New Year's Eve in the Algarve: 10 Dream Destinations

It is one of the most sought-after destinations in the summer so, it is a great idea to visit the city in the winter, escaping the characteristic hubbub of the warmer months. The municipality has some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, such as Falésia beach or Pescadores beach, where the New Year's Eve festivities usually take place. The Historic Centre, full of pedestrian streets and white houses, is worth a visit. Two good accommodation options are PortoBay Falésia or Adriana Beach Club Hotel.

This fishing village is another popular seaside resort. It has the largest natural reef in the country in its bay, and very pleasant beaches. The fortress, right next to the beach, is usually a meeting point on New Year's Eve, and do not miss the opportunity to take a stroll along Avenida Beira Mar, with a superb view of the Atlantic. End the tour with a visit to Silves and its imposing castle, the largest in the region. To stay overnight, we suggest the Holiday Inn Algarve or Vila Galé Náutico.

Situated in the western Algarve, this small village has an extremely popular beach that stages the celebrations of the new year. Gone are the days when fishing was the main means of survival for the population, with the locality becoming a cosmopolitan tourist centre. Enjoy the houses that mix white and blue and that seem to develop a “waterfall” effect towards the beach. The Tivoli Carvoeiro and the Carvoeiro Hotel are accommodations to be considered when staying.

The Algarve capital is home to many charms. Starting with its beaches such as Faro Island, accessible by boat and car, or Culatra beach. Also visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of the “7 natural wonders of Portugal”, as well as the Historic Centre, full of life. The pleasant dock area and the Manuel Bívar Garden are usually the chosen outdoors venues to celebrate the date. Two options for accommodation are the Eva Senses Hotel or the Hotel Faro.

This municipality has a history linked to the Discoveries and a coast with incredibly beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular ones are Meia Praia or Luz. Do not miss the breath-taking Ponta da Piedade and its caves by the sea. The Historic Centre also deserves a visit, as well as the riverside area, with the New Year's Eve party taking place at Praça do Infante. Cascade Wellness Resort and Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve are two of the best hotels in the municipality.

It is famous for its splendid beach and quality fish. The entrance to the new year is usually celebrated in Praça do Mar, where it is customary to have outdoor concerts and fireworks. Enjoy the waterfront and be sure to visit the glamorous neighbouring Vilamoura, where the marina area is must-see. The same is true of the imposing castle of the county seat. Dom José Beach Hotel or Tivoli Marina Vilamoura are possibilities to consider for spending a few days.

The beautiful beaches, such as those of the Islands of Armona or Fuseta, as well as the surroundings of the Ria Formosa are, from the outset, two reasons that justify a visit to this municipality, famous for its seafood. Let yourself be enchanted by the Historic Centre, by the peculiar cubic houses and by the pleasant area of the marina and Pescador Olhanense garden, where the New Year's Eve party is usually held. In terms of accommodation, we suggest the Real Marina Hotel & Spa or Quinta dos Poetas, Nature Hotel.

Praia da Rocha is undoubtedly the great calling card of this city, famous for its sardine festival during summer. Other popular beaches are Vau or Alvor. The riverside area and its promenade, as well as the marina area, are also fitting for pleasant walks. On the last night of the year, it is tradition for the fireworks to fill the sky over Praia da Rocha and the riverside area. For an overnight stay, we propose the Tivoli Marina Portimão or the Hotel Algarve Casino.

The origin of this fishing town dates to 2000 BC. After the destructive 1755 earthquake, however, it was almost completely rebuilt, conserving nonetheless a vast architectural heritage, with many churches, several noble houses, and an interesting Historic Centre. The municipality also has stunning beaches such as the islands of Tavira or Cabanas. The new year is usually celebrated at Praça da República, and Vila Galé Tavira or the Ozadi Tavira Hotel are some options to consider when staying for the night.

Many people continue to make the Monte Gordo beach, remarkably close to Spain, their holiday destination. Traditionally milder waters and a wide sandy beach contribute to this. Sought-after in the summer, this village is also immensely popular to celebrate the turn of the year. At the county seat, enjoy the panoramic view provided by the marina and surrounding area. You can choose to stay at the Hotel Apolo or at Villa Marquez.