The sun shines on the Algarve practically year round, and although temperatures do drop in the wintertime, the region can be enjoyed in any  season. The rigorous winters of other European destinations takes many Brits and other travelers to the colder regions of the Algarve, where they can get away from the snow and low temperatures. Spring and Autumn (Fall) are particularly interesting if you want to enjoy the golf courses when it is not as warm as in summer and temperatures are agreeable for walking and teeing off outdoors. This time of the year also attracts travelers who want to enjoy the small villages and beaches before the holiday crowds arrive. But if your thing is the summertime sunshine, then opt for the hot summer season, which is the only time of the year when you can actually dive into the cold Algarve waters. Summertime is also the high season for hotels, which is reflected on the price hike, although Portugal still is one of the least expensive places to visit in Europe.