Algarve Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting The Algarve
Essential Pre-Travel Information for Your Algarve Trip:
If you’re considering a trip to the Algarve, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. This beautiful region of Portugal is known for its stunning beaches and lush greenery. But before you set off, there are a few things you should know about this region, from currency to language and everything in between.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure your trip goes seamlessly:
Currency in the Algarve - The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (€). Before leaving for your trip, make sure you get some Euros before arriving in the Algarve so that you don’t waste any time looking for an ATM when you arrive. Check the current exchange rates online so that you can budget accordingly.
Algarve Government & Constitution - As a democratic country, Portugal honors the values of equality, freedom of speech, and political tolerance. Travelers visiting the Algarve will be welcomed with open arms, but of course, are expected to adhere to the local laws and practices to ensure a trouble-free, terrific time in this fantastic country.
Algarve Electricity/Voltage - Algarve uses electricity at 220-240V, 50Hz with European standard Europlug and Schuko plug sockets. If you plan on using electrical appliances that operate on a different voltage, a transformer is required, while appliances that have different plugs will need an adapter.
Language in the Algarve - Most people in the Algarve speak Portuguese but English is widely spoken as well. It's always polite to learn some basic words and phrases in the local language before visiting a foreign country - after all, it's part of experiencing the culture! If you feel like brushing up on your Portuguese skills before traveling, there are plenty of online resources available.
Wi-Fi/Internet Access in the Algarve - The Internet is accessible almost everywhere across Portugal and Wi-Fi networks are available throughout most public spaces such as coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, and hostels. You may need to ask an employee for the password before connecting though, as these networks are usually password-protected. Make sure your mobile device is unlocked if you want to use a local SIM card while traveling too!
Schedule Information on Public Spaces in the Algarve
Faro Airport: There's a local bus running once or twice an hour every day between the airport and the Faro city center, with a fare of €2.25 and a travel time of about 20 minutes;
Trains: A railway line connects Lagos in the west to Vila Real de Santo António in the east. Train times are irregular, and tickets can only be purchased at the station or from the conductor in cash. Discounts are available for children and seniors over 65;
Local Buses: Buses between towns and villages typically start around 7:00 AM on weekdays and end by 8:30 PM. Services are reduced on weekends and public holidays. These buses do not have route numbers, and you need to check the destination display on the front of the bus;
Inter-urban Bus Services: The EVA bus company operates most of these services, and Frota Azul operates around Portimão. Tickets must be purchased at bus stations or from the driver, with fares varying depending on the route;
Long-Distance Coaches: For travel to Lisbon and beyond, or to Seville and Spain, several coaches run daily. Tickets can be purchased online or at bus stations.
What to Pack For Your Algarve Trip
- Bathing suits and water shoes (for the beach or hotel facilities)
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses/sun hat
- Power plug adaptor/voltage converter
- Camera and/or Camera Phone
- Lightweight coat/windbreaker or raincoat
- Walking shoes/sneakers (sandals or flip-flops for the pool and/or dinners)
- Comfortable/athletic wear/shorts
- Lightweight sack/shoulder bag for walks/hikes
Note: Portuguese summers can be very hot and humid, so light layers are essential in order to stay cool and comfortable during the day. It is also important to bring good sun cream with a high SPF rating as temperatures can reach up to 40°C during peak summer months.
Useful Contacts During Your Stay in the Algarve
It's always handy to have some useful contacts saved just in case something goes wrong during your travels or if there's an emergency situation - this could be anything from medical emergencies or lost items/documents etc. You should save contact information for local hospitals/clinics, police stations, and even embassies/consulates just in case they come in handy during your stay in Algarve!
- Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 112
- Forest Fire: 117
- Tourist Helpline: 808 78 12 12
Hospitals In The Algarve:
- Faro: 289 891 100
- Lagos: 282 770 100
- Portimão: 282 450 330
- Red Cross in Faro: 289 899 900
The Portugal Getaways Customer Care team is available 7 days a week to answer your concerns by phone, email, or chat, in the event of an emergency, dial 112, the national emergency service, free of charge. If you require medical assistance, you should go to the local Health Care Centre (Centro de Saúde).
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