How to plan an unforgettable Algarve Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Portugal’s Algarve region and wondering how many days in the Algarve are enough?
The itinerary plan really depends on what you want to experience in the Algarve and how much time you have.
For an authentic Portuguese experience, we’d recommend 5-7 days. This gives you enough time to soak up the sun on golden beaches, hike scenic trails, and savor local cuisine.
You’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the Algarve’s beauty, and visit both popular spots and hidden gems at a relaxed pace.
If you’re lucky enough to plan a longer vacation, 10 days is a fantastic choice. With this time, you can visit charming towns like Tavira or Lagos, or try something adventurous like joining a surf school on the western coastline. That’s to say, there is plenty to keep you occupied and you won’t need to venture outside the Algarve to fill your itinerary.
However, for some reason, if you’ve limited time, then you can also explore this gem of a place in 3 days. You can visit highlights like the Benagil Cave, Ponta da Piedade, and the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
Did you know?
Spring in the Algarve (March to May)
During this time, the weather begins to warm up, and temperatures sit comfortably between 15-23°C (59-73°F), which makes it ideal for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat.
For hikers, spring months like March are perfect for exploring the Algarve’s trails, especially those that weave through coastal landscapes and blooming countryside. Trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and other Algarve hikes come alive with wildflowers. Plus they offer both easy and more challenging routes with awe-inspiring ocean views.
You’ll find fewer tourists than in peak summer, so you can enjoy the beauty of Algarve’s natural landscapes at a slow pace.
Spring is also a great time to explore Algarve’s quaint towns and local markets, where you can try seasonal produce and freshly caught seafood. And if you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll love the vibrant species that pass through this time of year.
First things first… Where to stay in the Algarve?
Carvoeiro. It’s right in the center of the Algarve, so we highly recommend basing your stay here. You’ll have Carvoeiro Beach and the charming Carvoeiro Square just steps away. Plus, Carvoeiro is also the best place to make day trips to nearby areas. Checkout: Where to stay in the Algarve?
5-Day Algarve Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Carvoeiro
Start your day with breakfast at Fabrica Velha. Then walk along the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, a stunning clifftop path offering breathtaking views of the coastline. Visit Algar Seco, where you can explore dramatic limestone formations and caves like “A Boneca.”
In the afternoon, relax on Praia do Carvoeiro, a beautiful beach nestled between cliffs. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or stroll along the sandy shore.
Dine at Touriga in Carvoeiro and enjoy fresh catches of the day. Also read: best restaurants in the Algarve.
Day 3: Head over to West Coast
Start your day early with a visit to Praia da Arrifana, a stunning beach known for its excellent surfing conditions. Spend the morning catching waves or simply enjoying the scenic cliffs.
In the afternoon, head to Aljezur to stroll through the cobbled streets, and, if you’re visiting in November-December, you can also catch the Sweet Potato Festival. Also read: West Coast Algarve.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up, then head out for a relaxing dinner in Carvoeiro.
Day 4: Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail & dinner in Porches
Begin your Seven Hanging Valleys Trail hike at Vale de Centeanes in Carvoeiro. Enjoy the stunning views of the cliffs and finish at Praia da Marinha.
After the hike, head over to Benagil Beach Club which is just a quick drive away from Praia da Marinha. Here you can unwind, sip on something refreshing, and relax by the beach.
Explore Porches, a town famous for its traditional pottery in the late afternoon. Visit a ceramic workshop and take home a unique Algarve souvenir.
For dinner, head to A Rolha in Porches, where you can enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine paired with local Portuguese wine before heading back to Carvoeiro.
Day 5: Visit Lagos and maybe combine with Burgau
After breakfast or brunch, drive to Lagos and explore the historic old town with its cobblestone streets and cultural landmarks.
Later, visit Ponta da Piedade, famous for its dramatic cliffs and sea caves. Consider taking a boat tour to fully appreciate the natural beauty. If you have any time remaining, take a trip to Burgau and explore this charming little town.
7-Day Algarve Itinerary
Days 1–5: Follow the 5-day itinerary above.
Day 6: Relax on a beach and have dinner in Ferragudo
Head to a nice beach in the morning, like Praia do Vale Centeanes or Praia do Carvalho, where you can relax with a book and take a refreshing dip in the sea. Also read: best beaches in the Algarve.
For dinner, head to Rei das Praias in Ferragudo. It’s close by and perfect for a peaceful evening meal with ocean views.
Day 7: Faro and Ria Formosa Natural Park
Visit Faro, the Algarve’s capital. Explore its charming old town, including the Arco da Vila and Faro Cathedral.
Later take a guided boat tour through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected area with diverse wildlife and beautiful lagoons.
Dine in at Villa Medici in Carvoeiro.
10-Day Algarve Itinerary
Days 1–5: Follow the 5-day itinerary above.
Day 8: Wine Tasting Day
Set out for a day of wine tasting in the Algarve countryside. Visit local wineries, such as Quinta dos Vales or Quinta dos Santos, to learn about regional wine production and sample some of the best Algarve wines.
Continue your wine-tasting adventure in the afternoon with a vineyard tour and enjoy a leisurely lunch paired with excellent local wines.
Return to Carvoeiro for a relaxed evening
Day 9: Sagres and Cape St. Vincent
Visit Sagres in the morning, a town famous for its surf culture and historic Sagres Fortress.
Continue exploring Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of Europe. Take in the dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views.
Enjoy a delicious dinner in Carvoeiro. Checkout: best restaurants in Carvoeiro.
Day 10: Explore Hidden Beaches and Relax
Spend the morning discovering hidden beaches near Carvoeiro, such as Praia do Carvalho known for their secluded beauty.
Take some time in the afternoon to relax and unwind on your favorite beach from the trip or enjoy a spa session or souvenir shopping in Carvoeiro.
End your final day in the Algarve by having dinner at Oregano in Sesmarias or another restaurant in Carvoeiro.
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