Far from the mass tourism of the Cyclades, there is a small village in the Algarve that continues to win over those seeking the same scenery at a much more affordable price. Burgau, in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, is known as the “Portuguese Santorini” and remains on the radar of travelers and content creators in search of authentic and (still) relatively uncrowded destinations.
A fishing village that looks like it came straight out of the Cyclades
Located in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, in the district of Faro, and part of the parish of Budens, Burgau is an old fishing village that continues to live to the rhythm of the sea. The white houses with blue shutters, arranged in terraces along the cliff, and the golden sand contrasting with the turquoise blue of the Atlantic explain the recurring comparison to Santorini.
The village has its origins in an old tuna fishing station that already existed in the 16th century. In the 17th century, during the reign of King João IV, a fort was built to protect the settlement, replacing an older watchtower. Although tourism has become a major part of the local economy, Burgau remains, at its core, a fishing village: it’s common to see boats arriving in the late afternoon and the catch going straight to the village’s restaurants.
Things to Do in Burgau
In addition to the picturesque houses, Burgau Beach is the village’s main attraction: it’s about 350 meters long, with golden sand, calm waters, and is flanked by cliffs. It’s considered one of the most family-friendly beaches in the western Algarve.
At low tide, it’s worth exploring the rock pools that form among the boulders—an activity known as “rock pooling”—which is ideal for spotting crabs, whelks, and small fish, especially with children (just be sure to keep your distance from the cliffs on the east side, which are unstable).
For those who enjoy walking, the village’s narrow streets invite a leisurely stroll, and the area also serves as a starting point for coastal trails leading to Praia da Luz or Salema. At the table, dishes featuring fresh fish and seafood remain the main reason to stay a little longer. Clam appetizers or fried cuttlefish are common orders at local restaurants.
Useful Information
Location: Parish of Budens, municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro
Distance from Lisbon: about 310 km / approximately 3 hours by car via the A2 and A22
Distance from Lagos: about a 25-minute drive
Distance from Sagres: about 23 km / 20 minutes by car
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