What could be better than a 5-day road trip through the Algarve? Here is a complete guide to the south of Portugal, including how to get around, when to visit and a fantastic 5-day itinerary that ensures you see the top attractions and experience the best outdoor and water activities Portugal offers. From stunning sandy beaches to impressive golden cliffs and traditional fishing villages, this travel guide is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to get to know this region and its locals on a deeper level.
The Algarve is a top summer destination in Europe and one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal, with its own culture, heritage and way of life. It offers plenty of opportunities for a perfect holiday, whether you travel alone, with friends or for families with children – especially in spring and summer, when you can go to the beach, surf the waves or enjoy water sports.
I had the chance to visit Portugal in spring when the weather was warm and sunny but without too many crowds – and it was perfect! I loved the peaceful atmosphere of the region, it felt like time was slowing down, and I could truly relax (which does not happen often). I even spend time each day on the beach, listening to the waves and watching the stunning scenery.
This road trip through the Algarve was also my first “real” solo trip! I was very nervous and almost cancelled at the last minute, but I decided to be courageous and try it once. I rented a car, travelled to a new location each day and stayed at a hostel for the night. I can now say that I do NOT regret going alone and had a fantastic time! Portugal is perfectly safe for solo (female) travellers – I even met and connected with many people on the road, which was great.
In this article, I share the perfect 5-day itinerary that will allow you to see the best of the region with planning tips and tricks you need to create a memorable vacation. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!
My Algarve experience: Duration 5 Days Dates visited May 01 - May 05 Season Spring
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure here.
Overview: 5 days in the Algarve, Portugal
- Day 1: Faro
- Day 2: Faro to Carvoeiro
- Day 3: Carvoeiro to Lagos
- Day 4: Lagos to Albufeira
- Day 5: Albufeira to Faro
Route alternative
- Day 1: Faro to Carvoeiro
- Day 2: Carvoeiro to Lagos
- Day 3: Lagos to Sagres
- Day 4: Sagres to Ferragudo
- Day 5: Ferragudo to Faro
This itinerary might be a bit more tiring, with more driving distances. I opted for the first one as I wanted to take my time and enjoy the beaches.
Where is the Algarve?
The Algarve is located in the southernmost area of Portugal. It is a beautiful region full of sandy beaches, golden cliffs and quaint fishing towns. It also enjoys year-round sunny weather, making it a perfect holiday destination – for solo travellers like me or families with children.
READ MORE: 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the Algarve, Portugal
Want more road trip inspiration? Check out this article:
London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops
Algarve road trip itinerary – Map
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
Detailed itinerary: Algarve 5-day road trip
Please note that this self-drive road trip itinerary in the Algarve is only a guide with recommendations. You are welcome to spend more days in one area or add other stops on your journey. You can also continue your road trip to Lisbon or Porto.
READ MORE: Where to Stay in the Algarve: 8 Best Areas
Going backpacking in Vietnam? Check out this article:
North Vietnam Travel Guide: 2-Week Itinerary
Day 1 – Faro
Your Portugal road trip begins with the bustling city of Faro, the capital of the Algarve and the perfect place to start your adventure, as it offers many direct (and cheap) flights from European cities. You can also easily rent your car from there, or take the bus or train.
On your first day in Portugal, take the time to stroll through the Old Town. It will be the ideal way to discover the local culture, photograph the colourful houses and stop to taste delicious cuisine, which are just some of the best things to do in Faro.
The city is also not big, so you will have enough time on this first day to see the main attractions and highlights.
Things to do & see in Faro
- Admire the Arco da Vila
- Stroll through the Old Town
- Enjoy the view from Igreja de Santa Maria
- Visit Igreja do Carmo
- Relax at one of the beaches
- Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park
- Do some shopping
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
Top experiences from Faro
My Faro experience
Faro was the start of my road trip across the Algarve, and even though the city was not big, I enjoyed walking through the Old Town. It was a perfect way to get familiar with the local culture, and I was excited to discover more.
However, now that I am back home, I can say Faro is not the most interesting or beautiful town in the Algarve. Before doing this trip, I read different blog posts advising us to ignore it and focus on smaller fishing towns. I am glad I did not skip it, but I am also glad I did not spend a lot of time there.
I spent the night in Faro, in a lovely hostel (girls only!), and picked up my car the next morning to drive to Carvoeiro. But if you prefer, you can start your road trip earlier and head there on your first day – it is up to you! I did not want to rush.
