When to visit the Algarve? Weather, prices and crowds month by month

The Algarve can be visited all year round, but each month tells a different story. Here is an honest calendar to help you choose your dates.

January and February 16 to 18 °C during the day, cool nights, sea at 15-16 °C. Almond trees blossom in February: it's the best time to walk in the hinterland. Prices are at their lowest, villages are quiet, some seaside establishments are closed. A well-heated accommodation is essential.

March and April Spring is spectacular: green hills, clear skies, 19 to 22 °C. The sea remains cool (16-17 °C): a heated pool makes all the difference. Easter livens up the coast for about ten days, otherwise visitor numbers remain low. Excellent value for money.

May Many regulars' favourite month: 23 to 25 °C, long days, almost empty beaches, open restaurants. The sea reaches 18-19 °C, an unheated pool becomes usable at the end of the month. Prices rise but remain reasonable.

June 27 °C, sea at 20-21 °C, everything is open and the crowds haven't arrived yet before the end of the month. The best compromise for a family with young children. Prices increase significantly from June 20th.

July and August 29 to 32 °C, sea at 22-23 °C, festive atmosphere, beaches full from 10 am and prices at their highest. Stays are often subject to a high minimum number of nights. Book well in advance, ideally from the previous autumn. Opt for a house with air conditioning and shade on the terrace.

September Often the ideal month: 28 °C, the warmest sea of the year (23 °C), visitor numbers decrease after September 5th and prices gradually drop. Superb light for photos.

October 24 °C, sea still at 21-22 °C, bright days, first rains possible at the end of the month. Very pleasant for combining beach, hiking and villages. Prices drop sharply.

November and December 18 to 20 °C, changing skies, sea at 18 °C. Christmas market season, sardines replaced by bacalhau and long-term stays. Ideal for working remotely in the sun.

In summary - Best price/weather ratio: May, June, September, October. - For swimming in the sea: June to early October. - For peace and nature: February to April, November. - For entertainment: July and August.

If your dates are flexible, shift by a week outside school holidays: for the same villa, the saving often exceeds the price of plane tickets.