The Algarve is a stunning coastal region in southern  Portugal,  with beach after beach and free falling cliffs. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for beach goers, surfers, families and avid golfers. Despite the crowds, its relatively easy to get off the beaten track in the Algarve if you know where to go.

 

Can you get around the Algarve without a car?

 

Yes you can, but you lose a lot of time flexibility and you may not be able to explore some of the smallest or hardest to reach cities in the Algarve.  Regional train that stops in most cities of the Algarve, or you can also  check train schedules on the CP website  . It is also possible to move by bus.

Choose to rent a car when you travel through southern  Portugal.

Alternatively you can take taxis in the Algarve - prices are not too outrageous and you can expect a transfer from Faro airport to Tavira (approximately 40 km) to cost 35-40 Euros.

 

The best places to visit in the Algarve, Portugal

 

Want to know how many days to spend in the Algarve? We spent a pleasant 4 days in the Algarve and were able to cover tons of land and soak up the sun on the best beaches in the Algarve before heading north to  Lisbon  and  Porto  .

If you are planning a trip to this part of Portugal, you will want to spend a minimum of 3 nights in the Algarve to make the most of the beautiful coastline. Here are some places you cant miss out on your Algarve itinerary!

 

1. Manta Rota and Cacela Velha beaches

These two beaches in the eastern part of the Algarve are connected and accessible from any city. Both tend to be extremely quiet and the sand is very good - when visited there is only 1 other couple on the beach!

 

During low tide you will have to walk through a small swamp until you reach Cacela Velha beach, but it is worth it to just get away from the crowds of other beaches in the Algarve.

 

2. Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse

 

This has to be the best viewpoint of the Algarve by far. Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse is just outside Lagos and offers the most amazing panoramic view of the Atlantic as well as the coastal rock formations.

 

If you are interested in taking a closer look at the arches and rock caves, there are many boat operators who tour the region.

 

3. Camilo Beach

 

is spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches in the Algarve, there is one every few kilometers! Camilo Beach is one of the most famous and is pleasant and protected from the elements.  Youll have to walk down the 200 wooden stairs to get to this beach, but its a great place to spend a few hours on a sunny afternoon.

 

4. Dona Ana beach

 

Dona Ana Beach is sometimes considered   the  most beautiful beach in the Algarve. Its golden sands are nestled between craggy sandstone cliffs, and huge piles of sea protrude from the crystal clear bay in front of the beach. There is limited parking so you will want to arrive early, alternatively you can take public transport or walk to Lagos.

 

5. Benagil Cave and Benagil Beach

 

You have probably seen pictures of the famous Benagil Sea Cave, a quiet sandy cove with a huge dome hanging precariously above it. Unfortunately we were unable to visit inside the cave as the ocean was very rough and tours were not operating, but when the sea is calm you can rent a kayak or SUP to make your way over to the neighboring beach of Benagil. Although you may have read that you can swim from the beach to the cave, I would not recommend it.

 

If the cave is not accessible when you visit it, you may want to follow our steps and look at the cave from above. Go to the nearest parking lot (  “Parkplatz Bengali Caves” on Google Maps  ) and follow the trail toward the cliff. From here you can look down into the cave of Benagil.

 

6. Falésia Beach

Falésia Beach is a long and narrow stretch of golden beach that is unusual in the Algarve. It is between Faro and the small town of Albufeira, and you will find that there are far fewer people here than the nearest beaches of Lagos and Portimão. If you are driving, this is the best beach in the Algarve to go because there is so much parking space available.

7. Amado Beach

 

Amado Beach is one of the best beaches in the Algarve for surfing - head to the west coast of the Algarve to experience the waves.

 

This exposed stretch of beach has a surf school, small restaurant and waves for all levels of surfers.

 

8. Beach Road

 

Head north from Praia do Amado towards Estrada da Praia, which winds and meanders along the coast and has a number of lookouts where you can stop to check out the cliffs and borders of Portugal.

 

9. Cape Saint Vincent and Sagres

 

Cape St. Vincent is the most southwestern promontory in Europe, a few kilometers from the city of Sagres. The point is home to an iconic red lighthouse dating back to the mid 19th century and is a popular tourist attraction in the Algarve.

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