Travel Tips
It is easy to access the town centre from the airport. You can take Bus 16 and head to the terminal. The journey costs 2,50€ and cash only on the bus, or you have a machine at the airport next to the bus stop. Also check out the timetable in advance, as the bus only runs every hour.
The other option is to use a taxi. I used an Uber on my last day as I did not have enough cash. The journey cost me 7€ and was super easy (I had to get to the airport at 6:30am).
Day 2 – Faro to Carvoeiro
Praia da Marinha
🚗 Faro to Praia da Marinha 45min / 59km (this route has tolls)
It is finally time to hit the road and head to the stunning golden beaches! Your first stop will be Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.
Parking tips – you can easily park at the free parking lot next to the beach. There is also a dirt overflow space.
From this gorgeous beach, you will start your first scenic hike, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. The entire trail takes you on a 12km journey through some of the most beautiful cliffs and caves in the Algarve but can be a long walk for some, especially in the summer when the temperatures are high (even for me in May, it was 30°c).
If the trail is too long (it takes around 6 hours to complete), you can split it in half and retrace your steps from Praia do Carvalho – that is what I did, and it was perfect!
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
The coastline path is easy to follow, with some rocky parts (wear comfortable shoes!). On your way, you will encounter some fascinating holes and caves, such as the famous Benagil Cave, which is only accessible by sea. You can see the top from the land, but I am guessing it is not as impressive as the inside. If you want to visit it, you can join a boat tour from Benagil town or rent a kayak to explore it with a small group or on your own.
You can also stop in the town of Benagil for a quick break and a cold drink before continuing your walk to Praia do Carvalho. And if you want to relax or swim, I advise you to wait until you are on this beach as Benagil gets busy with boats.
PS – the water was freezing! It took me a while to get in, but it was so refreshing and felt so good once in.
From there, you can continue your hike to Praia do Vale de Centeanes or retrace your steps to Praia da Marinha – the choice is yours!
Once back in your car, drive to Carvoeiro, one of my favourite towns in the Algarve – and where you will spend the night.
Carvoeiro
🚗 Praia da Marinha to Carvoeiro 15min / 7km
Carvoeiro is a traditional seaside resort located on golden cliffs. I loved walking along the coastal path and admiring the scenery at sunset – it was gorgeous! You can also take the time to explore its Old Town and narrow cobbled streets or relax by the beach and watch the sun go down.
Parking tips – you will find plenty of free car parking lots around the town. I parked near Forte de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, which was easy and convenient (check out the map below).
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
🏨 Where I stayed near Carvoeiro: Colina Village.
Day 3 – Carvoeiro to Lagos
🚗 Carvoeiro to Lagos 40min / 42km (this route has tolls)
On your third day of road-tripping across the Algarve, you will head to Lagos, one of the most famous and picturesque towns.
Parking tips – once again, you will find plenty of free parking spaces near the Old Town.
There are many exciting things to do and scenic beaches to explore in Lagos. I loved the buzzing atmosphere of the town, which was a bit busier than Carvoeiro.
Things to do & see in Lagos
- Explore the historic centre
- Join a Lagos food tour
- Go on a dolphin-watching tour
- Head to the beach
- Hike along the coast
- Take a surf lesson
- Stop by Praia do Camilo
- Visit Ponta da Piedade & its caves
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
Top experiences in Lagos
My Lagos experience
I arrived in Lagos early morning and explored the Old Town. I loved the cobbled streets and colourful houses. I also walked to the church and the harbour before stopping in a lovely café called Odeon for lunch.
Notes – many places only accept cash, but fortunately, ATMs are everywhere.
After my lunch, I headed to the coast and the beaches. I walked to Praia dos Estudantes for a beautiful view of Ponte Romana. But since the tide was high, I could not walk on the beach to get a closer look. I continued my walk to Praia do Pinhão and Praia da Dona Ana, both beautiful! As the last one was a bit busy, I retraced my steps and stopped at Praia do Pinhão to relax. I wanted to swim, but the waves were a bit too strong. However, the beach was lovely and quiet – it felt very nice and peaceful.
I then returned to the car and checked into my hostel – which I recommend if you plan to stay a few days in Lagos! For sunset, I decided to go to Ponta da Piedale. As the road was closed, I parked at Praia do Camilo and walked along the coast to the impressive caves (you can only access them through narrow stairs).
