeira is an amazing place to start exploring the Algarve.
Zodiac Cave Exploration
One experience that absolutely deserves a spot on your Algarve itinerary is a zodiac cruise along the coastline.
Seeing the Algarve from the water gives you an entirely different perspective. Towering golden limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the Atlantic, hidden beaches appear around every corner, and sea caves carved by thousands of years of wind and waves create one of the most spectacular coastlines I've ever seen.
We booked a zodiac tour departing from Albufeira Marina, and it ended up being one of our favorite activities of the trip. The tour was very reasonably priced, the boat was comfortable, and the crew was fantastic. Throughout the cruise they shared interesting information about the coastline, pointed out hidden caves, and made sure everyone had an incredible experience.
Our main goal, of course, was visiting the famous Benagil Cave.
Seeing it in person was every bit as impressive as the photos. The massive dome, golden rock walls, and iconic skylight overhead make it one of Portugal's most recognizable natural landmarks. Thanks to relatively calm conditions, we were able to carefully enter the cave by zodiac and spend a few minutes taking it all in. It was one of those places that genuinely lives up to the hype.
One tip if you're hoping to spot dolphins: book one of the first tours of the day. The crew explained that marine life is often more active in the morning before boat traffic increases. We didn't get lucky this time, but it's definitely worth keeping in mind when planning your day.
The Atlantic can be unpredictable, and the sea conditions determine which caves are safe to enter. During our tour there was enough swell that we couldn't explore every cave along the coastline, but safety always comes first, and our captain did an excellent job navigating the conditions.
If the weather is calm and you're comfortable paddling, I would probably recommend kayaking to Benagil Cave over taking a boat tour. While the zodiac gives you an incredible overview of the coastline and allows you to visit multiple caves, a kayak lets you spend more time inside Benagil itself and appreciate the famous beach and natural skylight from a completely different perspective.
No matter which option you choose, exploring the Algarve from the water is something I wouldn't miss. Some of Portugal's most beautiful scenery simply can't be appreciated from land alone.
Hotel - W Algarve
Every once in a while, you stay somewhere that completely changes your expectations of what a hotel can be.
For us, that place was the W Algarve.
Thanks to hotel points, we were able to experience what is easily the nicest hotel I've ever stayed in, and from the moment we pulled into the driveway, I knew we were in for something special.
The first thing that struck me wasn't the architecture or the ocean views—it was the people.
We were welcomed with genuine smiles, complimentary valet parking, and glasses of locally produced sparkling wine while we checked in. It had a light citrus flavor that was unlike any sparkling wine I'd tasted before, and it was such a thoughtful way to begin our stay.
One thing that really stood out throughout our time in Portugal was how kind everyone was. I made an effort to practice my very limited Portuguese whenever I could, and every single staff member was incredibly patient and encouraging. Nobody ever made me feel embarrassed for stumbling over my pronunciation. Instead, they smiled, helped me along, and genuinely appreciated the effort. Those small interactions ended up being some of my favorite memories from the trip.
Then we opened the door to our room.
Wow.
The room was beautifully designed, blending modern luxury with subtle nods to the Algarve's coastal landscape. Every detail felt intentional, from the lighting and furniture to the artwork and finishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows filled the space with natural light, creating an atmosphere that was both elegant and incredibly relaxing.
The bed was dangerously comfortable. After long days exploring the Algarve, it was exactly what we looked forward to every evening.
One of my favorite things about the property was how effortlessly it blended luxury with a relaxed beach atmosphere. Nothing felt overly formal or intimidating. Instead, it felt welcoming, vibrant, and full of life while still delivering five-star service.
The pools were absolutely gorgeous, offering panoramic views toward the Atlantic and plenty of comfortable places to relax with a book or simply soak up the sunshine. Even in February, we found ourselves spending time outside because the weather was so beautiful.
Cocktails Worth Visiting For
Even if you aren't staying at the hotel, I would recommend stopping by for a cocktail.
The bar program at the W Algarve was one of the best I've experienced anywhere in the world. Rather than relying on standard classics, many of the cocktails highlighted fresh local ingredients and flavors inspired by southern Portugal. Every drink felt creative without being overcomplicated, and each one was beautifully presented.
You could tell that an incredible amount of thought had gone into every part of the experience.
Sea Lavender cocktail (left) Fig cocktail (on the right)
The breakfast every morning was absolutely perfect! Pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tarts), perfectly ripened fruits, and much more!
The Food
Portugal completely won me over with its food.
One of the things I loved most was the country's connection to the ocean. Fresh, locally caught seafood is at the heart of many traditional dishes, and you can tell the restaurants take tremendous pride in serving seasonal ingredients. Every menu seemed to highlight whatever had come in from the boats that day, creating meals that felt simple, fresh, and incredibly flavorful.
