What to do in Vale Formoso

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Albufeira Old Town Square

Albufeira Old Town Square (Jardim Público de Albufeira) is the beating heart of the atmospheric Albufeira Old Town. This tree-shaded public space offers superb dining, entertainment, people-watching and shopping experiences. Visit Albufeira Old Town Square at any time of the day to witness a true essence of this ancient fishing village.
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Albufeira Old Town Square featuring a city and a sunset

2. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
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Falesia Beach showing rocky coastline, general coastal views and a sandy beach

3. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
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Vilamoura Marina which includes a bay or harbour

4. Olhao Harbour

Life in Olhão centers on the city’s harbor and marina area. Watch as fishing boats pull into dock and unload their catches, many of which will be bound for nearby restaurants. Or, take a boat trip to the fabulous beach-lined barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
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Olhao Harbour featuring a bay or harbor

5. Sao Rafael Beach

São Rafael Beach (Praia de São Rafael) is close enough to Albufeira for a daytrip yet far enough away that it escapes the bustle of the city. São Rafael Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, some of which have been eroded over centuries into curious shapes. The beach sits in a sheltered bay and boasts safe, crystal-clear water and powdery sand that runs gently between your toes.
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Sao Rafael Beach which includes general coastal views, a sandy beach and rugged coastline

6. Oura Beach

Be energetic or simply relax at Oura Beach (Praia da Oura). With abundant water sports, a picturesque Algarve backdrop and a promenade lined with bars and restaurants, this is one of the liveliest beaches of Albufeira. Oura Beach is home to several large resort hotels, thus making it a busy coastal destination year round.
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Oura Beach featuring rugged coastline, general coastal views and boating

7. Salgados Beach

Salgados Beach (Praia dos Salgados) offers an idyllic combination of recreation and relaxation on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm seawater and watching the sunset. Enjoy walks on miles of empty coastline and explore the nearby lake and wildlife area.
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Salgados Beach featuring a beach and general coastal views as well as an individual male

What to do in Vale Formoso

Popular places to visit

Vilamoura Marina showing a bay or harbour

Vilamoura Marina

Take a boat trip to see dolphins and go parasailing with a tour operator near this marina, which is bordered by the town’s main strip of restaurants and nightclubs.

Vilamoura Marina
Praia da Falésia beach cliffs aerial Algarve Portugal 2

Vilamoura Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Vilamoura Beach during your travels in Vilamoura? Visit the spas and lively bars in this relaxing area.

Vilamoura Beach
Drink in hand sunset down!

Garrao Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Garrao Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Vale do Garrão. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Garrao Beach

Aqua Show Park

Have a fun-filled day with the family at Aqua Show Park as part of your trip to Quarteira. Wander through the beautiful beaches and marina in this relaxing area.

Aqua Show Park

Quinta do Lago Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Quinta do Lago Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Quinta do Lago. Attend a sporting event in this relaxing area or seek out the golf courses.

Quinta do Lago Beach

Loule Castle

Loule Castle is just one of the places to see in São Sebastião, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time for the spas and golf courses in this relaxing area.

Loule Castle

Loule Town Market

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Loule Town Market during your visit to São Clemente. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Loule Town Market

Quinta do Lago Golf

Enjoy a round of golf in Almancil at Quinta do Lago Golf. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Quinta do Lago Golf

Vila Sol Golf

Enjoy a round of golf in Quarteira at Vila Sol Golf. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Vila Sol Golf

Day trip destinations from Vale Formoso

Exclusive Luxury Real Estate at San Lorenzo Golf Course: 4K Aerial View of Palatial Mansions, Private Infinity Pools, and Championship Fairways in Quinta do Lago, Algarve, Portugal

Almancil

Frequently asked questions

Is Vale Formoso worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are loads of great things to do in Vale Formoso. Make sure to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Vale Formoso?
After you've visited key attractions like Praia de Forte Novo and Family Golf Park, spend the rest of your day discovering Vale Formoso's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Vale Formoso?
The top tourist attraction in Vale Formoso is Praia de Forte Novo, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Vale Formoso?
You can easily tour top sights like Praia de Forte Novo, Paintarena Portugal and Algarve Stadium with a three-day stay in Vale Formoso. On average, most travellers book five days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Albufeira.
Is Vale Formoso a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Vale Formoso, including Paintarena Portugal and Algarve Stadium, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from central Vale Formoso is Cerro do Mocho and Alfarrobeira is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Vale Formoso with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Vale Formoso with kids.

What to do in Vale Formoso for adults?
From incredible food and cultural attractions to thrilling activities and one-of-a-kind experiences, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Vale Formoso for adults.
Are there free things to do in Vale Formoso?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Vale Formoso is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Praia de Forte Novo is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.