Algarve Road Trip: The Complete Travel Guide & Our Tips

Stunning rock formations, golden beaches, and turquoise waters – the Algarve offers numerous reasons to be one of Europe’s top travel spots. Nestled at the southern tip of Portugal, this region is a true treasure and a must-visit destination at least once in your lifetime.

Planning a road trip through the Algarve and in need of some useful vacation advice? This travel guide is loaded with all the details and plenty of handy travel tips, ensuring you can plan and prepare for your Algarve adventure seamlessly.

1. Algarve Road Trip: First Tips at a Glance

What to Expect in the Algarve

• Rugged Coastline The rock formations in the Algarve are simply stunning. It’s amazing to see what the power of water has sculpted here. You can witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets along the Algarve coast.
• Stunning Beaches Building on the previous point: the beaches in the Algarve are incredibly beautiful. You’ll often discover small coves with clear turquoise waters, tucked away beneath dramatic cliffs.
• Touristy Destination Now for the small (but completely understandable) downside: the Algarve is quite touristy. Given its natural beauty, this is no shock! That’s why we prefer to visit outside the peak season, but more on that shortly.

The Best Time for an Algarve Road Trip

Our Tip: Off-Season

We suggest visiting the Algarve in the off-season. We went in February and highly recommend this time of year.

Sure, it’s not the best season for a beach-only holiday, as it’s winter. However, daytime temperatures often hover between 18 to 20 degrees Celsius with plenty of sunshine—ideal for a break from the gloomy weather back home. You might encounter some rainy days, so a bit of luck with the weather helps.

In the winter, you’ll enjoy the huge plus of having empty beaches and lower prices. Yet, the Algarve still felt lively, more so than we expected.

Mid-Season and Peak Season

Of course, you can travel to the Algarve at any other time of the year. If possible, we would personally avoid the peak season (the time between mid/end of June and early/mid-September). Then the beaches can get extremely crowded, which just isn’t as enjoyable.

Spring or autumn are pleasant seasons for an Algarve road trip. The climate is mild and the Algarve is usually not as crowded as in the summer (but still very well visited!).

How Long to Stay in the Algarve?

Some visit for a few days, others for weeks or even months. The Algarve is incredibly diverse, filled with numerous stunning spots and beaches. As a general guide, it takes about two hours to drive from the west to the east of the Algarve.

To help you plan based on your available time, here are our suggestions. Ideally, you should stay:

• 3 to 4 nights if you’re doing a road trip through Portugal and want to make a stop in the Algarve. In 3 nights, you can see quite a bit. We suggest staying near Lagos as a convenient base.
• 1 week if you want a comprehensive look at the Algarve, not just near Lagos but also the less touristy, equally picturesque Eastern Algarve. Consider splitting your time between a few days in the west and a few in the east.
• 2 weeks or more if you’re looking to really unwind on the beaches. We recommend booking at least two different accommodations in various regions to get the most out of your stay.

2. Algarve Travel Guide: The Most Beautiful Beaches

The Algarve is the ultimate beach paradise! We’ve probably never seen so many spectacular coves in such a short time as during our Algarve road trip. In this section of our travel guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Algarve.

Important Tip: In recent years, seaweed has become more prevalent at certain times of the year in the Algarve, which can restrict swimming or beach visits. During our visit, this was absolutely no problem, but it’s best to check locally or before your road trip for the current situation.

Praia dos Três Irmãos

This stunning long, fairly wide sandy beach is located near the holiday resort of Portimão. The beach is known for its impressive rock formations, which you can explore especially well at low tide, as the water recedes enough for you to access the smaller rock coves and caves easily.

From the free parking lot, you reach the beach via a wooden walkway. In the summer, it can get very crowded (and finding a parking spot can become a challenge), but in the off-season, this beach is an absolute dream.

Praia da Falésia

One of the most striking and unusual beaches in the Algarve is Praia da Falésia. With its ochre and red rock formations, this beach is an absolute eye-catcher. Combined with soft sand and azure blue water, a dreamy natural setting awaits you here.

The beach is particularly suitable for families with children for swimming. The water is relatively shallow, and the sand is pleasantly fine. The view from above is also very impressive. However, be careful: there are no railings along the cliffs, so please don’t go too far forward and be especially careful with children.

Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is one of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Algarve, surrounded by steep cliffs. Since the beach is also located in one of the most touristy areas of the Algarve, it is especially popular in the summer. You can access the beach via a relatively steep staircase.

