Itinerary for 7 day trip to Algarve

The Algarve is a stunning region in Portugal, perfect for a week-long adventure filled with surfing, exploration, and a bit of the unusual. Let’s dive into your 7-day road trip itinerary!

Day 1: Arrival in

Morning:

Arrive in , the capital of the Algarve. Pick up your rental car and get ready for an exciting week ahead!
Grab a coffee and a pastel de nata at a local café to kickstart your adventure.

Afternoon:

Explore the Old Town of . Wander through the Arco da Vila and visit the beautiful Igreja do Carmo, famous for its Chapel of Bones.
Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant—try the grilled sardines!

Evening:

Head to the for a sunset stroll. The views are breathtaking, and you might spot some flamingos!
Dinner in , perhaps at a cozy tavern where you can try some traditional Portuguese dishes.

Day 2: Surfing in

Morning:

Drive to (about 1.5 hours from ). This charming fishing village is known for its stunning cliffs and surf spots.
Check into a surf school for your first lesson! They cater to beginners, so don’t worry if you’ve never surfed before.

Afternoon:

After your lesson, grab lunch at a beachside café. Enjoy some fresh fish and a cold drink while soaking in the sun.
Spend the afternoon practicing your surfing skills or relaxing on the beach.

Evening:

Explore the village and enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant. Try the cataplana, a traditional seafood stew!

Day 3: Lagos and

Morning:

Drive to Lagos (about 30 minutes from ). Start your day with a visit to the stunning .
Take a boat tour to explore the incredible rock formations and hidden caves. It’s a fantastic way to see the coastline!

Afternoon:

Have lunch in Lagos, then spend some time at , one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.

Evening:

Stroll through the charming streets of Lagos, filled with shops and bars. Enjoy dinner at a lively restaurant, perhaps with some live music!

Day 4: Sagres and

Morning:

Head to Sagres (about 30 minutes from Lagos). Visit the for some history and stunning views of the Atlantic.
Stop by the iconic , the southwesternmost point of Europe. The cliffs are dramatic and the scenery is breathtaking!

Afternoon:

Have lunch in Sagres, then take another surf lesson at one of the local beaches, like Praia do Amado, which is great for beginners.
Spend the afternoon catching waves and enjoying the beach vibe.

Evening:

Return to Sagres for dinner. Try a local pizzeria or a seafood restaurant with a view of the sunset over the ocean.

Day 5: and

Morning:

Drive to the (about 1 hour from Sagres). Enjoy the scenic drive and the lush greenery.
Hike to , the highest point in the Algarve, for panoramic views of the region.

Afternoon:

Have lunch in the quaint village of Monchique. Try the local specialty, “frango piri-piri” (spicy chicken).
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets and perhaps visit a local distillery to taste some medronho (a local fruit brandy).

Evening:

Head back to the coast and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a beachside restaurant. Reflect on your adventures so far!

Day 6: and

Morning:

Drive to (about 1 hour from Sagres). Explore the picturesque town, with its charming streets and historic buildings.
Visit the for some great views and a bit of history.

Afternoon:

Have lunch in , then head to (about 20 minutes away). Explore the beautiful beach and the stunning cliffs.
If you’re up for it, take a short hike along the cliffs for some incredible views.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner in , perhaps at a restaurant with a view of the sunset over the ocean.

Day 7: Return to and Departure

Morning:

Drive back to (about 40 minutes). If time allows, visit the local markets for some last-minute souvenirs.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café, soaking in the last moments of your trip.

Afternoon:

Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the nearby beach at for a final dip in the ocean.
Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Your Adventure:

Always check the surf conditions and follow the advice of your instructors.
Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—those Algarve sun rays can be strong!
Embrace the local culture, try new foods, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the Algarve.

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your adventure in the Algarve! Enjoy every moment of your road trip, surfing, and exploring the beautiful landscapes! 🌊🏄‍♂️🌅