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Wheatless Wanderlust

How to Plan an Amazing Algarve Itinerary (3-7 Days)

Planning a trip to the Algarve, the gorgeous coastal paradise along the southern edge of Portugal? Lucky you! You’re in for a treat full of pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and charming small towns dotting Portugal’s southern coast.

In this guide to planning an Algarve itinerary, we’re going to use our experience spending a week on the Algarve to help you plan the perfect Algarve trip. 

The Algarve was the last stop on our three month European adventure, which had us arriving in southern Portugal at the end of November. We organized it that way because we knew that the Algarve was a safe haven from the cooler, grayer weather that would be descending on the rest of Europe at that time of year, and we were absolutely correct. 

The entire stretch of Portugal’s southern stretch from Sagres to Tavira is covered in a combination of beautiful beaches, coastal bluffs, and towering limestone cliffs that are practically begging to be explored. It’s also just a really, really pleasant place to relax on the beach with a book, or to get out on the water and do some surfing or kayaking. 

In this detailed guide to planning your trip to the Algarve, we’re going to go through the logistics you need to know to make the most of your time and avoid headaches, and a detailed 4 day Algarve road trip itinerary that takes you to some of our favorite spots from our trip. 

algarve travel plans

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Much Time Do You Need on the Algarve?

In short, it depends on what you’re looking for. 

Here’s the long version. 

The longer you have, the more relaxed your trip will be. You’ll have more time to lounge on the beach, drive along the coast, and stop for whatever else catches your interest.

With a shorter visit to the Algarve, you’re going to be hitting the highlights without too much time to slow down and relax, which is the best part about the Algarve, in our opinion.

It’s a great addition to the other places you’ll visit on a Portugal itinerary – Lisbon, Porto, and other cities – because the pace is slower, and there aren’t any traditional “sightseeing” sights to see.

3 days on the Algarve gives you enough time to drive out to Sagres, a charming surf town at Europe’s southwest corner, explore the area around Lagos, and walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and explore its beautiful beaches. 

4 days on the Algarve, which is what we’ve written this guide for, gives you a bit more time. You’ll do the things we mentioned above, but you’ll also be able to rent a kayak and head out to the Benagil Caves, and explore the eastern Algarve’s beaches. 

A full week on the Algarve gives you plenty of time to split between activities and relaxing on the beach. If you’re looking for a more relaxing beach holiday, 7 days on the Algarve is a good choice.

If the Algarve is a part of a broader Portugal itinerary , we’d recommend between 3 and 5 days. 

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Before we talk specifics, let’s quickly step back and think about “strategy,” for lack of a better word. 

You have a couple of choices in terms of your approach to staying in the Algarve.

At one end of the spectrum, you could stay in a different place every single night, moving around, packing and repacking every day, and experiencing a bunch of different towns and cities. 

If there’s anything we learned on our three month trip around Europe, it’s that packing SUCKS. So we’d recommend avoiding it as much as possible. 

On the other end of the spectrum is staying in a single place for your entire stay. You’ll have the benefit of not having to worry about check-in times or packing your stuff multiple times, but you might have to do more driving. 

If you have four days or more, we’d recommend splitting your time between two places to get the best of both worlds. 

Choose one place in the western Algarve, between Lagos and Sagres , and one place further east, around Carvoeiro . This will give you two different experiences, cut down on driving, and not add too much repacking. 

Want more details on which towns to choose? We have an entire guide breaking down five great places to stay in the Algarve that you should read.

Which Towns on the Algarve Should You Stay in?

Now that we’ve talked strategy, let’s talk specifics. We chose Lagos and Carvoeiro as our two home bases, and really enjoyed both for different reasons.

algarve travel plans

Lagos is a more developed city that sees a huge influx of tourists every summer.

The old town is charming, with plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops to choose from, all within walking distance of most of the places to stay. It’s lively and buzzing, so don’t expect a quiet stay if you’re here in the summer.

In Lagos, we stayed at The Salty Lodge , an apart-hotel with spacious apartments that had everything we needed for our stay, including a full kitchen. 

If you’re looking for something quieter than Lagos, look at the sleepy fishing village of Salema , about 20 minutes west. 

If you’re looking to spend your time surfing, look at staying in Sagres , which is very much a surftown.

algarve travel plans

Carvoeiro has a very different vibe than Lagos. It’s more low-key and residential, though the small downtown area near the beach has a nice selection of places to eat and drink.

The draw here is the location, which is central to a bunch of amazing beaches and stretches of coastline to explore. 

We enjoyed relaxing on our deck at Hello Villas , which is a nice complex of townhouse style one and two bedroom units that we stayed in. 

If you’re looking for a smaller, more charming town on this beautiful stretch of coast, look at Alvor , or Ferragudo .

Getting Around the Algarve

After traveling by train and bus for part of our trip to the Algarve, and then renting a car for the second part, we have a strong perspective that the best way to enjoy the Algarve is by renting a car . 

algarve travel plans

Sure, there is a regional train network that connects the major towns on the Algarve, but oftentimes the best beaches are going to be a bit outside of town, and a car makes it easier to get there. 

It will give you more flexibility, since trains aren’t that plentiful (they only come a few times a day) and it’s hard to figure out exactly when local and regional buses come (or if they come at all). 

Tips for Renting a Car in Portugal

We think you should definitely rent a car, it’s just a matter of figuring out the best way to do it for your particular trip.

Here are a few things to consider about renting a car in Portugal that we discovered over the course of our trip. 

  • If you’re picking up a rental car in one place and dropping it in a different place, your rental will be subject to a “one-way” fee that escalates based on the distances between locations. For reference, we picked up our car in Lagos and dropped it in Évora, which is about a three hour drive, and it was a 50 Euro fee. We imagine the fee would be similar for Lisbon. 
  • There is an airport surcharge of about 30 Euros, depending on the company, that applies when you are either picking up or dropping off at an airport (in this case, likely either Lisbon Airport or the Faro Airport). You could avoid this by picking up the car in Lagos instead, but if you are arriving at the Faro Airport, it makes more logistical sense to just pay the fee. 
  • Always always always rent a car through trusted multinational corporations like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. To be completely honest, this basically goes against everything we believe about traveling (supporting local companies, mainly), but we recommend avoiding renting a car through local companies, who are usually more likely to nickel and dime you half to death. Trust us on this one. 

We rented a car twice during our three month European adventure, once in Sicily , once on the Algarve.

Both times we used AutoEurope to compare prices with different rental companies and find the best rates, and booked a car through Europcar , which was a pleasant experience both times. We’d recommend both. 

A Note on Toll Roads in Portugal

There are toll roads on the Algarve (and throughout Portugal), which means you will pay to use the bigger, faster highways. The two you’re most likely to encounter are the A2 between Lisbon and the Algarve, and the A22 between Lagos and Faro.

You have three options. 

  • Pay the tolls in cash as you drive or at the local post office if it’s an electronic toll road (don’t do this one, it seems super inconvenient to have to track down a post office at least 48 hours after using the toll road).
  • Pay a couple of Euros a day for a transponder through the rental car company (this is our recommendation and is what we did just in case we needed it, though we managed to avoid all toll roads).
  • Avoid using toll roads altogether and spend an extra 10-20 minutes on the road (we used the “avoid tolls” setting in Google Maps).

More information on toll roads in Portugal here . 

algarve travel plans

A 4 Day Algarve Itinerary: Planning the Perfect Algarve Road Trip

Now that we’ve covered the important logistics you’ll need to know to plan your trip, let’s get into exactly what to do on the Algarve. 

Day 1: Lagos and Around

algarve travel plans

On your first day, settle in and explore the area around Lagos. There are some amazing beaches within walking distance of the center of Lagos, which is a bustling little beach town with lots of bars and restaurants (many of them catering overtly to tourists).

A little further out, there are some beaches that are more easily accessible with a car. 

We’re assuming that it will take most of the morning to get to Lagos from wherever you’re arriving from, so consider this a half day. 

Walk from Lagos to Praia dos Estudantes and Praia da Dona Ana

algarve travel plans

Two of our favorite beaches on the entire stretch of coast between Sagres and Tavira were within walking distance of Lagos. 

The first, Praia dos Estudantes , is one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches thanks to the Roman bridge that is visible from the beach. 

Next, stop by Praia do Pinhão , where you can pick up a coastal route up on the bluffs that takes you to the third beach on your tour-de-Lagos-beaches.

The last beach, Praia da Dona Ana , is also one of the most-visited beaches in the entire region. It’s a little cove, accessible from both ends, and the best views of the beach are from the bluffs on the eastern side (which is where you’ll find yourself if you follow the coastal trail). 

All three beaches would be a good spot to relax in the sun for a few hours. Make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water. 

algarve travel plans

Go to Lunch at Restaurante Chico Zé

For seafood that’s about as fresh as it can be, head out to Restaurante Chico Zé , which is a 10 minute drive north of the center of Lagos.

It’s a family run, lunch-only establishment where there is almost always a line out the door during the high season (and sometimes during shoulder seasons). Don’t miss the grilled sardines, served with potatoes. 

They also have a rotating selection of other grilled fishes and meats. Not a place for vegetarians – barely a vegetable in sight!

An alternative closer to town would be Tasca Da Lota , which is within walking distance of the city center near the train station. It’s cash only. 

End the Day at Ponta da Piedade

algarve travel plans

For sunset, drive out to Ponta da Piedade , which is a unique rock formation surrounded by sheer cliffs. It’s a spot that most of the boat tours leaving from Lagos stop at because there’s a series of cool sea caves and hidden grottos. 

On foot, you can walk down the long set of stairs to get to the base of the cliffs – just remember that you’ll have to climb back up. Once you’ve done that, it’s also worth finding the trail that heads west from the parking lot and walking along the boardwalks for more amazing coastal views. 

algarve travel plans

On the way, stop by Praia do Camilo , a small, hidden beach accessible only by climbing down a long set of steep stairs (and, again, climbing back up when you’re done, of course).

It should be mentioned that you can absolutely connect the beaches close to Lagos with Ponta da Piedade by hiking along the coastal bluffs, but it’s a long walk. 

Day 2: Sagres and the Western Algarve

algarve travel plans

On your second day, head out to explore the windswept coast to the west of Lagos, eventually making it to the furthest point to the southwest in Europe. 

Sagres is a sleepy little surf town, at least when we were there in the early winter when only the most committed surfers were in town.

We’d start by driving all the way out to Farol do Cabo de São Vicente , the southwestern-most point in Europe, and making your way back east towards Lagos. 

Farol do Cabo de São Vicente

algarve travel plans

First of all, this entire stretch of coast reminds us of the stretch near where Alysha grew up in California – Point Reyes National Seashore. This lighthouse in particular, along with the picturesque cliffs it’s perched on, are reminiscent of the Point Reyes Lighthouse.

It’s beautiful, but there’s really not a whole lot to do or see here. It’s mostly a spot to admire the views and to say you have visited the furthest southwestern point in Europe. 

Praia do Beliche

algarve travel plans

The stairs leading down to Praia do Beliche are not for the faint of heart. Most of the stairs in Portugal, whether they’re leading up to a church bell tower or down to a hidden beach, are steep. These are a whole other level.

As we drove up, we noticed that, despite the fact that it was kind of a blustery and cold day (the blustery part is true of basically every day in Sagres, which is notoriously windy), the parking lot was full of campervans with surfboards and wetsuits strewn about.

Keep in mind, this is the last few days of November, which means the water is likely very, very cold. Hard pass from us. 

The beach itself is lovely, and because of the distance from the main cities on the Algarve, it’s relatively quiet compared to the beaches near Lagos.

It’s one of the best surfing destinations in all of Europe, so if you’re into surfing (or are looking to learn), this beach should be on your list. 

The Town of Sagres

algarve travel plans

The town of Sagres is, well, tiny. There’s not a whole lot going on, and it has very “surf town” vibes. It’s a small town, and was very sleepy when we were around in November. 

It’s worth heading out to the Fortaleza de Sagres , which you’ll have to pay a few Euros to access, but the views from the point are worth it. It is going to be windy when you’re there – it almost always is. 

We liked Praia da Mareta ( here on Google Maps) too, a wide, sandy beach with cliffs on either end.

It’s one of the better swimming beaches because it’s protected by those cliffs, and it’s not too busy even in the summer season. Praia do Martinhal ( here on Google Maps) is another nice beach just a few minutes east of Sagres. 

To get there, you drive back out on the main highway you took into town, then take a winding road down to the beach (we took a wrong turn and found ourselves in the housing development that looks suspiciously like a retirement community in Florida). 

From here, you have a couple of options, and it depends on your appetite for more beaches and pristine coastline. 

  • Head back to Lagos and take a well-earned siesta before finding a place to have dinner and drinks. 
  • Drive north along the coast to Praia da Arrifana ( here on Google Maps), another great beach that will give you a nice taste of Portugal’s Atlantic Coast. There are plenty of other beaches in the area, but a lot of them are on questionable dirt roads that your rental car may not like so much. Praia da Amoreira ( here on Google Maps) is also worth a stop as it’s just north of the first beach and has a good road leading to the northern end of the beach. 
  • Head back to Lagos, but make a quick detour to Salema , a quiet fishing village with a wide, sandy beach where literally not a single place was open on the afternoon we were there. We’d imagine that changes drastically in the high season. 

algarve travel plans

Day 3: The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

On your third day, move to your second home base and hike the best trail in southern Portugal – the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail .

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

algarve travel plans

This hike, best done from east to west starting from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes , was one of our favorite experiences in Portugal. And we’re from coastal California, which we learned is very similar to the Algarve in terms of scenery, flora, and fauna.

The point is, it’s a great hike, and that’s coming from two people who have done countless hikes with similar views and scenery. 

First, an overview of the full out-and-back hike. 

  • Length : 7 miles / 11.4 km (shorter versions below)
  • Elevation Gain : 1,200 ft. / 365 meters
  • Season : Year round
  • Trail Type: Out and Back (we have ideas on alternate routes below)
  • Difficulty : Easy / Moderate
  • Trailhead Location : Either Praia da Marinha or Praia do Vale de Centeanes
  • Dog Friendly : Yes! 

algarve travel plans

If that sounds like too much for you, you have a few options in terms of shortening the hike. 

  • Option 1: The Full Hike, Round Trip – 7 miles / 1,200 feet of elevation gain (11.4 km / 365 m). Hike the entire trail out-and-back from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes, and then back the way you came. 
  • Option 2: The Full Hike, One Way – 3.5 miles / 600 feet of elevation gain (6 km / 180 m). Do the entire hike, but only one way. This requires using either taxis, Uber, or hitching a ride to get back to your car at the first trailhead (or finding a way to get there without a car). 
  • Option 3: Partial Hike, Out and Back – 3.3 miles / 600 feet of elevation gain (5.6 km / 180 m). Hike the section between Praia da Marinha and Praia do Carvalho, which in our opinion is the best part of the trail. You can continue on to the nice lighthouse – Farol de Alfanzina, for an additional 2 miles (3.2 km) added to your round-trip distance. 

If you’re attempting this hike in the summer, you should plan on being either a) on the trail hiking by 8:00 am at the latest, with plenty of water and sunscreen for the journey or b) absolutely miserable hiking through the heat of the day. Seriously, get an early start. 

If you’re interested in doing the entire thing, you should head over and read our Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Guide , which has more details that will help you tackle it safely and have a great experience. 

Sunset at Praia do Vale de Centeanes

algarve travel plans

End your day at the ending point for the trail you hiked earlier in the day, which is a pretty spectacular place to watch the sunset. 

Either head down to the beach, where you’ll be able to sit in the golden sand and watch the sun dip below the horizon line, or walk back up onto the bluff on the east side of the beach (where you came down on the hike) and walk out to the point, where there are a bunch of benches to sit on facing west. 

algarve travel plans

Day 4: Benagil Beach and Caves

On your fourth day, get out on the water and explore the rugged Algarve coastline by boat.

In this case, we’d recommend exploring by kayak because there are a seemingly unlimited number of secret beaches and caves where you’ll be able to actually get out inside the cave, which is not possible on a speed boat trip (at least that I’ve ever seen).

If you’re a beginner in a kayak, we’d also recommend joining a guided tour rather than trying to do it yourself. We love kayaking, but the weather was a bit cold for us, and most companies were shut down for the winter by then. We added it to our list for next time instead.

Which tour you choose depends on where you’re coming from, as there are tours leaving from different points near Benagil Beach, which is just east of Carvoiero.

The easiest way is to do a tour that leaves directly from Benagil Beach (here’s a sunrise tour , which is the best time to be there thanks to calm water and fewer people). 

There are also tours that leave from nearby cities like Albufeira or Portimão , or tours with a stand up paddleboard rather than a kayak. 

The Headlands West of Carvoiero

algarve travel plans

After a break in the afternoon, head back out to explore the beaches and bluffs around Carvoiero. We’re going to give you our favorite points, but be sure to do some exploring and ask around to see if you can discover one or two of your own. 

From east to west, here are the spots we enjoyed: 

  • Praia do Paraíso : Major Greece vibes as you head down the white steps to this small, secluded beach. Lots of steps to get down to the beach, but we think it’s worth it. 
  • Miradouro da Arriba da Salgadeira : Head out onto the spit for great views along the coast in both directions. It’s very windy. 
  • Praia dos Caneiros : Beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow, turquoise water that’s far enough from town to mean it’s quieter than other beaches in the area. 
  • Farol da Ponta do Altar : The lighthouse is fine, but the views over the beaches to the east of the lighthouse are the reason we included this. Walk east from the parking lot along the cliffside until you’re above Praia do Torrado (we couldn’t figure out how to get down to the beach without rock climbing, which we passed on). 

algarve travel plans

Afterwards, grab dinner in Carvoeiro’s charming downtown area. Another good option is out at Quinta Dos Santos , a lovely winery / brewery / restaurant on a farm 15 minutes outside of town. 

You could turn this into a nice loop, starting in town, heading out to each of the beaches, eating dinner at Quinta Dos Santos, and heading back into town. 

More Time in the Algarve: Choose Your Own Adventure

Generally, if you have more time on the Algarve, we’d recommend spending it relaxing more rather than trying to do more activities. More beach time and coastal drives rather than planned activities. 

However, here are a few specific things we think are worth your time. 

Surfing Lessons : I’m not sure there’s a better place in Europe to learn how to surf (or go surfing if, unlike us, you’re already a pro). Unfortunately, winter wasn’t the time for us to try our hands at surfing, but during the warmer months we’d be in. 

Albufeira : A charming small town with wide white sand beaches nearby that is worth a full day, if not an overnight. It’s only a half hour by car from Carvoeiro, so it’s an easy day trip. Here’s a guide we liked.

Head to Faro and Tavira : Even further east, you’ll find the charming towns of Olhão , known for its fish market on the water, and Tavira , along with the major city in the region, Faro , which is home to the region’s only airport. We actually spent one night in Tavira, stopping there on our way into Portugal from Seville , and it’s a lovely little riverfront town. The best meal we ate on the Algarve was at O Tonel , in the heart of Tavira’s old town. Don’t miss Ria Formosa Natural Park and Ilha de Tavira , which are both accessible from this stretch of coast. 

What to Do with Less Time on the Algarve

If you have fewer days on the Algarve, what you choose to do is going to depend on your interests. For us, we’re not super into just hanging out on the beach, so we’d cut those portions out first and focus on road tripping and hiking along the coast. 

However, we also totally understand that you might be super into relaxing on the beach, which is why we’re putting our bias out there for you. 

The other thing to consider is where to stay. With 1-3 days on the Algarve, we’d suggest picking just one base and staying there the entire time. We’d recommend Lagos for most people, because it’s a central point between the eastern and western parts of the coast. 

However, like we mentioned above, there’s basically an unlimited number of charming little towns littering the Algarve, so Lagos is by no means the only place you could stay and have an enjoyable trip. 

With all that being said, here’s how we would spend three days on the Algarve. 

What to Do with 3 Days on the Algarve

On your first day, follow “Day 1” as written above.

On your second day, choose between either the Benagil Cave tour by kayak , or hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail .

You could also combine them by doing part of the hike (we’d recommend going from Praia da Marinha to Carvalho Beach ), then returning to Benagil Beach to meet a tour (or vice versa, depending on the timing of the tour). 

On your last day, follow “Day 2” as written above with a road trip out to the western Algarve and a stop in Sagres to see the southwesternmost point in Europe. 

algarve travel plans

When to Visit the Algarve?

In every single guide, we say something along the lines of “summer is the busiest and hottest time of year – visit in shoulder season instead!”

And, to be clear, that’s probably more true of the Algarve than other places in Portugal (and Europe as a whole). 

But, ultimately, it comes down to when you are able to travel. If you have kids, chances are summer is when they have time off school and are able to go on longer trips.

Just know that if you visit the Algarve in the summer , you’re going to experience blistering hot temperatures that make it tough to be out in the sun for more than an hour at a time, and hordes of other tourists flocking to the same tiny seaside fishing villages that, all of a sudden, aren’t nearly as charming. 

So when we say “VISIT IN SHOULDER SEASON,” we really mean it. Fall and spring will bring milder temperatures and fewer people – particularly fewer kids and families . If you have the ability to avoid traveling in the summer, we’d strongly recommend it . 

We were actually in the Algarve over the winter – at the end of November into the beginning of December – and it was generally lovely. The weather was very mild, though too cold for spending a day on the beach (which isn’t really our thing anyway).

It’s a much more pleasant time to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail , which is more what we’re into. 

The other thing to know about visiting in the off-season is that many places will be closed – bars, restaurants, other tourist related services – especially in the smaller beach towns that become very, very sleepy when the tourists go home for the winter. 

algarve travel plans

Where to Start and End Your Algarve Road Trip / Getting to the Algarve

There are basically two ways to get to the Algarve that are going to be good for 95% of people, and it largely depends on what the rest of your trip to Portugal looks like. The two options are coming to or from Lisbon (by car or bus/train) or flying directly to the Algarve. 

Coming from Lisbon

If your trip starts or ends in Lisbon and you’re going directly to/from Lisbon to the Algarve, then you can rent a car or take a train/bus to make the journey. 

We definitely recommend that you rent a car for your Algarve itinerary , and if you’re flying in and out of Lisbon, then it probably makes the most sense to rent a car in Lisbon, drive to the Algarve, and drop the car off back in Lisbon. 

However, that proposition becomes a little more expensive if you’re renting the car for a one-way journey thanks to “one-way” rental car fees.

If you’re flying into Lisbon and out of Faro (or the reverse), then it probably makes more sense to train or bus to Lagos or Faro and rent the car from there to avoid the one way fee. 

Coming from Elsewhere and Only Visiting the Algarve

If your trip doesn’t involve going anywhere near Lisbon and it’s just a trip to the Algarve, then there’s only one airport that you’ll be able to fly into: Faro Airport . 

You can either rent a car from there, which incurs an “airport rental fee” of about 30 Euros, or take a bus or train to Lagos and rent from there.

For what it’s worth, we’d probably just shell out the extra Euros for the airport fee here given the public transit connections between Faro and Lagos aren’t great. 

Planning a trip to Portugal?  

Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

  • 10 Days in Portugal: Planning the Perfect Portugal Itinerary
  • 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
  • 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
  • One Day in Lisbon: The Best of Lisbon in 24 Hours
  • Where to Stay in Lisbon: Our Guide to 4 Amazing Places to Stay
  • Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Restaurants
  • The Best Coffee in Lisbon: 9 Amazing Lisbon Coffee Shops to Add to Your List
  • 3 Days in Porto: Planning the Perfect Porto Itinerary
  • One Day in Porto: How to See the Best of Porto in a Day
  • Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Stay

The Algarve:

  • A Complete Guide to Planning an Algarve Road Trip (3-7 Days)
  • Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base
  • How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: Complete Trail Guide

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Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Thank you so much for this post! Doing my research on the region for my upcoming road trip in Portugal late July… (already worrying about the crowd & heat , and fuel price…), super helpful!!

It will definitely be hot in late July! But I’m sure it will be amazing. Enjoy!

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Greta's Travels

Algarve Itinerary – How To Spend 5 Days In The Algarve, Portugal

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

Need help planning your Algarve itinerary? This guide is exactly what you need!

The Algarve is one of the most famous and visited areas of Portugal, and it’s easy to see why. With its pristine beaches, turquoise sea and dramatic golden cliffs, it’s a region of stunning natural beauty.

It’s the perfect destination for anyone searching for great beach holiday, but it’s also much more than that.

It’s perfect also for active travellers who want to surf, SUP or kayak, or for history fans that want to explore cute Portuguese towns.

In this article I will go over exactly how many days you need to visit the Algarve, a detailed day-by-day breakdown of the best activities and places to see, tips on where to eat, where to stay and more!

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and start planning your perfect Algarve itinerary!

  • 1 Do you need travel insurance to visit the Algarve?
  • 2 How many should you spend in the Algarve?
  • 3 How to travel around the Algarve
  • 4.1.1 Tavira
  • 4.1.2 Explore Faro
  • 4.1.3 Beach & Nightlife in Albufeira
  • 4.1.4 Where to stay in Albufeira
  • 4.2.1 Sunrise kayak tour to Benagil Cave
  • 4.2.2 Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys trail
  • 4.2.3 Relax at Praia da Marinha
  • 4.2.4 Do a stop in Carvoeiro
  • 4.2.5 Visit Ferragudo
  • 4.2.6 Spend the night in Lagos
  • 4.2.7 Where to stay in Lagos
  • 4.3.1 Visit Praia do Camilo
  • 4.3.2 Hike along Ponta da Piedade
  • 4.3.3 Relax at Praia de Dona Ana
  • 4.3.4 Do a boat tour to Ponta da Piedade
  • 4.3.5 Visit Praia dos Estudiantes
  • 4.4.1 Surf at Praia do Telheiro, Praia do Amado or Castelejo Beach
  • 4.4.2 Explore Sagres Town
  • 4.4.3 Watch the sunset at Cabo de Sao Vicente
  • 4.5.1 Where to stay in Sagres
  • 5 What to pack for your Algarve trip

Enjoying the view over Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

Enjoying the view over Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

Do you need travel insurance to visit the Algarve?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

View over the beach and town of Carvoeiro in the Algarve, Portugal

View over the beach and town of Carvoeiro in the Algarve, Portugal

How many should you spend in the Algarve?

If you’ve only just started planning your Algarve itinerary , you might be wondering how many days you should spend in the Algarve.

It ultimately depends on your personal interests and your overall Portugal itinerary , but I would say the bare minimum is 3 days in the Algarve.

In this guide I have included a day-by-day breakdown for my Algarve 5-day itinerary. Three days will allow you to see all the main sites, but you will be rushing around a bit, spending a lot of time driving from one place to the next.

If you spend five days in the Algarve you will have enough time to visit all the most famous spots, do fun activities and relax at some world-renown beaches.

For those who want to relax and spend more time at the beach, then you can easily spend up to one week in the Algarve, taking it slow at every beach and discovering all the gorgeous seaside towns.

So to answer your question; how many days should I spend in the Algarve? I would say 3 days is the bare minimum, but I personally recommend 5 days for an awesome Algarve itinerary.

The unique rock formations of the Algarve

The unique rock formations of the Algarve

How to travel around the Algarve

The easiest way to get around the Algarve is to rent a car and do an Algarve road trip. That way you will have the maximum flexibility over where you want to go and travel times.

There are also trains and buses that run across the whole region, but they might not go to the smaller towns or unknown beaches.

Especially if you’re travelling as a group of friends or family, renting a car might also work out cheaper than with public transport. Just make sure to check all the details of your car rental before booking.

I rented two cars in Portugal and both times we had to argue with the car rental, as they include lots of hidden charges and on one occasion they also didn’t include all the damage the car already had in the initial check-out document.

If you want to save money on your car rental, you can use Rental Cover for your car insurance. I always purchase my insurance for car rentals with them as they are much cheaper than the insurance rental companies offer.

The gorgeous Praia do Marinha - a must see on any Algarve itinerary

The gorgeous Praia do Marinha – a must see on any Algarve itinerary

The best Algarve 5-day itinerary

Day 1: faro, tavira & albufeira.

Located a short 30-minute drive away from Faro, I thought I’d start this Algarve itinerary with something a little off the beaten path. This small city sits on the mouth of the Gilao River, and is right next to the famous Tavira Island.

This part of the Algarve coast is famous for its long sandy beaches and saltpans, which attract flamingos and other birds. They’re very different from the other beaches you will see in this Algarve itinerary.

Tavira town is also worthy of a visit. The old town centre is characterised by the typical Portuguese white houses and cobbled streets. There’s also the medieval Tavira Castle from which you get great city views.

You can also do a fun tuk-tuk city tour of Tavira ! That way you will have a local guide taking you to all the must-see spots, and telling you about the history of this cute Portuguese town.

Click here to book your Tavira tuk-tuk city tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Igreja do Santa Maria do Castelo in Tavira, Portugal

Igreja do Santa Maria do Castelo in Tavira, Portugal

Exploring Tavira in the Algarve by tuk-tuk

Exploring Tavira in the Algarve by tuk-tuk

Rooftop views in Tavira, Portugal

Rooftop views in Tavira, Portugal

Explore Faro

Being the capital of the Algarve, no Algarve itinerary would be complete without a visit to Faro. You can spend a few hours exploring the gorgeous old town of Faro, its unique architecture and quirky shops.

Some must-see sights are Arco da Vila, Faro Marina, Igreja do Carmo and Faro Cathedral. Walking around the white cobbled streets and cute white houses will give you all the Portuguese vibes you’re looking for.

After a busy morning of sightseeing you can sit down, relax a bit and eat at one of the many local restaurants. We ate at A do Pinto and had a delicious acorda, a traditional Portuguese dish. It looks ugly, but tastes delicious!

Sunset in Faro Marina, Portugal

Sunset in Faro Marina, Portugal

Exploring Arco da Vila in Faro, Portugal

Exploring Arco da Vila in Faro, Portugal

Beach & Nightlife in Albufeira

With a full belly it’s time to hit the road again! Albufeira is one of the most famous seaside towns in the Algarve, and it’s easy to see why. It used to be a fishing village, which became a major holiday hotspot.

You will find a huge beach waiting for you, where you can relax and tan after a busy sightseeing morning. Right behind the beach is the promenade and town centre, so that you can easily explore it.

The old town is perched on the hill above the beach. You can walk up there and wander around the cute white streets, as well as enjoying the epic view over the beach and coast.

Albufeira is also known for its busy nightlife. Once the sun goes down you can enjoy the many restaurants, bars and clubs of the town centre. But don’t stay out too late, as you have an early rise on tomorrow’s itinerary!

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Where to stay in Albufeira

Deciding where to stay in the Algarve can be hard, which is why I have listed below some great places to stay in every town of this itinerary , for every budget.

Budget – Alfagar Cerro Malpique :  This residence has lovely studios that are perfect for budget travellers. It’s located a bit outside the centre of Albufeira, but it has a huge pool and epic views over the sea and town.

Click here to book your stay at Alfagar Cerro Malpique!

Mid-range – Casa dos Arcos :  This charming guest house is the perfect place to stay for those who want to treat themselves without breaking the bank. You can relax in their lovely courtyard after a long day of exploring the Algarve.

Check out prices and availability at Casa dos Arcos here!

Luxury – Hotel Baltum :  If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. This hotel has modern rooms and a huge rooftop terrace with epic views over the white houses of Albufeira and the sea.

Book your stay at Hotel Baltum here!

Exploring the streets of Albufeira Old Town

Exploring the streets of Albufeira Old Town

Day 2: Benagil Cave, Praia da Marinha & Lagos

This day was probably the best day of my Algarve trip. It’s a pretty tiring one, but you will be very happy by the end of it.

Sunrise kayak tour to Benagil Cave

If you’re planning an Algarve itinerary, chances are you’ve seen photos of Benagil Cave. Benagil Cave is a huge sea cave, with two entrances on the sea and a hole on the ceiling.