Our tip: Near Praia da Marinha, you’ll find the start of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, one of the most scenic hikes in the Algarve. More information and tips on this highly recommended excursion can be found further down in this travel guide.

Praia do Camilo

This picture-perfect beach in Lagos is only a quick drive from the city center. A charming wooden staircase descends to the beach, which might be a bit smaller than anticipated, but it’s absolutely stunning.

During the summer, this little cove draws big crowds, making it tough to find a quiet moment. If you’re looking to enjoy some tranquility, here’s a tip: visit at sunrise. Praia do Camilo faces east, offering a beautiful view of the early morning light.

Praia Dona Ana

Also close to the old town of Lagos, you’ll discover the stunning Praia Dona Ana. Typical of the Algarve, this beach features spectacular rock formations.

Praia Dona Ana is renowned not just in Lagos but throughout the Algarve as one of the most beloved beaches. In summer, it’s a hotspot for swimmers. To dodge the crowds, it’s best to visit during the off-season or, as we did, at sunrise.

Praia de Monte Clérigo

Situated on the wild west coast, this beach is a highlight where the Algarve reveals its more untouched, pristine side. It’s a must-visit on your road trip through the region.

The area is home to several breathtaking beaches, with Praia de Monte Clérigo standing out. You can drive directly up to the beach. With its dune landscape and the quaint town nestled on the cliffs, this beach truly is a natural hidden gem of the Algarve.

3. Adventure Spots in the Algarve

The stunning beaches are, of course, not the only highlights you’ll encounter on a road trip in the Algarve. In this section of our travel guide, you’ll find our tips for recommended adventure spots – whether it’s an impressive hike or scenic locations perfect for photography.

Hiking Trail: The Seven Hanging Valleys

One of the absolute highlights of our road trip! The Seven Hanging Valleys trail (“Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos”) is one of the most famous coastal hiking trails in the Algarve – and rightly so.

The trail stretches for nearly 6 kilometers from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes. It runs right along the cliffs and offers a panorama that constantly amazed us. If you want to experience the typical rock formations of the Algarve in all their glory, this is the place to be.

We only walked part of the trail, starting at Praia da Marinha (since we were traveling with a baby), and this section is said to be the more beautiful part. If you plan to walk the entire route, you should wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water and enough time. The hike takes about two hours one-way. From the endpoint, you could call an Uber to return to the starting point or hike back.

Carvoeiro Boardwalk & Algar Seco

Just a short distance away from the vacation town of Carvoeiro, you’ll come across the picturesque Carvoeiro Boardwalk. This is a 570-meter-long wooden walkway that hugs the coastline, offering a peaceful stroll amidst captivating natural scenery.

At one point along the boardwalk, you can descend steep stairs to the water. If you’re up for a bit of an adventure and physically able, this detour is well worth it.

On the eastern end of the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, you’ll find the spectacular rock formation known as Algar Seco. A lengthy staircase weaves its way past the striking rocks and caves down to the water. This location is essential for anyone looking to experience dramatic views and witness the impressive force of natural erosion up close.

Cabo de São Vicente & Sagres Fortress

When driving along the Algarve, you absolutely cannot miss the southwesternmost point of Europe at Cabo de São Vicente. Featuring a lighthouse, this location offers stunning photo opportunities.

As you drive toward the lighthouse along the cape, it feels like you’re approaching the edge of the world. The landscape is rugged, isolated, and notably windy. Once you reach the lighthouse, you can explore the cliff paths on either side. Just be cautious: there are no safety barriers!

Another must-see is the Sagres Fortress (Fortaleza de Sagres), located just outside the town of Sagres. This historic fort allows you to wander through its ancient remnants and take in extensive views of the Atlantic Ocean, perfectly complementing the dramatic backdrop of Cabo de São Vicente.

Ponta da Piedade

The rugged headland near Lagos is a standout among the Algarve’s breathtaking landscapes and a must-see on any road trip through the region.

Here, the forces of nature have sculpted immense rock formations that rise dramatically from the sea, offering fantastic photo opportunities. You can get to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos either on foot or more comfortably by car. From the spacious parking area, it’s just about a 5-minute walk to the cliffs.

Our tip: Try visiting at sunset. It’s less crowded than during the day, and the setting sun bathes everything in a glorious light, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Ponta da Atalaia

Located west of Aljezur, this striking spot features a wild, unspoiled coastline with cliffs and offshore rocks emerging from the water—a sight that’s nothing short of spectacular.

