The Algarve has Portugal's most dramatic coastline, with ochre cliffs, hidden coves, Lagos' old town, Sagres' windswept cape and Faro's lagoon. Spring and autumn offer warm weather and fewer crowds than July and August.
Good to know
- Visit Benagil cave early or by kayak to dodge boat traffic.
- A rental car is best; public transport is limited.
- Atlantic currents are strong; swim at lifeguarded beaches.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Golden rock arches and grottos; go by boat or walk the clifftop.
Whitewashed streets, cafes and a pretty marina.
Seafood stew cooked in a copper clamshell pan.
Boat or kayak into a cathedral-like cave with a hole in its ceiling.
One of Europe's best beaches, with stacks and clear water.
The 'end of the world' with a lighthouse and fortress above the Atlantic.
Clifftop trail with views of arches and coves.
Walled old town and lagoon boat tours to island beaches.
Quieter eastern Algarve town with a Roman bridge and an island beach.
Red-stone Moorish castle in the former Moorish capital.
Surf school lesson on the wild west coast at Arrifana, where Atlantic waves suit beginners and improvers.