I wandered around and finished the day by watching the sunset from the picturesque Praia do Camilo – the colours were incredible!
🏨 Where I stayed near Lagos: Bura Surfhouse.
Day 4 – Lagos to Albufeira
On this fourth day in the Algarve, you will slowly make your way back to Faro, stopping beforehand at some quaint fishing villages.
But if you prefer, instead of returning to Faro, you can visit Sagres and its impressive lighthouse and stop by Salema on the way.
Ferragudo
🚗 Lagos to Ferragudo 40min / 38km (this route has tolls)
Your first stop will be the charming Ferragudo, a traditional fishing village on a hill. I loved the atmosphere of this town (it was one of my favourites), with its narrow cobbled streets full of colourful flowers – a perfect place for photo lovers!
Things to do & see in Ferragudo
- Get lost in its narrow streets
- Walk up to Igreja de Ferragudo
- Admire Castelo de São João do Arade
- Relax on one of its beaches
- Hike along the coastline
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
My Ferragudo experience
I arrived in Ferragudo early morning, and the town was so peaceful. I first walked to the other side to have a beautiful view of the entire town and its fishing boats. I then explored the Old Town and its colourful streets and stopped for lunch at a café bistro called Benjamim.
I continued my exploration by walking along the coast to the medieval castle on the beach before getting back in the car and heading to Praia dos Caneiros for a relaxing afternoon. The beach was slightly busy, but there was enough space, and the scenery was beautiful.
Albufeira
🚗 Ferragudo to Albufeira 35min / 36km (this route has tolls)
Your second (and last) stop of the day will be another charming town called Albufeira. This former fishing village has become a major holiday destination, with sandy beaches and lively nightlife.
I did not have the chance to visit Albufeira as I was short on time, but it looked like a lovely place to stop for the night. Let me know in the comments if you have any other suggestions for things to do.
Things to do & see in Albufeira
- Stroll through the Old Town
- Walk under the Albufeira Tunnel
- Relax on one of its beaches
- Admire the view from Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira
- Enjoy the night at The Strip
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.
Top experiences from Albufeira
Day 5 – Albufeira to Faro
Your last day in Portugal ☀️
For this last day on your road trip through the Algarve, you will head back to Faro. But first, I recommend visiting the nearby town of Olhão (if you have time).
Olhão
🚗 Albufeira to Olhão 45min / 53km (this route has tolls)
Olhão is a lovely fishing town and the perfect place to end your Portugal road trip. Take the time to wander through the Old Town and walk along the marina, or join a boat tour to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
I did not have the chance to visit the town as I was short on time on my last day, so let me know in the comment if you have any other suggestions for things to do.
Faro
🚗 Olhão to Faro 15min / 10km
It is time to go back to Faro and say goodbye. I hope you enjoyed your road trip across the Algarve as much as I did!
🏨 Where I stayed in Faro: Faroway Hostel.
Shop the printable road trip planner
Create your dream adventure & live an unforgettable experience on the road.
How to get to the Algarve
The best way to get to the Algarve in Portugal is by plane, landing in Faro or Lagos – or Lisbon if it is easier for you!
I landed in Faro as the direct flights from Manchester were cheap and frequent, and it was a perfect place to start the road trip.
If you live in Europe, the other option would be to reach the Portuguese region by train or coach (which will also be more ecological).
Planning a trip across the South of France? Check out this article:
South of France Road Trip: Perfect 1-Week Itinerary
How to get around the Algarve
The best way to get around the Algarve in Portugal is by car. It will allow you to move freely and reach remote areas and beaches.
You can easily rent one at the aiport, and I recommend using Rentalcars.com to search and compare which car is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.
I had a Fiat 500 for this trip, which was ideal for getting around and parking. Plus, all the car parks were free, which was a bonus.
NOTES – Motorways in Portugal are NOT free! You can either skip them or rent a Via Verde box through your car rental agent – I used Klass Wagen and paid 5€ for the box. You can then drive freely on any motorway, and the car rental company will send you an invoice a few weeks later. I received mine within 30 days, and it cost me 6€.
Another option would be to use public transport, such as the train or bus. It is an excellent eco-friendly way to travel around if you are on a budget, but on the other hand, getting to remote places or some beaches might be more challenging.
But the transportation network seemed quite reliable. I met several people on my journey who only travelled by bus or train. Many beaches were also accessible by local buses.