One thing we discovered quickly was that you don't always have to eat at the busiest restaurants with the ocean views to find the best food. Some of our favorite meals came from small family-owned restaurants tucked just a few streets away from the main tourist areas. Not only were they more affordable, but they also felt more authentic, and the hospitality was second to none.
As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy Portugal was to navigate. Nearly every restaurant offered thoughtful vegetarian options, and we found plenty of vegan-friendly cafés and restaurants throughout the Algarve. I never felt like I was settling for the only meat-free option on the menu, which isn't always the case when traveling.
One thing you absolutely have to try is the fresh orange juice.
The Algarve is famous for its oranges, and after one sip, you'll understand why. It was hands down the best orange juice I've ever tasted—sweet, incredibly fresh, and bursting with flavor. We ordered it almost every morning at breakfast, and I'm still dreaming about it.
Of course, no trip to Portugal would be complete without trying a pastel de nata. These iconic Portuguese custard tarts feature a flaky, buttery pastry filled with rich, creamy custard that's lightly caramelized on top. They're best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee, and once you have your first one, it's almost impossible to stop at just one.
One of the things I appreciated most about dining in Portugal was how relaxed every meal felt. There was never any pressure to rush through dinner or quickly pay the bill. Meals were meant to be enjoyed, conversations lingered long after the plates were cleared, and every restaurant seemed to encourage you to slow down and savor the moment.
Looking back, the food became just as memorable as the scenery. Between the fresh local ingredients, welcoming restaurants, incredible pastries, and some of the best orange juice I've ever tasted, Portugal quickly earned a spot among my favorite food destinations in Europe.
The world famous custard tarts and fresh squeezed orange juice
Paper Moon
One of our favorite dinners of the trip was at Paper Moon, located inside the W Algarve.
If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, I can't recommend this restaurant enough. The menu blends classic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients, and every dish we ordered was beautifully prepared and full of flavor.
The wine list was equally impressive, with an excellent selection that perfectly complemented the meal. Between the exceptional food, attentive service, elegant atmosphere, and beautiful setting, it felt like one of those dinners you'll still be talking about long after your vacation ends.
Whether you're staying at the W Algarve or simply looking for a memorable dinner in the Algarve, Paper Moon is absolutely worth making a reservation for.
Beaches
If there's one thing the Algarve does exceptionally well, it's beaches.
We visited more than 20 different beaches during our trip, and somehow each one felt completely unique. Some were tucked beneath towering limestone cliffs, others stretched for miles with soft golden sand, and a few felt like hidden coves that had somehow escaped the crowds.
The Algarve's coastline is unlike anywhere else I've visited. Over millions of years, the Atlantic Ocean has sculpted dramatic rock formations, sea arches, caves, and towering golden cliffs that frame beaches with crystal-clear water. Every time we rounded another bend in the road, we found ourselves saying, "This one might be even prettier than the last."
Praia Maria Luísa
Our first beach in Portugal ended up being one of our favorites.
When we arrived in Albufeira, a cycling race had temporarily closed the road leading to our hotel, so we decided to make the best of it and stopped at Praia Maria Luísa.
What a way to be welcomed to Portugal.
Golden cliffs towered above the turquoise water, the sand was incredibly soft, and the beach felt peaceful despite being just a short drive from town. It was one of those places where we immediately looked at each other and said, "We're going to love it here."
Praia da Falésia
Praia da Falésia is probably the Algarve's most iconic beach, and after visiting, it's easy to understand why.
The seemingly endless stretch of golden sand is backed by striking red and orange cliffs that glow in the afternoon sunlight. Walking along the cliff-top trails quickly became one of my favorite memories from the trip. Every few minutes we'd stop to admire another incredible viewpoint before continuing along the coastline.
Whether you're looking to swim, relax on the beach, or simply enjoy one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Europe, Praia da Falésia absolutely deserves its reputation.
Praia dos Alemães
If you're staying in Albufeira, Praia dos Alemães is a fantastic choice.
Its convenient location near the Old Town makes it easy to spend the morning exploring before heading down to the beach for the afternoon. We loved the relaxed atmosphere, nearby cafés, and easy beach access. It struck a perfect balance between lively and peaceful.
Praia da Galé
Just a short walk from the W Algarve, Praia da Galé quickly became one of our favorite "local" beaches.
Wide, spacious, and much quieter than many of the area's more famous beaches, it was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The gentle waves also made it a great beach for beginner surfers and anyone looking for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.