You can only access it by the sea, so you will have to join a kayak, boat or SUP tour to reach it.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING BENAGIL CAVE |

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

It’s one of the most popular stops on every Portugal itinerary, so be ready to either get up at sunrise or battle thousands of other tourists to visit it, especially in summer.

We joined a 7AM kayak tour starting from Benagil Beach and it’s the best decision we could have taken. We kayaked along the gorgeous coast of the Algarve as the sun was rising, and were the only group inside Benagil Cave.

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, of which about half an hour is spent inside Benagil Cave, taking photos and enjoying the beauty of this natural formation. Being alone inside this sea cave is well worth the early alarm.

After that we went to three more sea caves, and kayaked all the way to Praia do Marinha, before returning to Benagil Beach, just as many other kayak, SUP and boat tours were getting ready to get in the water.

Click here to book your kayak tour to Benagil Cave , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Being one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, you want to make sure you book your Benagil Cave tour beforehand. I have linked below some of the most popular tours to Benagil Cave.

Benagil Caves Kayaking Experience – This is the same tour we did, which will take you to explore Benagil Cave, other sea caves and this part of the Algarve coastline.

Benagil Caves Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour – If kayaks aren’t your thing, you can reach Benagil Cave by SUP!

From Portimao: Benagil Caves 2-Hour Speed Boat Tour – If you don’t want to paddle in a kayak or SUP (understandable if it’s 7AM) you can also join this comfortable speed boat tour.

From Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour – This tour is perfect for those who want to combine visiting Benagil Cave with a bit of dolphin spotting!

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve, Portugal

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve, Portugal

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys trail

The Seven Hanging Valleys trail is a 12km trail that starts in Praia da Marinha and runs all the way to Praia de Vale Centenaes, passing by Benagil. It’s famous for its gorgeous views over the cliffs and coastline.

We didn’t want to do the whole trail, as after we had woken up before sunrise and had already spent 1.5 hours kayaking. So we only did the part of the trail that goes from Benagil to Praia do Marinha, and takes around 40 minutes.

Along the trail you’ll walk past the hole of Benagil, so that you can peek inside the famous sea cave from above. You will also walk past some gorgeous spots like the “Heart of the Algarve” and other iconic coastline sights.

If you do the 7AM kayak tour you’ll be able to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys trail and still arrive in Praia da Marinha by around 10AM, before it gets too hot to hike and before the big crowds arrive.

Hiking the Seven Valleys Hanging trail to Praia do Marinha from Benagil

Hiking the Seven Valleys Hanging trail to Praia da Marinha from Benagil

Praia da Marinha as seen from the Seven Hanging Valleys trail

Praia da Marinha as seen from the Seven Hanging Valleys trail

Relax at Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha has been ranked amongst the most beautiful beaches in the world , and it’s easy to see why. This beach is characterised by fine white sand, clear emerald water and picturesque sandy cliffs up to 50m high behind it.

After your sporty morning, you can spend a few hours relaxing at this gorgeous beach, lying on the soft sand and cooling down in the crystalline water.

There is a café at the start of the beach and food trucks in the parking area above it, so you can grab food and drinks there if you didn’t want to bring them on the hike.

Being such a famous beach, you can expect loads of people to arrive in the course of the day. We stayed until around 2PM, by then the tide had come up and the beach had gotten smaller, and too many other people had arrived.

Grab some cold water and get ready to hike 40 minutes back to Benagil (and be ready to be shocked by the amount of people that will have arrived in Benagil compared to 9AM)!

Relaxing at Praia da Marinha in the Algarve, Portugal

Relaxing at Praia da Marinha in the Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Marinha at high tide seen from above

Praia da Marinha at high tide seen from above

Do a stop in Carvoeiro

After hiking back to Benagil Beach it’s time to continue this Algarve road trip! You’ll be driving to Lagos, where you will be spending the night, but not without doing a couple of scenic stops first!

The first stop will be Carvoeiro, which is around a 15-minute drive from Benagil. This cute town is home to one of the most picturesque beaches of the Algarve.

Imagine a white sand beach with bright turquoise water, lined by tall sandy cliffs and pristine white houses perched behind it. Sounds like a postcard picture? That’s what you can expect to find in Carvoeiro.

There are two viewpoints above the beach where you can stop to enjoy the view, then maybe go for a wander in the town centre and even relax at the beach there.

View over the beach and town of Carvoeiro in the Algarve, Portugal

Visit Ferragudo

Another stop you can do to break up your drive is Ferragudo. Ferragudo is a cute seaside town with a beautiful beach and a picturesque old town centre.

You can spend a bit of time wandering around the cobbled streets, discovering pretty white houses and flower-lined streets, and maybe stop at one of the local pastelarias for a pastel de nata!

The colourful streets of Ferragudo, Portugal

The colourful streets of Ferragudo, Portugal

Spend the night in Lagos

By the time you arrive in Lagos you will probably by a bit knackered. Head to your hotel, take a shower, relax a bit and get ready to head out before the sun goes down!

Lagos is a town famous for its walled old town, picturesque architecture and nearby beaches.

I personally wasn’t expecting much from Lagos, I thought it was just going to be a good place to stay to explore the Algarve, but the town itself amazed me.

You can explore the cobbled streets of the old town centre, admiring the houses with azulejos facades and lively atmosphere of Lagos.

There are lots of great things to do in Lagos , as well as lots of delicious places to eat in Lagos , with many local seafood restaurants.

Exploring the old town centre of Lagos in Portugal

Exploring the old town centre of Lagos in Portugal

Where to stay in Lagos

Lagos offers a huge variety of accommodation for every budget. Here are some with excellent reviews.

Budget – Topcity Hostel & Suites : This is the hostel we stayed at for two nights and a great choice for budget travellers. They have a rooftop pool, spacious terraces for every dorm and a fun sociable atmosphere.

Click here to see prices and availability at Topcity Hostel & Suites!

Mid-range – Hotel Marina Rio :  Located in the heart of Lagos, this hotel is perfectly located for your evening wanderings around town. It also has a panoramic terrace and spacious rooms, without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Hotel Marina Rio!

Luxury – Cascade Wellness Resort :  This 5-star resort is perfect if you want to treat yourself. With their epic pool, garden and sea view, you can fully relax after your busy exploring days. It’s also really close to Ponta da Piedade.

Click here to book your stay at Cascade Wellness Resort!

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

Day 3: Lagos Beaches & Cliffs!

Today will be a relaxing beach day with limited driving, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be rich of gorgeous cliffs and views!

The Algarve is one of the most popular winter sun destinations in Europe , and these are the beaches you can visit all year round.

Visit Praia do Camilo

If you want to make the most of this beach, I highly recommend you visit it early. We arrived around 10:30AM and there were already quite a few people there, but the big crowds didn’t arrive until 1PM.

Walking down the famous wooden stairwell of Praia do Camilo in Portugal

Walking down the famous wooden stairwell of Praia do Camilo in Portugal

Praia do Camilo is one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve , and it’s easy to see why. Praia do Camilo is surrounded by tall sandy cliffs, has clear emerald water and soft golden sand.

To reach it you have to walk down the 200 steps of a wooden stairway, which add to the picturesque scenery. It’s the iconic beach you always see in photos of the Algarve.

Don’t make our mistake and put your towel too close to the sea, as the tide comes up really quickly and high, meaning you’ll have to retreat a lot.

However if by then more people arrived, there might not be much space left on the beach!

Praia do Camilo in the Algarve, Portugal

Praia do Camilo in the Algarve, Portugal

Hike along Ponta da Piedade

When the tide rose at Praia do Camilo and started splashing our towels we decided it was time to leave. We headed on foot for Ponta da Piedade, a headland famous for its stunning rock formations.

To say Ponta da Piedade left me speechless would be an understatement. We spent around an hour walking along the cliffs, and each viewpoint we stopped at amazed me more than the previous one.

The stunning views of Ponta da Piedade, Portugal

The stunning views of Ponta da Piedade, Portugal

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

Enjoying the view over the cliffs and sea from Ponta da Piedade

Enjoying the view over the cliffs and sea from Ponta da Piedade

From Ponta da Piedade you can stand at the top of these golden cliffs, looking down at the towers and arches of these unique rock formations, emerging from the crystal clear emerald sea.

It’s a sight that should feature on everyone’s Europe travel bucket list . There’s an unofficial trail all along the cliffs, so take your time wandering along the cliffs and taking in the views from every side.

From here you will also see little boats setting off for Ponta da Piedade tours. If you want to do one, I recommend you wait before doing one, more on that in the next section!

Admiring the rock formations and boats cruising at Ponta da Piedade

Admiring the rock formations and boats cruising at Ponta da Piedade

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

Relax at Praia de Dona Ana

After hiking along Ponta da Piedade you will probably want another break. You can walk down to Praia de Dona Ana, a gorgeous beach a short 15-minute walk away.

Similarly to Praia do Camilo, this beach is characterised by turquoise water, towering golden cliffs and soft white sand. Praia de Dona Ana is bigger, which means it can get busier but also that there is more space to accommodate everyone.

At Praia de Dona Ana you will also find bars, restaurants and sunbeds and umbrellas to rent. It might be less famous, but its equally beautiful and a must-see on any Algarve itinerary.

View over Praia de Dona Ana in the Algarve, Portugal

View over Praia de Dona Ana in the Algarve, Portugal

Do a boat tour to Ponta da Piedade

I know you’ve already seen Ponta da Piedade from above, but believe me when I say you will want to see it also from below.

Cruising along the base of these giant golden cliffs, winding your way below arches and through narrow cracks and inside sea caves is completely different.

If seeing these rock formations from above left me speechless, admiring them from the sea left me even more thunderstruck. From below the sea will appear even more clear and turquoise.

Click here to book your Ponta da Piedade boat tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Cruising through the arches and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade

Cruising through the arches and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade

Cruising through the arches and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade

We hadn’t planned to join a boat tour, but when we saw boats setting off from Praia de Dona Ana, we couldn’t help but inquire.

The tour costs 20 EUR per person, independently from how many people you have on board, last around 45 minutes and don’t need to be reserved beforehand, just ask the stand on the beach and they’ll call you a boat.

I personally think it’s better to join a tour from Praia de Dona Dana or Lagos, as you’ll be able to enjoy more of the coastline than those starting directly in Ponta de Piedade.

Cruising along the coast of Ponta da Piedade

Cruising along the coast of Ponta da Piedade

Some of the gorgeous coast and beach views you can see during your Ponta da Piedade boat tour

Some of the gorgeous coast and beach views you can see during your Ponta da Piedade boat tour

Cruising through the rock formations of Ponta da Piedade in Portugal

Cruising through the rock formations of Ponta da Piedade in Portugal

If you’re visiting Portugal in high season you might not want to risk booking your tour on the beach on the day. After all, if there aren’t any available you will be missing out on a great experience!

To be sure you’ll be cruising along Ponta da Piedade, you can book online beforehand one of these popular tours.

From Lagos: 75-Minute Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade – This is similar to the boat cruise we did, except it starts in Lagos so you’ll be able to see more of the coastline.

From Lagos: Algarve Golden Coast 4-Hour Catamaran Cruise – This tour is much longer, since the boat you’ll be cruising with is much cooler! It wouldn’t just be a sight seeing tour, but a proper catamaran sailing experience.

Ponta da Piedade Sunset Cruise From Lagos – If you want to do something more unique, cruising this coastline at sunset and enjoying the beautiful golden light is simply magical!

From Lagos: 2-Hour Kayak Cave Explorer Tour – For the more active travellers, this tour is perfect! It will allow you to get close to these gorgeous rock formations, and really appreciate their natural beauty.

Kayaking through the arches and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade

Kayaking through the arches and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade

A kayak tour in Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

A kayak tour in Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

Visit Praia dos Estudiantes

On your way back to Lagos at the end of the day you can do a stop at Praia dos Estudiantes. I didn’t personally love this beach, but there’s no denying it’s one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve and a must-see.

It’s famous because you have to walk through a rocky tunnel to reach it, and because of the Roman bridge that connects two of the cliffs that tower above it. It’s similar to other beaches in the area, but arguably more scenic.

If you visit it towards the end of the day it will be less busy, so that you can enjoy the scenic beach all to yourself.

The famous bridge of Praia dos Estudiantes in Lagos

The famous bridge of Praia dos Estudiantes in Lagos

Days 4 & 5: Sagres & surroundings

I grouped the final two days of my Algarve itinerary since, while I believe you need two days to properly enjoy this part of the Algarve, the order in which you do the activities is flexible.

The drive from Lagos to Sagres is only around 30 minutes, once there it’s time to hit some of the most famous surfing beaches in Portugal!

Surf at Praia do Telheiro, Praia do Amado or Castelejo Beach

The whole western coast of Portugal is famous for its world-class waves, but the southern region around Sagres is especially popular. Even if you don’t surf, these beaches are still spectacular and worthy of a visit.

Praia do Amado in Portugal

Praia do Amado in Portugal

The main surf beaches are Castelejo Beach, Praia do Telheiro and Praia do Amado. I tried surfing at all of them, but since I was visiting Portugal in summer I got unlucky with the conditions and there were no waves.

The beaches here are much bigger than their neighbours on the southern coast of the Algarve. Here you will never have issues of space or rising tides pushing you onto the towels of other travellers.

My personal favourite was Praia do Amado. It won me over with its soft white sand, the unique cliffs behind it and the clear turquoise water. There were also two very affordable bars overlooking it.

Castelejo Beach is also very scenic, with the tall behind it and the wide beach. You can find surfing schools directly on the beaches or book your lessons online beforehand.

Castelejo Beach in Portugal

Castelejo Beach in Portugal

Praia do Amado in Portugal

Explore Sagres Town

Sagres might not be as unique and quaint as some of the other towns in this Algarve itinerary, but it’s still worth exploring. You will find lots of unique shops, bars and restaurants.

There is a very famous ceramics shop called Artesanato a Mo. If you’ve seen photos of someone standing in front of a wall of ceramics, chances are it was the front of this shop.

We also had lovely dinner at Laundry Lounge. As the name suggests, it’s a bar and restaurant where you can also do your laundry.

It’s a bit on the higher price end, but the food and cocktails were great (and we really had to do laundry).

The colourful shop front of Artesanato a Mo in Sagres

The colourful shop front of Artesanato a Mo in Sagres

Watch the sunset at Cabo de Sao Vicente

Along with the surfing and beaches, Cabo de Sao Vicente was one of the highlights of our time in Sagres.

Make sure to bring an extra jacket as it can get very windy, we didn’t plan for that and were freezing while watching the sunset!

Cabo de Sao Vicente is a rocky headland with steep cliffs and a lighthouse perched at the end. Here you can watch as the sun sets directly into the ocean, and turns the cliffs pink.

There are also food trucks from which you can get food and drinks to nibble on while watching the sunset. It can get very busy, so make sure to head there a bit early if you don’t want to park miles away!

The cliffs of Cabo de Sao Vincente at sunset

The cliffs of Cabo de Sao Vincente at sunset

Enjoying the sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

Enjoying the sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

The sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

The sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

Costa Vicentina

From Sagres you can then drive along the Western coast of Portugal to the Parque Natural de Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.

This 900km squared natural park is one of the few places where you can find wild European coast.

Here you will find long wind-beaten beaches with fine white sand, strong waves and dramatic landscapes. It’s very different from the rocky cliffs of the Algarve, but equally beautiful and much less crowded.

Being a natural park, there are restrictions in place to avoid it becoming an overdeveloped tourist destination. This wild and rugged beauty is exactly the main selling point of the Costa Vicentina.

Depending on your Portugal itinerary, you can then also drive north onwards to Lisbon , Sintra , Porto and all the other main attractions of Portugal. 

If you like seaside destinations, you’re bound to enjoy Nazaré and Ericeira , whilst destinations like Obidos and Evora are best suited for history lovers who want to see cute medieval towns.

And if after moving around so much in the Algarve you don’t want to drive as much anymore, you can easily visit all these famous destinations on day trips from Lisbon and Porto (even the Douro Valley )!

Castelejo Beach in Portugal

Where to stay in Sagres

I found Sagres was much more expensive than other parts of the Algarve. However thanks to its surf vibe there are lots of fun hostels and surf houses. Here are some accommodation options for every budget.

Budget – The Lighthouse Hostel :  We stayed here for two nights and loved it. They have dorms, private rooms and bungalows, so there’s an accommodation style for everyone. They also have a pool, a lovely garden and friendly vibe.

Click here to book your stay at The Lighthouse Hostel!

Mid-range – Casa Azul Sagres :  If you’re looking for something nice that won’t break the bank, this hotel is perfect. They have both cheaper double rooms and apartments for families or those who want more space.

Book your stay at Casa Azul Sagres here!

Luxury – Mareta Beach House : If you want to treat yourself, this boutique residence is the place to do so. With their spacious rooms and infinity pool with sea views its the perfect place to relax after a long day of surfing and beaching.

Check out prices and availability at Mareta Beach House!

The pool and garden of The Lighthouse Hostel in Sagres

The pool and garden of The Lighthouse Hostel in Sagres

What to pack for your Algarve trip

Besides the usual travel essentials , there are a few things you’ll want to be sure you pack for your Algarve trip.

Waterproof bag – Whether it’s to protect your electronics during your Benagil kayak tour or your boat tour of Ponta da Piedade, a waterproof bag is always handy in these situations.

Sun protector – The sun in this part of Portugal can get very intense, make sure to stay protected!

Power bank – You don’t want your phone to die while you’re taking photos of the gorgeous Algarve or while you’re trying to Google Map your way around a new city.

Exploring Carvoeiro in the Algarve

Exploring Carvoeiro in the Algarve

Cruising through the rock formations of Ponta da Piedade in Portugal

Final thoughts on the ultimate Algarve itinerary

There you have it, the ultimate Algarve itinerary! Have you been to the Algarve before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting the Algarve had been on my travel bucket list for ages, and finally exploring this part of Portugal was a dream come true.

From the dramatic cliffs of Lagos, to the scenic Benagil sea cave and the epic surfing beaches of Sagres, you will have an unforgettable time in the Algarve.

My Algarve itinerary is based on my trip and my five days in the Algarve. You could easily spend more or less time there, but this Algarve 5-day itinerary will allow you to see all the main sights, while also having time to relax a bit.

I hope you find this article useful in planning your own Algarve itinerary! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Looking for more Portugal travel guides? Check out my other articles!

  • The ultimate Azores 10-day itinerary
  • Everything you need to know about hiking in the Azores
  • 10 best things to do in Sao Miguel, Azores
  • 11 awesome things to do in Terceira Island, Azores
  • The best whale watching tours in the Azores

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Photo collage of Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Marinha and the sunset from Cabo de San Vincente with text overlay saying

Wapiti Travel

Algarve Itinerary: the best itinerary for 3-10 days

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2023

Are you getting ready to discover the impressive coast of southern Portugal? With this Algarve itinerary, you will see all the beautiful beaches, the charming towns and, not to forget, the artistic rock formations.

The Algarve is a refreshing mix of culture, nature, sport, and relaxation, bathed in lots of sunshine.

Planning a trip to the Algarve is electrifying but with so many sights spread over a coastline of nearly 200 kilometers, it can become a bit overwhelming.

With this article, we want to help you with your Algarve Itinerary. We have suggestions for trips of 2, 3, and 5 days, Algarve vacations of a complete week, and even an Algarve Itinerary of 10 days.

So jump in your car and let’s go.

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Table of Contents

algarve travel plans

Is this your first trip to the Algarve and are you eager to see all the highlights?

Use our Algarve Travel Planner to create your itinerary. It comes with loads of suggestions and will make your travel planning less stressful and more enjoyable.

The best Algarve Itinerary

First things first. The easiest option to see all the eye-candy the Algarve has to offer is with a car.

For our latest trips, we’ve found the best cars at  Discover cars.

This is a website where you can quickly and easily compare the prices of different rental companies.

All rates include the CDW and we like that the deductible is already clearly shown on the comparison page. The fuel policy, included mileage, and the cancelation policy is also clearly stated.

Most cars are cancellable up to 2 days in advance without any fees.  In some cases, a fully refundable deposit is taken at the time of booking.

That’s why most of these Algarve itineraries are designed as road trips.

During short trips, we stay in 1 place and explore the region with day trips.

For longer itineraries, we use different bases in order not to spend too much time in the car.

We start with an Algarve Itinerary of 2 days showing the highlights around Lagos and then systematically add days as you have more time.

In this post we share everything about renting a car in Portugal. 

Without further ado, here’s our first Algarve Itinerary.

2 days in Algarve

Whether you arrive at Faro airport or come by car from Lisbon, if you only have 2 days to visit the Algarve, we recommend staying in or around Lagos.

Here is an overview of the best vacation homes and Airbnbs in Lagos. 

It is easy to spend 2 wonderful days in this region.

algarve travel plans

Day 1: Beaches in Lagos, Lagos old town, Ponte da Piedade

Lagos is a popular resort town in the Western Algarve and is known for its historic center.

The town is surrounded by numerous picture-postcard beaches. Whether you are looking to enjoy the serenity of a cliff-enclosed beach or an adventurer chasing extreme water sports, there is a perfect beach for you.

Surfers will love the waves at Praia de Porto de Mos, while those who just want to stretch out in the soft sand can head to Praia Dona Ana.

  • The 9 best beaches near Lagos
  • 7 best beach tents for windy conditions

All beaches are beautiful but some are even more heavenly than others. It’s hard not to use superlatives when describing the rocky coastline and the sunkissed beaches.

You can choose to relax at one beach or go on a beach-hopping adventure and check out several Lagos beaches .

Algarve - Ponta Da Piedade

Ponte da Piedade

If there’s one section of coastline that you absolutely shouldn’t miss it’s Ponte da Piedade . Located only 2 kilometers from Lagos this part of the coastline offers an awe-inspiring view.

The caves, grottoes, and arches are the workmanship of natural elements for thousands of years.

You can walk along the coast and admire the cliffs from a series of vantage points. There’s also a staircase to go to the beach, which is actually more a concrete pier, from where you can join a boat tour.

This is a short tour that will show you the cliffs from the waterside.

To see more of the coast you can join a boat tour that leaves from Lagos and lasts for something over an hour.

Check prices and availability: Ponte da Piedade boat tour

algarve travel plans

Lagos old town

By late afternoon you can return to Lagos to stroll through the old town.

Lagos is often used as a base to explore the West Coast and you will see that it is touristic with lots of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

There is always a lively vibe in the tourist season.

You will also find some restaurants around the yacht harbor and the boardwalk from the marina to the fortress is ideal for a romantic sunset walk.

Where to stay in Lagos

Here is an overview of the best vacation homes in Lagos.

If you are looking for a hotel, take a look at the Lagos Tivoli.

algarve travel plans

This centrally located hotel lies within walking distance from the Marina and Lagos old town.

They serve a good champagne breakfast buffet and you can park your car in the free outside parking.

We liked the signature restaurants.

The only thing we disliked is that the hotel is quite big and needs a little refurbishment.

But overall good price value.

Check prices and availability: Lagos Tivoli

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out Jupiter Algarve Hotel ( 4-star) or Clube Vilaorsa (3-star).

Benagil Cave - Algarve caves boat tour

Day 2: Benagil Cave tour and Sagres

The beautiful coastline is what attracts so many tourists to the Algarve so it will come as no surprise that these rock formations will also take the center stage on day 2.

We start the day with what is probably the most famous attraction of the Algarve.

Benagil cave

The Benagil cave is touristic but it is a majestic sight and a must-see when you visit the Algarve. Its sheer size is sure to leave an impression.

The true beauty of the cave can only be seen from the sea.

When hiking the 7 hanging valleys trail you pass the cave but all you can see from the top is a big gaping hole.

Inside the cave, you will find a small secluded beach. You can spend some time on this beach by joining one of the kayak or SUP tours to the beach.

There are also numerous boats that sail along the coast and show the Benagil cave along with other caves and rock formations.

When on a boat you see much more of the coastline but you don’t get to disembark inside the Benagil cave.

We discuss all options to see this breathtakingly beautiful cave in this article . It’s best to book your tour in advance.

Here’s all you need to know about the Benagil cave including a selection of high-rated kayak, SUP, and boat tours.

The Lighthouse at Cabo de Sao Vicente

Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente

Next, we head to Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente , the westernmost tip of the Algarve.

We first pass Sagres, a small fishing village.

This part of the coast is often terrorized by strong winds. Beaches here are not loved by sunbathers but attract hordes of surfers.

You will find many surfing schools if you want to start surfing or just want to up your game.

Driving further west we will arrive at Cabo de São Vicente, or the “end of the world” as it was known at the time of the great Portuguese explorers.

At the cape, you find one of the most powerful lighthouses in Europe. You can admire the dramatic cliffs and there are excellent birdwatching opportunities.

If you have the time you can go for a hike in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, an often forgotten and underrated part of the Algarve.

On clear days, bring a picnic and a nice bottle of wine, and enjoy a romantic sunset at the cape.

If you prefer spending the night in Sagres, take a look at this post.

algarve travel plans

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Algarve 3 day itinerary

On our third day, we head to the town of Carvoeiro.

Lagos is still a good base for these three days but if you want to stay a little more centrally you could look at Portimão.

If you prefer to stay in Carvoeiro, we recommend you to stay in Tivoli Carvoeiro ( 5-star), Placid village (4-star), or Castelo guest house (3-star).

If you are looking for a vacation home or apartment in Carvoeiro, click here. 

Day 3: Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is a picturesque white-washed resort town along the Algarve coast.

Its atmosphere and scenery will take your breath away. It’s an open-air museum with endless charm, perfect for sun-seekers and beach bums alike.

Carvoeiro boardwalk

Just outside the charming town, you will find the Carvoeiro boardwalk , a 600-meter-long wooden promenade that hugs the shore.

The promenade leads to the beautiful rock formations at Algar Seco , but halfway through is another gate where you can descend a flight of stairs to even more elegant rock structures.

Just some of the many slides in Slide and Splash

Visit a water park

For a little more adventure you can combine your visit to Carvoeiro with a side trip to a water park .

Both Slide ‘n Splash and Zoomarine can be reached in under half an hour.

Head to the beach

For a relaxing day, you can head to Carvoeiro beach or Marinha beach.

The second is a little further out and is one of Algarve’s favorites.

Quinta dos Vales

End the day in style in Quinta dos Vales .

This winery, about 15 minutes inland from Carvoeiro, is a feast for your taste buds.

Enjoy a gastronomic three-course meal paired with delicious wines or have a seat at the panoramic terrace for a wine tasting.

You can also tour their wine-making facilities with a pre-booking.

Jurassic River in Zoomarine, one of their latest additions

Algarve itinerary 4 days

Lagos is still a good base for this 4-day Algarve Itinerary.

Since the last 2 days are near Carvoeiro you could also opt to spend 2 days in Lagos and 2 days in Carvoeiro .

Day 4: Water fun at Zoomarine Algarve or Slide and Splash

After three days of imposing coastlines and quaint fishing villages, it is time for something a little different.

Spread across the Algarve you find several water-/themeparks. Ideal for cooling off during the sweltering summer days.

Slide and Splash and Zoomarine are arguably the most popular of the pack. We love both with maybe a slight preference for Zoomarine.

The truth is that both are hard to compare. Zoomarine is more of a theme park with lots of spectacular and entertaining shows whereas Slide and Splash is all about, you guessed it, slides.

Being adults, although young at heart, we found more variety in the combination of shows with water attractions in Zoomarine. That’s not to say that Slide and Splash isn’t fun.

Both parks have ample attractions. More than enough to keep you busy for a whole day.

When we were in Zoomarine this year we didn’t even manage to do them all. And that was without the crowds and queues you can expect in peak season.

Whatever park you choose, it will be a day well-spent!

The marina at Vilamoura

Algarve itinerary 5 days

For this 5-day Algarve itinerary, we recommend spending the last day in either Vilamoura or Albufeira.

We have hotel recommendations and a list of highly-rated Airbnbs in Vilamoura and Albufeira .

Day 5 : Vilamoura and Albufeira

After a day full of laughs we’re completely rejuvenated and ready to explore more of the Algarve coast. We’re heading east towards Albufeira and Vilamoura.

Vilamoura is an artificial town created to attract a high-heeled clientele to the Algarve coast.

The town is surrounded by award-winning golf courses and boasts an upscale marina where you can feast your eyes upon million-dollar yachts. Several posh bars and restaurants are lining the marina.

The difference with the rest of the Algarve is striking.

As you get closer to Vilamoura the roads turn into wide boulevards lined by perfectly manicured and watered gardens.

Many people actually mean the region of Vilamoura, including Quarteira and Quinta do Lago, when they refer to Vilamoura.

Here is a list of more great towns in the Algarve. For a list of the best places to visit in the Algarve, click here. 

The Ludo trail passes some salt flats in the Ria Formosa

Quinta do Lago

Quinta do Lago is a gated community to the east of Vilamoura that includes more magical golf courses.

It is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Ria Formosa lagoon and you can drive, bike, or take a segway tour through the resort to marvel at the impressive million-dollar villas, many owned by international celebrities.

We did this Segway tour on a relatively hot day and had a lot of fun. You can read more about this Segway tour here. 

Here you can find our complete guide on how to visit the Ria Formosa natural park.

The Vilamoura region is home to what many say is the most beautiful beach of the Algarve, Praia da Falésia.

Praia da Falésia

A large soft sandy stretch with striking red cliffs.

These cliffs gave the beach its name and also make the beach so popular. Sunset, when the cliffs seem to be on fire, is when this beach is at its best.

The region is a true effervescent tourist hot spot and you will find several, hotels, and Airbnb’s, as well as a wide choice of activities.

algarve travel plans

Active types can go paragliding , water skiing, or wakeboarding while those looking for a moment of zen will find it in the spas.

We booked a paratrike tour in Albufeira and flew over Praia da Falésia by sunset. It was an unforgettable experience. Here you can read our full post about this unforgettable paragliding experience.

Check prices and availability: Paratrike tour

If you are looking for a great place to stay in Vilamoura, we definitely recommend  the Hilton Vilamoura. You can read our complete review here. Another great hotel is the Vila Gale Marina ( 4-star).

If you prefer Airbnbs, have a look at our selection of  Vilamoura Airbnbs

Albufeira beach sunset Algarve Portugal

Albufeira is the liveliest resort town in the Algarve. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches during the day and party in the many nightclubs in the evening.

Unlike Vilamoura, which was only founded in 1966, Albufeira has a quintessential historic center waiting to be explored. Still, most people choose the city because of the huge range of outdoor activities, the golden beaches, and the vibrant nightlife.

Quad-biking, ziplining, and a forest adventure park with high rope walkways are just a small selection of the evocative outdoor fun that is waiting for you at this resort town.

The city’s nightlife is spread across the old town and a 2-km long street called ‘The Strip’ a little outside the city.

In the old town, you will find bars and restaurants, not so much different from other tourist hubs at the Algarve.

‘The Strip’ on the other hand, is unlike anything you can find anywhere else in the Algarve. It is 2 kilometers of rowdy pubs where the beer flows freely after dark.

Looking for accommodation in Albufeira?  Here’s a selection of highly-rated Airbnb’s . If you prefer a hotel, we recommend you Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Spa (5-star), PortoBay Falesia ( 4-star) or Alfagar village ( 3-star).

With such a wide range of water and sports activities, you will certainly not be bored today.

You can end the day as you wish, in a chic restaurant or a lively pub.

The Faro Harbor in Portugal

Algarve 7 days itinerary

A full week in the Algarve doesn’t need to be all about beaches, coastline, and historic charming villages.

As entrancing as these villages are, and as impressive the coastline is, in 7 days you have time to go wild in both water/theme parks Zoomarine and Slide and Splash.

Here’s our suggested 7-day Algarve itinerary.

