No visit to Portugal could ever be complete without a stop by the warm, sunlit shore of the Algarve, by the Atlantic Ocean. More than a seaside destination, the region is a vivid depository of a rich culture, as well as an important economic center. The only decision that really remains to be made is: Faro or Albufeira? That is the question!

Choosing between two of the most prominent spots in the Algarve can be hard. But here are a few points of attraction in both cities we were thinking we’d present before leaving the decision up to you.