Hotels in Vilamoura

Vilamoura Introduction

With a pretty duo of golden-sand beaches, a smattering of crumbling Roman ruins and a buzzing marina teeming with million-pound yachts and lined with lively bars and traditional dining spots, Vilamoura offers an upbeat getaway in Portugal's Algarve region. Year-round good weather makes the town a popular spot for everyone from fun-loving families to loved-up couples – and pretty much anyone who wants to enjoy laid-back living and a generous helping of me time.

Hotels in Vilamoura

Vilamoura has its fair share of luxury hotels, so if you're up for a spot of pampering you're looking at the right town. These upmarket spots, some of which boast a 5-star rating, often come complete with private golf courses, glistening outdoor pools, lush tropical gardens and energetic animation teams. If all that sounds well and good, but you were hoping for something a little more budget-friendly, you'll find a decent selection of cheap hotels in Vilamoura, too. Lower-cost options often come in the form of 2-star digs. Don't be put off, though – these are typically well-maintained and perfectly adequate for a bargain break.

Where to stay

Travellers keen to be as close to the beach as possible often head to the hotels clustered around Tivoli Marina, though if the truth be known there are some deluxe options further inland, too. Since these properties often provide free beach bus services there's not all that much difference between the 2 settings – besides, perhaps, the views. If you have your heart set on beachfront digs but lack the funds to splurge, you might consider staying in the neighbouring village of Quarteira – home to a colourful weekly Gypsy Market and oceanside properties that typically come in cheaper than Vilamoura hotels.

Things to see

If the thought of shimmying into a wetsuit doesn't see you running for the hills, Vilamoura is a great spot for everything from wakeboarding to waterskiing – and you'll find several sports centres along the coast that offer lessons for first-timers. Should you be content to settle back on the sand, Vilamoura Beach and Praia de Rocha Baixinha serve up an idyllic background to do exactly that – the latter being a great option for families, due to the shallow, perfect-for-paddling water. For those keen on soaking up a bit of local culture, the ruins of a Roman fishing village can be found just 100 metres from the marina, while those intent on blowing their holiday spends can explore the nearby array of boutique stores. Tucking into mouth-watering tapas plates and jugs of fruity sangria at one of the marina's restaurants is the perfect way to round off a busy day.

How to get to Vilamoura

Several UK airports offer direct flights to Faro Airport – and the amount of competition between airlines means you shouldn't have too much trouble scoring a good price. Once you've touched down and grabbed your bags, getting to the hotels in Vilamoura is a hassle-free affair. Private transfers can be booked online in advance, though airport taxis are readily available. Since Vilamoura is only around 30 minutes' drive from the airport, the fares shouldn't present any nasty surprises. If you plan to travel in Vilamoura and perhaps visit some of the other coastal resorts, it's worth thinking about getting a hire car.