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Wondering how to spend a few days in Portugal’s stunning Algarve? This guide covers the best of the best!
Algarve, Portugal has been called “The California of Europe” and as a long time California resident, I have to say, I can definitely see why. The gorgeous beaches, seaside cliffs, and laid-back surf culture all give this part of Portugal a familiar feel.
I’ve been to the Algarve twice now and it’s an area I know I will return to again and again. The beaches are consistently ranked some of the best in the world, the towns are charming and historic, and the food and wine scene is top notch.
With so many different towns and beaches to choose between exploring though, it can feel overwhelming trying to narrow down what to see and do in Algarve. In this post, I’m sharing my tried and true Algarve, Portugal itinerary that I think is perfect for first time visitors who want to experience all the best parts of the region.
Short on time? Here’s my Algarve Portugal itinerary at a glance:
Day 1 : Explore Lagos and Surrounding Beaches and Viewpoints
- Explore the town of Lagos
- Relax at Praia Camilo or Praia Dona Ana
- Walk to the top of the Ponta da Piedade trail for sunset or hop on a boat tour
- Have dinner and drinks in Lagos
Day 2: Adventure Day by the Water
- Embark on a morning boat tour of Benagil Cave
- Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and stop to relax at local beaches along the way
- End your day at Praia do Vale de Centeanes and have a sunset dinner at O Stop
Day 3: Explore Local Towns and Go For a Wine Safari
- Stroll around the town of Carvoeiro and walk the Carvoeiro Boardwalk
- Explore Albufeira’s Old Town and go for lunch at Café Mané
- Go on an Off-Road Safari & Vineyard Wine Tasting tour
- Grab dinner in Albufeira
Day 4: Head to the West Algarve or Explore Faro and Tavira
Want to Stay Connected on Your Trip? Don’t forget to purchase an eSIM ahead of your trip to stay connected abroad. I love using Holafly, which helps me navigate, research restaurants and cafes, and stay in touch with friends while I’m on the go. You can grab a discount on an Holafly eSIM here.
More Portugal Guides to Help you Plan Your Trip
Best Beaches in Algarve Portugal
Lisbon Portugal Travel Guide
Guide to Ericeira, Portugal
Best Beaches in the West Algarve Coast
How to Visit the Benagil Caves in Algarve
Coolest Coffee Shops in Lisbon
Your Ultimate 4-Day Algarve, Portugal Itinerary
About three hours south of Lisbon by car, the Algarve region is a must-visit on any Portugal itinerary, and it’s the place to go to if you’re craving epic beach days, seaside meals, and a healthy mix of historic towns and beautiful countryside.
I have been to visit the Algarve twice now and know my way around enough to be able to put together what I’d say is a solid Algarve Portugal Itinerary—especially if you’re a first time visitor.
In this post I’ll cover the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, which towns to base yourself in, and tips to help you plan the perfect trip to this stunning section of European coastline.
Where Is Algarve, Portugal?
The Algarve is the southernmost part of Portugal that stretches along the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re coming from overseas, you can fly into Lisbon (the capital of Portugal) and drive down or take a train which will take you about 3 hours or so.
If you want to skip Lisbon altogether, Faro Airport (FAO) is the only airport in the Algarve and they offer flights in and out of many European cities, so it’s worth checking this out as an option if you just want to head straight there.
Is the Algarve in Portugal Worth Visiting?
If you like gorgeous beaches, dramatic cliffs that line the coast, whitewashed fishing villages, quaint beach towns, and seaside dining, I think it’s safe to say that you’ll enjoy the Algarve. Oh, and did I mention that there’s a growing wine scene here too?
This part of Portugal is super laidback and surf-inspired, so it’s the perfect place for a European summer that’s totally relaxed and unpretentious.
If these things pique your interest, then yes, the Algarve in Portugal is absolutely worth visiting.
How Many Days in Algarve, Portugal Is Enough?
This Algarve, Portugal itinerary is for four days, which I think is definitely enough time to get a good sense of the area.
I will say though, if you can swing five to seven days in the Algarve, you can explore at a slower and more relaxing pace—and let’s be honest, you won’t regret having a few extra days to spend checking out some of Portugal’s best beaches.
If you have even longer, the Algarve is a great place to park it for an extended period of time to rest and recharge and soak up all that a European summer has to offer.
When is the Best Time to Visit Algarve
Summer is absolutely the best time to visit the Algarve so you can take full advantage of the epic coastline here. Sure, it’s pretty any time of year, but what really sells this region is its stunning natural beauty along the coast that’s ripe for sun-soaked beach days.
