Living in the Algarve with Children: A Family Guide

The Algarve is where Portugal turns to face the south: golden cliffs, warm water, and a summer that seems to go on long after the rest of Europe has gone indoors. Children here grow up with sand in their shoes and a boat trip for every birthday.

Is the Algarve good for families?

Yes, for families who want warmth, beaches and an easy outdoor life, and who are happy to choose the town and the school together. The region is made up of 16 municipalities along a long coast, with private, international and public schools. The trade-off is distance: the coast is long, and the best school for you may be in a different town from the beach you love.

The best things for kids in the Algarve

• Praia da Marinha and the golden cliffs, for rock pools, sea caves and photographs.
• Boat trips to the sea caves of the coast, such as those at Benagil.
• The Ria Formosa lagoon, with boats from Faro and Olhão to sandy islands.
• Zoomarine, a marine park at Guia, near Albufeira.
• Ponta da Piedade at Lagos, for cliffs, arches and kayaks.
• Calm east-coast beaches, such as Tavira’s island, reached by a short ferry.

Three parts of the coast

• West (Lagos, Luz, Aljezur): surf beaches and nature, quieter and more spread out.
• Centre (Loulé, Vilamoura, Almancil, Albufeira, Portimão): the busiest area, with the most shops, services and international schools.
• East (Tavira and beyond): quieter and more traditional.

Faro, the regional capital, has the airport.

Who the Algarve suits

• Families who want a coastal, outdoor life with warm weather.
• Parents who work remotely or locally.
• Families who want a choice between international, private and public schools.

Things to weigh

• Distances are real. A school in Lagos is a long drive from one in Tavira, so choose the school and the town together.
• Most international schools are in the west and centre. Public schools are in every municipality.
• Fees vary widely. Compare each school’s published fees, and ask where they are not published.

Schools in the Algarve

See the schools in the Algarve: private and international schools, public school groups and private nurseries. Or compare with Lisbon, Cascais and Ericeira, or browse all schools.