Known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and quaint fishing villages, it's no surprise that the Algarve attracts over four million visitors each year. Away from the coast lie verdant vineyards, citrus orchards and rugged mountains. Planning a visit here? It's your lucky day. Our travel experts at Plum Guide have all the essential information on travelling in the Algarve. We've compiled a week-long itinerary which takes you west along the south coast, swinging by some of the most exciting places. Before you book those flights, have a read of our itinerary to Algarve for seven days.
Day One: Experience the authentic Algarve in Quarteira
View of the fishing port of Quarteira
If you're flying into the Algarve, you will most likely arrive at Faro Airport. It makes sense, then, to start your itinerary in Quarteira. Just a 30-minute drive from the airport, this seaside city was one of the first resort towns to be developed along the coast. It's a popular vacation spot for Portuguese people, so this is a good choice if you're looking for a more authentic experience away from the more touristy cities.
Although you may come across the random Irish pub (there's always one), you'll mostly find Portuguese-style restaurants and cafes, many of which serve up fresh seafood. For centuries, the city had had a thriving fishing industry which dates back to when it was once a small fisherman's village. You can still see fishermen coming into the harbour at the western end of town, a refreshing glimpse into local life.
Another Quarteira tradition that has been going on long before tourists came is its markets. So put on your bargaining hat and head to the selection of markets, including the fish market, vegetable market, gipsy market and the Mercado da Fonte Santa flea market, where you can pick up all kinds of knick-knacks.
Those who would rather golf will be pleased to know that the city is often used as a base for golfing holidays, with easy access to some of Portugal's finest courses, such as Amendoeira Golf Resort and Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course.
Algarve Eternity, Plum Guide home in Algarve. Portugal
Day Two: Chill out in Olhos de Água
Beach in the village of Olhos de Água, Algarve, Portugal
The next day, venture west along the coast to the resort town of Olhos de Água. Situated around a sandy cove, this is a beautiful place for a relaxing beach holiday. Despite being quite a well-known destination, the town still has a laid-back feel and is a good choice for couples and families. Olhos de Água has kept hold of its fishing village roots, and you can still see the little huts that line the beach where fishermen tend to their nets, their colourful fishing boats moored on the sand.
Although you can find restaurants, bars and nightlife in town, activities mainly centre around the beach. Spend your time sunbathing, swimming, windsurfing and water skiing on wide beaches like Praia da Falésia beach to the east and the Praia Santa Eulália and Praia Maria Luísa to the west. If you fancy a change from the sandy expanse, Olhos de Água is suitably positioned to explore the rest of the coast, with plenty of opportunities for day trips like boat tours, water parks and historic towns.
Sun Dazzling, Plum Guide home in Algarve, Portugal
Day Three: Live it up in Albufeira
An aerial view of the coastline and sandy beach in summer in Albufeira, Portugal
On day three of your seven-day itinerary to the Algarve, there's no need to rush as your next stop is just a 10-minute drive away. The coastal city of Albufeira is one of the Algarve's favourite holiday destinations, perfect for those who want to be at the heart of the action.
Its main draw is its glorious beaches, with some of the Algarve's loveliest stretches of sand within walking distance of the city. Along the front of Albufeira is Praia dos Pescadores, a vast, golden beach with all the necessary facilities. When you're not swimming and sunbathing, drop by the Albufeira marina and join a boat trip to go scuba diving, dolphin watching or explore the coastline.
At its heart is Albufeira old town, a charming historic district with meandering streets paved with beautiful tiles, boutiques, open-air cafes and shaded squares. There are numerous places to sit back with an ice-cold beer and a pastry or to do a little souvenir shopping. Albufeira also caters to those who want a wild night out; the neon mayhem of 'The Strip' is full of exciting bars and clubs where you can dance into the small hours of the morning.