While I don’t typically recommend peak season for destinations, Algarve is one of those places where the height of summer in July and August really is the best for weather and beach days. There are also SO many beaches to choose from that I think you can get away from the crowds if you’re intentional about it.
With that said, traveling in June or September will still provide nice weather with slightly fewer crowds.
How to Get Around Algarve
So, you don’t necessarily need a car to get around the Algarve, but having one will definitely make your life easier. There are a bunch of different areas and towns to explore so a lot of things you’ll likely want to do will be a bit spread out. Having a rental car will give you ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.
If Lisbon is part of your itinerary, then you’ll also likely want a car to easily drive between the two areas which are about three hours away.
I always use Discover Cars when I’m looking for car rentals in Europe and abroad and make sure I get full coverage for peace of mind.
If you don’t want to rent a car in the Algarve, there is a public transportation system that can shuttle you to the beaches, or you can taxi or Uber your way around.
Where to Stay in the Algarve
The Algarve is just about 100 miles from end to end and is dotted with a number of towns (both big and small) that each have their own unique local flavor. Below I’ll break down a few of the most popular towns and give my take on the vibe of each so you can get a sense of the different areas and decide where you’d like to base yourself.
For a four day trip, I’d recommend picking one spot and just driving between areas to keep things simple. If you plan to stay for longer, you could certainly break up your trip into a couple different accommodations to get a feel for multiple areas.
Lagos
A really good central base for exploring multiple areas in the Algarve, Lagos has a historic Old Town with cobblestone streets and ancient city walls. There’s a buzzing nightlife here and it’s close to some of the area’s top beaches and viewpoints. It’s no sleepy beach town though, so staying in Lagos wouldn’t be your best bet if you’re searching for quiet seaside vibes.
Hotel Recommendations for Lagos:
Albufeira
Albufeira is a popular town to stay in because it’s right in the middle of the Algarve and has a ton of hotel, restaurant, and nightlife options. The Old Town is super charming and it’s a convenient location to access a number of the most beautiful beaches in the area, but if I’m being honest, the party vibes were a bit much for me here and it didn’t end up being my favorite place we stayed. If you’re looking for the best nightlife though, this is your spot.
Hotel Recommendations for Albufeira:
Tavira
Not too far from the Spanish border, Tavira is one of the most charming and unique towns in Portugal’s Algarve. It’s a little bit slower paced than some of the other cities along the Algarve coast, but there’s beautiful Moorish architecture, a scenic waterfront, beaches (you can often see flamingos here!), and it’s also known for octopus fishing, so be sure to try some.
Hotel Recommendations for Tavira:
Carvoeiro
After staying in a few different spots, Carvoeiro is where I’ll base myself next time I’m in the Algarve. The vibes are more quaint and quiet than some of the other areas along the coast but there are still plenty of options for things like restaurants and cafes. In my opinion, some of the prettiest beaches in the region are here too, and you can easily catch a Benagil Cave boat tour nearby which is a must-do on your trip.
Hotel Recommendations for Carvoeiro
Faro
Faro is the biggest city on the Algarve and where the region’s only airport is, so a lot of people only end up passing through. It’s certainly worth spending time here though because in addition to jaw-dropping beaches, there’s also a lot of historical landmarks, interesting architecture, beautiful old churches, and no shortage of great places to grab food and drink. If you’re into convenience and more city vibes, Faro could be perfect for you.
What to Do in Algarve, Portugal
Now that you’ve figured out where to stay, the next thing to do is decide what to do while you’re there. I have put together a four day Algarve, Portugal itinerary that will outline some of the top beaches and attractions and give my personal recs for drinking, dining, must-do activities, and more.
Day 1 : Explore Lagos and Surrounding Beaches and Viewpoints
This Algarve Portugal Itinerary starts in the town of Lagos, which as I mentioned before, is a really good central point for exploring the area. It’s one of the more famous towns in Algarve—probably because it’s home to some of the most iconic beaches and viewpoints along the coast.
You can wander around the cobblestone streets in Old Town, taking in the architecture and history and popping in and out of all the cute shops.
Morning: Coffee and Exploring in Town
Strolling around Lagos’ Old Town is a must, and you’ll quickly understand why most visitors to the Algarve stop through here. It’s full of charm with tons of walk streets lined with outdoor cafes and shops.
Exploring here in the morning is best to avoid the crowds and easily find parking, so start your day by grabbing a coffee at one of these cute spots: Black and White Coffee Shop, The Studio: Coffee Roaster & Cafe, or my personal favorite, Coffee & Waves.
