We have about 6 days in Portugal at the end of August and I want to see something well, not a brief overview of the country. Thinking of focusing on the Algarves and even seeing those islands that are felt to be Atlantis. Is it a crime to skip Lisbon, etc.? Is the Algarves that great? Please advise. Also, definitely stay7 in the posadas?

The Algarve is famous for the beaches and the coastline. It is a popular destination for summer vacation (in fact, in summer, population is three times as high as during the rest of the year).

There are also some archeological sites (main six Roman villas) and traces of Moorish architecture in towns and villages.

Most people would spend their time relaxing at the beaches.

Lisboa is a typical European metropolis, very lively, with a castle, cathedral, museums etc. At night, bars with fado music are popular tourist attractions.

Fodorites tend to be very opinionated and they will tell you what you MUST do and what you should NOT do. IMO, it is simply a matter of taste: town or beaches.

You might also consider that Lisboa will be pretty hot at end of August. This is one reason why nightlife is so important: the locals sleep during the day and are active at night.

you could see both comfortably in 6 days. the Algarve has many touristy places i.e lagos, albufuria, portamio.These are all worth a visit for half a day. Lagos probably best. Albufuria old town quite nice but will be heaving with tatood brits unfortunately. Portamio has a large number of fish restaurant right by the rive next to the old bridge which are quite lively. A trip to cap st vincent is worthwile. This is europes most westerly point with very high cliffs. Also a trip inland will bring you to a different country not changed in 30-40 years.

Lisbon is also worth a couple of days, a trip on the trams is an experience and wandering round the pedestrianised area is very nice. There is a very good restaurant on the opposite of the river. YOU reach it by the ferry and walk until you are under the statue of jesus.

Not sure what you mean by atlantis islands. Maderia or maybe cape verde both quite a distance away with probably expensive flights.

mrgrumpy
its Albufeira and Portimao by the way !

It is true about the flight to Madeira-I just booked ours this month and they were almost $800. for the both of us. We will be there for a week though. Chris