Day 1: Lagos and surrounding beaches

Day 2: Sagres and Benagil cave tour

Day 4: Slide and splash

Day 5: Zoomarine Algarve

Day 6: Albufeira and Vilamoura

Day 7: Faro

Faro is seen as the capital of the Algarve.

Its airport is where for many their vacation begins.

Most of them directly rush to their hotel and don’t return until their last day to catch their plane back home. That’s a shame because Faro has quite a bit to offer.

The town’s history dates back to the 4th century BC when the Ria Formosa lagoon attracted settlers.

The settlement quickly grew to one of the commercial ports of the region.

In the years that followed the town often was the center of conflicts. As you walk through its cobblestone streets you will see Roman and Moorish influences.

The city is still partly surrounded by the original 9th-century Romanesque walls. There are 3 richly decorated gateways to the old town.

Places worth visiting are, amongst others, the Capela dos Ossos, Igreja do Carmo, the Sé Cathedral, and the Bishop’s Palace which is only open to the public during exhibitions.

While the old town can feel deserted on a typical weekday the shopping streets in the new town will be lively at any time of the day.

If you are looking for an apartment or vacation home in Faro, take a look at this overview. For those that prefer a hotel, we recommend 3HB Faro ( 5-star), Golden Beach Guest house (4-star), and Lemon Tree Stay (3-star).

algarve travel plans

Faro also borders the Ria Formosa . You can hike the Ludo Trail to explore this natural park or you can do a Segway tour.

Segway tour

The Segway tour treats you to all kinds of beautiful scenes in about an hour and a half.

It takes you past salt flats and golf courses and traverses part of Quinta do Lago to allow for some celebrity-house spotting. On the way back it follows a wooden boardwalk from where you have mesmerizing views. It was a great tour and we did see a lot of interesting places.

We definitely recommend this when it’s too hot to walk or when you want to try something different.

Check prices and availability: Segway tour

or read our guide about visiting the Ria Formosa.

The perfect place to end the day in Faro is at Faro beach. The beach is lined by beach bars from where you can admire the sunset with some snacks while sipping on a well-deserved cocktail.

Algarve itinerary 10 days

Day 6: Vilamoura and Albufeira

Murals Street art Olhão Algarve Portugal

Day 8: Olhão

Olhão is another gem along the Algarve coast.

It likes to call itself the gateway to the Ria Formosa but it deserves a visit for more than just that.

Olhão is the perfect place for street art lovers and other art fans.

There is so much street art that you’ll be left asking where do I start first?

The murals are based on archive pictures and some are made to show what life used to be like inside the buildings.

Near the fish market, you will find rich images of women working in canning factories and fishermen returning with their catch.

Olhão’s port is the departure point for many boat trips through Ria Formosa .

It is also where you can take the ferry to Ilha da Cultura and Ilha da Armona , 2 unreal inhabited islands in the lagoon where it looks as if time has stood still.

In addition to tiny villages, both islands also have some quiet beaches.

Where to stay

Olhão can be visited from Vilamoura and Albufeira. If you prefer staying in Olhão, check out the following hotels: Real Marina Hotel & Spa (5-star), Monte das Perdizes (4-star), and Pure Formosa Concept hotel (3-star ).

If you’re staying for 10 days or more and will also be visiting Tavira you can also opt to already head to your accommodation in Tavira .

Tavira Portugal

Day 9-10: Tavira and East Algarve

Tavira is often described as the Venice of the Algarve. While you won’t find any gondolas maneuvering in canals like in Italy or Aveiro, it’s not hard to see how Tavira got its nickname. If you enjoy a beer at the riverfront market in the evening, you cannot deny that this village exudes a certain charm and romance.

The old city has retained much of its yesteryear’s charm. There are numerous elegant historic buildings and lording the town is the impressive Tavira castle.

The iconic sight of the town is the seven-arched Roman Ponte Antiga Sobre o Rio Gilão .

Tavira is a coastal town and naturally also features some beautiful beaches such as the picturesque Praia do Barril .

Being located in the east of the Algarve the town is an excellent base from which to discover the less-visited gems of the eastern Algarve.

Cacela Velha

Eastern Algarve

There is Cacela Velha beach , a pristine beach separated from the mainland by a wide lagoon. It can only be reached by a long hike or short boat transfer and is therefore usually quite deserted, even in high season.

You can also do a day trip to the Spanish border and visit Vila Real De Santo António and the adjacent natural park, Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro Marim.

The village of Vila Real De Santo Antónia sits on the banks of the mighty Guadiana river which to a large extent defines the border of the two countries.

The town is a small-scale copy of Lisbon, when it was constructed in 1774 several design ideas, including

North of the town is Castro Marim where 2 castles can be found and the nature park, named after it.

The park is a great place for bird watching. Around 50 bird species are commonly spotted including flamingos, storks, bee-eaters, ibis, and many others.

The region is especially worth a visit during the Medieval festival in August.

Where to stay in Tavira

We stayed a couple of days in Vila Gale Albacora.

algarve travel plans

This hotel lies in the middle of Ria Formosa a bit outside Tavira ( 5minutes by car to the city center). Here you will stay in a unique, historical setting. The hotel is a restored tuna fishing camp. We found the rooms quite small and dark but the hotel certainly has a unique look to it. There is a good breakfast selection and a nice pool area. We also loved the small spa with a jacuzzi and sauna.

Check prices and availability: Vila Gale Albacora

Another great option is the 3 star hotel Tavira Monte.

If you prefer staying in an apartment or vacation house in Tavira, click here. 

Algarve FAQ

What is the best time to travel to the algarve.

You can visit the Algarve all year round but your experience will differ greatly based on the season you’re there.

Most tourists head to the Algarve in summer.

It can be extremely busy in July and August and that can take away quite a bit of the charm of the destination.

That’s why, if you can, you’re better to plan your visit during the shoulder season when the temperatures are still very pleasant and most of the crowds are gone.

You can also visit the Algarve in winter.

While you have to keep in mind that there will be higher chances of rain, in general, the temperatures are not too bad. With lows around ten and highs in the high teens, it can be ideal for more active hiking holidays.

It is also nice to have all the impressive sights all to yourself.

A disadvantage is that in winter some towns feel deserted because shops, restaurants, and pubs are closed for the season.

Read more about visiting the Algarve in winter.

How to get around in the Algarve?

The Algarve is a vast area, from east to west it has 160 km of the beautiful coast.

Public transportation is limited so whatever you wish to do, a road trip as we described here, or a few day trips. It’s best if you have a car.

When renting a car, as already said above we advise you to check out Discover cars.

If you don’t want to drive it’s best to base yourself in one of the larger towns such as Albufeira, Vilamoura, or Lagos. The boat trips depart from here and also most other tours offer pickups from the hotels in these towns.

The church at the main square in Lagos

Where to stay in the Algarve?

That depends on many factors, not in the least what you want to see and do.

This is the most popular resort town in the western Algarve.

It has managed to retain its charm in the historic center but can become crowded in the high season.

There are many hotels here, from large to small, and there is also no shortage of hotels and bars.

Lagos can appeal to everyone, both those on a family outing or a group of friends traveling together.

This is a great place to stay if you want to explore the western Algarve.

Here is an overview of the best apartments and vacation homes in Lagos.  If you are looking for a hotel, take a look at the Tivolo Lagos hotel.

Portimão

Lagos and Portimão are just 30 minutes apart. Both towns grew out of what was once a small authentic fishing village.

Lagos has largely retained its charms, Portimao, which is also larger and more expansive, feels more artificial.

In Lagos, the old town borders the beach and many beaches are within walking distance.

Portimao is located on the banks of the Arade River.

Meanwhile, the city has expanded to the beach where you will find many resort hotels. From the beach to the old center it is about a half-hour walk, which means that it is difficult to combine the best of the two.

That is why we would prefer Lagos to Portimão.

For an overview of the best apartments and vacation homes in Portimão, click here. If you are looking for a hotel in Portimão, click here.

Here you can find a complete post about the best places to stay in the Algarve. 

The cathedral in the old town of Faro

Faro feels more like a normal city and less like a resort town.

You will not find large resort hotels here. This is partly because Faro’s city center, including the old town, is not adjacent to the beach.

The beach is located on a long narrow spit of land called Faro Island where you will only find a handful of small-scale hotels. Both are separated from each other by the Ria Formosa lagoon. If you’re staying in the city and don’t have a car you will need to take the bus or the ferry to reach the beach.

The ferry is obviously the most scenic option as it traverses the lagoon. Faro has some budget hotels where you could spend the first or last night if you have a late/early flight. The city is also relatively good connected with the other resort towns by train or bus. Buses and trains run approximately every hour.

Here is een overview of vacation homes in Faro. If you are looking for a list of hotels, click here. 

A lively seaside resort that is overrun with tourists in the high season.

Known for its wide range of watersports and other activities, as well as the nightlife scene where you can easily socialize with other travelers.

A good location to discover the central part of the Algarve. Less than ideal for family-style vacations.

If you value a good night’s sleep, you should definitely avoid the area around the strip.

Here is an overview of the best vacation homes in Albufeira. If you are looking for a hotel in Albufeira, click here. 

Also a vacation hotspot with a wide range of activities. Loads of restaurants and bars, more upscale and not as wild as the neon-lit bars lining the Strip in Albufeira.

In Vilamoura, you will find more chich and sophisticated hotels and villas for rent. It’s more easterly location makes it better suited to explore the east of the Algarve.

Here is an overview of vacation houses in Vilamoura. If you prefer staying in a hotel check out our review of the Hilton. This is an amazing hotel and home to one of the best spas in the Algarve.

In Tavira, you’ll find fewer of those big resorts that have cropped up everywhere else in the Algarve.

It’s not that Tavira isn’t touristy, but it still retains more of its charm than the other places on this list.

This is a good place to avoid the crowds in the high season.

In fact, the more easterly you go, the less touristy the Algarve seems to become. Tavira is a good place to discover the eastern Algarve and the eastern spurs of the Ria Formosa.

Here is an overview of the best vacation homes in Tavira. If you prefer a hotel, take a look at Villa Gale Albacora hotel which is just outside Tavira. We stayed here a couple of days and had a great time.

  • Best family resorts in the Algarve
  • Where to stay in the Algarve as a couple
  • Best couples resorts in Algarve

Bird watching at Lagoa Dos Salgados in the Algarve

How many days do you need in the Algarve?

The Algarve lends itself to both short weekend trips and holidays of 2 weeks or longer.

But, if you’re coming here for the first time, you’ll probably leave feeling disappointed if you’ve been here for less than a week.

There is so much to see and do that 7 days is the very minimum to see the highlights and leave some time to relax at one of the many beautiful beaches.

What is the nicest part of the Algarve?

Being nature lovers we like the vast Ria Formosa lagoon and the Costa Vicentina Nature Park.

Both are marvelous and not as overrun by tourists as popular rock cliff formations like Ponta da Piedade.

Algar Seco

What should I not miss in the Algarve?

The Algarve offers something for everyone.

Absolute highlights that are sure to impress everyone are the Benagil Cave and other rock formations such as Ponta da Piedade and Algar Seco.

Water sports enthusiasts will find something of their liking in the many water sports activities, while golfers can easily discover a different golf course every day.

Hikers can explore hundreds of kilometers of trails in the Algarve.

The 7 hanging valleys trail is undoubtedly one of the more famous, but there are many others that are also very worthwhile. A walk in the Ria Formosa and the Costa Vicentina park should not be missed.

Bird lovers can indulge in their hobby in the Ria Formosa Lagoon, Lagoa dos Salgados, Cabo de São Vicente and several other places.

The Algarve is truly an all-around destination that will appeal to everyone.

These sample itineraries combine a mix of cultural and natural highlights while also allowing time for some water fun, either in the ocean or in one of the water parks.

If you continue your trip and are looking for a Portugal itinerary, click here.

The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Algarve itinerary: The perfect 5-day Algarve road trip

algarve travel plans

The Algarve is undeniably one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal. With its jaw-dropping limestone cliffs, golden beaches and turquoise water, the region is blessed with a spectacular coastline attracting visitors from all over the globe. Besides its incredible nature, the Algarve is also known for its delicious seafood, laid-back surf culture and charming towns packed with history.

Whether you like lounging on beaches, exploring picturesque towns or hiking in nature, I’ve put together a 5-day Algarve itinerary that will give you the perfect mix of all of these. 

The best way to see the region is to rent a car or a campervan and go on an Algarve road trip. This way you’ll have the freedom to stop wherever you feel like and also visit the more remote areas, like the western Algarve and the mountainous interior of the region. Driving in the Algarve is safe and easy, and the roads are in good condition.

A woman gazing at the turquoise sea on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Algarve, Portugal

Ready to start planning your 5-day Algarve road trip? Below, you’ll find my recommendations on the best things to do on each of the days plus tips on where to stay. I’ve also included a map at the end of the post, where you can find the exact locations of all the stops included in this Algarve itinerary.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

5-day Algarve itinerary for an amazing road trip

Day 1: arrive in faro, drive to carvoeiro.

Start your trip by flying to Faro, the capital of the Algarve. With many connections to Lisbon as well as other large European cities, Faro Airport is the main gateway to the Algarve region. Alternatively, you could also fly to Lisbon and then drive to the Algarve, which is about a 2.5-hour journey.

Once you arrive at Faro Airport, pick up your rental car. There are lots of car rental companies to choose from and the prices are great. We paid just €18 per day for our small car from Sixt but we were also visiting the Algarve in winter when the prices are the lowest.

Although Faro is the region’s capital, I recommend heading west straight away and not spending much time here because there are much more interesting places to visit in the Algarve.

Tip: Instead of renting a regular car, you might want to consider renting a campervan or a motorhome for your Algarve road trip. Thanks to its good roads and stunning scenery, Portugal is a fantastic destination for campervanning and motorhoming. Check out Motorhome Republic for the best motorhome and campervan rental deals in the Algarve.

Kick off your Algarve road trip by driving to Carvoeiro, a lovely seaside resort town just 40 minutes from Faro. Here you can expect to find traditional whitewashed houses, a variety of restaurants, sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and a peaceful ambience. 

sandy Carvoeiro Beach surrounded by limestone cliffs, whitewashed houses and turquoise water

The town is also home to the picturesque Praia do Carvoeiro beach. With its golden sand and clear turquoise water, it’s a beautiful place to relax, though it can get pretty crowded in July and August. For amazing views of Praia do Carvoeiro, walk up to the viewpoints on the cliffs surrounding the beach.

Make sure to also take a stroll along Carvoeiro Boardwalk. Hugging the jagged coastline of the Algarve, this clifftop walkway offers some pretty cool views of the coastal scenery, complete with rock formations, sinkholes and natural arches. We did this walk at sunset and the views were incredible!

A woman watching the sunset on the cliffs near Carvoeiro, a must-visit spot on any Algarve itinerary

At the eastern end of the boardwalk, there’s the magnificent Algar Seco cave system. This place is known for its tunnels, natural pools and windows that the wind and powerful waves have carved into the rock over thousands of years.

Where to stay

Spend the next two nights in Carvoeiro.

BUDGET: Apartamentos Solar Vale Covo Located about a 15-minute walk from the center of Carvoeiro, these apartments have spacious rooms, a large garden and an outdoor pool. It’s a great choice for budget travelers or families.

MID-RANGE: Castelo Guest House This oceanfront guest house looks like a small castle and is perched on top of a cliff overlooking Carvoeiro Beach. With its amazing ocean views and proximity to all the restaurants, the location couldn’t be more perfect.

Day 2: The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, Benagil Cave and Praia da Marinha

The second day of this Algarve itinerary will be all about coastal hiking, exploring sea caves and discovering gorgeous sun-soaked beaches.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is considered one of the best hikes in Algarve . It leads you through epic coastal scenery with breathtaking views of the dramatic cliffs and turquoise ocean. The trail starts at Praia do Vale de Centeanes Beach, just a short drive from Carvoeiro, and ends at Praia da Marinha Beach (or vice versa). 

Yellow limestone cliffs and turquoise ocean at Praia do Vale de Centeanes beach in Portugal

You can do it either as a 5.7-kilometer (3.5-mile) point-to-point hike (and get a taxi/Uber on the way back) or a 11.4-kilometer (7-mile) return hike. 

P.S. If you’re doing this hike in the summer, start early in the morning, otherwise you’ll be walking in the scorching midday sun.

For more details on what to expect from this trail, read my detailed guide for the Seven Hanging Valleys hike .

Craggy orange cliffs at the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, a mandatory part of every Algarve road trip

Benagil Cave

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail also passes by Benagil Cave, one of the most famous attractions in the Algarve, so I recommend that you make a stop here to visit this beautiful place.

This huge limestone sea cave features a large hole in its ceiling and can only be accessed by the sea. To get inside the cave, you can take this kayak tour from Benagil Beach. Alternatively, if you’re not into kayaking, you can take this speed boat tour from Portimão or this boat tour from Lagos.

If you’re visiting the Algarve in the summer, be aware that Benagil Cave can get packed with tourists. To see it without crowds, you should visit it as early in the morning as possible so you could be there before other groups arrive. Or you can visit the Algarve in the low season when the tourist herds are gone. For the best lighting conditions for taking photos, head there at around noon. 

If you want to visit the cave first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds, take this Benagil Cave sunrise tour that departs from Benagil Beach. Once you’re done with the tour, you can simply hike the remaining portion of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail to Praia da Marinha Beach.  

People standing on a small beach inside Benagil Cave, one of the most famous attractions in Algarve.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit Benagil Cave during our Algarve trip because the waves were too big to access it. This can sometimes be an issue if you visit the Algarve in winter as we did. In the spring, summer and autumn, however, you won’t need to worry about this.

Praia da Marinha

At the end of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail lies the famous Praia da Marinha, which has frequently been ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Europe. With its yellow cliffs, rock formations and irresistible blue-green water, this place is a true marvel of nature.

It’s the perfect spot to cool down and relax after all the hiking. In case you get hungry, you can grab some food at the small cafe down at the beach or at the food trucks up in the parking lot.

Golden cliffs rising from the sea at Praia da Marinha beach, one of the best beaches in Portugal

As Praia da Marinha is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve, you can expect it to get pretty crowded in the summer months, especially when the tide comes up and swallows most of the beach.

Once you’re done relaxing at the beach, you can either hike back along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail or grab an Uber or a taxi.

Spend another night in Carvoeiro at Castelo Guest House or at Apartamentos Solar Vale Covo .

Day 3: The cliffs and beaches around Lagos

On day 3 of your Algarve road trip, head to Lagos, which is only a 40-minute drive from Carvoeiro. It is one of the most charming towns in the Algarve and a popular tourist destination. Get ready to explore the striking cliffs and beaches around the town and visit the historical Old Town of Lagos.

Lagos beaches

Start your day by visiting some spectacular beaches just outside Lagos. The first one is called Praia dos Estudantes. This small cove is sheltered by ochre-colored cliffs and can be accessed via a man-made tunnel carved into the rock. What makes this beach stand out from the rest is the Roman-style bridge connecting two cliffs.

Even though Praia dos Estudantes is a fun place to explore, I recommend that you don’t spend too much time here since the other beaches are even more scenic.

A man standing in front of a tunnel carved into limestone cliff at Praia dos Estudantes

Next, head to Praia da Dona Ana. Accessible via a set of wooden stairs, this beach boasts a large stretch of sand, the classic golden cliffs of the Algarve and impressive sea stacks. 

It’s a picturesque beach and has even been named the best beach in the world by the renowned Condé Nast Traveler magazine! Although I think this title is a bit of an exaggeration, there’s no doubt that Praia da Dona Ana is gorgeous and a must-visit spot on every Algarve itinerary. 

Sea stacks and a large stretch of sand at Praia da Dona Ana beach near Lagos, Portugal

Last but definitely not least, is the wonderful Praia do Camilo, one of the most famous beaches in Algarve. Bordered by towering cliffs and rock arches, this beach is pretty tiny but what it lacks in size it certainly makes up for in beauty. 

The sea here was pretty rough during our visit in December but in the summer the water should be calm, turquoise blue and perfect for swimming. The beach can be accessed by a long wooden staircase, which you might recognize from Instagram since it’s a popular spot for photos.

A man standing on a wooden staircase at Praia do Camilo, one of the best beaches in the Algarve.

If you’re visiting the Algarve in the peak season (aka the summer), it would probably be a good idea to come to Praia do Camilo in the morning before the crowds roll in. Otherwise, there might not be any space left for your towel.

A coastal walking trail surrounded by green vegetation and ocean views near Praia do Camilo in the Algarve region

Each of these three beaches can easily be reached by foot from Lagos, so if you’re up for a bit of walking, go for it! Otherwise, you can also just drive.

Ponta da Piedade

After exploring the beaches, walk or drive to Ponta da Piedade. This magnificent headland is known for its dramatic rock formations, grottoes and arches sculpted by wind and waves over thousands of years. 

Along the cliffs, there’s a boardwalk as well as various smaller trails offering awe-inspiring views in every direction. I remember how I was just standing there and staring at this incredible scenery in disbelief! Ponta da Piedade was my favorite place in the entire region and is definitely one of the highlights of this Algarve itinerary.

Rugged golden cliffs pounded by strong Atlantic Ocean waves at Ponta da Piedade, one of the highlights of this Algarve itinerary

Make sure to also walk down the stairs to the small cove at the base of Ponta da Piedade. Usually, the water here is very calm and you can take a boat or a kayak tour to explore all the grottoes and arches. However, if you’re here on a windy winter day like we were, you can witness an amazing show of waves mercilessly pounding the cliffs.

A picturesque cove full of rock formations and grottoes at Ponta da Piedade, a must-visit spot if you have 5 days in Algarve

Although we weren’t able to do a boat or a kayak tour, I’ve heard it’s a wonderful experience to see the cliffs from the sea and is well worth the money.

Instead of taking the boat tour from Ponta da Piedade, many people choose to take a boat tour from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade as it allows you to see a lot more of the spectacular coastline and learn about the region from your guide. For a truly unique experience, consider taking this Ponta da Piedade boat tour on a traditional sailboat .

Spend your evening exploring the Old Town of Lagos. The best thing to do here is to wander its narrow streets and marvel at the colorful tiled facades, the traditional whitewashed houses and lovely squares.

Some of the most notable attractions in the Old Town are the Church of Santo António, Ponta da Bandeira Fortress, the medieval town walls and the Slave Trade Museum.

A building with a green tiled facade in Lagos Old Town in Portugal

You’ll also find lots of shops, bars and restaurants in Lagos Old Town (although in the winter many of them are closed). Be sure to try some local seafood dishes such as cataplana . It’s a stew served in a large metal pot and a dish that should definitely be on your Algarve food bucket list .

We had a cataplana at a tiny traditional restaurant called Casinha do Petisco , which I can highly recommend

A large pot of seafood cataplana, a tasty Portuguese dish you should try during your Algarve road trip

Spend the next two nights in Lagos.

MID-RANGE: Lalitana Townhouse This is the place we stayed for two nights. It’s a lovely, clean, budget-friendly guest house in the heart of the historic center of Lagos, near all the shops and restaurants. A delicious breakfast is included in the room rate as well.

LUXURY: Casa Mãe This beautiful, sustainably-minded 5-star hotel has three buildings, each with its own aesthetic – vintage, boho chic and minimalist. It is definitely one of the most stylish hotels in Lagos and it also features multiple pools, spa facilities and an on-site restaurant.

Day 4: Monchique and Algarve west coast

Day 4 of your Algarve road trip will take you to the mountains in the interior of the region as well as the wild and rugged Algarve west coast.

A visit to the Serra de Monchique mountains allows you to experience a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path side of the Algarve. From Lagos, it’s a 45-minute drive, which takes you through scenery that’s very different from the coast of the Algarve. 

You’ll notice that the climate here is cooler and more humid and the vegetation is lush. The landscape is dominated by rolling green hills covered with citrus orchards, cork oak forests and eucalyptus groves. 

A mystical cork tree forest near Monchique, a scenic off-the-beaten-path destination to add to your Algarve itinerary

The Monchique town itself is also worth a quick stop. Walk along the hilly streets in the historic town center, grab a cup of coffee in one of the traditional cafes and taste some medronho liquor (a strong local spirit made of arbutus berries).

If you’re into alternative and eerie attractions, visit the abandoned 17th-century Nossa Senhora do Desterro Convent overlooking the town of Monchique. 

For panoramic views, head to the Fóia viewpoint, which is the highest point of the Algarve at 902 meters (2,960 ft). On a clear day, you can see the Algarve coastline and the ocean from here.

A shop with a colorful facade selling Medronho liquor in Monchique

Pontal da Carrapateira

The next stop on this Algarve itinerary is the rugged west coast of the Algarve, also known as Costa Vicentina. Since this stretch of coastline is a part of a nature reserve, it’s much less developed than the south coast and maintains its wild and unspoiled beauty.

From Monchique, it’s an hour-long drive through mountainous landscape and scenic countryside until you arrive at the Pontal da Carrapateira headland.

Here you’ll find a circular 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) dirt road with several viewpoints overlooking secluded beaches and colorful cliffs. This road is a small part of the famous Rota Vicentina trail, which is considered one of the best hikes in the Algarve . If you’re not in the mood to hike, you can also visit the viewpoints by car.

A woman walking on a boardwalk at Pontal da Carrapateira headland with a backdrop of the large Bordeira beach

My favorite viewpoint by far was the one overlooking Bordeira Beach and its giant stretch of sand. Because of its large and consistent waves, this beach is a popular spot among surfers. I think we spent at least half an hour just watching the surfers catch the rolling waves – it’s quite entertaining!

Make sure to also take a walk across the massive golden dunes down at the beach. It feels like being in the middle of a desert.

vast golden sand dunes at Praia da Bordeira beach on the Vicentine Coast in the Algarve

Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente

After exploring Pontal da Carrapateira, drive south to Sagres. It’s a popular surf town known for its long sandy beaches and the 17th-century Sagres Fortress, which was used to defend the town from raiders from North Africa. 

The most famous attraction in Sagres though is Cabo de São Vicente aka the Cape of St. Vincent. This bleak and windswept headland is the most southwestern point of continental Europe and was believed to be the end of the world up until the 13th century. 

Here you can visit the iconic lighthouse and marvel at the steep craggy cliffs and turbulent ocean. It’s a popular place for watching the sunset so you might want to time your visit accordingly. Remember to bring some warm layers though because Cabo de São Vicente is known to be very windy.

Drive back to Lagos and spend another night at Lalitana Townhouse or Casa Mãe .

Day 5: Drive back to Faro

On the last day of your Algarve itinerary, start driving back towards Faro. Depending on how much time you have until your flight, you might still be able to squeeze some activities into this day.

If you’d like to see some more cute Portuguese towns, consider visiting Ferragudo or Tavira. These are small fishing towns with cobblestone streets, traditional houses and a laid-back atmosphere. Although I didn’t have the chance to visit these towns myself, I’ve only heard great things about them.

If you’re craving some beach-time, stop by Praia dos Três Irmãos, which is known for its beautiful rock formations or Praia Albandeira, where you can see a huge rock arch.

Algarve road trip itinerary map

On this map, you can find the locations of all the stops in this Algarve 5-day itinerary. Click on the top left corner of the map for more details.

Have more than 5 days in the Algarve?

If you have more than 5 days in the Algarve, you’re in luck! You could easily spend more than one week in the Algarve since there are plenty of exciting things left to do.

For instance, you could extend your Algarve road trip by spending another day in Lagos and Carvoeiro. This way you’ll have more time to explore these cute towns and properly relax on the dreamy beaches around them. Near Carvoeiro, you could hike the Trail of the Headlands, which is another scenic coastal walk. In Lagos, you could take a dolphin-watching tour to see bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins in their natural habitat.

Another activity you could add to your Algarve itinerary is visiting the Ria Formosa Natural Park just outside Faro. The park consists of coastal wetlands and salt marshes home to countless bird species, including flamingoes.

If you want to experience the infamous nightlife scene of the Algarve and see the bigger resort towns, spend some days in Albufeira or Portimão.

You might also be interested in my other blog posts about Portugal:

  • Best hikes in the Algarve
  • Visiting the Algarve in winter: What to expect
  • The Seven Hanging Valleys Walk in the Algarve
  • 7-day Madeira road trip itinerary

Best beaches in Madeira: from black sand to volcanic pools

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Great blog with good informarion!

Thank you Craig! 🙂

I just read (& commented) on your Sicily blog. We have 2 weeks and can’t decide between Sicily & Portugal (we would do the duoro, porto, lisbon, alentejo & algarve – 3 nights in each. So hard to choose. Thoughts? Did you have a favorite? Thanks!!

That’s a difficult choice indeed! Both are amazing destinations. It depends on what you like. I think Portugal would give you a wider variety of experiences. On the other hand, Sicily has better food (best pasta I’ve ever had) and really charming historical towns. Both have beautiful beaches. If you’re into hiking, then I’d recommend Portugal.

Really information, thanks! I’m off to the Algarve next week and have saved all your suggestions!

Glad to hear Zara! 🙂 I hope you’ll have a great trip!

Hello,,,Very useful information,,,i just wonder if you can swim in the pool in january?

Hi. No I think it’s too cold to swim unfortunately, unless the pool is heated.

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Algarve-Tourist.com

The best independent guide to the Algarve

Home page - Top 10 Algarve - Where to stay? - Best beach - For families - Day trips

The Algarve - A tourism guide for 2024

The Algarve is the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. It is a region blessed with glorious sandy beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate, all of which combine to create the perfect holiday destination.

The Algarve is wonderfully varied; there are pristine beaches for families, waterparks parks for thrill-seekers, buzzing nightlife for partying or historic towns for a cultural trip. Along with the vibrant towns, there is over 200km of stunning coastline, a mountainous interior and tranquil nature reserves, all to discover.

For a holiday destination the Algarve is a hassle-free destination; the region is very safe, hotels are of a high standard, English is widely spoken, and the Portuguese are welcoming and hospitable.

For your holiday, the Algarve is a hassle-free destination; the region is very safe, English is widely spoken, hotels are of a very high standard, and the Portuguese are welcoming and hospitable. As well as being an outstanding holiday destination, the Algarve is also one of the least expensive destinations in Europe ( Post Office data from 2022 ), and is significantly cheaper than Spain, Greece or France.

There is so much to love about the Algarve, and we adore the region, so let us help you plan your trip to this fantastic region, with our free and independent guides. Related articles: Highlights of the Algarve - The best beaches - Family holiday guide

The Algarve

Ferragudo is a traditional Algarve fishing village

Where to go for your Algarve holiday......

With over 200km of coastline, 25 different resort towns and countless small villages, there is a lot of choice for your holiday to the Algarve.

The majority of tourists take their holiday in the central and western regions of the Algarve; between Lagos to the west and Vale do Lobo in the east (there is a map later in this section).

This region is close to the excitement of the Algarve, with its waterparks, mega-family-hotels, buzzing nightlife and vibrant holiday atmosphere. For a conventional 7-to-14-day holiday (family, couple or group) this is the area you wish to be based in.

Algarve beaches

The beautiful beaches just to the west of Praia da Rocha (which can be seen in the background)

The four largest resort towns of this region are Albufeira, Lagos, Praia da Rocha and Vilamoura, and all four boast beautiful beaches, great nightlife and endless holiday activities. Albufeira is the most popular holiday destination of the Algarve, and has something to appeal to everyone. There is the party focused "Strip", a street of bars, clubs and excessive revelry, while 2km on the other side of Albufeira is the "Old Town" a favourite with families and ex-pats.

Vilamoura is more sophisticated and refined, being centred around an exclusive marina and renowned for its four golf courses.

Praia da Rocha is lively and exciting, and traditionally attracted a young age of visitor, but recently has be reinventing itself as a more luxurious holiday destination.

