How to choose the right Algarve Accommodation
Before arriving there are a few steps you should consider when choosing your Algarve accommodation in order to make the right decision. Bear in mind that the Algarve is a very high demanded destination during the high season (May – September) for what I recommend you don’t leave your accommodation booking for the last minute or that will result in you paying much higher prices than you would expect, and it will also be more difficult to secure the place you want.
It’s best to anticipate and book your accommodation with 2-3 months in advance, not only you will be able to secure a good spot, you will also find that prices are much more accessible. It can be very stressful trying to find something last minute and it will likely keep you from enjoying your holidays peacefully and relaxed. So here are a few steps to get you started:
- Find the right location for your accommodation
- Choose the right type of accommodation according to your needs
- Find the best and most competitive prices
Choosing the right Algarve accommodation
Many Algarve tourists think of a Hotel as their primary choice for their Algarve accommodation, but in fact there are other option that being cheaper than a hotel will give you other advantages. The main ones are:
- Holiday Apartments
- Aparthotels
- Guest Houses
- Hotels, Hostels/Pensions
Which option you choose, depends on factors below
Hotels
The whole Algarve Region boasts more than 350 Hotels among the most popular and touristic places. In order to make it easier I selected the top destinations and the best Hotels in those destinations. If you are searching for some that is not here maybe you want to try visiting the bookings.com website and find something in your destination. If you are visiting Tavira I recommend taking a look at our Tavira Travel Guide website where you will find valuable information specific to Tavira.
In order to get started I divided the Hotels by ranking — 5 star, 4 star, 3 star… Inside the corresponding page the Hotels will be grouped by location, if they are on the West Algarve Region they will be at the top, Centre Algarve Region at the centre and East Algarve Region at the bottom.
A holiday Apartment or a Hotel?
If you are becoming a regular visitor to the Algarve Region, or if you plan to come in a group of 4 or 5 people — or you have a big family–, maybe you are starting to consider to rent an Holiday Apartment or an ApartHotel instead of an Hotel. It can be considerably cheaper and you will avail of your own space with all the conveniences.
ApartHotels are quite common in the Algarve, from early the industry understood that people would become regular visitors and adapted their spaces to include this option. Aparthotels are a cost-effective alternative for families or groups that want to be together, and like an Apartment, ApartHotels usually have an en-suite and kitchen with stove, microwaves and fridge that enable you to prepare and store your food and groceries.
