From Vila Real de Santo António to Sagres, Portugal’s southern coast dazzles travellers, and it’s no wonder! Its white villages are sublime. Its beaches are dreamy. And its history unfolds through castles, markets and vineyards. The Algarve’s turbulent past includes a six-century Muslim presence that has deeply influenced the region—starting with its name, which means “the West”. Whitewashed houses, lace-like decorative patterns, chimneys and terraces are remnants of this era and add to the region’s charm.
In the early 15th century, the Age of Discovery, which marked Portugal’s maritime expansion, brought great prosperity. Today, the gems of cities such as Lagos and Sagres are still linked to the memory of Prince Henry the Navigator and his daring caravels!
What’s more, the Algarve is one of the Iberian Peninsula’s top winter destinations, offering a tempting escape from the cold all year round. With the added bonus of having much fewer crowds than in the high season. Plus, there are also beautiful beaches close by where you can surf!
Faro
The Algarve region is full of delights, especially around Faro. Start by getting lost in the old town’s narrow streets, understanding that life just goes at a slower pace here, where the scent of orange blossoms is ever-present. Afterward, find a blissful escape by relaxing on the appropriately named Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island), accessible by ferry from Faro.
Just a short trip from Faro, the vibrant fishing port of Olhão awaits. The old town is famous for its incredible Saturday morning markets, where you can buy the freshest fish, seafood, and produce. From Olhão, explore the stunning Parque Natural da Ria Formosa—a boat tour is the best way to see its unique water birds and island ecosystems. Then, find a bar near the mercados and treat yourself to a local delicacy. Try xarém, a thick and scrumptious soup made with clams, cilantro, garlic, and bacon, perfectly washed down with a glass of vinho verde.
For a different kind of experience, head inland to Loulé, a historic commercial center. You can take a tour of the local craft workshops and meet the artisans—it’s a wonderful way to connect with the local people. Alternatively, venture toward Tavira and discover a truly unique landscape at Praia do Barril. Here, you’ll find sprawling salt marshes and the hauntingly beautiful anchor cemetery, offering a glimpse into the region’s fishing history.
Carvoeiro
This is the Algarve of stunning rock formations and secret caves. Grab a kayak and paddle to the magnificent Benagil Cave, a true masterpiece of nature. This area is also home to Praia da Marinha, a golden-sand beach that was named one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s also the starting or finishing point of the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This 6-kilometer path follows the clifftops and offers breathtaking views of karst pillars, sinkholes, and even dolphins. All around a great place to visit—especially if the weather is on your side!
Not far from the coast, the well-preserved Moorish-style Silves Castle offers panoramic views from its ancient walls. For an authentic experience, visit the traditional fishing villages of Ferragudo and Alvor, each charming in its own right. In between these two lies Portimão, a bustling coastal hub with a lively marina and a long stretch of beach.
Elevate your trip with an unforgettable gourmet experience. Savor fresh Ria de Alvor oysters and Portuguese sparkling wine at sunset at Morgado do Quintão, a beautiful rustic estate dating back to 1810. You can even stay overnight!
For a different kind of day trip, head to the Portimão marina and book a solar-powered boat tour. Cruise up the River Arade to Silves, stopping at the Arvad winery for a tour of their cellars and a tasting of their excellent Negra Mole, accompanied by local petiscos. The best way, well, the only way to finish exploring this area!
Lagos
Step into the lively old town of Lagos in Western Algarve, where mosaic-tiled streets (the traditional calçadas) are lined with inviting bars and restaurants. Settle in to savor a delicious cataplana, a Moorish-influenced stew that comes in countless variations. This scrumptious dish is typically made with layers of vegetables, fish, and fresh seafood, a true culinary highlight of the region.
Back in the city’s central square, you’ll find a statue of Prince Henry, a reminder that his revolutionary ships were built in the city’s shipyards. Across from this statue, the Rota da Escravatura Museum, formerly the first slave market in Europe, provides a sobering look at the grim trade that began here in 1444.
After exploring the city’s complex history, head to the coast for some of Portugal’s most breathtaking views. Follow the cliff-top trail from the city to the beautiful beaches of Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. Both are famous for their golden sands and dramatic rock formations, offering stunning scenery that will take your breath away.
Finally, follow Prince Henry’s path to Sagres, the site of his famous nautical school, and then to Cape Saint-Vincent. As the brave navigators set off to conquer new oceanic routes, they took one last look at the imposing São Vicente headland, wondering if they would ever see it again. But for us, this place feels like the end of the world, offering a powerful and unforgettable conclusion to our Algarve itinerary.
How many days are needed to travel and drive around the Algarve, in Portugal?
For a full week in the Algarve, a well-planned road trip itinerary leaves you with enough time to discover several destinations at once, from the coast to the backcountry. And indeed, renting a car is the best way to fully explore the region, as opposed to public transport, which doesn’t grant access to most of the hanging valleys, secluded beaches, and secret inland spots.
The time you dedicate to each stop depends on your personal interests and how you feel about each of these great places. For instance, if you prefer architecture, you’ll want to spend more time in Faro and Sagres. However, if you’re more into beaches and getting in the water, Lagos will hold your attention for several days.
What is the prettiest part to see in the Algarve: our typical 7-day road trip itinerary
- Day 1: Faro
- Day 2: Ria Formosa Natural Park and Olhão
- Day 3: Silves and Morgado do Quintão
- Day 4: Carvoeiro beaches and Benagil Cave
- Day 5: Lagos and its coastline, including Ponta Da Piedade
- Day 6: Sagres and Cape Saint-Vincent
- Day 7: Lagos and departure for Faro
Ready to make your Algarve itinerary even more unforgettable? Visitors to the Algarve can extend their road trip to 10 days is the perfect way to dive deeper into the region’s hidden gems, fantastic weather, and iconic landscapes.
- Ponta da Piedade: Dedicate a full extra day to the beautiful beaches of Lagos or to Ponta da Piedade’s sea caves and grottos. Take a boat tour or paddle through the turquoise waters by kayak for an up-close look at the magnificent rock formations and secret beaches.
- The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: For hikers, this trail is a must. The coastal path offers breathtaking views as it winds along stunning cliffs, connecting Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes. It’s the perfect place for breathtaking scenery.
- Tavira: Head to this eastern Algarve small village. Tavira captivates with its peaceful atmosphere, famous Roman bridge, and historic Moorish castle. It’s an absolute must-visit for its unique character.
- Costa Vicentina: Escape to this protected natural park on the Atlantic Ocean coast. Known for its wild, windswept beaches, dramatic cliffs, and powerful waves, this area is a top destination for surfing and hiking in unspoiled nature. Its wild, protected landscape is a great place for a long, peaceful walk and offers a sense of solitude that’s harder to find elsewhere.