Lagos is our personal favourite, as it is more of a vibrant city than a holiday destination. Lagos has the most Portuguese character of the four main resorts and combines a historic city with beautiful beaches.

Lagos algarve

The Forte da Bandeira once guarded the entrance to Lagos harbour

If you are seeking a more relaxed holiday destination, then consider one of the smaller Algarve towns (and there are many great choices!). These are great if you are travelling with young children or don't want the hecticness of a bustling resort town. Recommended smaller towns in the main tourist region of the Algarve include Carvoeiro , Alvor , Olhos de Agua and Praia da Luz .

Carvoeiro Algarve

Carvoeiro is a pretty town and popular holiday destination

Outside of the Algarve’s main tourist area The east of the Algarve is much less touristy, and provides a more authentic Portuguese experience.

Much of this coastline (between Faro to Tavira) is lined by the lagoons and waterways of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, and a ferry is needed to reach the beaches. This reduced access to the beaches means that there are fewer mega-hotels and sprawling villa complexes.

The town of Tavira is a highlight of the east Algarve, and has the perfect mix of Portuguese culture, characterful town, along with gorgeous beaches a 15min ferry ride away.

The western Algarve coastline (north-south coastline between Sagres and Odeceixe) faces the might of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a region of staggering beauty, with towering cliffs, wild wind-swept beaches and powerful seas. There is almost no tourist development here.

The arid interior of the Algarve is very sparsely populated, and rise up to the mountains around Monchique.

The map below shows the location of the best resort towns in the Algarve. The large resort towns are shown in green, the best medium sized towns in yellow and the finest villages in blue.

The large resorts (green): 1) Lagos 2) Praia da Rocha 3) Albufeira 4) Vilamoura Medium size resorts (yellow): 1) Alvor 2) Carvoeiro 3) Armação de Pêra 4) Olhos de Água 5) Quarteira 6) Tavira 7) Monte Gordo Small villages (blue): 1) Praia da Luz 2) Porto de Mós 3) Ferragudo 4) Galé 5) Cabanas

The weather of the Algarve

The Algarve has hot dry summers, pleasant springs and autumns, and winters which are mild but unpredictable.

The height of the tourist season is from July through to August and this is when the beaches are packed and hotels are sold out.

June and September tend to be popular months with couples, being outside of the school holidays and without the hordes of children, but there is still fantastic weather and a buzz about the region. September is actually the busiest month of the year, as non-child couples head on holiday.

The weather is suitable for spending time on the beach from May until October, and at the end of October the smaller resort towns close down for the winter.

Algarve weather temperature

Summary of the Algarve's Major Towns and Resorts

where to stay have holiday in the algarve

The Ponta da Piedade headland near Lagos

Where to go for your holiday......

Quick summary of the main resorts within the Algarve and links to the specific destination guides (Note: links open new tabs) Our favourite places in the Algarve - Tavira , Carvoeiro and Lagos Best large resort town - Lagos , Albufeira or Vilamoura . Best smaller resort town - Carvoeiro , Praia da Luz or Alvor For young children - Most all of the central Algarve (just not the Strip in the Albufeira) For teenagers - Albufeira to Olhos de Agua, and Praia da Rocha , Where to party - Albufeira, Praia da Rocha or Lagos For a mature and relaxing holiday - Tavira , Alvor , Praia da Luz , Carvoeiro or Olhos de Agua Expats favourite - Olhos de Agua and Albufeira Exclusive and stylish - Vilamoura or Vale Do Lobo Region Historic and cultural - Lagos, Tavira , Faro or Vila Real de Santo António Stag or hen do's - The Strip in Albufeira ( Stag do guide here ) Somewhere different - Faro , Tavira, Carvoeiro or Monte Gordo Golfing Holiday - Vilamoura , Albufeira or Quarteira Surfing Holiday - Sagres In winter - Albufeira, Lagos or Olhos de Agua (the Algarve is not a winter sun destination) Escape package tourists – Vila Nova de Milfontes , Burgau, Vila Real de Santo António If the Algarve is sold out or is too expensive in the summer - Lisbon or Porto (Lisbon and Porto both have great beaches, cheap flights and lots of accommodation, ideal for families and couples)

The Algarve as a multi-destination or touring holiday

Some of the most enjoyable Algarve holidays come from a touring or multi-destination trip. Each of the coastal towns has a very distinct atmosphere and appeal, and there are not long distances separating them.

Popular routes combine the calmer and relaxed eastern Algarve (Tavira or Vila Real de Santo António) with the buzz on the central Algarve (Vilamoura or Albufeira) then with the history and authenticity of the western Algarve (Lagos, Portimao or Sagres). Related articles: Touring holiday ideas

The Algarve for a family holiday

The Algarve makes for a great destination for a family holiday, both for young children or teenagers. For young families there are calm, smaller resorts (Alvor, Praia da Luz, Carvoeiro) with pristine beaches and safe sea waters.

Teenagers will love the buzz of the central Algarve, with its theme parks, water parks and numerous thrill activities (though parents may grumble about the expensive entrance fees....)

Overall, the Algarve is a hassle-free family destination, English is widely spoken by all, children will be welcomed in all restaurants/shops/cafes, and supermarkets stock all common goods and brands.

We have been visiting the Algarve with children and families for many years, and often the main complaint is why did they not discover the Algarve sooner! Related articles: The Algarve for families

For older teenagers and twentysomethings……

It’s finally the end of college, university or the summer break from listening to the monotony of your boss, and you and your group of friends need a dose of summer sun and fun; then the Algarve is the destination for you.

It is perfect for days lounging on the beach and fun-packed nights with a smattering of holiday-based activities. The Algarve is vibrant and social but is not as extreme as Bulgaria, Ibiza or Cyprus. Also, the Algarve does not have the ridiculous prices of the Balearica Islands.

To get the most from the Algarve, always be within walking distance of the larger resort towns (Albufeira, Praia da Rocha and Lagos), and visit between June and September. And most importantly don’t forget travel insurance!!!!

For visitors from the USA

Portugal is rightfully becoming one of the most popular destinations for US tourists; there’s history, culture, and diversity, while still being one of Europe’s least expensive countries to visit.

The Algarve is one of the most beautiful regions of the country, but it cannot be fully seen in just an extremely short excursion from Lisbon. If you’re planning to visit the Algarve, allow sufficient time (five or more days) and embrace the relaxed pace of life of the region.

As indicated before, hotels need to be booked well in advance during the summer. For a cultural trip head to Lagos or Tavira, while for 5-star/golfing break visit Vilamoura. Public transport does not have the same social stigmas as in the US, and buses and trains are widely used by everyone.

Warning, please read

There have been a number of sham residential letting websites, which have appeared on the internet, with bogus or copied listings (often of real apartments).

These websites look professional (guarantees, refund polices etc) and often the comparative prices are significantly cheaper.

Only ever book an apartment through a trusted website (booking.com, homeaway.co.uk etc) and never pay for accommodation by bank transfer. For more details please see the TripAdvisor forum post: www.tripadvisor.com/../Villas_Algarve.html

(link opens new link)

Note: This type of scam is not just limited to the Algarve but is found in all major tourist destinations. The Algarve is just ripe for it, as demand for accommodation outstrips supply.

Our most popular guides to the Algarve

Where to stay?

Where to stay in the algarve

What Algarve town is the best for your holiday?

Top 10 Algarve

Top 10 Algarve

What are the top 10 sights and activities in the Algarve?

Best Beaches

Algarve Best Beaches

Discover the finest beaches of the Algarve

For families

Algarve Families holiday

Is the Algarve a good destination for a family holiday?

Algarve day trips

What are the best places to visit during my holiday to the Algarve?

Albufeira guide

The largest and liveliest resort town of the Algarve

Lagos Portugal

History, beaches, and nightlife -Lagos is rightful popular!

tavira guide

The most charming town of the eastern Algarve

Carvoeiro Algarve

Family-holiday destination on a magnificent coastline

faro guide

The historic city of Faro has much more than just it's airport

vilamoura Algarve

The Algarve's slice of sophistication and exclusivity

Silves Algarve

The ancient capital of the Algarve, with an impressive castle

Praia da Rocha

Praia da Rocha Algarve

Exciting resort town set on a stunning beach

Loulé Algarve

Experience authentic Algarve in this pretty market town

Alvor Algarve

The Algarve's finest mid-size resort town

Praia da Luz

Praia da Luz Algarve

Where to escape the masses, to relax and unwind

Sagres Algarve

Dramatic scenery and outstanding surfing, at the far western Algarve

V ila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Authentic Portugal on the undiscovered Alentejo coastline

Vilamoura guides

  • Vilamoura introduction
  • Sights & activities
  • 1 week in Vilamoura
  • When to visit Vilamoura?
  • Vilamoura Beaches
  • Vilamoura day trips
  • Airport to Vilamoura

Lagos guides

  • Lagos Introduction
  • 1 Week in Lagos
  • The Ponta da Piedade
  • Praia da Rocha intro
  • Day trips from Rocha
  • Portimão guide
  • Rocha beaches

Algarve Guides

  • Algarve Introduction
  • Best town in the Algarve?
  • Day trips in the Algarve
  • Algarve for Families
  • Itineraries and tours
  • The Algarve for Teenagers
  • Sold out Algarve
  • Faro Airport
  • Driving in the Algarve
  • Lisbon to the Algarve
  • Faro Introduction
  • Faro top 10
  • Faro's beaches
  • Airport to Faro
  • Day trip to Faro
  • Bone Chapel

Carvoeiro guide

  • Carvoeiro introduction
  • Carvoeiro beaches
  • Sete Vales Suspensos hike
  • Carvoeiro day trips
  • Ferragudo day trip

Alvor Guide

Alvor Introduction Alvor weather Alvor day trips Airport to Alvor

Albufeira guides

  • Albufeira introduction
  • 1 week in Albufeira
  • Albufeira beaches
  • Albufeira day trips
  • Praia de São Rafael beach
  • Airport to Albufeira

Portugal guides

  • Where to go in Portugal?
  • Top 10 Portugal
  • 1 week in Portugal
  • A weekend in Portugal
  • Top 10 beaches

Tavira guides

  • Tavira Introduction
  • Tavira top 10
  • 1 Week in Tavira
  • Tavira beaches
  • Tavira day trips
  • Anchor cemetery

Algarve Towns

  • Armação de Pêra
  • Monte Gordo
  • Olhos de Agua
  • Praia de Luz
  • Vila Nova de Milfontes

The best tourist destinations in Portugal

Aveiro , Braga , Batalha , Cascais , Coimbra , Estoril , Evora , Guimaraes , Lisbon , Nazaré , Obidos , Madeira , Peniche , Porto , Sesimbra , Setubal , Sintra , Tomar , Troia Peninsula , Viama Do Castelo

Practicalities for The Algarve

The Algarve is served by Faro airport, and this airport is conveniently positioned in the middle of the Algarve.

The majority of tourists who visit the Algarve will be based in the section of coastline that extends from the Praia da Rocha to Vilamoura, all of which are located to the west of Faro airport.

Outside of this area more traditional and quieter Portuguese towns can be found.

Summary of the Finest and most Popular Towns in the Algarve

Tavira – the algarve’s hidden gem.

Tavira is a delightful town that is situated on the banks of the slow flowing Gilão River.

The town of Tavira has reminded unchanged despite the advent of mass tourism, and provides the visitors with a charming town centre of cobbled streets, lined with traditional houses, which lead all the way up to the ancient castle.

The glorious beaches on the Ilha de Tavira are reached by ferry and the route passes through the protected series of mudflats and salt water lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Tavira is laid-back, traditional and our personal favourite town in the Algarve. For a guide to Tavira please visit Tavira-Algarve-Portugal.com (link opens new window)

Tavira Quick Summary Ideal For - Couples who wish to discover the unaltered side of Portugal, or any visitor looking for a peaceful relaxing holiday in a wonderful town. Not suited For - Party goers, since Tavira is a traditional and calm town. Families with older children, as Tavira is a long way from the water parks, zoos and adventure that most children want to visit during a holiday.

tavira river front

The river front of Tavira

Albufeira – The Algarve’s Most popular resort

Albufeira is the most popular resort town of the Algarve, and this is because it excels at everything wanted for a holiday destination. The beach is massive, there are great holiday activities and the pretty old town is crammed full of restaurants, shops and bars.

For groups and party goers there is “the Strip”, a road full of themed bars and outrageous clubs, which is just far enough (2km away) from the Old Town not to annoy other tourists.

As Albufeira is the largest resort, the summer season is much longer, and there are still things going on during the low or off season. There are many enjoyable day trips from Albufeira for those visitors who wish more than just a beach, while the massive all-inclusive hotels are great for tourists who simply wish to relax.

Albufeira Quick Summary

Ideal for – Generally most visitors. There are great facilities, fantastic hotels and well over a 100 different places to eat out at. Not suited for – Visitors who wish to escape the summer crowds, Albufeira is very busy in the summer and prices sometimes reflect this.

Albufeira beach

The massive beach of Albufeira

Lagos – History and Stunning Scenery

Lagos is on the very western edge of the Algarve and is one of the region’s most fascinating and interesting towns.

Lagos is set on a stunning coastline of massive sandstone cliffs, wide beaches and crystal clear waters. Within the vicinity of Lagos is the Dona Ana beach, which is considered to be the finest in the Algarve, while further along the coast are the stunning cliff formations of the Ponta da Piedade.

Lagos has an important history as a major trading town, a rich history that is reflected in the varied sights throughout the town, which include the fort, a selection of pretty churches and even an ex-slave market.

From Lagos there are enjoyable day trips to the small fishing village of Sagres, or north into the Algarve hills. For a guide to Lagos please click here (opens new window)

Lagos Quick Summary

Ideal for – Visitors who want more than just sun, cheap food and drink. Active couples who want to visit and experience a lot during their holiday. Not suited for – Party animals; the night life is more restaurant and food based.

Vilamoura – The Algarve’s Exclusive Town

Vilamoura is the super-rich’s playground in the Algarve. The whole town was purpose-built as an exclusive destination that is focused around the larger marina and is filled with million dollar yachts.

The town boasts six championship-grade golf courses and is the location to be based for a golfing holiday, just expect expensive green fees. Vilamoura is smart, stylish and trendy, and completely without the signs of neglect found on the edges of many other Portuguese towns.

Vilamoura Quick Summary

Ideal for – Golf holidays, an upmarket holiday in a very exclusive area Not suited for – Bargains or visitors on a tight budget.

Faro is often over looked as a tourist destination, being primary used as a transport hub for the airport, train or bus services, but this beautiful city has a lot to offer.

Faro boasts a charming historic centre, which is circled by ancient Moorish walls, and a pleasant pedestrianised shopping zone. Departing from the marina there are boat tours which explore the Ria Formosa National Park and visit some of the quietest beach in the Algarve.

Faro’s main beach, the Praia de Faro, is surprisingly low-key considering it is just a 5 minute bus journey from the airport. For a guide to Faro please click here .

Faro Quick Summary

Ideal for – Short stays (1-2 nights) or as the first destination due to the close proximity to the airport. The great transport links means that Faro is a good base from which to explore the Algarve. Not suited for – Sun worshipers, the main beach is a 15 minute bus ride away.

Praia da Rocha – Good alternative to Albufeira

Praia da Rocha is a large and hectic summer resort, that crams in visitors during the summer season. There is a massive beach (larger than Albufeira’s beach), which on following the coastline changes into little coves hidden behind giant sandstone cliffs.

The resort has countless bars, restaurants and shops but has a much more modern appearance than Albufeira. 2km north of Praia da Rocha is the large but sleepy town of Portimão; for beaches and nightlife it's better to be based in Praia da Rocha, and not Portimão. Praia da Rocha is suitable for families as well.

Praia da Rocha Quick Summary

Ideal for – Families and young couples wishing a fun and social holiday Not suited for – Visitors seeking cultural or historic sights.

Quarteira – Budget Vilamoura

Quarteira is where the non-millionaires of Vilamoura live and work, but it is just a 10-minute walk from Quarteira along the coast to it’s exclusive neighbour Vilamoura.

Quarteira has a much better beach than Vilamoura and a pleasant promenade extends for the length of the beach. Quarteira offers great value accommodation, food and drink but the town has very bland appearance with large apartments, hotels and none of the Portuguese charm found in other locations.

Quarteira is much quieter and smaller than Albufeira or Praia da Rocha.

Quarteira Quick Summary

Ideal for – Great value and golf holidays Not suited for – Visitors seeking culture, history or a pretty Portuguese town.

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The best guide to the Algarve

8 of the best places to visit in the Algarve

Regis St. Louis

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

algarve travel plans

From beaches to culture-packed towns, experience the best of Portugal's Algarve with these top places to visit © David Navarro Azurmendi / Getty Images

The Algarve hits all the right notes when it comes to seaside getaways.

Inviting beaches and great weather are the just beginning of a long list of the region’s many charms. This southern pocket of Portugal also has castles, historic cobblestone centers and cliff-top villages overlooking wild stretches of coastline. Whether you’re traveling solo, heading off on a romantic getaway or seeking a child-friendly place with lots of activities on offer near the seaside, the Algarve has you covered.

To help you plan your visit, here's a rundown of some top places to go.

Sagres sunset above the Atlantic Ocean in Portugal with a surfer riding the waves

Best surf in the Algarve  

The westernmost town in the Algarve, Sagres has some of Portugal’s most spectacular scenery. At the centuries-old Fortaleza de Sagres , you can walk to the edge of sheer sea cliffs and watch the waves crashing far below.

According to legend, Sagres was where Prince Henry the Navigator founded his school for sailors (cartography, ship design, astronomy and, of course, navigation) back in the 15th century, ushering in the Age of Discoveries. Even more drama – some say the best viewpoint in the Algarve – lies just a few kilometers north at the Cabo de São Vicente , Europe’s southwesternmost point. There, a lonely lighthouse overlooks the jagged wind-whipped cape.

These days, Sagres continues to look out to sea – often in search of great waves owing to the popular surf camps here, or perhaps with an eye toward leaping cetaceans on a dolphin-watching cruise.

Planning tip:  The village itself is smaller and quieter than towns in the central Algarve, but if you want some action, you'll find it happening at terrace bars and restaurants along the main drag of Rua Comandante Matoso.

Best place to visit for history

Many travelers fly into Faro and quickly depart for resorts to the east and west. Unfortunately, they’re missing one of the Algarve’s most intriguing towns, with a cobblestone center that’s packed with history. You can feel the hands of time spin backward while entering the walled medieval quarter beneath the neoclassical Arco da Vila. Up ahead, the Sé (cathedral) lords over the town. Built in the 13th century (likely on top of a Roman temple), only a few original elements remain – the rest rebuilt in a mishmash of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles after the devastating 1755 earthquake.

Planning tip:  Make time to climb to the rooftop for views over the town, then complete your time-travel journey with a visit to Museu Municipal, a domed 16th-century landmark that was once the epicenter of the Jewish quarter. 

People play on a beach within a vast sandstone cave as the turquoise water laps the sand

3. Carvoeiro

Best place for families with kids

Backed by whitewashed houses and sandstone cliffs, the beach of Carvoeiro is lapped by calmer seas (watched over by lifeguards), which makes it a great choice for families. Just uphill from the golden sands, the village has a walkable center dotted with outdoor eateries that will please kids and adults alike. A short distance from town, you’ll find some other stunning beaches, including Praia do Vale Centeanes, a perfect spot for some fun building sandcastles.

Planning tip:  Carvoeiro is also the launchpad for a wide range of tours, including boat trips to the Gruta de Benagil , a cathedral-sized sandstone cavern lit by sunlight streaming through a hole high overhead.

Best for inland exploring

It’s hard to turn your back to the sea, given those golden sands and aquamarine views. But that’s indeed the best strategy if you hope to discover one of the Algarve’s most attractive towns. Just 15km (9.3 miles) from the ocean, the hillside settlement of Silves stretches along an idyllic bend of the Rio Arade and is home to the most picturesque castle in the Algarve. You can walk the ramparts of the citadel and wander through the exhibitions which describe the invasions and occupations over the centuries. Afterward, you can enjoy food and drinks on the terrace of  Café Inglês .

Planning tip:  The best time to come is on Sunday afternoons when the cafe hosts live bands. 

A woman sits on a riverside at sunset

Best for culture, wine and music 

It’s easy to fall for Tavira , one of the Algarve’s most captivating towns. A former Roman settlement, Tavira wears its history with pride, with its medieval-esque old quarter, a hilltop castle and an elegant seven-arched span over the Rio Gilão, aptly named Ponte Romana (Roman Bridge), which is, in truth, a 17th-century reconstruction of the original work by Roman engineers. You can learn about cultures of the past at Núcleo Islâmico , which houses a small collection of 11th-century pieces from the Algarve’s days under Islamic rule. 

Planning tip:  Tavira is also the best place in the Algarve to learn about Portugal’s deep-rooted music traditions. At Fado Com História , you can hear live fado (a soulful style of singing best described as "the Portuguese blues") followed by a wine tasting – featuring vineyards of the Algarve, of course.

Best for dining and nightlife  

One of the Algarve’s liveliest destinations, Lagos has a lot going for it. There’s plenty to see around town, starting with its historic architecture – baroque churches, a 17th-century fortress and the old town walls. The beaches nearby draw even more admirers, particularly Praia de Dona Ana, one of the Algarve’s prettiest beaches.

When the sun goes down, Lagos’ allure only increases. Restaurants on the cobblestones and hidden in backyard gardens (like Michelin-listed Artistas ) fill with diners feasting on fresh-off-the-boat seafood. The evening continues at microbrew bars and cocktail lounges dotting the narrow lanes. Take in the scene on the rooftop terrace of Bon Vivant , or join the party people in the dance club below. 

Young woman riding bicycle on wooden walkway at coast, Carrapateira, Algarve, Portugal

7. Carrapateira

Best for wild beauty  

The west coast of the Algarve is a rugged landscape of cliff-backed beaches and wild vegetation. As part of the Costa Vicentina (which continues up into the Alentejo), this chunk of the Algarve has some delightful little towns where you can stay while exploring the pristine coastline. Peaceful Carrapateira lies on a headland near two photogenic beaches without a building in sight.

Planning tip:  Before heading out on coastal walks or surfing the waves, visit the Museu do Mar e da Terra da Carrapateira, an endearing ethnographic museum with photos depicting traditional lifestyles over the years in Carrapateira.

Best place for couples

The quiet village of Galé is one of the best places in the Algarve for a romantic getaway. The town’s picturesque beach ( Praia da Galé ) is an obvious choice for a day on the waterfront, and even more secluded spots (like Praia das Salamitras) are a short hop from town. Galé has some lovely B&Bs and guesthouses, including the high-end Vila Joya , with its double Michelin-starred restaurant .

Planning tip:  Don’t miss the sunset from beach-facing Pedras Amarelas (be sure to reserve a table on the terrace). For a big night out, you can also head to nearby Albufeira , which is lined with restaurants and bars.

This article was first published June 2022 and updated February 2024

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, what to do in the algarve, portugal: 7-day algarve itinerary.

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Talita

Want to learn a little more about one of Portugal’s most touristic regions and its incredible beaches? Then join me on this itinerary through the Algarve! 

Located in the southernmost part of Portugal, the Algarve is a region known for its beautiful beaches, lovely landscapes, and attraction-filled cities . But despite all this fame, many people don’t know exactly what to do on their visit.

It’s with that thought in mind that I put together today’s 7-day Algarve itinerary. 

I’ll tell you a bit about the main touristic spots , places to visit, and how much time you need to enjoy each of them. Ready to dive in? 

But first… 

o que fazer no algarve 7 dias

Table of Contents

  • 1.1 The welcoming people of the Algarve 
  • 1.2 The delicious food of the Algarve 
  • 1.3 Historical sites in the Algarve 
  • 1.4 How to get around the Algarve 
  • 2.1 Algarve Itinerary Day #1: Faro 
  • 2.2 Algarve Itinerary Day #2 & 3: Faro Beaches 
  • 2.3 Algarve Itinerary Day #4: Albufeira 
  • 2.4 Algarve Itinerary Day #5 – Zoomarine Oceanographic Park or Aquashow Water & Theme Park  
  • 2.5 Algarve Itinerary Day #6: Lagos, Sagres Fortress & Benagil Caves 
  • 2.6 Algarve Itinerary Day #7: Your choice! 
  • 3 In sum…
  • 4 Other articles about Portugal
  • 5 In conclusion…
  • 6 Planning your next trip?

Why visit the Portuguese Algarve? 

Most people who want to visit the Algarve region are attracted by the beauty of its beaches and its excellent climate. But there’s far more to the region to draw you in. And so, I want to give you a few more reasons to include the Algarve in your travel plans like:

  • The welcoming locals 
  • The delicious food 
  • The historical sites 

I’ll talk a bit more about each of these points below to help you see that there are plenty of reasons to visit the Algarve beyond the beaches. 

The welcoming people of the Algarve 

The Portuguese are, in general, very friendly with tourists no matter where you’re from. 

But it’s impossible to talk about the Algarve without mentioning how extra receptive the locals are to tourists. It’s something that’s almost in the DNA of the area since tourism has always played a major role in helping it develop.  

So, if you’re looking to visit somewhere with friendly locals who want to help and treat tourists well, the Algarve should be added to your list. 

Of course, as with anywhere in the world, there are exceptions. But I’d see any rude people you encounter along the way as an exception to the rule. 

The delicious food of the Algarve 

Portuguese gastronomy is, generally, excellent. I think everything I’ve ever eaten in Portugal has been delicious. And in the Algarve, you can find plenty of meals typical of the region that are worth trying. 

It should come as no surprise that many typical dishes include fish and seafood. 

If you’d like to eat something unique that you won’t be able to find anywhere else, I recommend going to a typical restaurant and trying a plate of feijoada de marisco (“seafood bean stew”), massada de peixe (“fish pasta”), atum estufado à algarvia (“Algarve-style grilled tuna”), and, of course, the famous bacalhau à algarvia (“Algarve-style codfish”).

You’ll also find plenty of pork and even vegetarian dishes in restaurants…confirming that the Algarve has food for everyone. 

Ah, and don’t forget to try some of the region’s deserts. Perhaps the most famous of these is the “Dom Rodrigo,” a sweet n’ simple mixture of eggs and sugar. It’s a typical sweet from the city of Lagos, which will be day 6 of our itinerary down below. 

Historical sites in the Algarve 

If you’re looking for a reason to visit the Algarve beyond the beaches and landscape , their historical roots may be what’s missing. 

This region of Portugal is extremely abundant in history, given that it’s been occupied by the Romans, the barbarians, and the moors. Each of these groups left their mark in some way or another and helped the Algarve develop into the cultural-rich area it is today. 

Depending on when you visit, you may get the chance to explore the Feira Medieval de Silves (“Silves Medieval Fair”), the largest fair of its type in this region and one that will transport you to a small village from the medieval times. 

Another great historical attraction is the Fortaleza de Sagres (“Sagres Fort”), which also offers an incredible view. It truly looks straight out of a movie set! 

How to get around the Algarve 

To get between the major cities below, there are buses and trains you can take. 

However, I’d highly recommend renting a car in Portugal as this will allow you to travel on your own schedule and reach some of the off-the-beaten-path beaches and attractions where public transportation is limited or even nonexistent.  

If you’d like to rent a car in Portugal for your Algarve trip, then here are two of my articles that may help: 

  • The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Rent Cars in Portugal  

10 Tips for Renting a Car in Portugal  

algarve portugal

Algarve – Portugal

What to do in the Algarve: 7-Day Algarve, Portugal Itinerary 

There’s much to do in the Algarve, from relaxing on a beach with a stunning backdrop to exploring historical forts. And that’s why the itinerary that follows is a full week and covers the best towns in the Algarve . I think that 1 week is the right amount of time to do the region justice! 

Algarve Itinerary Day #1: Faro 

I’ll begin with the city of Faro for several reasons. The first is that it’s where the only airport in the region is located, so it’s likely the place where you’ll arrive by plane from the capital (actually, I recommend spend at least 3 days in Lisbon).  It’s also one of the largest cities in the Algarve, thus giving you lots to do.  

I recommend dedicating your morning to visiting the city center. It’s a lovely place to take a stroll and will also give you the chance to see many historical sites like the Igreja da Misericórdia (“Mercy Church”), Sé Catedral de Faro (“Faro Cathedral”), and Porta Árabe (“Arab Gate”), which used to be one of the city’s main entrances. 

After getting to know the city, you can grab some lunch and try any one of the tasty dishes I mentioned above. And for the afternoon, we’ll get to the good stuff: the beaches! 

Faro may have a LOT of beaches, but not all of them are easy to access (and the best ones are the hardest to get to). However, there are some means of transportation that can get you there. 

For your first day, I recommend visiting Faro Beach. Located on Faro Island, you can get there by rental car , by bus , or even by boat (there are several private companies you can go with). 

This is the largest and most well-known beach in the city. Given that the sea here is often quite calm, it’s common to see people sailing or canoeing. And since it’s such a large beach, it’s also great for people who want to avoid the crowds.

If you’d like to spend the rest of the day here, you’ll find everything you need – restaurants, bars, and other services! 

Algarve Itinerary Day #2 & 3: Faro Beaches 

As I said above, Faro is one of the main tourist stops in the Algarve. So I think it’s worth spending a few days here to really explore. 

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the area include Praia do Farol (“Lightouse Beach”), Praia da Quinta do Lago (“Quinta of the Lake Beach”), and farther-flung beaches like Praia da Ilha Culatra (“Culatra Island Beach”) and the beach of Ilha Deserta (“Deserted Island”). 

It’s not hard to find companies offering boat service to get you to these more distant beaches. Just be sure you carefully research the prices and packages of each company before making your decision so you can find a good deal . 

Praia de Faro algarve

Praia de Faro – Algarve

Algarve Itinerary Day #4: Albufeira 

Albufeira was once just a small fishing village. But today, it’s a major tourist destination in the Algarve. It’s also home to the famous Praia da Marinha (“Marinha Beach”), one of the most beautiful in all of Portugal ! 

It’s located just 40 minutes by car or by train from Faro, so you won’t need to use too much of your day to get here. 

Like Faro, I also recommend you begin your time here by exploring the cultural and historical sites in the city center. This center is full of some of the most charming squares I’ve ever seen in Portugal, all of which are full of great restaurant and bar options. You can do that by walking or renting a bike in Albufeira . 

If you like history, the Albufeira Archeological Museum is a great stop to add to your itinerary. Another major historical attraction in the area is the ruins of the 12th- and 13th-century Islamic houses.

Ah, and don’t forget to wander through Rua 5 de Outubro (“5th of October Street”), a perfect stop for anyone who wants to buy local souvenirs. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, I recommend strolling through this charming street and seeing what’s on offer in the many stalls. 

After you’ve finished visiting the city, be sure to take a walk on one on the area’s gorgeous beaches, like Praia da Marinha in the picture below!  

praia da marinha roteiro pelo algarve

Praia da Marinha – Algarve

Algarve Itinerary Day #5 – Zoomarine Oceanographic Park or Aquashow Water & Theme Park  

Today, you’ll have the option to choose between the two largest amusement parks in Portugal. These are some of the most famous attractions to enjoy in Portugal with kids .

Aquashow , for example, is a waterpark that is home to the only roller coaster in Portugal. Aquashow is about 30 minutes by car from Albufeira, and I’d definitely recommend spending an entire day there since you’ll find activities for all ages – from adrenaline-inducing rides to family-friendly entertainment. 

The park is also has a hotel, and entrance fees are 26.10 euros for adults and 18.90 euros for kids. 

Zoomarine is quite different from Aquashow. The major attraction here are many aquatic shows they have with dolphins, seals, sea lions, and birds. They also have other attractions, such as an artificial beach. But given that you are already in the Algarve and have plenty of real beaches to choose from, I’d spend your time checking out Zoomarine’s other attractions. 