Let's Build Sandcastles, Plum Guide home in Algarve, Portugal
Day Four: Eat chicken in Guia
On day four, you'll head slightly inland towards the village of Guia. It's become a favoured place to stay in recent years, with its claim to fame being Portugal's 'Capital of Chicken'. The very first chicken piri-piri was said to be grilled here in 1974 by José Carlos Ramires. You'll find numerous chicken piri-piri restaurants in the village, but the original Ramires still offers the best.
You may want to delve into the village's history a little more when you're not devouring grilled chicken slathered in a spicy sauce. If you're a fan of historic buildings, take a walk around and visit old, whitewashed churches like Igreja Matriz da Guia and Nossa Senhora da Guia.
With the lush countryside of rural Algarve on your doorstep, there are many trails you can follow around the village. The surrounding land is a prime grape-growing area, and if you're feeling a little thirsty after your walk, why not stop off at the Adega do Cantor Winery, partly owned by Sir Cliff Richard—if you're visiting in August, you may even bump into him.
Climbing Bougainvilleas, Plum Guide home in Algarve, Portugal
Day Five: Dine on seafood in Portimão
Aerial view of the city of Portimão and the beach Praia de Rocha, Algrave, Portugal
On day five, visit the port city of Portimão. The city is a heaven for seafood lovers, known to cook up some of the tastiest fish dishes in Portugal. Along the waterfront, you'll find many restaurants serving grilled sardines, the favourite local dish. Although sardines are eaten throughout the region, they're mainly celebrated in Portimão—there's even a sardine festival every August.
Once you're fueled up, set off to see more of the city. The Museu de Portimão is an interesting place to learn more about the city's fishing and canning industry, which boomed in the early 20th century. Next, get a combined ticket to see the megalithic monuments of Alcalar, a series of burial monuments dating back 5,000 years ago.
One of the nicest things about a non-touristy place like Portimão is that you can visit real, local amenities without the tourist crowds. Browse the stalls in the Mercado Municipal to see what fresh produce is on offer, from fruit and vegetables to seafood and flowers. Pick up some meats from the delicatessens or baked treats from the bakeries and take your picnic down to Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve's most famous beaches. Dotted with sun loungers and parasols, its picture-postcard swathes of golden sand are a buzz of activity in the summer months.
Day Six: Fall in love with colourful Lagos
View over large cliffs and calm water on a beach in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
Day six brings you further west to Lagos, one of the Algarve's most beloved towns. Its coastline is home to some of the most splendid beaches, from long sandy bays to tiny coves hugged by soaring cliffs. The most exciting way to discover the coast is by kayak—make your way to the rust-coloured limestone cliffs of Ponta da Piedade which are full of rock arches, caves and grottos. Praia do Camilo is another scenic spot, accessible down some 200 steps. The views of the red and yellow rocks are incredible, and the flat waters are made for swimming.
The old town of Lagos is a delight to wander around, its patterned streets and whitewashed houses protected by 16th-century walls. The best views of these impressive fortifications can be found in Avenida dos Descobrimentos and Estrada da Ponta da Piedade. Elsewhere in the old town, you'll discover remarkable street art, a bustling fish market, charming independent shops and a great selection of cafes and restaurants. If you love historic buildings, take a peek inside the Igreja de Santo António, one of the finest examples of Baroque interiors in Portugal.
Day Seven: Get active (or relax) in Praia da Luz
Beach at Praia da Luz, Algarve, Portugal
Take it easy on the final day of your seven-day itinerary around the Algarve and relax in Praia da Luz. Curved around a sandy bay, life here revolves around the beach. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and water sports, and you'll find it difficult to leave. However, when you get hungry, you'll be pleased to hear that you don't have to venture too far in search of food—the palm-lined promenade is home to numerous cafes and bars offering local delicacies.
Should you feel like stretching your legs, Praia da Luz is located on the 230-kilometre-long Fishermen's Trail, which follows the Algarve coastline. It usually takes 12 to 13 days, but you can take a day hike from Praia da Luz back to Lagos, which takes no more than three hours. You can also walk in the opposite direction to Salema past Burgau, which takes around two hours and boasts spectacular scenery.
