The Algarve Coast in Portugal is renowned for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, quaint fishing villages, and a sunny Mediterranean climate. This guide will take you through a perfect route along the Algarve, from east to west, highlighting the must-see stops along the way. You can travel by car, which is the best way to explore this region. Simply import this Discover trip with its waypoints and you can start planning your own trip with Lambus straight away. 

Day 1: Faro – Gateway to the Algarve

Start your journey in Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Known for its historic charm, Faro is home to beautiful old town streets, a rich maritime history, and excellent seafood restaurants.

Key Attractions:

• Faro Old Town: Explore its cobblestone streets, passing by the Arco da Vila, the neoclassical gateway to the Old Town.
• Ria Formosa Nature Park: Take a boat tour through this beautiful lagoon system, rich in birdlife, islands, and sandy beaches.
• Carmo Church: Known for its Baroque architecture and a bone chapel made entirely of human bones!

Day 2: Olhão and Tavira

Drive east from Faro to Olhão, a charming fishing town, and then head to Tavira, known as one of the prettiest towns in the Algarve.

Key Stops:

• Olhão Market: Visit the lively waterfront market and enjoy fresh seafood.
• Tavira: Wander around the Roman bridge, visit the Tavira Castle, and explore the beautiful churches. Don't miss the view from the top of the castle walls.
• Praia do Barril: Just outside Tavira, a picturesque beach with an "Anchor Graveyard" from the old tuna fishing industry.

Day 3: Vila Real de Santo António and Alcoutim

Continue your journey to Vila Real de Santo António, a town bordering Spain. Take time to visit Alcoutim, a hilltop town offering breathtaking views of the Guadiana River.

Key Stops:

• Vila Real de Santo António: Known for its grid-pattern streets and Pombaline architecture.
• Guadiana River: Take a riverboat tour or simply enjoy the view from Alcoutim's castle.

Day 4: Albufeira and Vilamoura

Travel back west toward the heart of the Algarve. Albufeira is one of the most popular tourist destinations, famous for its nightlife and golden beaches, while Vilamoura is a glamorous resort known for its marina and golf courses.

Key Stops:

• Albufeira Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets, full of whitewashed houses and lively cafés.
• Falesia Beach: A long stretch of golden sands backed by stunning cliffs.
• Vilamoura Marina: Enjoy luxury shopping, dining, or take a boat tour from this prestigious spot.

Day 5: Carvoeiro and Benagil Cave

Drive westward toward Carvoeiro, a charming seaside village, and don’t miss one of the Algarve’s most famous landmarks, the Benagil Cave.

Key Stops:

• Carvoeiro Boardwalk: A scenic wooden walkway along the cliffs, offering panoramic ocean views.
• Benagil Cave: Take a boat or kayak tour to see this natural wonder—a massive sea cave with a hole in the roof that lets in sunlight.

Day 6: Lagos and Ponta da Piedade

Lagos, located further west, is a town rich in history and offers some of the Algarve’s most spectacular coastal views.

Key Stops:

• Lagos Old Town: Walk through the medieval walls, visit the church of St. Anthony, and explore local shops.
• Ponta da Piedade: This dramatic headland is famous for its striking rock formations. Take a boat trip or hike the cliffs for unforgettable views.
• Praia do Camilo: A stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and golden cliffs, accessible via a wooden staircase.

Day 7: Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente

End your Algarve adventure at the wild, windswept Sagres and the Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe.

Key Stops:

• Sagres Fortress: Explore this historic fortress perched on a clifftop, which played a crucial role in Portugal's maritime history.
• Cabo de São Vicente: Stand at what feels like the "end of the world" and witness spectacular ocean views from this iconic lighthouse.

Best Time to Visit:

The Algarve enjoys a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to June or September to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. July and August are the busiest months, especially in the coastal towns.

What to Pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring coastal paths and towns.
• Swimwear for the many beach stops.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from the strong sun.
• A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially if you're visiting in the shoulder season.
• Don't forget your drivers licence if you plan to travel by car.

Getting Around:

While public transportation is available, the best way to explore the Algarve is by car. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit remote beaches, hidden coves, and explore at your own pace.

The Algarve Coast offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. From Faro’s charming old town to the rugged cliffs of Sagres, every stop along the route has something unique to offer. Lambus withes you a pleasant trip to Portugal!