Beyond entertaining guests, the goal of the park is to educate and raise environmental awareness. Definitely worth a visit!

The cost of an entrance ticket to Zoomarine is 29 euros for adults and 21 euros for children. Try to buy your tickets online ahead of time, because tickets at the ticket office can cost up to 40 euros. There are also options for group tickets or multi-day tickets. 

You can buy your Zoomarine ticket ahead of time on Get Your Guide , or by clicking on the image below. 

Zoomarine online tickets

Zoomarine – Portugal

Algarve Itinerary Day #6: Lagos, Sagres Fortress & Benagil Caves 

Lagos is another major destination in the Algarve, and is located 45 minutes by car or 70 minutes by train from Albufeira . This enchanting city is full of history and is an essential stop during your visit to the Algarve. 

To make the most of your time in Lagos, I’d again recommend you begin exploring the city center and then spend the rest of the day enjoying the beaches! 

Some of the best places to visit in the Lagos area include the beaches of Camilo, Dona Ana, and Pinhão. All 3 of these feature stunning landscapes and warm water in the summer, which is hard to find in Portugal! 

And if you’re looking for more than beaches, you also have the option to visit Sagres Fortress, a gigantic 15th-century military monument that served as the country’s main point of defense when it was built. 

Beyond its historical significance, visiting the fortress will also give you an incredible view of the “end” of the Atlantic Ocean.  

After the fortress, you should definitely visit the amazing Benagil Caves. There are several Benagil Cave tours you can choose.     

And if you’re into surfing, next to the fortress you’ll find Tonel and Beliche beaches, which are known as some of the best surf beaches in the Algarve alongside Arrifana and Amado. 

If you plan to surf during your Algarve trip, don’t forget to get a travel insurance plan that covers surfing . My article here with the 3 best travel insurance for adventure & sports may help. 

sagres fortness

Sagres Fortress – Algarve

Algarve Itinerary Day #7: Your choice! 

I usually leave the last day of my itinerary open so I can fill in whatever I didn’t have the chance to do.

So perhaps that means you use your final day to visit some other beaches you haven’t been able to get to yet, or you spend the day exploring the city of Lagos a bit more. 

After all, this Algarve itinerary is just a suggestion to help you make the most of your time in the region. In other words, you’re free to make alterations, additions, and subtractions however you like! 

In sum…

My recommended 7-day Algarve itinerary is as follows: 

  • Day 1 – Faro 
  • Days 2-3 – Faro beaches 
  • Day 4 – Albufeira 
  • Day 5 – Zoomarine or Aquashow 
  • Day 6 – Lags and Sagres Fortress 
  • Day 7 – your choice!  

Other articles about Portugal

Portugal Winter Itinerary: 5 Stunning Places to Visit  

How to Live in Portugal: 10 First Steps to Take  

In conclusion…

So, what do you think of this 7-day Algarve Itinerary? Would you add or subtract anything? If you want to add a contribution or ask any questions, just let me know in the comments area below, and I’ll get back to you!

Planning your next trip?

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 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

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 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

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And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Drifter Planet

Algarve Itinerary 7 Days: A Road Trip for One Week in Algarve, Portugal

by Drifter Planet | Feb 24, 2023 | Portugal

Algarve Itinerary - road trip in the Algarve, Portugal

Algarve itinerary 7 days – can be done as a road trip or without a car using public transport.

I have this thing for beaches. As an Asian, I was often disappointed when I visited beaches in Europe because none of them ever compared to the beauty of the beaches of Asia. This changed when I visited Portugal’s Algarve coast.

I loved Algarve so much, that I visited it twice – once in 2022 and then again in 2023.

So what’s so special about the Algarve? The magic isn’t just about the beaches, but the rock formations that surround the beaches. The rocks of the Algarve create stunning caves, pillars, arches, and hiking spots.

Carvoeiro caves - Algarve itinerary

The beauty of the Algarve Coast isn’t just limited to one destination, but many of them have something special and unique to add.

For instance, with the laidback vibes of Lagos , its interesting hiking spots, and stunning beaches . The lesser-known Carvoeiro has interesting caves, one of them being the Benagil cave which looks like a secret paradise.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail hike - Algarve, Portugal

I personally didn’t enjoy Portimao , but I will leave my recommendations in the detailed itinerary for the Algarve below.

Moreover, Albufeira is another famous destination which I absolutely hated because it was the most touristy of them all.

This itinerary for a road trip in the Algarve is flexible because it can be modified to one week or even three weeks. I have marked some destinations as optional and have given a range of the number of days that you can spend at each destination.

The empty Benagil Cave Beach in the morning - June 2023

It is very easy to travel within the Algarve with trains or buses for solo travelers. But if you are traveling with another person or more, then it makes more sense to rent a car and explore the beauty of this stunning region at your own pace.

With a rental car, you can also explore other beach destinations in Portugal, such as Nazaré . Our first road trip with a rental car was in Italy and since then we have tried to do the same everywhere instead of bringing our own car from Germany.

If you have just seven days, skip the places I have marked as optional and only visit the remaining. Another option would be to stick to the lower number of days in some of the destinations.

The famous Marinha beach in Portugal - Algarve itinerary

By the way, you can also check out my itinerary for spending 3 days in Lagos . I have a separate post about it on my website.

If you have more time to explore the Algarve Coast, then go ahead and do all the destinations mentioned on this itinerary.

Starting Point for Algarve Road Trip

Faro old town - Cidade Velha, Algarve road trip itinerary, Portugal

The most obvious starting point for the Algarve itinerary is Faro because that’s where your flight will land. From Faro, you can travel through the Algarve via trains or buses very easily. I did that and I loved how easy and convenient it was.

Alternatively, you can rent a car from Faro and start your Algarve road trip at Carvoeiro instead. If you have just one week in the Algarve, then just pick two destinations that are mentioned below and do them well.

If you have to pick just two destinations for your Algarve itinerary, then I suggest Carvoeiro and Lagos. They are the best and have the most stunning beaches, caves, and viewpoints.

Best Base for Algarve Itinerary

The stunning and empty Praia do Camilo in Lagos, Portugal

Having visited the Algarve twice, I’d say that you don’t need to stay at every destination one by one. You can however pick just one or two cities where you can make your base and explore the areas around.

I’d suggest you make your base in Carvoeiro and Lagos . This way, you can check out the Benagil Cave Beach , Algar Seco Caves, Seven Hanging Valleys trail, and Marinha Beach near Carvoeiro .

While in Lagos, you can do the legendary Ponta da Piedade hike, relax on the pretty Camilo and Dona Ana beaches and just enjoy the low-key vibes of Lagos.

Table of Contents

Algarve one week road trip itinerary, faro – optional 1 day.

If you arrive in the Algarve by air, you will land in Faro . Some people skip Faro and go directly to the next destination. I suggest you do that too so that you can maximize your time in the Algarve.

However, if you are arriving late, then maybe you have no other option but to spend a night here. Don’t be sad about it because Faro is fun too. I spent two nights here – one when I arrived in the Algarve and one when I was leaving. I had an amazing time on both occasions.

Faro, Algarve itinerary, Portugal

So, is Faro worth visiting ? It depends on how you arrive and what you like. Let me explain below.

If you are landing in Faro in the second half of the day, then it is a good idea to rest for a day here and enjoy the relaxed old town. Book a pretty room with a view of the old town as I did. Go for a walk in the city center, find a restaurant with outdoor seating, and enjoy a relaxed meal.

For those who are renting a car , you can directly pick it up from the airport in Faro and arrive at the next destination within a few hours.

Admiring Azulejos in Faro, Algarve, Portugal

If you can’t get enough of Portuguese old towns with old buildings, then you will love Faro because it has it all. And it isn’t as crowded as Porto or Lisbon . For those who like to walk around, Faro can be explored in less than a day , and below is how I suggest you do it.

Faro Marina (Sunset Time)

Faro Marina - view from Suites Aliança terrace, Portugal

Faro Marina is a lovely area where you can walk, enjoy the cool breeze in the evening, and perhaps spend some nice moments sitting on a bench in a gazebo.

There’s live music in restaurants that are around Faro Marina and this area is alive with locals and travelers alike. My hotel – Suites Aliança was right here with a direct view of the Marina, Arco da Vila, and Igreja de Santa Maria.

Arco da Vila

Arco da vila in Faro to Cidade Velha, the Algarve

Where to click the best photos in Faro? For me, it was at Arco da Vila. The arc forms the perfect photo frame and the backdrop of the old town looks lovely.

Arco da Vila connects Faro to the Old Town – Cidade Velha. This arch is a Portuguese national monument and dates back to the 19th century.

Cidade Velha (Post Sunset and Dinner)

The streets of Cidade Velha - the Old Town in Faro, Portugal

The old town of Faro is small but super charming. There are many open-air restaurants and some of them are surprisingly affordable with excellent seafood.

I suggest you spend your evening walking around in the Cidade Velha area and then eat a memorable meal in an open-air restaurant.

Tavira & Ria Formosa Natural Park

Ria Formosa in Algarve, Portugal

Make a day trip to see the lovely lagoon with a group of islands and six inlets that make the Ria Formosa Natural Park. You will see Salt Pans, Flamingos, and more. Spend a few hours in Tavira and enjoy the Sandy beaches and Tavira Castle.

Eat Fish at Taberna Modesto 

My meal in Taberna Modesto, Faro, Portugal

If you’re in the Algarve and you’re not a vegan, then you will love the food scene here. Portuguese food is flavourful, and with the availability of fresh seafood, the eating options are endless.

I have a thing for researching viewpoints and local restaurants in pretty settings that aren’t overhyped or over-expensive. With that research, I suggest you try Taberna Modesto, which is in the old town – of Cidade Velha and it has outdoor seating.

I found this restaurant because it was suggested by a local. I loved the fish, green wine, and also chocolate mousse. I enjoyed every bit of it and also the setting.

Where to Stay in Faro

The bedroom room in Suites Aliança, Faro, Portugal

I stayed in two places in Faro and the one that I absolutely loved was Suites Aliança . It was a cute old-school Portuguese building with newly furnished suites inside.

My room was right next to Faro Marina with a lovely view of the city center. The window from the balcony opened up right on top of an old street next to Arco da Vila.

I was right in the middle of everything and loved my balcony during the day in Suites Aliança . I highly recommend this place for your stay in Faro.

Carvoeiro – 3 days

Carvoeiro - Vale de Centeanes beach

Carvoeiro is Algarve’s most stunning destination that no one talks about. I saw it from my boat in 2022 and revisited the Algarve just to stay in Carvoeiro.

The lovely Benagil Bay with a hidden beach is right here and so is the stunning Marinha Beach, which is often said to be one of the prettiest beaches in Europe. But still, those lists just mention “the Algarve” but hardly ever Carvoeiro.

Compared to Albufeira, Carvoeiro is calm and relaxed. If I ever visit the Algarve Coast with my entire family, Carvoeiro is where we will stay.

If you want more information than what I have shared here about this destination, then check out my post about visiting Carvoeiro on my website.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (sete vales suspensos)

A stunning spot at Seven Hanging Valleys Trail - Algarve itinerary

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is an unmissable hike stretching 6 kilometers in the Algarve. There are multiple viewpoints and each is stunning.

It takes around 3-4 hours to complete if you do the full trail with detours. It can take double if you make more stops. However, I’d suggest you do what we did – split it. I have a separate post with tips, hiking maps, and viewpoints for the Seven Hanging Valleys hike , please be sure to check it out.

We actually split it three ways and did parts of it during sunset and some parts in the peak midday heat.

Sunset Hike - Seven Hanging Valleys in Carvoeiro

This trail goes on top of Praia da Marinha , which is often ranked as the #1 beach in Europe. It also goes on top of the Benagil Cave, so that you can look at the hole that’s on top.

Ever seen the famous photo with a heart-shaped opening in cliffs with the ocean? It can be captured on sete vales suspensos trail with a particular angle. Look for a double sea arch of Marinha beach, that’s the top of the heart for you.

Double Sea Arch at Sete vales suspensos OR the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve

At the time we were there, many people missed the heart and kept going further. Even though this spot is Instagram famous, many people aren’t aware that there’s a cliff that makes the heart on this hiking trail.

Seven Hanging Valleys Hike near Marinha Beach

Sete vales suspensos or the Seven Hanging Valleys trail isn’t difficult, so people of all ages and sizes can do it. If you do it during the hottest part of the day, it will not be easy. Make sure to carry sun protection, a hat that won’t fly off with the wind, enough water, and a snack or two.

The starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is near Praia do Vale de Centeanes and ends near Praia da Marinha . There’s no official parking near Vale de Centeanes , but many people park in residential areas.

Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys trail in Algarve

Alternatively, you can directly drive to the other end of this hike, which is at Praia da Marinha and there’s a big parking area. This way, you don’t have to do the round hike and do it just one way and drive back to your room.

You can park your car at Praia da Marinha and walk to reach the starting spot. It obviously makes sense to arrive as early as you can so that you find a decent parking spot. I’d say you start before 9 a.m.

Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in Algarve

The hike is well-marked with red and yellow stripes. You will see a lot of signposts.

If you’re doing this hike to click photos, be prepared to take small detours and wear comfortable shoes that aren’t slippery. Unlike the Ponta da Piedade hike in Lagos , the boardwalk of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail wasn’t so well constructed.

I did hike in most of the Algarve with flip flops and I saw many people who did the same, but it isn’t the smartest thing to do. There’s gravel so your trainers are recommended.

Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in Algarve itinerary

There are a few places along the Seven Hanging Valleys trail where you can take a break to walk down to the beach and swim. Not every beach is easy to reach though.

There’s a nice restaurant near the lighthouse called Jardim do Farol , where you can stop for lunch. We actually stayed in the resort that’s where this restaurant is – Rocha Brava Village Resort.

Kayak or SUP to Benagil Cave

The stunning Benagil Cave, Algarve, Portugal

Benagil Cave Beach is a paradisical beach that’s hidden in a cave, and the only way in is by kayaking, or on a paddle boat. Guess what, I visited it twice – once on a kayak and once with SUP.

SUP to Benagil Cave Beach

The first time I visited Benagil Cave, it was from Portimao, but I realized during the tour that it was closest to Carvoeiro. I have a detailed post about visiting Benagil Cave , but I’d like to summarize it here.

My second time in Algarve, I did a private SUP tour directly from the tiny Benagil Beach.

If you’re doing the Seven Hanging Valleys trail that’s mentioned above, then you can make a stop on Praia de Benagil and rent a kayak or a paddle boat to visit Benagil cave. If you aren’t able to do it alone then book a tour as I did from Portimao.

Benagil Cave, Algarve, Portugal

Alternatively, you can also try to reach here from Praia da Corredoura but I’m not very sure about the kayak rental options there.

Here’s a link to the tour that I did from Portimao . I personally didn’t rent my own kayak from Benagil Beach (Praia de Benagil) but I know some people who did.

SUP and Kayaking near Marinha Beach and to Benagil Cave

If you are not confident about kayaking here on your own then by all means book a tour too. It can get a little tricky kayaking here because of the rocks and you can hurt yourself pretty bad if you don’t have kayaking experience.

Algar Seco Cliff Walk (caves)

Algar Seco Cliff Walk - Algarve road trip

This is the main boardwalk of Carvoeiro with a network of caves, holes in the rocks, and views. These are a series of interesting cliff formations that look like they belong to Cappadocia .

"A Boneca", Algar Seco Caves, Carvoeiro

This Algar Seco Cliff walk begins near Capela de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação and goes on top of Algar Seco Cliffs.

Algar Seco Cliff Walk - Carvoeiro Algarve

This walk is short, will take you 10 minutes if you don’t stop for photos, and is also wheelchair accessible. But to reach the base of the Algar Seco cliffs, you will have to climb steps so that part isn’t wheelchair accessible.

A Boenca Cave entry in Algar Seco - Algarve

The most popular spot on this hike is “A Boneca”, which means a doll. It is named so because two cave arches look like the eyes of a doll. You can actually look out of the doll’s eyes onto the ocean. Look for Point de vue da “janela da boneca” on google maps.

Algar Seco Cliff Walk - Algarve

Miradouro da falésia do Carvoeiro is another stunning viewpoint with an observation deck on this walk.

Relax on Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha in Portugal - Algarve itinerary

Praia da Marinha is iconic and is often said to be the most beautiful beach in Europe. It is actually in a small town called Caramujeira but you can easily reach there by bus from Carvoeiro in 30-40 minutes. Of course, driving would be faster.

Read my post about visiting the Marinha Beach to better plan your trip.

Praia da Marinha beach in Algarve

Praia da Marinha is special because of its dramatic rock formations, clear water, and plenty of golden sand. The stunning double arch rock makes the heart shape from the top looks even better when you’re looking at it from the beach because of the turquoise water.

Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal

The rocks divide the beach into three sections. If the tide is low then you can easily climb over or you have to swim around.

Marinha Beach also has a beach bar, restaurants, and WCs. So not only it is stunning, but it is also comfortable in every way.

The amazing restaurant at Marinha Beach, Algarve

The restaurant is amazing and I had two lunches here with amazing garlic prawns. The Sasngrias were exceptional and a glass of it was just EUR 3 in June 2023. Unbelievable!

If you start the Seven Hanging Valleys trail early, then you have plenty of time, in the end, to relax on Marinha Beach. So if you plan your time well, you can maximize your experience.

A part of Praia da Marinha from up above

I’d still say that you do both these things on separate days. Take out an entire day for the Seven Hanging Valleys trail with a detour to kayak to the Benagil cave. Get back to Benagil Beach and finish the hike to see the double-arched rock from the top.

Yes, you can end up on top of Marinha beach at the end of your hike but you won’t have enough time left to do this beach justice. Then spend an entire lazy next day on Marinha Beach.

Vale de Centeanes Beach

Vale de Centeanes beach in Carvoeiro

The most obvious thing to do in Carvoiro would be to visit the beaches. I’ll help you save time – visit the Vale de Centeanes beach. It is stunning and has amazing rock formations.

There are a few smaller caves inside Vale de Centeanes beach so you can easily find a shaded area.

Vale de Centeanes beach, Carvoeiro

The sand is soft and the sea water is clean so it all makes it perfect for a fun beach day in summer. The water didn’t appear to be clean at the entry point of the beach but it got better later.

Vale de Centeanes beach, Carvoeiro, Algarve road trip

There is also a beach bar with a restaurant and a WC at the entry point of Vale de Centeanes beach in Carvoeiro.

Lagos – 4 days

Lagos is famous amongst travelers, but don’t let that put you off. It is worth all its hype.

If you’d like to visit just ONE place in the Algarve, then it should be Lagos. For me, it is the most fun destination in Algarve because there’s everything here.

For a detailed itinerary for Lagos with a self-guided hiking map, I have a separate post about it on my website.

One of the many hiking viewpoints in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

You know me, I like mostly low-key places but I don’t want to skip places that are known for their beauty just because they are popular. When I travel to highly visited places, I usually find a way to avoid crowds.

Lagos did not disappoint me in any way. The beaches of Lagos are stunning and there are many of them. Some of them can only be reached by hiking so aren’t crowded at all.

Apart from the beaches, Lagos has a lovely old town area with buildings that are covered with Azulo.

Moreover, the cliffs of Lagos are stunning. The hiking opportunities are insane and as a result, so are the viewpoints. The restaurant and bar scene is fantastic but yet one can find an affordable place to sleep in one of the quieter neighborhoods.

I spent a week in Lagos and it wasn’t enough. I visited a new beach every day and hiked to new spots and I wish I had spent at least a month here.

Ponta da Piedade Sunset Hike

Ponta da Piedade is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Algarve. It is a wooden walking path that goes on top of rocks with the sea below. You can check out my guide to the Ponta da Piedade hike .

Sunset at Ponta da Piedade, Lagos, Portugal

If you spend a few days in Lagos, make sure you come here for at least one sunset experience. I come back here every single day and sometimes even twice.

When you hike to Ponta da Piedade , you will notice that there isn’t just one viewpoint here but many possibilities. Ideally, you’d want to find a spot from where you see the sun go down and see a bit of one of the beaches underneath the rocks.

Hiking in Lagos - View of the Camilo Beach, Algarve

I did find a perfect spot for watching the sunset with a stunning view in the Ponta da Piedade area and I mentioned the exact details in my Lagos travel guide post.

Praia do Camilo

The beaches of Lagos, Algarve - Praia do Camilo, Portugal

Camilo Beach is the most beautiful beach in Lagos for me. You have to climb down a hundred steps to reach Camilo Beach and it is worth every bit of effort.

Praia do Camilo is divided into two parts. You can reach from one part to another via a cave that’s on the beach. No, you don’t need to swim through the cave but just walk through. Another way of moving from one beach to another is by swimming.

The Lovely Praia do Camilo, Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Camilo Beach has super interesting rock formations and overall both parts of this beach are tiny compared to the other beaches of Lagos.

Because it is stunning, Praia do Camilo can get very crowded so I visited this beach at 9 am and it was empty. I left at 11 am and that’s when the crowds started coming in. For the best experience and photos, arrive here early or late.

The arch at Praia do Camilo, Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

If you’re in Lagos for a short time and are looking for the best place to click loads of photos for Instagram, then Camilo Beach is the place. There are multiple photo opportunities and the best ones are from the top as you start climbing down the steps to reach the beach.

Make sure you click a few pictures under the arch on the first beach of Praia do Camilo. I did and those pictures turned out great.

Dona Ana Beach

View of Dona Ana beach on the way from Pinhão, Lagos, Portugal

Praia Dona Ana is massive, easy to reach, has a bus stop nearby, also can be hiked to from the nearby beaches, and has rock formations – so it has everything it takes to be popular, and it is.

Dona Ana Beach is a little more than 1 KM away from Lagos City center, so it is reasonably close for a visit from most of Lagos.

Dona Ana Beach, Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Pack some snacks and spend a lazy beach day on Lagos’s legendary Dona Ana beach. If you are a bit of an adventurer, then arrive here by hiking from the nearby Praia do Pinhão or Praia do Camilo. Both these hikes will give you stunning views.

Visit Aqui Há Gato to eat Prawns

Food at Aqui Há Gato restaurant, Lagos, Portugal

As mentioned in the earlier points, I love to find smaller restaurants that are local and are known for their excellent food. Aqui Há Gato was one such find, and it was so good that I ate here every single day.

Lagos city center has a lot of restaurants that cater to tourists, and some of them are overpriced, overhyped, and stressful to visit because of the crowds. Aqui Há Gato is in a residential area and they had a board outside in Portuguese which I translated using Google and it said they have the best prawns in Lagos.

True to their word, the prawns were excellent and the vibe was super comfortable. I regret not eating here on my last day because I decided to try a well-known seafood restaurant close to the city center.

Optional Destinations in Algarve Itinerary

I have mentioned two more destinations below that you can add to your Algarve itinerary if you’d like. I personally think that Carvoeiro and Logos make the best base, but I’d let you decide

Sagres – 2 days (optional)

Cabo Sao Vicente - the “end of the world”, Sagres, Algarve itinerary

Sagres is on the Algarve’s western tip and is an offbeat surfing destination on the Algarve Coast. If you like to visit places that are under the radar, then Sagres is for you. Expect to see barren landscapes like no other nearby destinations in the Algarve.

Just like the nearby Lagos, Sagres also has towering limestone cliffs over the sea. The beaches are pristine because not many tourists visit Sagres. More than that, you can also visit a unique fortress in Sagress.

Cape of St. Vincent

Ever wanted to stand at the edge of the world? This is it. Truth be told, this is the westernmost tip of Europe, so it is the edge of Europe.

Cabo de Sao Vicente, Sagres, Algarve itinerary

Stand on the steep cliffs at Cabo de Sao Vicente with an unobstructed view of the Atlantic Ocean, and admire the rugged and slightly dangerous beauty of this spot that will take your breath away.

The drive to Cape Saint Vincent from Sagres town will just take you 10 minutes. You can arrive here on a bus too, look for bus number 47 .

When you arrive at Cape of St. Vincent, you won’t need to spend more than just a few minutes here because it is just one spot. There’s also a lighthouse here – Farol do Cabo de São Vicente, which was under renovation in 2022.

If you want a snack, you will also find a food truck here called “Letzte Bratwurst vor Amerika”, a German name that means “Last Roasted Sausage before America”.

Sagres Fortress (Fortaleza de Sagres) & Lighthouse

Views from Sagres Fortress, Algarve road trip itinerary

Fortaleza de Sagres is a 15th-century fort on top of the rocks. There are three natural cliffs that protect this fort. As a result, the views are spectacular. Look for the Cape Sagres viewpoint near Sagres Lighthouse.

The entry fee for Sagres Fortress is EUR 3 per person. If you enjoy history and viewpoints then this is definitely a unique fortress to visit. There’s also a church inside.

The walking area is pretty level, so you don’t need to climb anything for the view. Wear a hat because there isn’t much shade inside except in the church. There is plenty of parking outside.

A Voz do Mar (Eng. the Voice of the Sea) is a unique chamber in the Sagres fortress complex. It is a maze that’s the chamber of sounds because you can hear the sound of the waves against the rocks.

The maze leads to a narrow chamber that’s situated in deep with a cove and the sound gets louder as you go in.

Sagres Fortress also has Sagres Lighthouse inside the complex. The views around the lighthouse are lovely and you can see the typical grottos that are in Algarve.

Martinhal Beach

Praia do Martinhal is also a big wide beach with perfectly soft sand and views. You don’t have to climb down a lot of stairs to reach this beach, unlike many other beaches in Algarve.

Sagres anyway is low key so this beach doesn’t get crowded at all. As a result, the water and the sand feel very clean.

When it isn’t windy, Martinhal Beach is perfect for families. It is large and wide, but please check the surf report for information about how calm the waves are on the day you bring your children here.

There is also a small lagoon behind Martinhal Beach.

Mareta Beach

Mareta Beach is a massive paradisical beach that attracts a lot of surfers. The sand is almost white and the water is very blue at its best. This sandy beach is surrounded by rocks.

The access to this beach is steep but is totally worth it. Even though it is used by a lot of surfers, the waves are usually calm.

There are beach bars, restaurants, and a decent car park. Mareta Beach is in central Sagres so is the main beach but even then it doesn’t get crowded.

Praia do Beliche

Beliche Beach is big, beautiful, and unspoiled. There are sandy dunes, small caves, and turquoise water. You need to climb steep steps down to reach this beach.

The rocks make arches right on the beach so you can stand under the arch and click some gorgeous photos. There’s a beach bar at Praia do Beliche where you can relax with a cocktail in your hand.

The water is usually cold, even in summer because of the Atlantic Ocean, but that’s with most of the beaches in the Algarve.

A lot of surfers visit this beach but it still remains empty. Like some of the other empty beaches of Portugal, clothes are optional here. There are plenty of surfing lifeguards at Praia do Beliche.

Albufeira – 2 days (optional)

Albufeira city center - Algarve itinerary, Portugal

Albufeira is Algarve’s most visited destination and it is a little more upscale as compared to Lagos. You can call it a “resort town”. It has a very active nightlife with a strip that’s dotted with bars.

I have mentioned Albufeira as an optional stop on your Algarve itinerary because a person like me would pick Lagos over Albufeira if short on time.

Albuferia is also visited by a lot of families, and there are multiple attractions specifically for family travelers here.

Praia da Falésia

Praia da Falésia in Albufeira, Algarve Itinerary

Falésia Beach is massive that’s clean and super beautiful. You need to climb down stairs to reach it but it is worth the effort because there’s a backdrop of red rocks.

The golden sand, turquoise water, ocean breeze, open spaces, and warm-colored cliffs make this beach stunning. At times the waves can be quite high, but otherwise, it is usually friendly for children.

There is a restaurant on top of the stairs with a bar. You can book a sunbed on Praia da Falésia for around EUR 15, and sometimes EUR 30 for the whole day.

Praia do Peneco / Praia do Túnel

Praia do Túnel, Albufeira, Algarve road trip itinerary

Praia do Túnel also called Praia do Peneco, is Albufeira’s main beach near the town center. There is a 20-meter tunnel that leads to this beach through the rocks. This tunnel starts from the town square and ends at the beach – how cool is that!

Peneco Beach gets busy during the peak season as compared to the above-mentioned Praia da Falésia, but if you spend a couple of days in Albufeira, you will end up visiting this beach at least once because it is close to the main town center.

Praia dos Pescadores

Praia dos Pescadores in Albufeira, Portugal's Algarve Coast

Praia dos Pescadores is the most visited and photographed beach of Albufeira, perhaps because it is close to the city center. There’s a backdrop of white houses against yellow-golden sand.

Pescadores is a typical touristy beach with shops, bars, and beach sports options. There’s a lot going on at this beach, so it is perfect for families with small children.

If you spend a day or two in Albufeira, you will no doubt end up being in the old town at some point, so you will also visit this beach because it is right there.

Bar Hopping at The Strip (Rua da Oura)

Albufeira’s old town isn’t relaxing or charming like that of Faro or Lagos but is loud with many bars. The street that’s lined up with loads of bars is called Rua da Oura, or just the Strip.

Over the years, Albufeira has gained a reputation as a somewhat party destination, so I have included it as an optional spot for those who seek a lively bar scene. You will mostly find British and Irish tourists in the bars here.

Praia do Castelo

Praia do Castelo, Albufeira, Algarve itinerary - Portugal

If you want to get away from Albufeira’s headache areas (errm, the city center), then you will love escaping to Praia do Castelo.

It is a quaint beach with golden sand, and clean water but the main beauty lies in the cliffs. The rock patterns are unique and some of them have an opening through which the water flows.

The rocks on Praia do Castelo provide shade in some areas, so you will manage just fine without an umbrella.

This is a secluded beach but it is easy to reach here in a rented car just 10 minutes from the city center. There’s a parking spot nearby. If you don’t have a rented car then try to call a taxi to get here.

Castle of Paderne

Do you like visiting old buildings that are in ruins? If yes then the castle in Paderne is for you.

Paderne is 16 kilometers away from Albufeira, so it makes sense to visit this place only if you have a car. This castle is on a hill in Paderne.

The Castle of Paderne isn’t preserved and is open just once a week but you don’t need to go inside to enjoy it.

Pack enough water and wear comfortable shoes because you are going to want to walk around this castle and enjoy the sights. The walk goes along the river and up the hill.

There’s some vegetation along the path and lots of wild thyme. There is a spot here from where you can see the old Roman bridge.

Algarve itinerary, Portugal - road trip or without a car - Pinterest

Algarve Itinerary FAQs

How many days do you need in the algarve.

I’d suggest you spend a minimum of 5 days in the Algarve, but if you can’t then do at least a week in the Algarve. My Algarve itinerary is pretty flexible and can be stretched to even two weeks in the Algarve. If you are a slow traveler, then you can spend longer in each location and extend it to a month in the Algarve.

What is the prettiest place in the Algarve?

Ponta da Piedade by far is the prettiest place in the Algarve. I loved it so much that I came back here for every single sunset. It is actually a walk that goes over the beaches in Lagos. You can walk around and find different viewpoints. One that looks over Praia do Barranco do Martinho was my favorite one. I share more information here . Some would say that Benagil Cave is the prettiest. Yes, it is absolutely stunning but it is a small spot so if you spend 15-30 minutes here, that’s all. But I love the scale of Ponta da Piedade because there are so many viewpoints and possibilities.

Can you go to Algarve without a car?

Yes, you can. It is very easy to travel to and within the Algarve using just public transport. You can fly to Faro from most of Europe, or take a bus or train to arrive here from different parts of Portugal and a few places in Spain. I found trains to be super affordable and hassle-free. Buses are also convenient and have WiFi.

What is the most picturesque beach in Algarve?

Praia da Marinha is the most picturesque beach in the Algarve, it is close to Carvoeiro. The second best is Praia do Camilo in Lagos .