Other points of interest to check out around town include the Santa Maria Church, Arco/Porta de São Gonçalo which is the historic entrance to the city, and the Ponta da Bandeira Fort.
Afternoon: Visit Lagos’ Beautiful Beaches and Viewpoints
After exploring town for a bit, head down to the water and relax at one of Lagos’ most beautiful beaches, like Praia Dona Ana or Praia do Camilo, which is a tiny beach and swimming cove that is accessed by taking a long staircase down to the water (chances are you’ve seen pics of this). It gets packed so be sure to get there on the earlier side to ensure you get a spot.
A little before sunset, start making your way to the Ponta da Piedade Trail, where you’ll end up at the southernmost tip of Lagos that features stunning sunset views. Don’t miss taking the stairs first down to Ponta da Piedade and hopping a quick boat tour here to explore the area’s grottoes and sea arches.
To get to the Ponta da Piedade Trail: It’s about half an hour walk from town if you’re up for it or you could easily taxi or Uber over. However if you’re coming straight from Praia do Camilo you’ll already be along the trail and from there it’s about 15 minutes to walk to Ponta da Piedade.
The trail is 1.5 miles and will give you breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the unique rock formations and limestone cliffs that the area is famous for.
Alternative Option: If you aren’t interested in lazing around at the beach, you can swap the beach portion of the day and go on a food tour around Lagos instead. I’ve found food tours to be a really great way to sample the local fare while also getting to know the city and other travelers.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks in Town
After the sun goes down, head back into town for dinner and drinks. Check out ORTA Restaurant located in the Casa Mãe Hotel, Garden Restaurant for casual and cozy vibes, or if you want a Michelin-Star experience, make a reservation at Avenida Restaurante right across from the Lagos Marina.
Day 2: Adventure Day by the Water
While day one was all about easing into your Portugal itinerary with some time to relax and explore, day two is the most active day with a Benagil Caves tour and a hike along the stunning Hanging Valleys Trail to witness some of the best viewpoints along the Algarve Coast.
Morning: Benagil Caves Tour
No Portugal itinerary is complete without a trip to Benagil Cave because everybody loves sea caves, right? This is one of the most unique things to do in Portugal, so don’t miss this one!
While you can peer into this natural wonder from above along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (as seen below), there’s nothing like experiencing it from inside the cave.
You’ll want to book the earliest morning tour if possible so you can avoid big crowds and have the rest of the day to explore.
There are many organized boat tours that operate out of the area, but this marine biologist-led boat tour is one of the most highly rated as it’s a Benagil Caves tour and dolphin cruise in one.
You can also do a kayak tour of Benagil Cave, which is what I ended up doing and can personally recommend the experience. Also, you can attempt to rent your own equipment and tour on your own, but the tides and currents are essential to plan around because the last thing you want to do is get stuck in the cave when high tide is coming in.
You can read my full Benagil Cave guide here for more info, but I highly recommend hiring a guided tour for safety reasons.
Afternoon: Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
After some time on the water, it’s time to hike the Seven Hanging Valley Trail. The hike is about 4 miles one way and winds all along the coast, passing some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches and coves. To head to the start of the trail, navigate to the parking area at Praia da Marinha and then jump on the trail from there.
If you have time and want to relax in the sun, you can stop off at any of the beaches along the way, like Praia da Marinha, Praia do Carvalho, or Benagil Beach. I recommend packing a small backpack with a light beach towel, flip flops, snacks and water so you’re beach ready as you make pit stops.
While you can hike the trail as an out-and-back route, I have you only hiking it one way for this itinerary as you’ll end at a dinner spot along the trail and then you can just Uber back to your vehicle at the starting point.
Evening: Beachfront Seafood Dinner for Sunset
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail ends at one of my favorite beaches in Algarve, Praia do Vale de Centeanes, so that’s where you’re going to have a magical seaside dinner.
O Stop, which is the restaurant directly on the beach here is a must for a dinner al fresco and they serve whole fried fish, Portuguese wine, and classic local dishes like Piri-piri chicken all with front row seats to a secluded beach. This spot is super romantic and feels like you have an entire cove to yourself. It was one of my favorite dinners of the entire trip.
Day 3: Explore Local Towns and Go For a Wine Safari
Day three is all about exploring more of Algarve’s adorable towns and then learning more about the local wine region.
Morning: Explore the Town of Carvoeiro and Stroll the Boardwalk
Start your morning off by taking a casual stroll around the town of Carvoeiro, which is still a resort town but feels much more quaint and low-key than some of the other towns on the coast.
