You might be free to visit today, but Sao Joao do Arade Fort hasn't always been so welcoming! Find out the story behind this stronghold and exactly what it was designed to defend.

This history-filled fortress in Lagoa is well-liked by travelers, so be sure to put it on your schedule. Don't stop there, though. There are many more places ready for you to discover after Sao Joao do Arade Fort. Rocha Beach, Benagil Beach, and Carvoeiro Beach are close by.

Plan a trip to see Sao Joao do Arade Fort

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

VidaMar Resort Hotel Algarve

per person

Sep 28 - Oct 4

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (JFK) to Faro (FAO)

8.6/10 Excellent! (496 reviews)

We had a fantastic stay at Vida Mar. The property was beautiful, staff were friendly and accommodating and the proximity was great for us for all the places we wanted to visit.

Reviewed on Jul 8, 2025

Pestana Vila Sol - Vilamoura Premium Golf Resort

Morgadinho

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Aug 15 - Aug 21

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (NYC) to Faro (FAO)

8.2/10 Very Good! (207 reviews)

Really lovely hotel. Although there was a clothes shop within the hotel it would have been good to have a small convenience store for water, snacks or even a vending machine. Although drinks and snacks were available at the pool bar, they were expensive. Also didn’t like that a service charge was added at every single transaction. The reception staff were extremely helpful. Nothing was too much bother. In particular when my son got badly sunburnt, I had asked about a nearby chemist but they were kind enough to give me cream which worked wonders. The location is out a bit from any sort of bars/shops. However it was only a 15 minute walk and the Ubers were very reasonable. If you are looking for a relaxing, slow paced break away from the hustle and bustle or a keen golfer this is a great hotel to stay at!

Reviewed on Jun 25, 2025

Pestana Alvor South Beach, Premium Suite Hotel

Torralta

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Aug 17 - Aug 23

found 12 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR) to Faro (FAO)

8.8/10 Excellent! (87 reviews)

Amazing staff. Clean. Vibes.

Reviewed on Jul 12, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Sao Joao do Arade Fort

Tours & day trips

See all 303 activities

Seville day trip from the Algarve

Free cancellation available

History & culture

See all 93 activities

Seville day trip from the Algarve

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 56 activities

Lagos and Ponta Da Piedade Private Tour & Algarvian Wine Tasting

Free cancellation available

Wildlife & nature

See all 39 activities

Jeep Safari 4X4 Algarve Expedition with Lunch Included

Free cancellation available

Classes & workshops

See all 22 activities

Lagos: Sailboat Trip to Ponta da Piedade

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Portimao Marina featuring a bay or harbor

Portimão Marina

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Acclaimed beaches and a pair of historic fortresses are part of this haven for super-sized yachts. Its orange and red buildings contain shops, bars and restaurants.

Grande Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Grande Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Ferragudo. Visit the shops in this relaxing area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Praia da Marina

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Marina during your trip to Portimão? Wander the beautiful beaches and marina in this family-friendly area.

Rocha Beach

4.5/5(102 reviews)

Backed by golden-red cliffs and met by the white-flecked waves of the Atlantic, this spectacular beach is one of the Algarve’s most popular.

Rocha Beach featuring general coastal views and a beach

Portimão Harbor

Explore the waterfront in Praia da Rocha with a trip to Portimão Harbor. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.