Algarve road trip itinerary - Southern Portugal Coast

Algarve Road Trip FAQs

Is it safe to drive around algarve.

Yes, it is. Portugal is one of the safest and easiest countries for a road trip in Europe. Driving around in the Algarve is not only safe but also an excellent experience because of the views as you will drive along the south coast of Portugal.

Where to Start the Algarve road trip?

If you are flying to Portugal and renting a car , then the most obvious starting point is Faro . This will also be your starting point if you are driving to Portugal from nearby Spain. If you are driving to the Algarve from Lisbon , then you can skip Faro, and start your Algarve road trip itinerary in Albufeira instead. If you want to drive faster, then you won’t be driving along the coast but you will get on A2 Highway.

PS: Drifter Planet  contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Related Posts:

2 Weeks in Portugal - Road trip itinerary

I am able to afford minimum 2 weeks in Portugal. Can you please tell me how to spend my time to fully enjoy the country. Thank you for your time and effort. God bless you and your family.

Hi Raul, for me the best part of Portugal is the South Coast and that’s where I’d spend most of my time if I had two weeks. Algarve has so much to do and two weeks are perfect just for this area. If you want to cover more places all over Portugal then include places like Nazare, Coimbra, Porto, and around.

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Hello Travelers!

Sonal of Drifter Planet

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a think for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on November 14, 2023 by Drifter Planet

Full Suitcase Travel Blog

Visiting Algarve, Portugal: 19 Tips & Tricks for First Trip

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 1, 2024

Visiting Algarve, Portugal: 19 Tips & Tricks for First Trip

Visiting Algarve (Portugal) for the first time and wondering what to expect?

When is the best time to visit? How long and where to stay? Should you rent a car or can you use public transport? Can you use credit cards or do you need cash? What to pack?…

You’ll find answers to these and other questions about visiting Algarve in this guide.

Whether you are going to the Algarve for a relaxing beach holiday or are planning a road trip and are mostly interested in sightseeing, our experience-based tips and practical information will help you get the most out of your trip. Find out!

Top 3 Experiences Not To Miss in the Algarve:

  • Benagil Cave boat tours . More info: How to visit Benagil Cave .
  • Ponta da Piedade boat trips . More info: How to visit Ponta da Piedade .
  • Dolphin watching .

Travel tips and information for visiting Algarve region in Portugal

Here are our top tips for visiting the Algarve:

1. Visit in the shoulder season

Algarve is a year-round destination that has a lot to offer at any time of the year. However, there is a huge difference if you visit the Algarve in the summer or in the low season.

If you are looking for warm weather, sunshine, beach life, and water activities, then you’ll love the Algarve in the warmest months.

However, Algarve is one of the most popular summer vacation destinations in southern Europe. So it will come as no surprise that the whole coast gets really busy in the summer months , particularly in July and August.

If you don’t absolutely have to take your annual holidays in July or August, consider coming in May – June or in September – October. It will still be nice and warm (and busy too), but not nearly as much as in the summer.

Also if your primary focus of visiting Algarve is sightseeing, consider traveling in the spring or in the fall . Not only will it be less busy, but it’s also not as warm and the weather is more comfortable for excursions. Plus, accommodations and rental cars are cheaper.

Winter months are very quiet and many seasonal businesses are closed between November and March. The weather is usually still mild with cold nights and there is always some chance for rain. But it’s a very nice time to visit if you want to experience the region without the crowds. Sunrises and sunsets are absolutely amazing in the colder months too.

TIP: One of our favorite months to visit Algarve is April and the end of October – the beginning of November. The weather is usually warm and sunny, but not too hot for sightseeing and long walks. Most places are open and it’s pleasantly lively but never too busy. The negative side is that it’s often too cold to swim in the sea or even in an outdoor pool, but if you are lucky with the weather, even this is possible. Plus, you can enjoy the most amazing sunsets at this time of the year.

LEARN MORE: Algarve in April – Algarve in November – Algarve in December

Traveling in Algarve in the low season - enjoying a beautiful sunset near Sao Rafael Beach

2. Do some research on what you’ll want to see and do

The Algarve region is quite big and has a lot more to offer than it looks at first sight.

Many of the nicest places are spread out along the long coastline, but there are some hidden gems inland too. In addition to the nicest towns and natural landmarks, Algarve has lots of water parks , fun activities , etc.

So be sure to do some research and decide which places you want to see and what you want to do. This will influence some other choices that you have to make, such as how many days to spend in Algarve, where to stay, or whether to rent a car.

TIP: Even if you are visiting Algarve for summer vacation and your main goal is to sunbathe, swim, and eat delicious food, be sure to book at least a few excursions to explore the beautiful Algarve coast!

Also, if you want to experience the more traditional side of the Algarve region, explore beyond the most popular coastal areas. Take a day trip to the old capital of the region, Silves, drive up to the Monchique mountains or visit the more authentic towns of eastern Algarve, etc.

LEARN MORE: Top Places to See & Best Things to Do in Algarve

Traveling to Algarve - Albufeira town

3. Book in advance!

This is the most important tip that we give our readers nowadays. No matter where or when you travel, booking ahead is the best way to guarantee that you get the best rates and – when it comes to experiences – that you can actually visit certain places.

Anyway, for the Algarve, you just need to book your flights, accommodations, and potentially a rental car in advance. There are also a few tours – like boat trips to Benagil Cave or kayaking at Ponta da Piedade – that are best booked ahead.

How long in advance to book also depends on when you travel. If you are visiting Algarve between May and October, we advise booking your accommodations and rental car as soon as you know your travel dates. The prices soar in the peak season. Plus, the later you book, the less choice you’ll have.

As far as activities go, we recommend booking them at least a few days in advance. But if you’re not flexible with your schedule, just reserve them when preparing your itinerary.

In July – August, you may want to make reservations for the most popular restaurants as well (usually a day or two in advance is enough).

PRO TIP: We personally use and recommend Booking.com for accommodations, RentalCars for car hire, and GetYourGuide for tours and excursions. Not only can you find all the best offers in one place, but all these companies also offer free cancellation (often even up to 24-48 hours before the trip), so you keep all flexibility and can always rebook if you find a better deal later or if your travel plans change.

Also, book everything yourself! It’s really not difficult these days. That way, you know exactly what you are getting, can read customer reviews, compare prices, etc. You can’t imagine how often I see people complaining in Facebook groups about the location or quality of their hotel (room) and it’s always the people who booked package holidays. The worst thing is that most of the time they also pay much too much for what they are getting.

READ ALSO: Algarve Itinerary for First Trip

Algarve travel tips - Benagil Cave

4. Stay at a nice resort with beach access

No matter when you visit Algarve, I highly recommend looking for a hotel close to the beach. The closer the better. If you can, book a room at one of the seafront resorts. It will make your vacation so much more special!

Imagine waking up and watching the sunrise in the distance, enjoying sea views during breakfast or dinner, and going for a walk at the beach at sunset…

If you are here for the beach holidays, it will also be so much more relaxing not having to carry all your beach stuff for several miles or struggling to find parking space close to the beach, etc.

But also if you are road-tripping and are mostly interested in exploring the sights, staying at a nice seafront hotel will make your Algarve road trip so much more memorable.

TIP: If traveling between April and October, be sure that your accommodation has air conditioning and that there is a swimming pool. In the winter months, an indoor pool is a big plus because it’s usually much too cold to swim outside (most pools in the Algarve are not heated).

Here are some of the best-value seafront resorts in the most scenic part of the Algarve coast, from the center of the region to the west:

  • Alfagar Village in Albufeira.
  • Grande Real Santa Eulalia in Albufeira.
  • NAU Sao Rafael Atlantico in Albufeira.
  • Tivoli in Carvoeiro.
  • AP Oriental Beach in Portimao.
  • Pestana D. João II Beach & Golf Resort in Alvor.
  • Carvi Beach Hotel in Lagos.
  • Cascade Wellness Resort in Lagos.
  • Memmo Baleeira in Sagres.

Good to know: Even the best 4-5* resorts in Algarve are usually very affordable in the lower season. So if you are looking for a special treat, you don’t have to break the bank. We’ve stayed at some really nice hotels in the fall and in the winter for 100-150 euros per night/room. Those same hotels can cost 300-500 euros per night in the summer. However, it’s important to compare and book ahead, which brings us to the next point.

Alfagar Hotel pool with sea view in Albufeira Algarve Portugal

5. Pick the location of your accommodation wisely

Where exactly to stay in Algarve will depend on what you plan to do and which places you want to see.

You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you booked a hotel in Faro just because it’s close to the airport whereas all the places you want to see are located in western Algarve and require at least an hour’s drive each day.

Also, keep in mind that many places in the Algarve are quite hilly, especially in the western part of the region. So if you have mobility issues or are using a stroller, be sure to double-check the location of your accommodation, how accessible it is, etc.

However, keep in mind, that the most scenically located hotels are usually standing high on the cliffs, and getting to many of the nicest beaches in Algarve involves steep staircases.

As already mentioned, the Algarve region is big, so we recommend picking a place (or several) depending on the location of the sights that you plan to visit.

TIP: If you are looking for just one centrally located place to stay in Algarve , we recommend staying anywhere between Albufeira and Lagos. (See these guides for more info: Best Places to Stay in Lagos and Best Places to Stay in Albufeira ).

Whereas if you are making a road trip, you may want to stay at a couple of different locations. For example, start with a few days in the east (e.g. Faro or Tavira ), followed by a couple of days in the center (e.g. Albufeira or Carvoeiro), and then finally, a day or two in the west (e.g. Sagres ).

Of course, the best place to stay will also depend on how you plan to travel around – more info below.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Algarve

Steep cliffs of Falesia Beach in Algarve Portugal

6. Decide if you’ll rent a car

The majority of visitors to the Algarve come here for beaches and don’t rent a car. Indeed, if you are planning on spending most of the time in and around your resort, then it’s better not to rent a car.

Car hire can be pricey and parking is difficult in the summer season. Plus, taxis are quite cheap and you can also use apps like Uber or Bolt which makes it very convenient if you need to travel short distances. And if you want to see one or two places further away, there are plenty of organized tours or private companies offering transfers.

Public transportation is available in Algarve, but it’s not always ideal unless you have lots of time and are very flexible. For example, some trains don’t run between noon and 4 pm, etc. Many buses only run a few times a day. Plus, many coastal sights are really not easy to reach by public transport.

So if you want to explore Algarve to the fullest, then renting a car is by far the most convenient way to make the most of your trip. Just be sure to double-check that your accommodation has parking!

We always use RentalCars for car hire in Algarve (and take the full insurance option through them too). Most of the time, we rent a car from Faro airport, but you can also easily drive to Algarve from Lisbon in about 2-3 hours. No matter which airport you fly to, you can find all the best deals for car rental in one place on this website.

PRO TIP: Take pictures and/or videos of any scratches that your car might have when picking it up. Some companies will make you pay a lot of money for any tiny scratch, even if it was there when you got the car. That’s just one of the reasons why we prefer to pay a bit more for the full insurance option with Rental Cars – it’s just not worth the stress.

Good to know: Most highways in Portugal have a toll system that only works electronically. Car rental agencies will explain to you how it works. Also, if you are planning on driving to Spain, inform the rental agency about it when picking up the car. You’ll need to pay an additional fee (usually around 80 euros), but if you don’t do this, your insurance and/or roadside assistance may not be valid outside of Portugal.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Algarve

7. Read the small letters

When booking rental cars or accommodation in the Algarve, be sure to read the small letters.

For example, some hotels ask for security deposits, especially if you are traveling with a big family or a group of friends. We’ve heard of places asking for 200-400 euro cash deposit per person. Imagine having to leave 1000 euros in cash if you are traveling with a family…

Luckily, this is not the case in most places and we never experienced it ourselves anywhere. From what I hear, this is also something that they usually only ask from people who booked package holidays, come for hen and stag parties, and/or don’t have a credit card. Most of the time, the hotels simply swipe your credit card in case of any incidentals and that’s it. We personally never had any issues anywhere. But it’s worth checking if it’s mentioned anywhere when you book, just in case.

The same with rental cars . First, you will need a credit card to rent a car, that goes without saying. But some companies also block rather big amounts (sometimes as high as 1200-2500 euros!) on your credit card to cover potential damages. The only way to avoid this is to take additional – often overpriced – insurance through them…

As already mentioned, we always rent our cars through RentalCars and take insurance via them (it’s much cheaper than with rental companies directly!). But also there, we always check the conditions of the provider that we chose and try to only rent with companies that take no more than 300-600 euros deposit. That way, our credit cards remain usable for the rest of the trip.

Pink sunset and palm trees on a beach in Algarve Portugal

8. Stay longer

There’s a lot more to do in Algarve than just the main sights that everyone goes to. Even for the main sights, you really need at least 4-5 days, but you can also stay for a few weeks and still just scratch the surface of what the Algarve has to offer.

So if you can, plan a longer stay! It’s always nice to have some extra time to enjoy the beaches and other sights rather than just take a picture and move on.

Staying longer, you will be able to visit a few lesser-known villages (don’t miss Alte !) and explore the rugged Atlantic coastline in the west and not just the famous sights in the south… You will also have more opportunities to try local food and enjoy all kinds of fun activities (such as parasailing, kayaking, or hiking – just a few of our favorites).

Good to know: Quite a lot of hotels in Algarve have a minimum stay requirement, and not just in the summer season. It’s not always the case, and even if they have it, it’s often just 2-3 days, but you will have more (and nicer) accommodation options to choose from if you stay in one place a bit longer.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Algarve with Kids

Traveling in Algarve region in Portugal

9. Making a road trip? Prepare a good itinerary!

If you are traveling to Algarve with the purpose of exploring the nicest places in the region, you really should take some time to prepare a good itinerary.

A lot will depend on how much time you have, but even if you are only visiting for a few days, you can see some of the nicest places – if you plan well.

Depending on the season, pick the places and activities that interest you the most and see how to best fit it all in with the time that you have. If you can, plan some extra time too.

TIP: When preparing your trip itinerary, keep in mind that everything will take much longer in the high season. First, it’s very warm so exploring is more tiring and you’ll likely want to take more ice cream breaks, cocktail breaks, and use pretty much any other excuse to look for some shade or cool off a bit. And second, traffic is busier, parking is hard to find, ferries and restaurants are full, etc.

This brings us to the next point.

Algarve travel tips - Cape St Vincent Lighthouse

10. Start your days early

No matter when you are traveling or what you plan to do in Algarve, it always pays off to start your days early.

First, it’s quieter on the roads and there is more chance that you’ll find a convenient parking spot. Second, it’s not as warm in the morning. And finally, it’s not as busy meaning that you can enjoy the sites and activities to the fullest.

Here are a few examples to illustrate what I mean:

If you want to explore the nicest sea caves and grottos of Algarve coast , it’s best to book the very first available tour (usually 8-9 am). The most popular places get so busy by 10-11 am that the experience is just not the same anymore. Plus, the ocean is usually calmer in the morning which makes it easier to kayak or enter the sea caves by boat.

If you are visiting the most popular beaches in Algarve, you should also try to arrive early. Parking is a big issue at most beaches, so that’s the main reason to get an early start. But even if you are not taking a car, you may want to come early in order to be able to rent beach chairs and umbrellas or secure a nice spot with some shade, etc. This is especially the case in the peak season, of course.

If you want to enjoy the scenery of the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail , it’s also best to start early. Not just because of limited parking, but also because of the sun and the heat. In the summer, you really don’t want to be hiking here in the afternoon.

The same counts for Algarve’s water parks . Most of them open at 10 am. If you arrive early, you can usually do quite a few rides without having to queue. In the peak season, the water parks get so busy that people complain about being able to do just 5 or 6 rides in an entire day. We did more rides in these parks during the first hour simply by arriving early and going to the most popular attractions immediately.

READ ALSO: Best Water Parks in Algarve (+ Top Tips for Your Visit)

Algarve tips - kayaking at Ponta Piedade in Lagos

11. Bring cash

While more and more businesses in the Algarve accept credit cards and other electronic means of payment these days, cash is still king in Portugal . So it’s always good to have some euros in your pocket.

Also, be sure to double-check if a restaurant accepts cards before sitting down at the table. Otherwise, you’ll have to do the dishes afterward (just kidding, of course). But they will politely point you to an ATM nearby.

Good to know: We noticed that many businesses in the Algarve have pretty much permanent signs ‘Multibanco out of service’ or ‘cash only’ . While not always the case, often it simply means that they prefer you to pay in cash. If you inquire about it, very often it turns out that they take cards anyway.

PRO TIP: Be careful which ATMs you use. In Portugal, look for ‘Multibanco’ ATMs that belong to local banks. They are usually located next to the bank building or in the shopping centers. However, 99% of ATMs that you see in the Algarve, belong to ‘Euronet’. They are literally on every corner, sometimes a few of them lined next to each other. Avoid these at all costs if you can. They charge notorious fees and give the worst exchange rates…

Also, if your card is in another currency than euro, make sure that you always choose to do the transaction in euros. That way, the conversion will be handled by your local bank and not a bank or a company that operates the ATM. The rates you get from your bank are always better. Always.

This also counts for making payments by card. If the machine offers to do an exchange for you, always refuse it and proceed in local currency (in the case of Portugal – in euro).

Multibanco out of service sign at a restaurant in Algarve Portugal

12. Dine at local restaurants

Algarve might be known as a beach destination with some fantastic resorts offering an All-Inclusive formula, but we highly recommend that you skip those hotel buffets and give local restaurants a chance.

Even if your hotel has a half-board package or an All-in, go out for lunch or dinner at least a few times. It’s just part of the experience of traveling in the Algarve!

Not only will you eat better, but often it’s cheaper too. Plus, you will be supporting local businesses and helping preserve the authenticity of the region.

There are so many amazing restaurants all over Algarve. Just keep in mind that the location of the restaurant doesn’t always say much about the food quality or the service. There are some amazing restaurants at the most touristy locations and not every restaurant that looks super local is great either.

One thing that is usually constant though – if you have a nice view, you often pay a lot more. In some cases, it’s well worth it, and in some – not so much.

TIP: Do some research, check recent reviews on Google Maps, and you will find more great options than you’ll ever have the time for.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Our Favorite Restaurants in Albufeira

Seafood Cataplana - traditional dish at a local restaurant in Algarve Portugal

13. Don’t worry about the weather

Algarve enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. And even if it rains, it hardly ever lasts longer than a few hours. So the weather is the last thing you should worry about.

Yet, somehow, it seems to be the biggest concern most people have before their trip to Algarve.

I am a member of a few Algarve groups on Facebook and there is literally not a day that someone wouldn’t ask about the weather. No matter if it’s summer and there is not a cloud in the sky or if it’s shoulder season and some weather apps show 30% chance of rain, so many people seem to be really worried about how it will influence their trip.

Stop worrying, really! First, you can’t influence the weather. Second, there is no way anyone can predict what it will be like in a few months or weeks from now. And finally, the weather is usually great and the sun is shining all the time. Even if your app shows rain, it hardly ever rains. But if you do get some rain, remember that the region needs it really hard and that locals are happy with every drop of water.

Good to know: Most rain falls between November and February, with an average of 4-6 ‘rainy’ days in the winter months. But you really never know.

Just a few examples based on our recent experience. Usually, April can be rainy and September is dry. Yet, we recently spent 3 days in Algarve in April and it didn’t rain once, and September had a few days with heavy rain in a row. I was once in Algarve in February for 5 days and the weather forecast showed rain every day. In reality, it rained for 1.5 hours one morning and that was it.

Important! Please be considerate of how you use water when you are visiting Algarve. Remember that every drop counts!

Algarve beach on a sunny day in November

14. Pack wisely

What to pack for the Algarve depends so much on the season when you visit and what you plan to do while you are there.

In the summer , packing for Algarve is easy since it’s always warm. Swimwear, light summer clothes, and sandals/flip-flops is all you really need. However, you should always bring a sweater with you (or you’ll be cold on the plane), but you’ll likely never need it in Algarve unless you like to stay up very late. In that case, you will be very happy to have a sweater as the nights can get cold even in the summer.

TIP: We highly recommend packing a UV T-shirt if you are planning on spending lots of time in the water. It’s especially great for kids since you don’t have to worry about applying sun cream every few hours. If you are thinking of visiting some water parks, water shoes can be a lifesaver too. The ground gets very hot and you can’t use the slides wearing flip-flops.

In the spring and in the early fall , it’s always wise to pack a sweater and a light rain jacket, in addition to summer clothes. Most likely, you will be wearing shorts and T-shirts all the time, but sometimes it won’t be enough, especially in the evenings. Also, if you are taking a boat tour, it is always good to have a windbreaker.

In the late fall and in the winter, definitely bring a pair of long pants and a few sweaters, plus a somewhat thicker jacket. You may not need a jacket (every day), but you can’t count on it. Plus, the moment the sun goes down, it gets quite chilly. The best way to dress is in 2-4 layers because it can get really warm during the day and freezing cold at night. Sometimes, you can go from three layers to T-shirts and back to sweaters and jackets in a matter of several minutes.

Additional recommendations:

  • Pack good walking shoes or sneakers if you are planning on doing any sightseeing or hiking.
  • Leave high-heeled shoes at home. There are cobbled stones everywhere and it’s quite hilly in many places too.
  • If you have some space in your luggage, pack a towel. There are so many places to go for a swim, plus many hotels/resorts charge for pool towels. We usually take our quick-drying travel towels with us.
  • Bring a swim cap with you. Every hotel and resort we have been to in Algarve asks you to use pool caps in indoor pools. Otherwise, you can usually buy one at your hotel.
  • Pack a waterproof phone case if you are planning on taking any boat trips.
  • Don’t wear your best clothes for boat excursions by speedboat, kayak, and similar. Ideally, you wear swim clothes since everything gets splashed with salt water.
  • Pack a reusable water bottle and fill it up whenever you can – you’ll need it, especially in the summer.

Algarve coastline in Ferragudo

15. Don’t forget sun protection

The Algarve sun can be really harsh and if you are not careful, you will get burned very quickly. Every single day, we see people who look like red lobsters.

And this is not just in the summer and definitely not just on the beach or by the pool. Even if you are just exploring the towns or taking a short boat trip, you really should use sun protection.

Be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen lotion, wear sunglasses and a sun hat, cover your shoulders, and look for some shade whenever possible. And do this from day one because the first day is usually when it happens before you even think of it.

Lazy river at Zoomarine Algarve

16. Know that things are laid back

Just like in many southern European countries, things are a bit more laid back in Portugal than you might be used to at home. Remember that it’s part of the culture and that people are more relaxed and happier because they don’t stress about everything all the time.

Sometimes, it may take them a bit longer to bring you the menu or take your order at the restaurant, so be patient.

That being said, we find that everything runs pretty smoothly and efficiently in Algarve, even more so in the most popular tourist areas. It really doesn’t happen often that we find the service too slow, but that’s also likely because we learned to relax.

TIP: Don’t go to a restaurant if you are in a hurry, take things easy, relax, and you’ll be just fine.

Spring flowers and colorful buildings in Tavira Portugal

17. Be respectful

However, please also remember that the fact that Portugal is more relaxed and laid back does not mean that you can be disrespectful. Algarve might be a holiday destination for you, but it’s home to so many people, and you are just a guest.

Just a few examples.

While you can wear very casual clothes at most places, many (beach) restaurants ask you not to come inside in swimwear. And even if they don’t say anything, remember that nobody enjoys seeing someone walk or stand next to their table wearing nothing more than a string… It really doesn’t cost much effort to put on a T-shirt and some shorts or a dress, even if you are just going for a cocktail or an ice cream.

Oh, and don’t get me started on beach chairs. Yes, the never-ending beach chair dance that you see in so many beach destinations… 🙂 Nowadays, most hotels in the Algarve ask you not to ‘reserve’ the chairs if you are not around. And yes, they sometimes remove your stuff too. If everyone simply uses the chairs when they need them, there is usually no shortage. So there is really no need to run to the pool at 7 am. You are on vacation, so enjoy it (and let others do the same).

If you are on holiday with a bigger group of friends, don’t act like an a$$. If you wouldn’t do certain things at home, don’t do them here either. There is no need to be loud at the restaurant, scream in the middle of the night, leave rubbish behind, or let the water run for no reason… It’s all so passé ;).

I know, I probably sound like a grumpy old woman now, but if you spend as much time in Algarve as we do, you start to wonder why some people are determined to ruin such beautiful destinations with their inappropriate behavior…

Ok, rant over. 🙂 We have some more tips for you – see below!

Algarve hotel sign saying that it's forbidden to reserve chairs

18. Learn a few words of Portuguese

There is probably no bigger insult to a Portuguese than to hear you speak Spanish to them. So either stick to English (it’s really easy in Algarve as pretty much everyone speaks English), or learn a few words of Portuguese.

Just a simple ‘hello’ or ‘thank you’ and a smile goes a long way!

Here are a couple of words that you may find useful:

  • Hello – Ola!
  • Good morning – Bom dia (used until noon).
  • Good afternoon – Boa tarde (used after lunch).
  • Good evening – Boa noite (used after dark).
  • Please – Por favor .
  • Thank you – Obrigado (if you are a man) or Obrigada (if you are a woman).

People walking in the old town of Lagos Portugal

19. Relax & Enjoy

I can’t describe it in words, but there is just something about the Algarve that immediately puts you in a vacation modus.

The moment you step off the plane in Faro, you see the sun, the palm trees, and people walking around in shorts, and you forget all the worries…

This beautiful region is truly one of the best vacation destinations in Europe. With stunning coastlines, rich culture, and a wide array of activities, the Algarve truly has something to offer to all types of travelers. Add blue skies, sunshine, amazing food, and wine, and you have all the ingredients for a perfect trip.

So relax and enjoy it!

Cocktails at a beach in Algarve at sunset

So, these are our Algarve travel tips. I hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan a great holiday or a road trip.

Have a great trip!

TIP: On our blog, we have tons of travel guides for the entire Algarve region, but also the rest of Portugal, plus the most popular islands. If you are planning a longer trip and are looking for more travel tips and information, you can find a few of these articles highlighted below and the entire overview on our Portugal travel page . Check it out!

More travel inspiration for Portugal:

  • Best Things to Do in Lisbon
  • Best Things to Do in Sintra
  • Best Towns and Cities in Portugal
  • Best Day Trips & Tours from Lisbon
  • Best Things to Do in Madeira
  • Best Things to Do in São Miguel (Azores)

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Visiting Algarve for the first time - tips and tricks

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Johnny Africa

The Ultimate Algarve, Portugal Travel Itinerary

Johnny

  • Last Updated On: September 8, 2023

Portugal’s southernmost region is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, fresh seafood, and white-washed fishing villages. With more than 100 beaches, Algarve is a premier beach holiday destination in the summer that attracts visitors from all over the world. In the shoulder months, it is an absolute paradise as you can still expect beautiful warm weather but with a fraction of the crowds and a significant discount on costs.

Praia do Camilo Lagos Algarve

This Algarve Itinerary can be combined with a broader Portugal itinerary if you have extended time to see this beautiful country.

Where I went in the Algarve

In total, I spent just under a week traveling the Algarve region of Portugal.

I think this is a good amount of time to see all the main sights of the region. If you are keen to have more time on the beach, as well as explore all the sights, you might want to add a few more days to relax.

Ferragudo Town Portugal Algarve

I rented a car and visited most of the spots along the Algarve, as well as a day drive along the Alentejo coast. Most of my trip involved visiting numerous beaches and lookout points, as well as a few traditional looking towns. These are some of the highlights of the trip:

  • Benagil Caves (famous caves)

Praia Do Albandeira

  • Praia Do Marinha
  • Praia Do Carvalho
  • Praia Do Carmilo

If these places ring a bell and sound like the places you want to visit, this is the perfect Algarve itinerary for you!

algarve travel plans

How to travel through the Algarve

Without a doubt, the best way to visit the Algarve is by car. It’s not like traveling in Lisbon or Porto where there are buses that connect the cities to the nearby attractions. The problem is if you want to visit beaches outside of the main towns, you will have a very hard time getting there and back via taxi.

Olhão Portugal Algarve

Almost all trips in the Algarve will start from Faro Airport if you are not already in Portugal. There are plenty of car rental shops in Faro that offer very cheap prices for your trip. Make sure to pay for the toll pass as the highways in Portugal all function on e-tolls.

Algarve Coast Praia Da Albandeira

The roads are perfectly find in the Algarve, and even the roads leading up to the beaches are in great condition. This is not like driving through Albania for example where the roads to beaches were questionable at best.

When to visit the Algarve

The Algarve is a very popular destinations for Europeans. As you’d expect with all Mediterranean destinations, the summer season is the most popular. June to September is high season in the Algarve and you will see a flood of tourists from the UK and Germany swarming the beaches of the Algarve.

I visited in mid September and it was very busy all around. The beaches were packed full of people and the main towns were quite busy as well. The temperatures in mid September were warm but comfortable between 25-30 degrees during the day. July and August can see temperatures at 35+!

I would recommend visiting the Algarve in the shoulder season. Late April to early June, and the month of October are great times of year to visit. The temperatures are still enjoyable but the big crowds have largely died down. The winter months, tourism has died down completely and it’s mostly just a collection of locals and the pensioners from the UK and Germany that now call it home.

Where to stay in the Algarve?

One of the questions I kept asking myself is deciding where to stay. There seemed to be so many towns and beaches in the Algarve, it was impossible to decide which place I wanted to stay in.

The Algarve is quite small. It is only about 200km from Sagres to the Spanish border after all. This means you can essentially stay in one place for the entirety of your trip and just make day trips to the other parts of the coast. As I stayed a week in the Algarve, I decided to break it up and stay three nights in the small town of Carvoeiro, and three nights near the city of Lagos. These towns are only about 40 minutes away from each other, but I felt like it would be nice to see different parts of the coast even though I could have easily made Lagos a day trip from Carvoeiro and vice versa.

Carvoeiro

Where are the best beaches in the Algarve?

The Algarve is littered with beautiful beaches all along the coast. It only stretches for a few hundred kilometers but there are too many beaches to count. The landscapes are quite different depending on which part of the Algarve you are in.

Beaches of the Algarve

The beaches east of Faro near to Spain are characterized by more flat, sandy, and endlessly stretched out beaches similar to those you’d find in the Eastern coast of the USA.

Beaches Algarve

West of Faro, and you start seeing more cliffs and bluffs dominating the landscape. The beaches here are small enclosed sandy beaches surrounded by beautiful rock formations. These are the quintessential beaches of the Algarve that most people know it for. There are numerous large rock arches that adds to its beauty.

Praia Das Furnas Algarve

Most of the beaches were quite packed when I visited in mid September. I’m not a fan of densely packed umbrella chairs and swarms of people. Perhaps I’ve just been spoiled visiting some of the most amazing beaches in the world that my standard has gotten too unrealistic. Nevertheless, I did find one  amazing beach just west of Lagos. More details on that later.

Full Algarve Itinerary

The Algarve itinerary starts in Faro which is where my flight flew into. I did not stay or visit Faro because everyone told me to simply avoid it. From Faro, I drove to my accommodation in Carvoeiro and enjoyed my town for the first night.

The second day was spent hiking and visiting the numerous beaches in the area. Carvoiero is a great base to explore the numerous beaches between Lagos and Albufeira which are probably the most popular beaches in the region. In the morning, I hiked to Algar Seco from Carvoiero (only 20 minutes) which is home to the famous windows of the Algarve.

Praia das furnas algarve portugal

I visited Praia da Marinha, Praia da Carvalho, and Praia da Albandeira by car for the rest of the day and had some aperitivos in Albufeira. Albufeira is a bit too commercialized for me so I didn’t feel the need to stay for long.

The third day, I spent the morning visiting the popular Benagil caves which was a bit of a letdown but still well worth the visit. In the afternoon, I went to Ferragudo town which was definitely one of my favorite places in the region.