You can trek along the cliff tops or simply take in the views of the crashing waves, perhaps from Ribat da Atalaia, the ruins of a Moorish coastal fortress. This location offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and historical fascination, making it essential for anyone wanting to explore the wilder more rugged parts of the Algarve.

4. Algarve Road Trip: The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns

While the breathtaking coastal landscapes often steal the spotlight in the Algarve, there are also many captivating towns and villages that are well worth a visit. In this section of our travel guide, we’ll highlight some of the most photogenic ones.

Tavira

Starting with the easternmost city on our list, Tavira is often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve—and for good reason. Here, you’ll discover a delightfully low-key, comparatively authentic atmosphere, complete with white-washed houses and narrow alleys.

Our Tips for Tavira

• Cross the old bridge (Ponte Velha), one of the city’s main attractions.
• Visit the market hall (Mercado da Ribeira) and enjoy a freshly squeezed fruit juice from the juice bar “A Laranja do João”.
• Explore the botanical garden set around the ruins of Castelo de Tavira, and enjoy the lovely view of Tavira from the tower.
• If you have more time: Explore the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Ferragudo

From afar, Ferragudo is an absolutely picture-perfect town in the Algarve. White houses cluster on a hill, with the turquoise blue waters shimmering under the sun in front of them.

Sadly, the ambiance in the old town didn’t quite live up to our expectations. Maybe our hopes were too high, given Ferragudo’s reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in the Algarve. We weren’t expecting the relatively touristy vibe. Still, Ferragudo is certainly worth checking out.

Our Recommendations for Ferragudo

• Enjoy the view of Ferragudo from the viewpoint located opposite the town. (We were able to easily park our car along the road here during the off-season.)
• Climb the stairs up through the old town to the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição.
• Discover what is probably the most beautiful alley in the old town of Ferragudo, Rua Dr. Luiz Antonio Dos Santos.

Olhão

The once quaint fishing town of Olhão, situated in the eastern Algarve, may not be a top tourist destination. Perhaps that’s what made it so appealing to us.

Regrettably, we noticed that poverty and homelessness seem to be significant problems in the town. Olhão was the only place in the Algarve where we were approached for money. Nevertheless, if your road trip brings you to the eastern Algarve, Olhão is definitely worth a visit.

Our Highlights in Olhão

• Stroll along the waterfront promenade – ideally at sunset. The Olhão market hall will unfortunately be closed by then, but it is also an impressive building from the outside.
• Enjoy the view of Olhão from the rooftop bar of the Pure Formosa Concept Hotel.
• Stop by Café Figo de Pita for breakfast, brunch, or coffee and cake.

Lagos

Last but not least: Many consider Lagos to be the most beautiful city in the Algarve. We have to agree: We didn’t find any place quite as well-kept as Lagos. While it’s quite popular with tourists, it still retains a charming, cozy atmosphere.

We’re convinced that Lagos is a must-visit on any Algarve road trip—particularly because it features enormous beaches right within the city limits. Many travelers also choose Lagos as their home base during their road trip vacation.

For more information on the most beautiful beaches, highlights, and attractions, check out our detailed travel guide: Lagos Tips (coming soon).

5. Eating and Drinking: Tips for Cafés and Restaurants in the Algarve

Are you looking for culinary tips for your Algarve road trip? In this section of our travel guide, you’ll find some of our favourite cafés and restaurants in the Algarve.

Austa: Our favourite restaurant of the trip. Located in a huge garden, this hip, very stylish restaurant offers dining with views of its own vegetable and herb beds. The cuisine is fusion with a creative touch, and the prices are a bit upscale. The ambiance in the garden is dreamy—holiday vibes kick in from the moment you arrive.

Black and White Coffee Shop: Coffee lover? Then you HAVE to visit this place! We had our best coffee here out of our entire trip. This trendy café serves breakfast/brunch and sweet delights like banana bread, brownies, and more. Highly recommend!

Orta by Casa Mãe: The restaurant of the well-known, trendy boutique hotel Casa Mãe in Lagos serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to external guests as well. If you’re looking for upscale cuisine in a boho ambiance, this is the spot for you.

Ato: A small but fantastic restaurant in Faro. It serves seasonal, regional Portuguese cuisine with an international twist. The menu changes monthly, and the quality is outstanding. Highly recommended!

Figo de Pita: This small, young café is perfect for a quick break while you’re in the fishing town of Olhão. They offer great breakfast, bowls, sweets, and of course, coffee—all at very fair prices.

Laundry Lounge: As the name suggests, this place combines a laundromat and a restaurant. In a very relaxed atmosphere (surf vibes included), you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner

6. Accommodation: Our Hotel Tips for the Algarve

General Tip: Where to Stay in the Algarve?