Be sure to grab a coffee, see Carvoeiro Beach, and then walk the Carvoeiro Boardwalk which stretches all along the seaside cliffs and offers stunning views of the ocean and beaches below.
Afternoon: Lunch in Albufeira and Depart For a Wine Safari
For lunch, head about half an hour east to the town of Albufeira. The Old Town here is one of the most beautiful in Algarve, with white washed buildings, cobblestone streets and plenty of shops to explore.
We loved our lunch at the tiny hole in the wall, Café Mané which I highly recommend dining at before exploring town. Or if you’d rather relax than walk around, head over to Praia da Falésia, which has been named one of the best beaches in the world.
In the afternoon, pick up this 4×4 Off-Road Safari & Vineyard Wine Tasting tour which departs from Albufeira. You’ll off-road through the countryside and picturesque villages before stopping at a small, local winery to sample their Portuguese vino and enjoy some light snacks.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife in Albufeira
When you return back to Albufeira, you’ll find plentiful options for dinner—many of which are lively and even a bit rowdy in high season. We had a fun Italian dinner at Alfredo which was quite a scene and decorated to the nines.
If you want something a bit more upscale, have dinner at Michelin-rated Al Quimia and then explore the nightlife in Old Town—which is hopping. I didn’t know Albufeira was such a party town, but we unexpectedly stumbled on a full-on rave on the beach, true story.
Day 4: West Algarve Beaches or Explore Faro and Tavira
For your last day, I’m going to offer two options and you can choose depending on what you’re feeling like doing that day.
Option 1: Spend the Day Beach Hopping in West Algarve
If you’re a beach lover, a surfer, or just want to continue your tour of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, a trip out to the west coast of the Algarve is a must. The landscape and the beaches are more rugged here, and if you’re into more off-the-beaten-path/less touristed spots, you’ll love it.
For surfers, the West Algarve offers plenty of amazing waves along with surf schools for those that are just learning.
PS—If you’re seeking out the best surf in Portugal, then you need to check out Ericeira, Portugal as well!
I have a whole post dedicated to the best beaches in Western Algarve that you can check out for the deep dive, but here are a couple that I recommend:
Arrifana Beach is one of my personal favorite West Algarve beaches as it’s dramatically located at the bottom of a steep cliff and it’s close to a small village so you can enjoy the beach and have access to restaurants, cafes, etc. A meal at CAL Arrifana at the top of the cliff is a must and it was one of my favorite meals of our entire trip.
Praia do Amado is one of the more remote beaches to go to in the area, but it’s gorgeous and is known for its strong surf. There are sandy stretches with beach umbrellas, multiple surf schools, and beautiful walking trails here. Lastly Monté Clérigo is another picturesque beach in the area that can’t be missed—it literally looks like it’s out of a postcard.
Option 2: Head East to Explore Faro and Tavira
If you’ve had your fill of beach days and would rather explore more local towns, head east towards Spain to explore Faro and/or Tavira.
Faro is the capital of the Algarve and the biggest city in the area. The Old Town is super charming and full of beautiful architecture and historic sites, including—if you’re into things like this—the Chapel of Bones, which is adorned with over 1,250 real human skeletons, gah!
If you’re interested in history, Faro would be a great place to jump on a walking tour to learn more about the rich history of the area.
I’d definitely recommend stopping for a bite at Mercados de Olhão, which is the best fish market in the Algarve. It’s right on the water and there are a ton of food options at really reasonable prices. If you prefer to be guided, you can hop on this fish market and food tour for better local insight.
While in Faro, you can also spend some time at Ria Formosa Natural Park, which offers birdwatching, kayak tours and beaches.
If you have more time, you could travel on to the small city of Tavira. It’s one of the most photogenic towns in Algarve in my opinion, and different than the rest as it’s split by the River Gilão and a seven-arched Roman bridge in the town center, making for a romantic ambiance.
It’s a slower-paced town than Faro but still is full of Portuguese charm, along with a scenic riverfront, beautiful beaches (of course), and plenty of shops and restaurants.
You can get excellent views of the city from the top of the medieval Castelo de Tavira, but for something a little more unique, check out the Camera Obscura Tower. If you aren’t familiar with camera obscura, it’s basically a natural phenomenon that, in this case, projects views of Tavira from a tiny hole/lens into a dark room. Feels a little bit like magic honestly.
Grab dinner and an Aperol Spritz at Terraze, which is right on the river.
I hope this post helped you plan an epic Algarve itinerary during your time in Portugal. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below!
Pin it for Later
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