Portugal’s southern coast is no secret—but venture just beyond the tourist hubs, and the Algarve becomes a place of untamed cliffs, secret coves, mouthwatering local cuisine, and timeless villages. If you’re planning a trip and want to see the real Algarve, this Ultimate Algarve Itinerary reveals how to do it all in just 7 days.
Whether you’re here for golden beaches, cliffside hikes, fresh seafood, or Moorish architecture, this itinerary balances the popular sights with off-the-beaten-path gems to make your week unforgettable.
Day 1: Arrival in Faro & Old Town Magic
Base: Faro
Highlight: Faro Old Town & sunset over the Ria Formosa
Your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary starts in Faro, the region’s capital. Too often overlooked, Faro is charming and authentic, and it’s the perfect place to ease into southern Portugal’s pace.
What to do:
• Wander the cobbled streets of Cidade Velha (Old Town), through Arco da Vila and past orange trees and tiled façades.
• Visit the Cathedral of Faro and climb the bell tower for panoramic views.
• Take a slow walk along the marina and enjoy the peaceful Ria Formosa lagoon at golden hour.
Eat at: À do Pinto – A restaurant serving elevated Algarvian cuisine with local wines.
Optional: Book a boat tour via GetYourGuide to explore the Ria Formosa’s hidden islets—home to flamingos and traditional fishing huts.
Day 2: Island-Hopping & Secluded Beaches
Base: Faro or Olhão
Highlight: Ilha Deserta & Culatra
No Ultimate Algarve Itinerary is complete without a boat trip to the barrier islands. Today’s all about wild beaches and barefoot exploration.
Start with:
A ferry or catamaran from Olhão to Ilha da Culatra—a car-free fishing island with sandy paths, fresh seafood shacks, and authentic Algarve life.
Next stop:
Ilha Deserta (Desert Island) – True to its name, this place is uninhabited and serene. Take a dip in crystal-clear water or walk the 7km stretch of pristine sand.
Lunch at: Estaminé on Ilha Deserta – Powered by solar panels and serving grilled octopus and clams straight from the sea.
Pro tip: Bring sunscreen, water, and flip-flops—this is barefoot paradise at its finest.
Day 3: Tavira & Cacela Velha – The Soul of the Eastern Algarve
Base: Tavira
Highlight: Cultural charm + panoramic cliff views
Tavira is the crown jewel of the Eastern Algarve. It’s less touristy, full of history, and incredibly romantic.
Explore:
• Tavira Castle ruins and its blooming gardens
• The Roman bridge crossing the Gilão River
• Igreja da Misericórdia, with exquisite tile work
Afternoon escape:
Drive east to Cacela Velha, a tiny whitewashed village perched on a cliff. Time your visit for low tide and walk down to the wide, deserted beach below.
Dinner at: Restaurante Come na Gaveta – Try it out and thank us later.
This slower day adds depth to your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary, giving you a sense of the Algarve before mass tourism.
Want to explore more? Don’t miss our guide to the Top 10 Things to Do in Tavira, Algarve.
Day 4: Cliffs, Coves & Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Base: Carvoeiro or Lagoa
Highlight: Benagil Cave & Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Ready for jaw-dropping landscapes? Day 4 of your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary brings you to the most iconic coastal views in Portugal.
Morning:
Book a kayak or boat tour via GetYourGuide to Benagil Cave – the only way to enter this stunning sea cave with a glowing skylight.
Late morning:
Hike a section of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, starting from Marinha Beach (bring water & good shoes). This trail offers epic views of arches, stacks, and turquoise water.
Afternoon:
Relax at Praia da Marinha or head to Praia do Carvalho, a lesser-known beach hidden by cliffs.
Dinner at: O Pátio in Carvoeiro – Think seafood rice and ocean views.
Day 5: Silves & Monchique – Mountains & Moorish Legends
Base: Silves or Monchique
Highlight: Silves Castle & thermal spa
Trade the coast for the hills today. Your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary wouldn’t be complete without venturing inland, where citrus groves and cork forests await.
Morning in Silves:
• Visit the Silves Castle, once a Moorish fortress with red stone walls and commanding views
• Walk through the old town, stopping for coffee near the Gothic Sé Cathedral
Afternoon:
Head to Monchique, a peaceful mountain town known for eucalyptus forests and hot springs.
Optional: Relax in a thermal spa or hike up to Foia, the Algarve’s highest peak.
Dinner at: Luar da Foia – Cozy atmosphere with hearty local dishes like black pork or lamb stew.
Day 6: Western Algarve Wilds – Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente
Highlight: Windswept cliffs and dramatic sunsets
Time to feel the Atlantic wind on your face. The western Algarve is wild, rugged, and perfect for adventure.
Morning:
Drive to Sagres Fortress, where Prince Henry the Navigator launched the Age of Discoveries.
Then:
Head to Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s southwesternmost point. The lighthouse stands defiant against the pounding surf—this is where the land ends and the sea begins.
Lunch at: Micro Bar Sagres for craft beer and fresh fish tacos.
Afternoon:
If you’re into surfing, nearby Amado Beach is perfect for lessons. Or just enjoy the raw beauty of this wild coastline.
Evening:
Catch a fiery sunset at Cabo de São Vicente. Bring a blanket and soak it in—this is a spiritual spot.
Day 7: Lagos – History, Beaches & Farewell
Base: Lagos
Highlight: Ponta da Piedade & final feast
Wrap up your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary in style. Lagos blends history with a youthful vibe and some of the most photogenic beaches in the region.
Must-dos:
• Explore the slave market museum and 17th-century city walls
• Stroll the cobbled lanes full of art shops and cafés
• Visit Ponta da Piedade, a headland of golden cliffs, caves, and clear water
Boat tour? Absolutely. A grotto tour here is short but magical.
Beach hop: Check out Praia do Camilo or Praia Dona Ana—both Instagram-worthy and swimmable.
Final dinner: A Forja – Rustic and authentic. Order the grilled sardines or cataplana.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Ultimate Algarve Itinerary
• Rent a car: Essential for accessing hidden gems and flexible travel.
• Avoid July–August: Too hot and crowded. May, June, September, and early October are ideal.
• Pack layers: Evenings can be cool, especially near the coast.
• Speak a little Portuguese: Locals appreciate it and it enhances the cultural experience.
Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to essential Portuguese phrases for travelling in the Algarve.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Algarve Itinerary is your key to discovering Portugal’s best-kept secrets – hidden beaches, ancient towns, soulful food, and endless Atlantic views. Whether you’re a beach bum, foodie, culture lover, or nature explorer, the Algarve delivers a magical 7-day journey you’ll never forget.