Finally, if you feel adventurous, rent and explore by bike! It is an ideal way to explore the Algarve region from a different perspective, reach remote beaches and travel slowly – it is also great for the environment.
Fancy a picturesque road trip through Tuscany? Check out this article:
Tuscany Road Trip Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary
Best time to visit the Algarve
The best time to visit the Algarve is in spring and autumn when the weather is sunny and warm, but the places are not too busy and crowded. These are ideal seasons for exploring the fishing towns, hiking along the coast and enjoying watersports.
I visited the region at the beginning of May, and it was perfect! The weather was sunny every day with temperatures around 25-30°c (which was very hot, especially when you live in a cold country – I had to put on a lot of sunscreens). The roads were mostly empty, and the towns and beaches were not too busy, which was ideal for relaxing. This holiday felt incredibly peaceful.
I would try to avoid visiting the Algarve in the summer (June, July and August). The area becomes extremely busy during this season, with high temperatures, many crowds and rising prices.
Looking for a scenic road trip in the German Alps? Check out this article:
Bavaria Road Trip: Epic 1-Week Itinerary
What to pack for your Algarve road trip
Each suitcase will look different to everyone, depending on when you are going and for how long, but here are some essentials for your road trip in Portugal:
- Comfortable walking shoes (to keep up with your itinerary)
- Sunglasses (to protect your eyes) ⇢ check out my favourite sunglasses
- A reef-safe sunscreen (to protect your skin)
- A good backpack (to keep your belongings safe) ⇢ check out my favourite backpack
- A beach towel (to relax on the beach) ⇢ check out my favourite towels
- A pair of flip-flops (to walk on the beach) ⇢ check out my favourite flip-flops
- A reusable water bottle (to stay hydrated on the go) ⇢ check out my favourite bottle
- Phone and tablet (to listen to music or use as GPS)
- Camera (to capture your incredible vacation)
- All chargers (indispensable) ⇢ check out these portable chargers
- Passport, driving licence, and any necessary visas
- Credit card and cash (to bring home souvenirs)
- Travel books and guides (to discover the best of the region)
- Notebook or travel diary (to record your memories) ⇢ check out my favourite notebook
Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.
Shop the printable travel packing list
Prepare for your dream city getaway and travel responsibly 🌿
How to reduce your eco-impact on the road
Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit. And this applies to road trips too!
Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move easily and discover many incredible places at our own pace. However, they can also have negative impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting eco-responsible habits is essential.
Here are some simple tips for creating an unforgettable adventure in the Algarve with less impact:
- Prepare your route in advance
- Plan your meals
- Make your trip plastic-free
- Bring a reusable filtered water bottle and lunch boxes
- Check your car and drive smoothly
- Avoid idling your engine
- Leave a place better than you found it
- Treat locals and their surroundings with respect
- Adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife
- Stay on marked trails when hiking
Want to know more?
- How to Plan an Epic (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
- 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
- Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
- Sustainable Beach Guide: 10 Easy Eco-Tips
- Carbon Offset Your Flight: What, Why & How
Portugal travel planning guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Portugal?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your road trip across the Algarve stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.
💧 Can you drink the water in Portugal?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Portugal, including the Algarve. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.
🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Portugal?
Yes, renting a car in Portugal is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
🏨 How to book accommodation in Portugal?
The best way to book your accommodation in Portugal is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hostels to luxury resorts.
✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Portugal?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.
Algarve road trip – FAQ
I recommend spending at least 3 days or more in the Algarve, as there is so much to do and see. 5 days was perfect for me, although I would have liked to stay longer, as I would have loved doing more water sports and surfing. I advise you to spend as much time as possible discovering the region and its hidden natural treasures whilst taking the time to relax and enjoy the sunny Portuguese weather.
You will find the most scenic part of the Algarve in Lagos, which includes Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Camilo and Praia de Dona Ana – two of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
Yes, driving around the Algarve is super easy! You can rent a car at the airport and explore the region. The roads are in good condition, the distances are not huge, and the villages are well connected by the motorway (not free, but not expensive!). You might have to drive on dirt roads to reach some secluded beaches, but nothing complicated.
The best area to stay in the Algarve for first-timers is Lagos, one of the liveliest beach resorts offering plenty of activities and things to do. Other popular destinations and great places to stay are Faro, Albufeira and Carvoeiro.
Have you ever experienced a road trip in the Algarve or would you like to try one day?
Let me know in the comments below!
With love ♡
Lucie
Leave a Reply