Praia da Mareta
If I had to choose just one favorite beach from the entire trip, it would be Praia da Mareta in Sagres.
There was something almost magical about this place.
The dramatic cliffs, soft sand, crystal-clear water, and slower pace created an atmosphere that immediately made us want to stay all day. It felt less developed than some of the beaches farther east and had a wonderfully relaxed vibe that perfectly matched the spirit of Sagres.
We spent hours walking along the shoreline, listening to the waves, and simply taking it all in. Small cafés overlooking the beach made it easy to grab lunch or a drink without ever feeling like we needed to leave.
Out of more than twenty beaches we explored, Praia da Mareta was the one we kept talking about long after we left.
Our Biggest Recommendation
One of the best decisions we made was renting a car and beach hopping throughout the Algarve.
Instead of spending every day at the same beach, we explored a different stretch of coastline each morning and afternoon. Every beach had its own personality, and discovering those differences became one of our favorite parts of the trip.
If you have the time, don't settle for just one. Some of the Algarve's greatest treasures are the beaches you stumble upon simply because you decided to keep driving a little farther down the coast.
Sagres
Out of everywhere we visited in the Algarve, Sagres completely stole our hearts.
Located on Portugal's southwestern tip, where the Atlantic Ocean meets dramatic cliffs and endless beaches, Sagres has a completely different feel from the resort towns farther east. It's quieter, more rugged, and wonderfully laid-back. Instead of beach clubs and crowds, you'll find surfers, cozy cafés, family-owned restaurants, and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Europe.
The drive from Albufeira takes about 40 minutes, and it's worth every minute. We passed rolling countryside, small villages, and several artisan pottery studios that made us wish we'd budgeted more room in our suitcases.
From the moment we arrived, we knew there was something special about Sagres.
The town has a relaxed, authentic atmosphere that's hard to put into words. Life seems to move a little slower here. People linger over coffee, surfers head to the beach with boards under their arms, and locals gather to watch the sunset over the Atlantic.
The food was exceptional, the beaches were breathtaking, and the surfing conditions looked absolutely perfect. Every corner of town seemed to invite us to slow down and simply enjoy where we were.
We loved Sagres so much that we actually started looking at homes for sale while we were there.
I'm only half joking when I say I could picture spending a few months each year here. It has that rare combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, incredible food, and a welcoming community that makes you immediately start imagining what life would be like if you never left.
If you're visiting the Algarve, please don't limit yourself to Albufeira or Lagos. Set aside at least a day to explore Sagres.
Something tells me you'll understand exactly why we fell in love with it.
Armação de Pêra
One of our favorite discoveries in the Algarve was the charming seaside town of Armação de Pêra.
While many visitors flock to the larger resort towns, Armação de Pêra still feels like a traditional Portuguese fishing village. Colorful fishing boats line the beach, locals gather along the waterfront promenade, and life moves at a wonderfully relaxed pace. It was exactly the kind of place we love stumbling upon while traveling.
Rather than renting the car for another day, we took an Uber from the W Algarve. The ride cost around €9 and took about 20 minutes, making it an easy and affordable afternoon trip.
We spent a few hours wandering the waterfront, browsing local shops, and simply enjoying the atmosphere before sitting down for what turned out to be our favorite meal of the entire trip.
Lobo do Mar (The Sea Wolf)
If you only eat at one restaurant in the Algarve, make it Lobo do Mar (The Sea Wolf).
This wasn't just our favorite restaurant in Portugal—it ranks among one of the best dining experiences we've had anywhere.
Before our meal even began, we ordered a bottle of local Portuguese wine and settled in to enjoy the evening. The staff made us feel incredibly welcome, and the service struck the perfect balance between attentive and relaxed.
Our meal started with olives and fresh goat cheese, a simple appetizer that somehow managed to be unforgettable. Sometimes the best ingredients don't need much else.
As a vegetarian, I was once again impressed by the thoughtful menu options, while Reza ordered the local seafood platter featuring oysters, lobster, shrimp, and other fresh catches from the Algarve.
To this day, he still says it was the best seafood meal he's ever had.
Watching the sun begin to set over the Atlantic while enjoying fresh local food and wine made for one of those travel moments you wish you could bottle up forever.
If you're planning a trip to the Algarve, put Armação de Pêra on your itinerary—and make a reservation at Lobo do Mar. I genuinely think it's one of those restaurants worth planning an entire afternoon around.
Scuba Diving
Sadly it rained heavily the week before we arrived in Portugal. The visibility was maybe a foot! The water was colder than I expected, but I can’t wait to go back to Portugal to see all of the amazing reefs and wildlife! I was told that April - October is the best time to dive!
Adventure is out there!
