When people think of the Algarve, they don’t tend to think of it as a budget destination. They think of the golf and the white beaches and the beautiful scenery. However, if you know where to look, there are lots of free activities available to tourists in the region, and we’ve collected some of our favourite ideas for you to try out on your holiday to Portugal’s prettiest area.

Beaches

While some of the Algarve’s best beaches can only be reached by boat on the coastal sand spits, there are also traditional beaches which can be easily reached on foot. Albufeira’s beaches are particularly good, with an attractive marina to wander round if the heat of the midday sun gets a little too hot to handle.

Churches

The Algarve benefits from a wealth of pretty little churches, and with a tiny little town such as Tavira hosting more than 20 on its own, church enthusiasts or anyone seeking some peace and respite from the scorching heat will be spoilt for choice. From the glorious Faro Cathedral to the jaw-dropping Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha, situated on a clifftop, there is a church to suit everyone, and while donations are encouraged, entry will be free.

Art and culture

Portimao Museum frequently hosts a range of temporary exhibitions which you can browse at your leisure. The exciting thing about this is that there will always be something different going on, making it a place you can visit every time you go to the Algarve for something brand new to look at.

Children

Holidays with kids can be very expensive once you’ve factored in the hungry mouths, cooling them down with cold drinks and visits to theme parks, so a free afternoon out is always welcome. Portimao Educational Farm is free of charge, along with the activities available, so children get to see how a working Portuguese farm operates and meet all the animals.

Old Towns

The Algarve is awash with Old Town areas featuring lots of gorgeous Moorish and Roman architecture which not only makes for some great photo opportunities, but also provides the whole family with some historical learning opportunities. It’s well worth the drive to Faro or Albufeira to check out their historic centres and marvel at all the intricate buildings.

Walks

Everyone who visits the Algarve needs to take at least one walk in the famous countryside before they make their way to the airport to return home, and fortunately there are routes suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The hills provide more of a challenge whereas the coastal forests provide a scenic place to walk in the shade for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Emma Lawson is a lover of all things travel, and regularly blogs about her adventures in Europe.