I went to the Algarve in winter and honestly, it was a great choice. Most things were still open, especially in the bigger towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Faro. It’s definitely quieter than summer, but not in a ghost-town kind of way more like a peaceful break without the crowds. Some of the beach bars and super touristy spots might close or have shorter hours, but there were still plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops open. The weather was mild too, like around 15 to 18°C, so it was perfect for walking around, exploring the coast, and even sitting outside for lunch some days. If you’re not expecting a beach-party vibe and just want a relaxing, sunny winter escape, it’s a solid option. Try checking if guides are available during that time I hired mine here
https://gowithguide.com/ during my trip Hope this helps!