Wondering What To Do in the Algarve When It Rains?
We’ve got you covered!
Wondering what to do in the Algarve when it rains? We’ve got the answer!
The Algarve is known for its balmy year-round weather and pleasantly warm winters, and while many people choose the region as their winter sun destination, it’s worth considering that – like anywhere – the weather may not be perfect every day. In fact, though rainfall is a rarity in summer, if you’re jetting to the Algarve between September and April, it’s best to expect one day or other of cloudy skies and even a spot of rain.
However, we’re pleased to say that even if bad weather does strike, it doesn’t have to put a damper on your holiday, as there are plenty of things to do indoors to keep your spirits up.
Wondering what to do in the Algarve when it rains? Check out our list!
Indoor Entertainment in the Algarve
Though the Algarve’s beaches, golf courses, marinas, and outdoor adventures are well-known, did you know that the region is also home to indoor activities aplenty? From renowned casinos to several shopping centres, go-karting experiences, and even an indoor waterpark, the Algarve provides fun in the sun… and the rain! So, if you’re wondering what to do in the Algarve when it rains, keep reading.
• Games for Adrenaline Seekers
How about planning an adrenaline-fuelled adventure sure to make your holiday memorable? Activities you may want to consider include getting competitive at an arcade, testing your skills and teamwork at various escape rooms from Praia da Rocha to Carvoeiro, or even spending the day at an indoor go-karting track in Albufeira.
Or even combining two options to really get your heart racing! 3, 2, 1… GO for an adrenaline-packed holiday!
• Casinos
Want some more ideas of what to do in the Algarve when it rains? How about trying your luck at one of the region’s renowned casinos?
With three top spots— Praia da Rocha in Portimão, behind the marina in Vilamoura, and Monte Gordo in the eastern Algarve—each casino offers more than just gaming. From glamorous interiors and live entertainment to fine dining, each option provides a luxurious escape from the rain.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for a fun day or night out, the Algarve’s casinos are perfect for adding a little sparkle to a rainy day!
• Snap up some Deals at the Algarve’s Best Shopping Centres
If shopping is your go-to rainy-day activity, the Algarve has you covered with some fantastic options. While many of the Algarve’s shopping centres are open-air, making them a pleasant sunny-day experience, they’re also perfect for sheltering in when the bad weather strikes. Here are some of the best options:
- Aqua Shopping in Portimão offers a great mix of high-street brands and cosy cafés.
- Algarve Shopping, near Guia, is perfect for a family day out with plenty of dining spots, a wide range of shops, and a nearby retail park with a Nike Factory Store.
- The Algarve’s newest shopping centre, Mar Shopping, located between Loulé and Faro, boasts three distinct areas: a massive IKEA (yes, serving its famous meatballs!), an indoor shopping centre, and a Designer Outlet perfect for some bargain hunting.
If you were wondering what to do in the Algarve when it rains, you have your answer! Whichever one you choose, it’s sure to be perfect for staying dry while enjoying some retail therapy.
• Catch a Film at the Cinema
English speakers will be pleased to know that, unlike Spain and France, Portugal favours subtitles over dubbing, which means that most films at the cinema are shown in their original language. This means that you can take your pick of film (except for certain cartoons, which are dubbed) and rest assured you’ll be able to understand every word! All of the Algarve’s bigger shopping centres have a cinema, so all you’ll have to do is browse the one you want, pick a time, and get the popcorn ready because watching a film is an excellent thing to do in the Algarve when it rains.
• Hit an Indoor Waterpark
Sure, you may think that a rainy day means waterparks are out of the question, but did you know the Algarve is home to an indoor waterpark? Dive into endless fun with thrilling slides and heated pools at Aquashow’s indoor waterpark in Quarteira, perfect for splashing around any time of year.
• Pick up a New Skill
Or why not stop wondering what to do in the Algarve when it rains and immerse yourself in some culture, trying your hand at pottery making? A hands-on workshop in Silves is the perfect way to learn a new skill while getting creative with clay – and you never know, you may find that it’s a skill you want to take home with you!
• Soak in a Bit of Culture
Last but not least, when asking yourself what to do in the Algarve when it rains, visiting a museum is the perfect chance to discover the Algarve’s rich history and culture. From Portimão’s 3D Art Museum to getting close and personal to the Algarve’s wildlife at the Science Centre in Lagos or Faro, a Multimedia Museum in Faro, or diving into a bit of history at Portimão Museum, interactive displays mean visitors of all ages are sure to be kept entertained for a few hours!
Explore the Algarve
So, whether you’re looking for things to do around Carvoeiro in the rain, you’re keen to pick a city (from Lagos or Portimão to Faro or Tavira) to see what it has to offer for the day, or you’re wondering specifically what to do in Albufeira when it rains – arcades, bowling, escape rooms, and the indoor go-karting we mentioned earlier are all top contenders – we hope we’ve given you some food for thought, and remember: whether it’s rain or shine, fun is always forecast o your Algarve holiday!