The next day, I drove to Lagos and visited a few more beaches along the way. If I had to pick a bigger town to stay in, Lagos would probably win out over the rest of the towns. From Lagos, I spent a day driving to Sagres and through the southwest coast of Portugal which was just stunning and wild.

Arrifana Portugal

The next day was just a relaxing beach day which I spent at the Praia das Furnas, easily the best beach in all of the Algarve.

Day 1: Land in Faro and drive to Carvoeiro

The trip starts off in Faro where my international flight from Frankfurt landed. From all my previous research and from speaking with other travelers, Faro seemed like the place to avoid. Not because it is overly ugly or anything, but because there are just much better places to visit along the Algarve.

After picking up my rental car, I proceeded to drive the 40 minutes to my first town, Carvoeiro.

Carvoeiro Town

I chose Carvoeiro Town as my base for the the Algarve for three nights. I used it as a way to explore the numerous beaches and viewpoints along the central coast of the Algarve.

Carvoeiro Town Portugal Algarve

Carvoerio is a former fisherman’s village turned into a tourist destination. The town offers an abundance of restaurants and bars but with a much more lowkey feel than neighboring towns like Albufeira and Lagos.

Carvoeiro Town Portugal Algarve

For sunset, make sure to head up to the Mar D’Fora restaurant for a quick drink while enjoying the beautiful views with its white washed stairs winding down into the sea. Even better, bring your own drinks and watch the views yourself!

Carvoeiro Town Portugal Algarve sunset

Day 2: Algar Seco, Praia Marinha, Praia Albandeira

Day two was a jam packed day of exploring different beaches and viewpoints. I’m not big into laying on the beach for hours on end so this will seem way too rushed for most people. However, I do like beautiful geological formations and there are famous rock arches to be seen today.

Pasteis de Nata Algarve

After a delicious breakfast of Pasteis de Nata and coffee in Carvoeiro, I set out to hike to Algar Seco. Carvoeiro has a beautiful road that leads to another boardwalk that hugs the coastline of the Algarve. It’s absolutely stunning here and makes for a great morning stroll.

Located within walking distance of Carvoeiro, Algar Seco is a rock formation that’s famous for its windows into the Algarve.

Algar Seco Portugal Algarve

This beautiful rock formation is located near to the water and has two window like holes built into the rock that makes for stunning photos of the Atlantic. Nearby is a beautiful bar and restaurant which makes for a great drink spot.

Praia Do Marinha and Arco Natural

Praia Do Marinha is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches of the central Algarve coast. It offers a long stretch of sandy beach surrounded by dramatic cliff formations.

Praia do marinha

However, the star of the show is definitely the Arco Naturele located near to the beach. There is a double arch here that

Praia Do Albandeira is probably my favorite beach in this area between Albufeira and Portimao. It’s a smaller beach with slightly smaller crowds.

Algarve Coast Praia Da Albandeira

Its claim to fame is the beautiful arch. Similar to the arch at Praia Do Marinha, this arch is huge standing at over 50 meters. This is a fantastic spot for the sunset and makes for amazing photos as the colors turn.

Praia do Carvalho

Completely surrounded by high cliffs, this small beach is known for its soft, golden sand and crystal clear water. This is definitely one of the most picturesque beaches in the Algarve and well worth a visit. However, during high season, this place was absolutely packed which was a bit of a turn off to me.

Praia do carvalho algarve portugal

Albufeira Town

Albufeira town Algarve Portugal

Day 3: Benagil Caves, Silves, and Ferragudo Town

Day 3 starts with a visit to the ever so famous Benagil Caves. I’d recommend starting as early as possible so you can get here before the crowds come. However, I found that the best lighting for taking photos of the caves were around 11am-12pm. It’s absolutely stunning when the sunrays shine through the holes of the cave.

Benagil Caves

The Benagil caves are without a doubt the most popular and visited attraction in all of the Algarve. This huge cave formation is located right near the town of Benagil.

Benagil Caves Portugal Algarve

he Benagil Cave is a  natural cave formation in the oceanside cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve region . Though many caves and rock formations line the coast of the Algarve, the Benagil Cave is unique for the “skylight” in the cave’s ceiling. The cave, like much of Portugal’s coastline, is made up of limestone.

It is a huge cave and definitely one of the most visually stunning caves I’ve ever visited. To reach the caves, you will want to either do one of the following:

  • Take a boat tour from Lagos, Albufeira, Carvoeiro, Portimao, or pretty much anywhere. This is one of the most popular tours in the Algarve
  • Rent a kayak or SUP from the nearby Benagil beach and paddle roughly 10 minutes to the cave adjacent.
  • Swim from the beach to the cave (about 100 meters)

I rented a Kayak which is quite expensive especially for little time you spend on it. In total, I paid 15 euros per person for a two person kayak boat (that’s all they have). If you’re two people, expect to pay 30 euros for a 2h kayak rental! It is crazy expensive for what it is. SUP boards are also not much cheaper.

benagil caves portugal algarve

Swim to Benagil Caves

I couldn’t find much information on the internet about swimming to the cave. I just figured it was far away and not a great way to reach the cave. It turns out, the water is quite calm in the summer months and the distance is only 100 meters. If you are a semi-comfortable swimmer like myself who completed his divemaster, this is super easy and safe to do. I would totally just grab a dry bag and swim to the cave next time. It’s free, easy, and a good workout!

Expectations vs Reality

The cave itself is beautiful. It’s huge and stunning. The only problem is  it is packed full of people . Upon arrival, there must have been at last 100 other people. This was at 9:30am no less. It’s one of those perfect expectations vs reality photos. I would not rush to do this cave again.

Silves Town

Silves is located 20km north of the coastline. It’s an absolutely beautiful town and was the ancient capital of the Algarve region. Under the Moors, Silves was a major defensive stronghold and important trading center. Nowadays, Silves is a peaceful town with a beautiful historical center that includes the imposing red break castle, the town walls, Gothic cathedral, and more.

Delicious frango Silves

I actually did not know about Silves at all. What brought me here was my search for grilled chicken (or Frango) which is famous along the Algarve coast. I found a frango restaurant in this town that looked amazing (and it absolutely was). Upon arriving, I immediately noticed the big red castle at the top of the town and knew I had to at least walk through it.

Silves Town Portugal Algarve

Turns out it’s a good decision!

Ferragudo Town

Without a doubt, Ferragudo is the most idyllic and prettiest town in the Algarve. Like Carvoerio, it was a traditional fisherman’s town that has been turned into a tourist town but there is still a fishing industry here.

Ferragudo Town Algarve

The town is built along a hill and offers beautiful traditional Portuguese houses, cobblestone streets, and colorful bougainvillea trees. Walking through the narrow streets of the town really reminded me of being in the Greek islands which is probably my favorite part of Europe. The Portuguese houses are more colorful however but the overall feel is perfect for those that want to take beautiful photos and be in a more relaxed setting.

Ferragudo Town Algarve

Ferragudo still offers plenty of restaurants and bars to keep you entertained so if you’re looking for a quiet getaway surrounded by beautiful traditional houses this is your stop.

Ferragudo Town Algarve

Day 4: Lagos Town, Praia Do Camilo, Praia Das Furnas

The next day I moved locations to the town of Lagos. This is only 30 minutes driving from Carvoeiro but I just wanted a change of scenery to see what all the Algarve had to offer!

Lagos is the second largest city in the Algarve after Faro. It is a very popular base for travelers coming through the Algarve as it is close to all the sights, has an abundance of restaurants and nightlife, as well as plenty of great accommodation options.

Lagos Town Algarve Portugal

Its history is long and expansive as well dating back to the time of the Ancient Phoenicians . Lagos took control over the African trade and became the most important town in the Algarve and its capital between 1576 and 1756. The town was greatly destroyed by the terrible earthquake of 1755. As a result, the capital from the Algarve changed from Lagos to Faro.

Lagos Town Algarve Portugal

Lagos has a beautiful old town that I found to be prettier than say Albufeira (but of course not as charming as Ferragudo or Silves). At night Lagos can be quite loud and the heart of the party so keep that in mind if you are noise sensitive.

There isn’t a whole lot to see as far as sights in Lagos. Its old city surrounded by the old walls is pretty to look at but in the end, the Algarve is all about the natural scenery. Once you’re done exploring the town, simply walk (or drive) south towards the beautiful viewpoints and beach.

There are plenty of amazing bars and restaurants in Lagos. Make sure to eat at the Reis restaurant to sample the famous Seafood Rice (Arroz con Marisco).

Praia Do Camilo

This is one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve. It’s located within walking distance to Lagos so if you do not have a car while visiting, this is the place for you. This small beach is enclosed by towering cliffs which makes the water calm and warm to swim in.

There is also a long windy set of stairs that lead to this beach and this makes for some fantastic photos.

Praia Das Furnas

Without a doubt, this is the best beach in the Algarve . If you like powder soft white sand, turquoise water, small crowds, and a stunning mountain backdrop, this is the beach for you.

I visited the Algarve in September and most of the beaches while beautiful, were packed full of people. If you like being with a lot of other people, then the above beaches will more than suit your fancy. However, if you are like me and like to visit the beach for just the natural beauty, aka without all the beach bars, fancy beach chairs, and the general scene, then this is the spot for you.

Praia Das Furnas, definitely the best beach in the Algarve

It’s located about 30 minutes west of Lagos and it is totally off the beaten path. When I arrived here, I knew I was in the right spot. A huge swatch of the softest powder sand I’ve ever felt was upon me. The water was crystal shallow and crystal clear. There were only a handful of people here on a Saturday in September. There were no beach chairs, and no restaurants here which is just how I like it.

One thing to note, this is a  nude beach . Prepare to see naked people. If this is not your thing, the beach is plenty of big where you can get away from people. Nevertheless, this is the nicest beach I found on my Algarve trip.

Hiking the Hanging Valley Trail

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful landscape of Portugal and its rugged coastline. In particular, hiking in the Algarve will lead you through rocky hills with panoramic views over cliffs and sandy beaches.

The Hanging Valley Trail is located on the western coast of Portugal between Portimao to Lagos and they were recently named one of the top 10 hiking trails in Europe by Lonely Planet Magazine.

These trails go through a natural park called Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is home to many different species of birds and animals including falcons, eagles and flamingos. This area was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it has been inhabited since Prehistoric times.x

Day 5: Drive up the southwest Coast of Portugal

The next day is dedicated to a road trip along the Atlantic coast of Southern Portugal. The stretch between Sagres in the very south to Sines half way to Lisbon, is the Vicentina Coastline and home to stunning cliffs and beaches.

Alentejo coast

The Atlantic ocean is wild and the waves crashing into the beach makes it a hotspot for surfers and those looking for a more relaxed getaway.

Sunset from O Paulo

The drive from Sagres to Sines is roughly two hours nonstop, but you’ll want to stop along the coast for the various beautiful beaches and viewpoints. I would dedicate a whole day to this especially if you are keen to lounge on the beaches.

The drive itself is actually not so picturesque. It’s not like Chapman’s Peak in Cape Town where the road hugs the cliff edge offering you nonstop stunning views. Most of the drive is through forest as the road is inland.

First stop is Sagres, considered the furthest southwestern point on Continental Europe. It’s home to a vibrant surf community and is also the base for numerous hiking trails.

Laundry cafe sagres

There is not much to see in Sagres except for the famous Sagres Fortress. This fortress is a huge structure and was constructed in the 15th century as a way to fend off invaders from North Africa.

Fortress of Sagres

It offers stunning views of the peninsula and the bluffs surrounding the structure. There is also a lighthouse at the very tip of the peninsula which you can walk to from the fortress.

Fortress of Sagres

I also stopped here for breakfast at the Laundry Lounge Cafe. This beautiful hipster style cafe actually does your laundry while you eat their delicious food.

Arrifana is a popular surf town with a great viewpoint and beach. There is also a fabulous restaurant here called O Paulo which is a perfect place to eat lunch or watch the sunset. The views are simply amazing.

Arrifana Algarve Portugal

Praia Amoreira

Praia Amoreira is located just north of Arrifana and is home to a big sandy beach surrounded by cliffs.

Praia do Amoreira Alentejo

Azenha Do Mar Lunch stop

Further north is the town of Azenha Do Mar. I stopped here for lunch at the famous Azenha Do Mar seafood restaurant. This local style Portuguese restaurant serves delicious seafood at reasonable prices and has a terrace with stunning views of the Atlantic.

File:Azenhas do Mar.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

I had the seafood rice which is a typical Portuguese seafood dish and it was absolutely divine.

Make sure to reserve ahead of time for this place as it gets quite busy.

Zambujeira do Mar

Zambujeira do Mar is another typical coastal city on Portugal’s western coastline. I didn’t actually stop in this town but rather stopped to take some beautiful photos of the beach and town.

Zambujeira do Mar alentejo

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfontes is one of the most popular towns in the Alentejo coast. It is home to beautiful beaches and white washed buildings in the town.

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Porto Covo is a traditional fishing village north of Vila Nova de Milfontes and has stunning beaches. This is also a popular starting point for numerous hiking trails that hug the Alentejo coast.

Day 6: Relax day

Yes, even I like to relax! The sixth day was spent doing not much of anything. I went back to Praia das Furnas and just laid out for the majority of the day before having drinks and dinner in Lagos. Sometimes you need a day (or three) like this when traveling to places like the Algarve!

Praia das furnas algarve portugal

Day 7: Bonus day to Tavira, Olhao, and Praia Do Barril

This was my last day on the Algarve. My flight didn’t leave until 3pm that day so I had the morning to either relax or explore more of the Algarve. I opted for the latter of course and decided to explore the towns east of Faro before my flight out.

The main areas on my list were the towns of Tavira and Olhao, as well as the famous Praia Do Barril beach.

Tavira Town

Located 30km east of Faro, Tavira is definitely one of the prettiest towns in the Algarve. It’s adorned with a plethora of historic buildings, ornate churches, and beautiful cobbled streets. Portuguese architecture is on full display here as the small streets are just begging to be photographed.

Tavira Town Portugal

The city center is perfect for a nice cafe to start the day.

Praia Do Barril

Praia Do Barril is located just south of Tavira and is one of the most picturesque beaches in the eastern Algarve. To get to the beach, you’ll have to park your car well before the beach and walk about 1.5km. There is also an old school train that you can take which costs €1.30 one way.

Train praia do Barril portugal algarve

Barril beach not only provides idyllic white sandy beaches, but also has an insight into the fishing history of the region. The beach was once the location of a small tuna fishing community which you can see from the numerous buildings next to the beach that have been turned into restaurants and bars for tourism.

Train praia do Barril portugal algarve

Located right on the beach is the famous anchor monument of the numerous fishing boats that called this place home.

The other must visit town east of Faro is Olhão. Olhão was also once a fishing town that has been turned into a city of tourism and commerce. The old town is very picturesque and had some of the most beautiful streets in all of the Algarve.

Olhão Portugal Algarve

The Mercado by the waterfront is unique but there’s not much here to see. There are plenty of good restaurants in the area as well.

Olhão Portugal Algarve

Algarve Itinerary Day by Day breakdown

Hopefully you’ve gotten a better sense of how to prepare your trip after reading this article. Again, the Algarve is all about taking it slow and easy. If you are into lounging on the beach endlessly, then following my Algarve itinerary to a tee is probably not for you.

Nevertheless, hopefully you can now decide which beaches you want to spend all that time on. This is my Algarve itinerary on a day by day basis.

Day 1: Land in Faro, pick up rental car from rental car company and drive to Carvoeiro for the night Day 2: Explore Carvoeiro area by foot, visit the numerous beaches nearby like Praia De Marinha and Praia do Carvalho Day 3: Benagil Caves in the morning, Visit Silves town Day 4: Drive to Lagos and explore the town, go to Praia do Camilo Day 5: Road trip through Alentejo (Sagres, Arrifana, etc.) Day 6: Relax day at Praia das Furnas, aka the best beach in the Algarve Day 7: Go back to Faro for the flight home: Stop in Tavira, Olhao, and Praia do Barril along the way

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Hello! Great article on Algarve. Just your thoughts on visiting in early March. Taking my 83 year old mom, who is fit and active. I realize not the ideal time but she’s not much for actually being in the water. She’s at the age where she knows travel might be limited and would like to see Portugal. I was thinking 3 days in the Algarve and 3 days around Lisbon/Sintra and then maybe up to Porto/Douro Valley. I was just cycling in Douro and loved it but also not certain if that’s too much to do.

Anyway, my real question is our timing. Weather and whether things will be too shut down. Would love your thoughts. Now off to read your Lisbon post.

Hi Andrea glad you like the post! I think march will be cool but not super cold. Weather will be variable but still pleasant. You’ll just have to hope for lucky weather :). I think there will still be plenty of restaurants open in the main towns so that will be fine. I think it might be a lot for your mom to handle all of those places in a short time however. Are you driving? If so maybe just stick in one place around algarve. Then Lisbon for 3 days and then just Porto for another few days. It’s very easy to get distracted and want to see everything!

Thanks for you quick response!

The Algarve Travel Guide

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With many of the country’s safest and loveliest beaches, and a year-round balmy climate, it is not surprising that the Algarve is the most popular holiday region with some of the best beaches in Portugal . The Algarve is the most southern region in Portugal, stretching the southern Atlantic coast from Vila Real at the border to Spain in the east to Sagres in the west.

Places to visit in the Algarve

Olhao and the islands, cacela velha, vila real de santo antonio and around, the central algarve resorts, armacao de pera, the serra de monchique, the western algarve, the west coast of portugal, carvoeiro and around, tailor-made travel itineraries for portugal, created by local experts.

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When deciding where to go in the Algarve, take into consideration that stretches of the central coast between Lagos and Faro are mostly heavily developed, especially Faro . But even here the beaches are first-rate, as are the facilities. Also there are areas in the western Algarve around Sagres and Tavira where the surroundings are more attractive, with laidback resorts and low-key development.

To the west of Vilamoura, you’ll find the rocky outcrops and cove beaches for which the Algarve is best known, especially around the main resorts of Albufeira , Armacao de Pera (Armação de Pêra) and Lagos . The coast becomes progressively wilder as you head west, where attractive smaller resorts include the former fishing villages of Burgau or Salema, and the historic cape of Sagres – thought to be the site of Henry the Navigator’s naval school. The string of villages along the rougher west coast, as far as Odeceixe, are quieter still, with limited facilities but fantastic wild beaches ideal for surfing.

The eastern coast between Faro and the Spanish border is very different. Most of it is protected within the Reserva Natural da Ria Formosa, a series of barrier islands fronted by extensive sandy beaches. That means taking a short boat trip to reach the sands, which has helped preserve the towns from large-scale development. The resorts here have a more Portuguese feel than those in the central stretch, and first-choice bases here would be Faro itself – capital of the entire region – as well as Olhao, Fuseta, Cabanas or Tavira , all of which offer easy access to the sandbank islands.

Inland Algarve is still relatively undeveloped, especially around Alcoutim on the Spanish border. The Roman ruins of Milreu and the market town of Loulé are both worth an outing from Faro, while the old Moorish town of Silves is easily accessed from Portimão. Towards the west of the region, Caldas de Monchique is a quaint spa town in verdant woodland that makes up much of the picturesque Serra de Monchique mountain range.

Traditional portuguese town of Olhao, Algarve, Portugal © S-Studio/Shutterstock

Traditional portuguese town of Olhao, Algarve, Portugal © S-Studio/Shutterstock

There are few actual sights in Olhao (Olhão), 8km east of Faro . Still, with a vibrant market, attractive riverfront gardens and atmospheric backstreets, it’s an appealing place to spend some time. It also makes a great base from which to visit the surrounding sandbank islands of Armona and Culatra or the Quinta da Marim environmental centre.

The largely pedestrianized old town boasts some superb tile-fronted buildings, quirky shops and bars, while the flat roofs and narrow streets are striking and give a North African look to the place – perhaps not surprisingly, as Olhao had traditional trading links with Morocco.

The town was granted its charter by exiled king João VI to thank the local fishermen who sailed a small boat, O Caíque de Bom Sucesso, across the Atlantic to Brazil in 1808 to give him the good news that Napoleon’s troops had left Portugal. The amazing journey was completed with the most basic navigational aids. Today, a replica of the boat is moored on the water behind the market. It occasionally runs boat trips along the coast, ask at the turismo for details.

Around 10km east of Olhao, the fishing town Fuseta (Fuzeta) is one of the least “discovered” resorts on the Algarve. It is served by regular bus as well as the main Algarve rail line, probably because of its shortage of accommodation. It is not the most beautiful town in the region, but it retains some character as a working fishing port. Its daily routine revolves around its fishermen, whose colourful boats line up alongside the river in town. In summer Fuseta also attracts a lively community of campers. The two communities usually mingle at the line of lively kiosk-cafés spreading down from the ferry stop towards the river beach.

The town’s backstreets straddle a low hill facing the lagoon, sheltered by the eastern extremity of the Ilha da Armona. Many of the local fish find their way to the small covered market on Largo 1° de Maio, on the road running parallel to the river. On Saturdays the market expands into a flea market that lines the adjacent pedestrianized Rua Tenente Barrosa. Continue up this road to reach the town’s little palm-tree-lined central square.

The waterfront of modern shops and apartments faces broad gardens that are largely taken over by the campsite. Beyond this is the estuary beach, a fine stretch of white sand that weaves up to a wooden lifeboat house, though more exhilarating and cleaner waters are found over the lagoon on the Ilha da Armona.

Six kilometres east of Tavira – past the golf course at Benamor – lies Cabanas, named after the fishermen’s cabanas (huts) that formed the original settlement. Today a kernel of backstreets is still made up of pretty fishermen’s houses along with a line of low-rise shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars facing a picturesque river estuary edged by a neat wooden walkway. Moored fishing boats testify to the village’s former mainstay, though today the economy is largely driven by tourism thanks to the glorious sands on Praia de Cabanas over the estuary.

Things to do in Cabanas

Ferries shuttle passengers to the Praia de Cabanas from a small jetty opposite Restaurante O Monteiro in the east of town. Cross the dunes and you’re faced with kilometres of golden sand, plus a couple of seasonal beach cafés. A perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing before grabbing a yummy lunch or sunset dinner.

There are three golf courses in the area for golfers, a 17th century Sao Joao da Barra fort, now turned into a luxury seafront hotel for those who love relaxing. For nature lovers, you can take a boat ride to the waterways of the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve, ideal for birdwatching.

Best time to visit Cabanas

The best time to visit Cabanas is typically during September and October, when the temperature is in the high 20s. The Summer months are of course the hottest, with temperatures sitting in the mid 30s. Spring is cooler, as with winter, at around 17 - 20 degrees; perfect if you want some winter sunshine.

Perched on a low cliff facing the estuary, 10km east of Cabanas, the whitewashed village of CACELA VELHA is a reminder of how the Algarve must have looked half a century ago. Apart from a few café-restaurants, there are no tourist facilities, just a pretty church and the remains of an eighteenth-century fort – and even that houses a maritime police station and is closed to the public. Offering exhilarating views from its clifftop, Cacela is highly picturesque and, despite the Quinta da Ria/Quinta da Cima golf courses just to the west, it’s rarely overrun by visitors. The only time the place gets busy is during the Moorish Nights in July – a four-day festival of Arabic food and Moorish-inspired events, including a souk.

The beach below the village has been rated as one of the best in the world, and it would be hard not to agree. To get to it, follow signs to “Fábrica”, just west of the village, around 1km downhill. From here a ferryman can take you over to the beach (daily in summer, but only during good weather the rest of the year).

Vila Real de Santo Antonio (aka Vila Real) is a pleasant border town, the terminus for the trans-Algarve railway line. The ferry across the Guadiana from here to Ayamonte is still the most fun way to cross the border. The construction of a modern road bridge just north of the town in the 1990s greatly affected the town’s former role as the Algarve’s main access point to Spain.

Nevertheless, it’s still an interesting place to spend a few hours, exploring a central grid of streets that radiates out from a handsome main square, Praça Marquês de Pombal, ringed by orange trees, low, white buildings and pleasant outdoor cafés. The square is named after the king’s minister, who helped rebuild the original town after it was destroyed in a tsunami following the 1755 earthquake. Indeed the grid plan, dating from 1774, is very similar to that of Lisbon’s Baixa.

On the north side of the square, Rua Teófilo Braga, the pedestrianized main street, leads inland from the riverfront Avenida da República to the Centro Cultural António Aleixo, the town’s former market building now used as an innovative space for temporary exhibits and the occasional film, and which also dispenses tourist information. The streets surrounding the cultural centre have a certain low-key charm, bristling with linen shops, electrical retailers and grocers, while the riverside gardens offer fine views across to the splash of white that is Ayamonte in Spain.

Some 40km north of Vila Real – and best approached by car along the road that hugs the Guadiana River – is the extremely attractive border village Alcoutim. It has a long history as a river port, dominated in turn by Greeks, Romans and Arabs who all fortified the heights with various structures; the castle dates from the fourteenth century and offers fine views over the river.

The entrance fee includes access to a small archeological museum by the main gates, which traces the history of the castle, its active service in various battles and the remnants of earlier structures on the site. From the castle, cobbled backstreets lead down to the small main square, below which is the appealing riverfront. Currents are too strong for safe swimming, but you can take a boat across the river to the Spanish village of Sanlúcar, a mirror image of Alcoutim, with its own ruined castle; or swim at the river beach (praia fluvial) in a small tributary off the Mértola road.

The central Algarve from Faro to Lagos encompasses some of the region’s best beaches – but also its most intense tourist development. Despite this, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura are low density and upmarket: purpose-built resorts with great facilities including marinas, top golf courses and tennis centres. These resorts don’t have much traditional culture, though there’s a little more of that at neighbouring Quarteira, a high-rise resort with a fine town beach and a renowned fish market.

For Getting around Central Algarve resorts, a road train trundles along the seafront, round town and back to the market every hour or so.

LOULÉ, 18km inland from Faro , has always been an important centre of commerce and is still best known for its markets. It has recently grown to a fair size, though its compact centre doesn’t take long to look around. The most interesting streets, a grid of whitewashed cobbled lanes, lie between the remains of its Moorish castle (now a museum) and the thirteenth-century Gothic Igreja Matriz, with its palm-lined gardens in front.

Armacao de Pera (Armação de Pêra), 15km west of Albufeira , fronts one of the largest beaches in the Algarve, which spreads east all the way to Galé. Beach aside, it is not the greatest looking of resorts; high-rise buildings and apartments straggle along the town’s main through-road, tempered only by a pedestrianized promenade overlooking the central part of the sands.

The remains of Armacao de Pera’s fortified walls are at the eastern end of the resort, where a terrace in front of a little white chapel provides sweeping views. But the town beach is fine and if the main section is crowded, just head further east, beyond the cluster of traditional boats on the fishermen’s beach towards Galé, where things are quieter. Aside from the beaches, the other local attraction is 4km up the main N125 at Porches, where the most famous of the Algarve’s chunky and hand-painted pottery comes from – the main road is lined with shops that sell it.

Eighteen kilometres northeast of Portimão, with a superb castle whose dramatic ring of red walls gradually reveal themselves as you approach, SILVES is well worth at least a half-day’s visit. While under Moorish occupation, the town was the capital of the Algarve – indeed it was the Moors who named the region al-Gharb (“the west”), and built Silves into a well-fortified and sophisticated place. The town’s golden age came to an end, however, in 1189 with the arrival of Sancho I and his large, unruly army of Crusaders, who laid siege to thirty thousand Moorish inhabitants in the citadel for three months. When the Moors’ water and food supplies finally ran low they agreed to open the citadel gates in return for Sancho guaranteeing the safety of its inhabitants. The Crusaders, however, ignored Sancho’s pledge and killed some six thousand Moors as they gleefully took the fortress. Silves passed back into Moorish hands two years later, but by then the town had been irreparably weakened, and it finally fell to Christian forces for good in 1249.

The Serra de Monchique is a rolling mountain range separating the Algarve from the neighbouring Alentejo district. Its slopes are made up of deciduous oaks and chestnut woods and it’s one of the few areas of Portugal that shows off dazzling autumn colours. Its highest peak – at nearly 900m – is Fóia, from where, on a clear day, the views stretch over the south coast of the Algarve and west across to Cabo de São Vicente. Sadly this area also bears the brunt of the summer fires that seem to rage annually, though the woodland is generally quick to recover.

Caldas de Monchique

Set in a beautifully wooded ravine, CALDAS DE MONCHIQUE was a spa even in Roman times and was once popular with Portuguese royalty. It was sympathetically restored in 2000, transforming a somewhat ramshackle spa resort into a tourist village – and the results have been fairly successful. The cobbled, tree-shaded main square, fronted by the pseudo-Moorish windows of the former casino (now an exhibition hall), is surrounded by lovely nineteenth-century buildings and the wooded setting is a delight. At the foot of the village, the modern thermal spa offers specialist treatments – including water massage, jet-showers and a steam room.

MONCHIQUE, 6km from Caldas, is a sizeable hilltown best visited for its market, held on the second Friday of each month (by the helipad): check out the local smoked hams and distinctive wooden furniture – especially the distinctive x-shaped chairs. There’s also a weekly Sunday market on the main square, Largo 5 de Outubro, though the town is liveliest during the Feira dos Enchidos Tradicionaes (Traditional Sausage Fair) in March, when restaurants lay on special menus. The old town is dotted with beautifully crafted metal sculptures of local characters made by a contemporary Lisbon artist, which you can spot on the waymarked route to the ruined seventeenth-century monastery of Nossa Senhora do Desterro, signed uphill from the bus station. Only a rickety shell of this Franciscan church remains, but it’s a lovely fifteen-minute walk up.

There’s a beautiful, winding 8km drive from Monchique up to the Serra’s highest peak at Fóia, though the summit itself – bristling with radio masts, and capped by an ungainly modern complex sheltering a café-restaurant and shop – can be an anticlimax, especially if clouds obscure the views. On a clear day, however, the vistas are superb.

The coast west of Lagos , as far as Sagres , remains one of the least spoiled parts of the Algarve, largely thanks to the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina which prohibits large-scale building on the coastline west of Burgau. As a result, the resorts – certainly west of Luz at Burgau and Salema – remain largely low-rise and low-key. Most of the coast is linked by a craggy coast path and you can easily walk between the villages: Salema to Luz, or Luz to Lagos , in particular, are beautiful routes.

Once past the modern suburbs, Burgau, 5km west of Luz, is a pretty little former fishing village of narrow cobbled lanes which tumble down a steep hillside to a fine sandy beach set below low cliffs. Fishing boats still line the lower roads, which double up as slipways, while narrow alleys weave around to a miradouro viewpoint. In July and August the village is somewhat mobbed, but at other times it retains a distinct character, with locals cooking fish on tiny grills outside their homes.

At the bottom of an attractive valley, Salema is no longer the thriving fishing village it once was, but its tight warren of fishermen’s houses above the eastern end of a fine, sandy bay now form the hub of an attractive resort. Many of the old houses are now converted into inexpensive holiday lets: look for signs in the windows. A plume of modern development spreads steeply uphill, but at least the white villas are in keeping with the old town, and its beach only gets busy in high season.

The west coast of the Algarve faces the full brunt of the Atlantic, whose crashing breakers and cooler waters have largely deterred the developers. Nevertheless, the rocky coastline is punctuated by fantastic broad beaches accessible from the small villages of Carrapateira, Odeceixe or, a little further inland, Aljezur.

This is popular territory for surfing, camping and hardy nudists who appreciate the remote beaches. Be warned though: the sea can be dangerous and swimmers should take great care. In 1995 the stretch of coast from Burgau to Cabo de São Vicente and up through the Alentejo was designated as a nature reserve, the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina. This afforded the rugged scenery a certain amount of protection, though it also means that accommodation is scarce and it is better to have your own transport.

