Things to do in Vilamoura

Vilamoura is a coastal region on the central, southern coast of Portugal in the Algarve. It has beautiful beaches which is part of the reason why it is such a popular holiday destination. This guide is going to provide some of the best, must-see sights and experiences that Vilamoura has to offer.

Cerro da vila

Cerro da vila

The Cerro da Vila is a Roman villa dating back to the first century. It sits on the edge of the Marina and also features a museum where you can learn all about the interesting history of the villa. The villa is mostly in ruins, but there are some incredible remnants of mosaics and the former villa that stops there. Access to the villa is also fairly cheap, costing only €3.

Praia de Vilamoura

Praia de Vilamoura

The beaches of Vilamoura are a beautiful and unavoidable sight when holidaying to the area. Praia de Vilamoura sits in the East of Vilamoura and sits between the Marina de Vilamoura and the fishing port of Quarteira. It is a sandy beach that is perfect for relaxing and soaking in rays, it is a busy beach during the tourist season due to the close location to many of the tourist hotels. The waters are shielded from harsh waves and dangerous waters due to the groyne that comes from the mouth of the harbour. This makes the waters safe and calm, perfect for families and those who aren’t confident swimmers. The beach features sun loungers that can be hired, as well as parasols. 

Praia da Falésia

Praia da Falésia

Praia da Falésia sits in the West of Vilamoura and is held as one of the most magnificent and beautiful beaches in the Algarve. It is larger than the Praia de Vilamoura, with its golden sands extending for 5km from Vilamoura to Olhos de Água. The Western side of the Praia da Falésia is significantly quieter than the other beaches of Vilamoura, and it features beautiful red sandstone cliffs. These cliffs play a fairly significant role in how the Praia da Falésia is viewed today. The Eastern side of this beach is closer to Vilamoura and is known as the Praia da Rocha Baixinha Nascente. It has low rise side dunes and provides a perfect place to relax or go for a snorkel. It is more wavy than the Praia de Vilamoura so it is important that you are a more confident swimmer. Sometimes the waves provide the perfect conditions for surfing and bodyboarding. You can even hire equipment to partake in these activities. If you are looking for a quieter and more relaxing beach, and you are a confident swimmer, then the Praia da Falésia is definitely the best option for you, just walk along the coastline until you find a quieter area that suits you. 

Marina de Vilamoura

Marina de Vilamoura

The Marina is one of the most popular areas for tourists to stay in Vilamoura. The close proximity to stunning views, nightlife, restaurants, and cafes as well as the stunning beach of Praia de Vilamoura make it a great area to enjoy Vilamoura in its entirety. The Marina is a must-see and provides a relaxing atmosphere during the day where you can sit at the cafe and take in the views of the sea, and million pound yachts. It is a popular area amongst the super-rich due to its beauty and highly regarded restaurants.

Golf integrated academy

Golf Integrated Academy is located in Vilamoura and offers the most advanced golf coaching technology. You can visit the Golf Integrated Academy in order to experience a simple and enjoyable lesson that will better your golf style and have you playing like a pro. It promises to better your game and is a good and unique visit for any golf enthusiast.

Vilamoura tennis academy

Vilamoura tennis academy

The Vilamoura Tennis Academy is located close to the Marina and contains nine outdoor tennis courts where you can play a game with your friends and/or family, or even receive coaching from one of the coaches at the facility. If you enjoy tennis, these courts offer a playing experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Quarteira old town

Quarteira old town

Quarteira dates back to the Roman times, evolving from a small fishing village, it became a city in 1999. It is a must visit for any tourist and offers a range of restaurants and cafes serving authentic food with a particular focus on its roots as a fishing village. Although it is an old town Quarteira is fairly modern in style, so for those looking for historical sights it is best to visit elsewhere. 

Loulé

Loulé

Loulé is a traditional Portugese market town that is a fun day trip just outside Vilamoura. It has a market that is open everyday apart from Sundays and it provides local produce and cuisine as well as cuisine from around the world. It has a special feel to the area and feels as authentic as one can get to experiencing the true culture of Portugal. 

Loulé also features Loulé castle that dates back to the Moors era, built in the 8th century; it is an interesting historical site for those who are into history. 

Boat trips to Benagil caves

Boat trips to Benagil caves

The Benagil caves are a popular and magnificent sight that are a must-see for all tourists. A quick boat trip will transfer you to a different and magical world to a hidden haven that feels like something right out of a fantasy movie. The cave looks gorgeous and offers a relaxing trip with a beach within the cave to relax and take in the beauty of the natural structure and the crystal waters.

Faro

Faro

A day trip to Faro is not an uncommon trip for tourists. Faro is the largest city of Algarve and has plenty of historical sites including a fortified cathedral, castle ruins, and Baroque city hall. Shopping is common in Faro and it provides plenty of authentic cafes where you can sit and take in your beautiful and historical surroundings.

Water park

Aquashow water park

Slide and Splash, Aqualand, and Aquashow are all located in the central Algarve and offer hours of fun and family time. The Aquashow water park offers one of the largest water roller coasters in the world, travelling at over 70km/h and 

If you’re looking to enjoy some tours while experiencing the pleasures of Vilamoura, why not take a look at our article Vilamoura Tours.

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