As mentioned earlier, it takes about two hours to drive across the Algarve from west to east. Naturally, this raises the question: Where is the best place to stay for a road trip in the Algarve?

First Tip: The area between Portimão and Albufeira is the most touristy part of the Algarve. We personally would avoid staying here, although we have to admit this region is also quite spectacular.

For exploring what is known as the Rock Algarve, we personally recommend Lagos or its surroundings as a starting point. Lagos is a really pretty town—touristy, but with a chill vibe.

The East Algarve, often called the Sand Algarve, is much quieter and less touristy. This area extends from Faro to the Spanish border. The beaches here may not be as dramatic, but they offer a more laid-back experience.

If your travel plans allow, we recommend dividing your time between the east and west during your Algarve road trip to fully experience the diverse beauty of the region.

Âmago Guesthouse

Are you searching for a slice of haven? Then you’ll definitely want to check out the serene Âmago Guesthouse. Nestled in the peaceful, tranquil backcountry of the eastern Algarve, it’s just a 15-minute drive from Faro.

This charming, personally managed boutique guesthouse features just six rooms, ensuring a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The welcoming British host couple, Liz and Alex, have meticulously crafted a sanctuary that feels like a home away from home the moment you step inside.

The rooms are designed with minimalism and brightness in mind. A key highlight for us is the comfortable beds. We stayed in room number 4, which was equipped with a small kitchen – absolutely perfect.

The garden is a true paradise: beautifully kept with an abundance of flowers and plants—it’s an oasis of tranquility. The inviting pool adds the perfect finishing touch. Breakfast is served in the communal room and it’s exactly how we like it: small yet lavish, featuring the world’s best croissants!

The only drawback is that children are not allowed, except for babies up to one year old, which is a bit of a letdown. It’s also worth noting that the location is somewhat removed from the Algarve’s most famous attractions, but it’s ideal for exploring the east.

Our Verdict: We would return in a heartbeat. Highly recommended.

Casa Margô

For our second accommodation, we opted for a more urban setting, specifically in the charming town of Lagos. We chose the boutique aparthotel, Casa Margô.

Here, you’ll find yourself in a historic building that’s been beautifully renovated, right in the heart of Lagos’ old town. The apartments are tastefully decorated with a minimalist style—featuring bright colors and plenty of wood—and are fully equipped with all the essentials. Each apartment also includes a kitchen, making it ideal for those traveling with babies or children, like us.

From your doorstep, you can easily explore all of Lagos on foot. Additionally, Lagos serves as an excellent base for exploring the western Algarve. Keep in mind, due to its central location in the old town, the closest parking lot to Casa Margô is about a 5-minute walk away.

7. Algarve Travel Guide: Getting there & Transport [Car Rental Information & Tips]

Getting to the Algarve

The main and largest airport in the Algarve is located in Faro. There are direct flights from many German-speaking cities including Vienna, Hamburg, Berlin, and Zurich.

Another option is to arrive via Lisbon Airport. From there, it’s about a 3-hour drive to reach the Algarve. If you’re planning a larger tour around Portugal (like we did), then this airport might be a better option for you. Otherwise, Faro is the better choice.

Booking a Rental Car for the Algarve

We recommend booking a rental car for your road trip. This gives you the flexibility to visit all the places in the Algarve at your own pace.

Our tip: Make sure to book a rental car with sufficient insurance coverage, i.e., with comprehensive collision damage waiver (either without deductible or with deductible refund). More information and our recommendations can be found in this travel guide: Car Rental Tips (coming soon).

Driving in the Algarve is easy (for experienced drivers): The roads are mostly paved and generally in very good condition. There are some gravel roads, but these usually lead to more secluded beaches. Only in the center of some towns (e.g., Lagos), the streets can become very narrow.

We were driving a Ford Focus Estate – this class of car was perfect for us. The car was big enough to store all our luggage out of sight, but not too large, so we could navigate narrower streets when needed.

8. Map for Your Algarge Road Trip: All Places in the Algarve at a Glance

To give you a better overview of the location of the most beautiful places and beaches in the Algarve, we have marked our highlights on this map. Our hotel tips are also pinned here. We wish you a wonderful road trip!

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide includes our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we receive a small commission. This doesn’t change the price for you at all. A massive thank you from us both!

Have you ever taken a road trip in the Algarve? What places and beaches would you recommend? Where did you particularly enjoy? We’d love to hear your tips and experiences below this travel guide!