Aljezur (pronounced “alj-ezoor”), 16km north of Carrapeteira, is the liveliest town on this coast, though some way inland from any beaches. The main coast road passes through a prosaic, modern lower town where you find banks, the post office and a range of cafés and restaurants. The more interesting historic centre spreads uphill beyond the bridge over the Aljezur River, a network of narrow cobbled streets reaching up through whitewashed houses to the remains of an eleventh-century Moorish castle, a lovely picnic spot and where you can see the remains of the cistern and grain silos. It’s a lovely walk up to the castle with sweeping views over the valley, via a cluster of museums (see also Walks in and around Aljezur).

The Casa Museu Pintor José Cercas displays the works and collections of local artist José Cercas, who lived in the house until his death in 1992. His well-observed landscapes and religious scenes are complemented by the attractive house and pretty garden.

Some 10km southwest of Aljezur, Praia da Arrifana is a superb, sandy sweep set below high, crumbling black cliffs which shelter a tiny fishing harbour. The beach is excellent, and surf competitions are sometimes held here. Several simple café-restaurants lie along the road above the beach, all serving grilled fish at moderate prices.

Walks in and around Aljezur

The active historical society in Aljezur has marked out an attractive 4km Circuito Histórico around the old town, with historical sights marked by plaques in English and Portuguese. Before the river silted up in the fifteenth century, Aljezur was a major port, and the route passes buildings such as the tollhouse, once used to check weights and goods as they arrived. The town also marks the crossover point of two major long-distance walking trails: the Via Algarviana, which runs for 300km from Alcoutim in the west to Cabo de São Vicente in the south; and the Rota Vicentina, which runs for 340km from Santiago de Cacém in the Alentejo, sharing the southern route to Cabo de São Vicente with the Via Algarviana.

The attractive village of Odeceixe tumbles down a hillside opposite the broad valley of the Ribeira da Seixe, below the winding, tree-lined main coast road. Sleepy out of season, its character changes in summer when it attracts a steady stream of surfers, campervanners and families, lured by a superb beach and a very laidback atmosphere. Everything centres on the single main street and a small square, Largo 1 de Maio, where you’ll find some lively bars, plenty of cafés, a couple of minimarkets, post office, bank and craft shops.

The beach, Praia de Odeceixe, is 4km west of the village, reached down a verdant river valley, the fields either side neatly cultivated with corn. A road-train trundles between village and beach during July and August, but it’s a lovely walk along the road as well, following the river to a broad, sandy bay framed by low cliffs. Praia de Odeceixe is one of the most sheltered beaches along this stretch of coast, offering superb surfing and relatively safe swimming, especially when the tide is out. There’s lots of parking above the bay, as well as a cluster of houses and cafés, some offering quartos (rooms to rent).

Carrapateira and its beaches

Some twenty kilometres to the north of Sagres is the low-key village of CARRAPATEIRA. There’s not much to the village itself, but most people are drawn by the nearby Praia da Bordeira, a spectacular beach backed by giant dunes, a tiny river and crashing surf. A couple of kilometres south of Carrapateira (signed off the main road), there’s a further fantastic broad, sandy bay, Praia do Amado, with a couple of seasonal cafés. Backed by low hills, it’s particularly popular with surfers, and there’s a surf school here.

A whitewashed former fishing village nestled into sea cliffs, the small resort of Carvoeiro must once have been very attractive, but now its small cove beach has to support the prostrate bodies of hundreds of tourists shipped in to what has become an overblown resort.

Things to Do in Carvoeiro

Apart from the obvious activities such as swimming, sunbathing and generally just relaxing and enjoy the beach, there are other places to explore should you want more of an adventure. From the beach itself, local fisherman run boat trips to the nearby caves. You can also visit the impressive rock formations of Algar Seco, 1km east of town, where steps lead down low cliffs to a series of dramatic overhangs above blow holes and grottoes. They are accessible via the coast road, or by a road train that trundles out from Carvoeiro every hour or so.

There are two superb cove beaches a few kilometres to the west of Carvoeiro, though you’ll need your own transport to reach them from town. First up is Praia da Caneiros, with a rock stack jutting from the sea off its lovely beach and a superb beachside restaurant, Rei das Praias. A couple of kilometres further on, Praia Pintadinho is almost as appealing, with a simpler café-restaurant.

Best time to visit Carvoeiro

The Summer months in Carvoeiro can be quite hot, the best time to visit the Algarve region is between April and June, when temperatures sit nicely at around 25 degrees, the same for September and October. It is never particularly cold, with the lowest avergae temperature sitting at 11 degrees in January, when rainfall is at its highest.

Around Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is a small town, so once you've explored it's streets and relaxed on the beaches, you may be looking for a day trip. Nearby is Silves, a historical town with a Moorish castle and pretty riverside walks. A nice way to see Silves is by taking a boat trip up the Arade River from Portimao.

Facing the sprawl of Portimão across the Rio Arade estuary, FERRAGUDO is an attractive former fishing village centred on a strip of palm-fringed gardens that spread up to the cobbled main square, Praça Rainha Dona Leonor. A waterfront promenade lined with fish restaurants skirts the estuary – you can take various boat trips from here, most linking up with those departing from Portimão.The old town spreads steeply uphill behind the estuary, its warren of atmospheric cobbled backstreets gathered around Ferragudo’s church, with a terrace that offers great views. The town has an estuary beach, which gets progressively more appealing as it approaches the impressive Castelo de São João do Arade. The castle (closed to the public) faces its partner fort in Praia da Rocha across the river, both of which were built in the sixteenth century to defend Portimão against attack.

The nearest ocean beach lies a couple of kilometres south, where you’ll find the broad sands of Praia Grande at the mouth of the Rio Arade, with a scattering of restaurant-bars.

Sited on the broad estuary of the Rio Arade, Portimão has made its living from fishing since pre-Roman times, but today it's a sprawling modern port of around forty thousand people. Few of Portimão’s buildings made it through the 1755 earthquake – the Igreja da Nossa Senhora da Conceição is a rare survivor, retaining a fourteenth-century Manueline door, though most of the church was rebuilt in the late seventeenth century. The surrounding streets are pleasant enough, filled with shops selling lace, shoes, jewellery, ceramics and wicker goods, while the main shopping streets are around the pedestrianized Rua Diogo Tomé and Rua da Portades de São José.

The most attractive part of town is the riverfront, where a series of squares – Largo do Dique, Praça Manuel Teixeira Gomes and Praça Visconde de Bivar – are filled with outdoor cafés by gushing fountains. Heading up the river and under the road bridge you’ll find a series of open-air restaurants serving inexpensive grilled-sardine lunches. The narrow streets just back from the bridge – off Largo da Barca – are Portimão’s oldest, with more than a hint of their fishing-quarter past.

Set slightly inland on the Rio Alvor, the port of Alvor, 6km west of Praia da Rocha , briefly achieved fame as the place where Dom João II died in 1495. Although much of the town was razed in the 1755 earthquake, it still boasts a sixteenth-century Igreja Matriz with Manueline doors and pillars carved into fishing ropes and plants. Despite the inevitable development, the old core around the church and the central Praça da República retains some character, while the harbour itself is a delight, lined with colourful fishing boats and aromatic fish restaurants. Two-hour boat trips to various places along the coast leave from here. From the harbour it's a short walk uphill to the ruins of Alvor’s castle, which dates back to the thirteenth century but now houses a children’s playground.

Exploring Alvor

From here, Rua Padre David Neto leads onto Rua Dr Frederico Romas Mendes, the main drag lined with bars and restaurants. This stretches down to the riverside Largo da Ribeira, marked by a modern statue of a fish, where you’ll find half a dozen fish restaurants overlooking the picturesque Rio Alvor. Head right as you face the river and a path leads up the estuary for a tranquil walk; bear left and it is a ten-minute stroll past fishermen’s huts and riverside cafés to the Praia de Alvor, an enormous beach backed by café-bars.

Praia de Alvor

Praia de Alvor is a beach of stunning measures - spanning several kilometres, the sands are soft and the waters blue. You will find a long boardwalk close to the beach that leads you to the pretty Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. When you're not busy enjoying the beach and sunshine, check out the local church and castle.

Getting to Alvor

If you are staying in the town of Alvor, the beach is just a short walk away. From Lagos and Portimao there are buses to the village, and if traveling by car; Alvor is well sign-posted. Close to the beach is a parking lot that is shockingly cheap at 1.50€ for the full day.

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written by Mani Ramaswamy

updated 21.07.2021

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The Ultimate Algarve Trip Planner

How to design a dream trip to the algarve without stress.

Explore the stretched-out Algarve with destination-oriented travel planner

Planning a vacation is exciting and time-consuming at the same time. It is no different for the Algarve.  With about 155 kilometers of coastline there's an abundance of Instagram-worthy beaches and picturesque white-washed towns are scattered throughout the entire region.

Many tourists stay in one place and therefore miss some of the highlights of the region. With this planner you plan a nice roadtrip through the region that will let you discover the many beautiful aspects of the Algarve.

You will see impressive nature reserves and quaint towns and the awe-inspiring rugged cliffs of the Algarve coastline are always close-by.

algarve travel plans

We created this Algarve travel planner to help you with your trip to Portugal's famous coastal region. You will find an overview of the most popular and enchanting places you can find along the coastal strip. 

We have also pre-filled the photo and food bucket lists with things you shouldn’t miss.

In addition we have several useful planning templates that you can use not only for the Algarve but also for all your future trips.

This is an editable PDF. You can fill out the planners on your computer, your mobile phone or you can print them.

It contains all the information you need to plan an amazing vacation in the Algarve for just the price of 2 coffees or a takeaway lunch.

The Ultimate Algarve Trip Planner: How to design a dream trip to the Algarve without stress

algarve travel plans

This planner is for you if....

  • You always wanted to travel to the Algarve on your own but didn’t know where to start...
  • You feel overwhelmed by what there is to do and to see in the Algarve....
  • You’re wondering what to pack and take with you to the Algarve...

algarve travel plans

About the authors

We are Sylvia & Kris, 2 passionate travelers, and we have been exploring the world independently over the last years. We like the freedom that we have to explore places that we otherwise wouldn’t have seen with an organized tour. 

We have been to the Algarve many times and are completely in love with this impressive coastal region. We are nature lovers and were impressed by the untouched nature that can still be found in this otherwise very popular resort area. 

This Algarve trip planner was created based on our experiences from our many trips to the Algarve combined with that of all our other trips.

Enjoy your trip to the Algarve!

Algarve Travel Planner

Here is how our algarve travel planner will help you to plan your dream trip to the algarve..

  • We’ve mapped all preparations on a timeline so you know what to do and when to do it.
  • Overwhelmed by the many highlights of the region? This document includes itinerary planners for the eastern, western and central Algarve.
  • Not sure what to visit? Thanks to the detailed itinerary planners and the pre-filled photo bucket lists you will know exactly what there is to see and do.
  • We have also included some useful checklist for your planning and packing. These lists will ensure you arrive in the Algarve with everything you need without overpacking.
  • Don’t lose sleep over your budget. The included budget and expense sheets mean that you can keep track of how much you spend during your planning as well as in the Algarve.

The benefits don’t stop there. This document is also created to take with you to the Algarve. Write down your carefully crafted Algarve planning on the provided pages and use them as a guide during your trip.

In the blink of an eye, you will be able to retrieve all the crucial information about your vacation.

Detailed list of everything included in this Algarve Travel Planner

  • Daily Planner – Outline your everyday plans and take them with you on vacation so you don’t miss any of the sights you absolutely want to see
  • Budget Planner – Keep track of your budget while planning
  • Expense tracker – Note your daily expenses while traveling and avoid nasty expensive surprises when back home
  • Travel checklist mapped against a timeline – Follow this checklist and forget about those stressful days in the run-up to your vacation.
  • Itinerary planners for every island  – We brought together all key sights of the Algarve in a handy one-page overview to help you with your planning.
  • Share your travel plans with your loved ones who stay at home – let them know where you are and how to contact you if needed
  • Useful Portuguese Phrases – A selection of useful Portuguese expressions to interact with the locals in a courteous and polite way. Useful if you need directions to your hotel, the sights, or if you want to know how it is to live in the Algarve.
  • Packing List for your Algarve trip – Use this packing list and you’re sure to arrive in the Algarve with everything you might need.
  • Outfit Planner – Are you a serial overpacker? Use this sheet to plan your outfits so you know exactly what clothes and shoes you will need to stuff in that suitcase.
  • Emergency contacts – Write down all emergency contacts on this paper and you will have them within easy reach whenever something might happen. We pre-filled the local emergency numbers for you.
  • Photo Bucket List – Are you an avid photographer? Use this sheet to start keeping track of those iconic photo locations before you have left home.
  • Food Bucket List – Foodies will also want to taste the local specialties and will be amazed by the delicious cuisine. Are you looking forward to taste all those specialties? Make a note of everything you want to taste and make reservations in your favorite restaurants.

This is an editable PDF. Depending on your preference you can complete everything digitally or print the templates.

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Do you want to do more than just sunbathe?  Take this amazing 10-day itinerary with you on your mobile phone and discover all the highlights of the Algarve.

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Start dreaming of your next trip with these 3 stunning background pictures of the Algarve.

Get your copy now and you will also get all the above bonuses!

How is this guidebook different from others.

This isn’t a guidebook but a trip planner that will help you plan your trip at ease.

How does the purchase work?

We use Stripe to handle the payment transaction. Your transaction is completely secured by Stripe. You can use a credit card to make your payment.

A few minutes after you’ve made your payment you will receive a confirmation email which also includes the link to download the document. The email will be coming from [email protected]. Please whitelist this e-mail address or add it to your contacts to ensure that the mail with the download link does not go to your spam folder.

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Unfortunately, we cannot offer any refunds because this is an instant download. However, don’t worry, we’re committed to your satisfaction. Be sure to contact us if you have any problems with the travel planner. Click here to send us an email .

What happens if I have problems downloading the book?

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Make sure to whitelist or add [email protected] to your contacts so that the e-mail does not end up in your spam or junk mail.

Have a great trip!

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Plan Your Algarve Camping Trip

Discover the algarve coast.

T he Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region, characterized by long stretches of coastline and consistent year-round sunshine. Camping is the perfect way to explore the Algarve Coast. In this post, we will give you tips and info to plan your Algarve camping trip.

Popular with holidaying families in summer, the area remains busy right through the winter thanks in part to the waves of mostly retired Northern Europeans who arrive each year looking to escape to milder climates. Many of these drive down and stay in their own motorhomes. This ensures that whenever you visit, you can always expect to find other visitors around

The Algarve Coast offers plenty of things to do, from long sandy beaches, sea caves, and waterparks, to traditional hilltop towns, castles and local festivals. Add to that a lively culinary and wine scene, and you’ll see that the Algarve has it all, just waiting to be explored. 

Campervans and Motorhomes in the Algarve

The Algarve is perfectly suited to visiting in a motorhome/campervan (or autocaravan as they are locally known). It is a great way of being able to see all the variety that the area has on offer, while having the freedom to move around at your own pace. Of course you don’t have to visit in a van. I hope that you’ll find my suggestions useful however you plan to travel.

Campsites and Campgrounds in the Algarve

There are some great campsites, some with top-class facilities. Be aware though, that a lot of the more popular sites specifically catering to autocaravans can get very busy (or even fully booked) over the winter.

Many people seem to come and stay in the same place for months on end. Each to their own but that’s not for me. I like to keep moving and I’m pleased to say that we usually managed to squeeze in just about everywhere we went without any prior reservations. 

Wild Camping in the Algarve

There are also a lot of accessible ‘wild’ camping spots spread all along the coast. I have included both campsites and some of these ‘wild’ spots in this itinerary.

Respectful campers are usually tolerated in these ‘wild’ places (outside of peak summer in any case), but obviously always obey any local rules and never leave any waste whatsoever behind when you leave. Unfortunately a small minority don’t seem to think these basic courtesies apply to them, thereby jeopardising the beauty of having these freedoms for everybody else.

Camping in Sagres

Although the Algarve also boasts a stunning and naturally preserved, west-facing coastline, as we only have a week, I will just be looking at the south. My week starts in Sagres, right at the western end of this southern coast. A long-time favourite with surfers from around the world, Sagres is a hip place with a great vibe.

Things to do in Sagres

Its position in the far southwest corner of Europe means it has easy access to many surrounding beaches, all facing in different directions. These beaches are for the most part backed by impressive cliffs, resulting in a choice of either sheltered or windy conditions, depending on the orientation of your chosen beach. Likewise, surfers can chase the best swells, depending on the particular conditions of that day.

The town, as you’d expect, is full of surf shops and has some trendy places to eat. At the very end of the headland sits the Fortaleza de Sagres (or Sagres Fortress), an imposing stone coastal defence that has played an important role through the ages. A walk to the end of this headland, or to the end of the nearby Cabo de São Vicente (considered to be Europe’s most southwestern point), both make great walks with unbeatable views out to the seemingly endless ocean.

Where to Camp in Sagres

It is possible to stay in a van (along with the hundreds of others!) in the large car park that services the Sagres Fortress. There are no facilities but for those who are self-sufficient, it is otherwise a decent enough place to stay. There are always lots of surfers so the atmosphere is lively and friendly, while never overly noisy. Several beaches, as well as a dramatic clifftop for sunset views, can all be easily reached on foot from the parking.

Camping in Lagos

Heading east, next along the coast is Lagos. This coastal town has both an attractive central old town to explore, as well as a long sandy beach that stretches away to the east, making it a good base for spending a day or two. 

Things to do in Lagos

What makes Lagos really stand out though are the extensive network of ever-changing sandstone cliffs, sea stacks, arches and caves that extend south from the town down to the Ponta da Piedade. These rocky features are interspersed with small, secluded, sandy coves that are magical to discover (such as descending the many stairs down to the cute beach at Praia do Camilo), although some can get extremely busy during the peak of summer.

A walk around the clifftop and lighthouse at Ponta da Piedade gives good views from above of all these various rock features laid out below. To experience them close up, with the chance to enter inside some of the caves, it is well worth taking a boat trip. There are many companies that arrange these, both locally but also from the main marina in Lagos. Like the beaches, a visit outside of peak season will feel more special. When it’s busy, the boats tend to all swarm on top of each other somewhat.

Where to camp in Lagos

Just outside Lagos is the excellent Yelloh! Camping . Its best feature is a beautiful (and warm) indoor swimming pool, complete with jacuzzi pool and very shallow infant pool. If you’re visiting out of season with kids and the weather is bad, I’d go as far as to say that you won’t find anywhere better in the whole of Portugal for a place to stay.

Alternatively, behind the marina in Lagos town, there are several informal car parks by the beach. These make a decent place to stay for free, with direct beach access. Some of this area has signs prohibiting campers so use your common sense when picking a place to stay. There is also an official camper parking area that can be used for services if required, but it is badly placed and not very nice so I personally wouldn’t recommend staying there.

Camping at Benagil Cave

For the most famous sea cave in the Algarve, head to the truly awe-inspiring Benagil Cave. You can arrange regular boat trips to take you the short distance from the pleasant Benagil Beach round to the cave. The boats can go inside the cave but are not permitted to let passengers out of the boats (so as to help preserve the integrity of the cave).

There is also the option of renting a kayak, or even swimming, to reach the cave independently (it is actually a much shorter distance than I was expecting). This allows you to sit on the sand inside and savor the extra-special experience of having the cave all to yourself (at quiet times of year anyway).

Campers and vans are prohibited from entering any of the entrances to the whole area of winding roads that approach the beach and cave. Nobody seemed to mind too much in the off-season when we drove down anyway (although most car parks have height barriers), but in summer you’d have to park elsewhere and look for alternative transport options to get there.

Camping in Central Algarve

Continuing east from here brings you to the central and busiest section of the Algarve. Albufeira is the main coastal tourist resort. If you’re looking for parties and nightlife, along with the predictable souvenir shops and mass package tourism, this is undoubtedly the place to head for.

Things to do in Albufeira

All around Albufeira are a wealth of other tourist attractions that will keep families and kids entertained while on holiday. One of the best is the Slide & Splash waterpark, which has plenty of shaded areas, an amazing selection of slides, as well as falconry and animal shows.

Zoomarine is another. It has dolphin and seal shows, as well as fun kids shows and a small water park. While I am sometimes uncomfortable with the idea of keeping energetic sea mammals such as these in captivity, their insistence on repeatedly promoting marine conservation, as well as seemingly well cared for animals did provide me with some reassurance in this regard.

Away from the coast, there are some charming traditional towns to visit. Silves has a hilltop castle which is fun to explore, in addition to bustling little cafes and restaurants dotted around the winding streets below. I particularly liked how all of the pavement utilities cupboards, rather than being the usual boring green or grey, have all been creatively painted in different beautiful designs.

Further east, Loulé has an interesting town center, that is set around an impressive (though rebuilt) 2nd-century castle. They have signed walking routes to best guide you around the town’s highlights.

Where to camp in Albufeira

For a great free place to stay that is literally right on the beach, head to the Praia da Lagoa, to the east of Quarteira. Here there is usually a whole assortment of vans parked along the small access road to the beach. If you’re lucky you can get a spot that directly overlooks the sand and the unforgettable sunsets.

Alternatively, for an excellent camper site, look inland at the quirky Mikki’s Place to Stay . Part campsite, part animal park, part art studio, kids will love it. While a bit out of the way, a lively bar and social scene all year round, along with some beautifully landscaped grounds, combine to make it still one of the best options for a place to stay (we heard tales of people who arrive for a day or two and end up staying for months!).

Camping in Tavira

As you move towards the eastern end of the Algarve, gone are the rocky coastlines that characterize the western end and instead, you’ll find long, idyllic stretches of some of the whitest sand anywhere in Europe. Admittedly, it may not be quite tropical island white, but it is pretty good nonetheless. A series of sandbank islands stretch along the coast, protecting the calm lagoons that sit behind.

Things to do in Tavira

The best beaches face out to sea from on these islands, such as at Praia de Cabana, and are only accessible by boat. Taxi boats are available all year-round to shuttle visitors over onto the islands and back. Once there, the endless expanse of sun and sand is all yours, warm enough to enjoy even in the middle of winter on a good day.

Something to bear in mind for summer though, is that the barren nature of the islands does mean that there is almost no shade whatsoever. In summer months, Praia de Cabana has a small beach restaurant with toilets, but there are otherwise no facilities on the island.

As well as shuttle boats to the islands, it is also possible to take longer boat trips to see the surrounding lagoons and coastal habitats. There are countless different bird species that live here. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see flamingos. 

Tavira boasts a castle and other visitor attractions for a day trip. To the east, Cabanas oozes the charm of a sleepy former fishing town. Facing out onto the lagoon are a series of pleasant and reasonably priced cafes and restaurants, with outdoor seating. It seems nobody is in much of a rush here, which is perfect.

Although it seems that new developments are continuing to bring tourists to the area in ever-increasing numbers, these towns of the eastern Algarve still retain a quieter charm than their brasher, noisier neighbors to the west.

Where to camp in Tavira

Cabanas also has a very nice campsite set up on the hill, Camping Ria Formosa. It has a beautiful outdoor pool, children’s playground, and an onsite restaurant. The only downside is it’s a bit further than you’d ideally like from the seafront. That said, it is still a manageable walk, even with children.

Algarve Camping – Discover the Beauty of the Algarve Coast

The Algarve coast really is a very beautiful and special part of the world. While I have tried to give some highlights for places to visit and stay in a campervan, I am aware at the same time that I have only scratched the surface.

There are so many more picturesque beaches, historic towns and attractions for you to discover and explore. It is also a popular spot to do yoga and you can join several high-class yoga retreats in Portugal .

Add to that a wealth of inland mountain countryside, perfect for hiking and dotted with small, traditional villages that showcase all that remains of a traditional Algarvian way of life, and you’ll appreciate that the region has something to offer everyone. There is enough to do to fill several Algarve Camping trips.

Explore the rest of Portugal

Why stop there? If no restriction on time, the rest of Portugal also makes for an interesting and surprisingly varied country to tour, full of castles, festivals, quaint villages with living traditions. Get some ideas for your Portugal itinerary here. And don’t forget two of the best short-break city destinations that you’ll find anywhere, in Lisbon and Porto. You’ll be sure to enjoy all there is to offer during a day trip to Porto .

In the end, allow yourself to see past the Algarve clichès of sunburned package tourists in summer and endless retired couples in their motorhomes in winter, and you’ll find that there’s actually so much more. While both of those things are of course in evidence, they certainly don’t represent or define the overall character of the region. It’s a place perfect for exploring. Not essential but even better in a campervan.

So, what are you waiting for? Jump behind the wheel of yours and come see for yourself, or if you’re new to all this, why not consider a different type of holiday and rent yourself a van for a week. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

These Algarve camping tips were shared by Rachel and John from Children of Wanderlust , a couple from the UK with a passion for travel and exploration. Nowadays, that means bringing their 3 children, Savannah (5), Aurora (3) and Easton (1) along with them. They hope that you enjoy reading all about their family adventures around the World. Also, make sure to follow their Social Media channels to follow along on their next adventures: Facebook – Instagram – Twitter

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Far Right’s Success Is a Measure of a Changing Portugal

Memories of dictatorship are fading. Dissatisfaction is mounting. It was a ripe moment for the Chega party to appeal to voter frustrations.

Workers carry crates in a citrus grove.

By Emma Bubola

Emma Bubola reported from Faro, Portugal, and several other towns across the Algarve, speaking to party officials, tourism workers, farmers and fishermen.

The sun-soaked Algarve region on Portugal’s Southern coast is a place where guitar-strumming backpackers gather by fragrant orange trees and digital nomads hunt for laid-back vibes. It is not exactly what comes to mind when one envisions a stronghold of far-right political sentiment.

But it is in the Algarve region where the anti-establishment Chega party finished first in national elections this month , both unsettling Portuguese politics and injecting new anxiety throughout the European establishment. Nationwide, Chega received 18 percent of the vote.

“It’s a strong signal for Europe and for the world,” said João Paulo da Silva Graça, a freshly elected Chega lawmaker, sitting at the party’s new Algarve headquarters as tourists asked for vegan custard tarts at a bakery downstairs. “Our values must prevail.”

Chega, which means “enough” in Portuguese, is the first hard-right party to gain ground in the political scene in Portugal since 1974 and the end of the nationalist dictatorship of António de Oliveira Salazar. Its formula for success mixed promises of greater law and order with tougher immigration measures and an appeal to economic resentments.

Chega’s breakthrough has presented Portugal as the latest version of a now familiar quandary for Europe , where the inroads of hard-right parties have made it increasingly difficult for mainstream competitors to avoid them .

The leader of Portugal’s center-right coalition, which won the election, has refused to ally with Chega, but experts say the result is likely to be an unstable minority government that may not last long.

Chega showed once again that taboos that had kept hard-right parties out of power, foremost the long shadow of a right-wing dictatorship from last century, were falling. Today the hard right has made gains in Italy, Spain and Germany, among other places.

Portugal had been considered the exception. It emerged from the Salazar dictatorship as a progressive society that supported liberal drug laws and showed little appetite for the far right. In recent years it became a booming tourist destination, flush with foreign investment , expatriates and a growing economy.

Even so, this month more than a million Portuguese cast what many saw as a protest vote for Chega.

The Socialist and the mainstream conservative Social Democratic party in recent decades have presided over a painful financial crisis and tough austerity period. But even in the country’s recent economic upturn , many have felt left out, anxious and forgotten.

Huge numbers of young Portuguese are leaving the country. Many of those who stay work for low salaries that have not kept up with inflation and left them priced out of an unaffordable housing market. Public services are under stress.

Chega campaigned promising higher salaries and better conditions for workers, who the party said had been impoverished by a greedy elite. It fought against mixed-gender bathrooms in schools and restitutions for former colonies.

A corruption investigation into the handling of clean energy projects, which brought down the Socialist government last year, handed Chega another talking point with which to attack the ruling class.

The party’s message struck a chord with many Portuguese who did not vote before and attracted young voters through powerful social media outreach. It also resonated with voters in Algarve who had voted reliably for the Socialist Party in the past.

“Here we have to work, work, work and we get nothing,” said Pedro Bonanca, a Chega voter who drives tourists on a boat to the fishing island of Culatra, off the Algarve coast.

“When I ask old people why they vote the Socialist Party, the only thing they can say is that they took us out of the dictatorship,” said Mr. Bonanca, 25. “But I don’t know about that. It was a long time ago.”

The top of his Instagram search bar featured André Ventura, the charismatic former soccer commentator who once trained as a priest before founding Chega in 2019.

In earlier campaigns, Chega used the slogan “God, Homeland, Family, Work,” similar to the Salazar dictatorship’s “God, Homeland, Family.” Before the recent election, Chega promised a mix of social policies that experts described as unrealistic, including plans to increase the minimum wage and pensions while also cutting taxes.

“Chega became a sort of catchall party of all anxieties,” said António Costa Pinto, a political scientist with the Institute of Social Sciences at the University of Lisbon.

In the Algarve region, Chega appealed to underpaid waiters with unstable jobs, priced out of their hometowns or forced to emigrate. The party’s message resonated with aging fishermen who had to keep working to make a living. It spoke to farmers who said that they felt forsaken and that the government had prioritized watering golf courses despite looming drought.

“If we die, it’s because of them,” Pedro Cabrita, a farmer, said of the government. “My vote for Chega is a protest vote,” he said as he gazed anxiously at his orange grove, which he feared might dry out this summer.

In Olhão, an impoverished tourist town where Chega won nearly 30 percent of the vote, José Manuel Fernandes, a fishmonger, wondered why, despite the fact that Portugal is in the European Union, he could not aspire to the lifestyle of the German or French tourists around him.

“In the summer I see couples having a good time here, living in camper vans,” said Mr. Fernandes, who voted for Chega, as he cleaned a giant cuttlefish. “I have wanted to go on vacation abroad for 30 years,” he added, “but that moment never came.”

Economists say Portugal, which started from a lower economic point when it joined the European Union in 1986, has made progress but not the kind of productivity gains needed to catch up to its wealthier European partners. Instead it remains a relative bargain for European tourists and retirees, while many Portuguese feel increasingly plundered.

In the seaside town of Albufeira, as British bachelorette squads in blinking bunny ears cruised the streets, Tiago Capela Rito, a 30-year-old waiter, closed the cocktail bar where he worked. Despite working since he was 15, he still lives with his mother because he cannot afford his own apartment, he said.

He had never voted before, but he voted for Chega. “Ventura is telling us that we don’t have to leave the country to survive,” said Mr. Rito, who in the off season juggles construction and kitchen jobs, “that we can stay here and have a life.”

Down the road, Luís Araújo, 61, a waiter who also voted for Chega, said his son, 25, made more than triple his salary at a restaurant in Dublin.

“Our young people leave and these guys stay here,” he said of the influx of workers from Nepal and India who have arrived to fill low-paying jobs.

Though the numbers of immigrants arriving in Portugal has been smaller than in Italy or Spain, Mr. Ventura has cast a recent influx of South Asian immigrants as a threat.

“The European Union is being demographically replaced by the children of immigrants,” he said in Parliament in 2022, evoking the “great replacement” conspiracy theory. “Nobody wants that in 20 years Europe will be mostly made up by individuals from other continents.”

For some, Chega’s rise has brought back old fears, especially for members of the Roma community, one of Mr. Ventura’s early targets.

For some older Portuguese, too, the specter of the hard right’s revival has been unsettling.

As he cleaned his nets from small crabs and cuttlefish, Vitór Silvestre, 67, a fisherman on Culatra, said he still remembered being fearful to talk to the cobbler or even friends during the dictatorship years, never knowing who could be an informant.

“And now we are voting for the far right again?” he asked.

Tiago Carrasco contributed reporting from Faro, Portugal.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

COMMENTS

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