Dreaming of buying a house in Portugal but still unsure about the city, neighborhood, or type of property? Nothing beats first-hand experience. A discovery stay in the Algarve is the perfect opportunity to combine the pleasure of travel with the concrete preparation of your future real estate project.
Why plan your property project with a stay in the Algarve?
Before signing any agreement, it’s essential to understand the environment where you plan to invest. The Algarve, in southern Portugal, offers many faces:
- Dynamic cities like Lagos or Albufeira
- Authentic villages like Tavira or Olhão
- Premium zones such as the Golden Triangle (Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Almancil)
- Lively seaside resorts, family-friendly areas, or preserved natural spots like Praia da Luz, Espiche, or Budens
👉 A stay on site allows you to compare atmospheres, assess prices, and get a real sense of your future lifestyle — complementing your research on the best neighborhoods to invest in across the Algarve.
What to do during a real estate discovery stay in the Algarve?
1. Explore the different areas
- West Algarve: more touristic and lively, with great surf spots (Lagos, Sagres, Portimão) and stunning beaches.
- East Algarve: more authentic, calm, and affordable (Tavira, Cabanas, Monte Gordo).
- Central Algarve & Golden Triangle: luxury, proximity to Faro, and high-end infrastructure (Vilamoura, Almancil, Quinta do Lago).
2. Discover the local property market
Take advantage of your stay to:
- Visit various property types (apartments, villas, village houses)
- Compare price per square meter across towns
- Assess rental potential if you’re considering a seasonal investment in Algarve
3. Meet the right professionals
A discovery stay is also the perfect time to:
- Discuss with a local international agency such as Hardy & Hardy
- Exchange with foreign residents who already took the leap
- Connect with lawyers specialized in Portuguese real estate
4. Experience the local lifestyle
- Stroll through Lagos’ historic center
- Enjoy iconic beaches like Praia da Marinha or Falésia
- Wander through the markets of Tavira or Olhão
- Taste local gastronomy (seafood cataplana, Alentejo wines)
- Explore local infrastructure: schools, hospitals, shops, transport
Example: A couple exploring Lagos
In 2025, a French-Portuguese couple was hesitating between Tavira and Lagos for a second home.
👉 After a week on site, with visits organized by Hardy & Hardy and conversations with other expatriates, they chose Lagos for its vibrant atmosphere, rental potential, and breathtaking beaches.
Practical tips for organizing your discovery stay
- Ideal duration: at least one week to explore several areas without rushing
- Best period: May–June or September–October (pleasant weather, fewer tourists)
- Organization: plan your visits with a local agency before arriving
- Checklist: prepare a clear budget and list your criteria (size, location, budget, purpose: residence or investment)
Conclusion: a journey that can change your life
A discovery stay in the Algarve is more than a tourist trip. It’s a key step to secure your future property purchase, refine your choices, and make the right decisions.
At Hardy & Hardy, we organize tailor-made discovery stays for international clients: targeted visits, legal guidance, and local immersion.
Contact us to plan your discovery stay in Algarve, and move concretely toward your new life in the Algarve.