Planning a trip to Portugal and want to experience some of the country’s best beaches? Then you can’t miss visiting the Algarve! This stunning southern region is home to world-class beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns. And, in this guide, I’ll share all the best things to do with 3 days in the Algarve!
Portugal is one of my favorite countries in Europe! From the bustling capital city of Lisbon to the lush wine region of the Douro Valley all the way to the Algarve, it’s such a diverse and beautiful country. And, of course, the Algarve region is at the top of the list when it comes to the most beautiful places in Portugal.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the region a few times now, so let’s dive in….
Here’s how to spend 3 days in the Algarve!
About the Algarve
The Algarve is a breathtakingly beautiful region located in the southernmost part of Portugal, renowned for its stunning coastline, golden beaches, picturesque cliffs, and charming towns.
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west, the region’s expansive coastline stretches for almost 100 miles (!!) and is comprised of 16 municipalities — including popular places like Faro, Albufeira, Lagos, Carvoeiro, and Tavira.
It’s a popular tourist destination known for its year-round warm weather, making it ideal for beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. The Algarve also offers a rich cultural heritage, with historic towns, Moorish architecture, and delicious local cuisine, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Where to Stay in the Algarve
Since the Algarve is a large region, it can be overwhelming deciding where to base yourself for your stay! Some of the most popular places to stay are Lagos, Albufeira, Portimão, and Carvoeiro. Let’s dive into to the pros and cons of each area, as well as some of the top hotels, so you can decide where to stay in the Algarve:
Lagos
This charming town has a beautiful historic center, bustling marina, and is home to some spectacular beaches as well as the famous Ponta da Piedade. There are many restaurants, shops, hotels, and even a train station which makes it easy to access. However, Lagos is a popular spot in the Algarve so it can get busy, and it’s not quite as centrally located (about a 40 minute from from Albufeira, and 1 hour from Faro).
Top Lagos Hotels:
- Cascade Wellness Resort: This luxe resort features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, offers a range of wellness and fitness facilities, including a spa and multiple outdoor pools, and provides elegant accommodations along with gourmet dining options. I absolutely loved staying at this resort because its right next to dramatic cliffs with jaw-dropping views (perfect for sunset!)… And it’s walkable into town, restaurants, and some of the best beaches! (Luxury)
- Lagos Atlantic Hotel: A highly rated 4-star hotel that features an outdoor pool and modern, well-appointed rooms. Lagos Atlantic Hotel is located close to beautiful beaches, trails, cliff views and is just a 5 minute drive to the historic center of Lagos. (Mid-Range)
- Indigo Guest House: This newly renovated guest house features beautiful, modern rooms, a gorgeous rooftop deck, and a fantastic location in central Lagos — what more could you need?! (Budget)
For a first time visitor to the Algarve, I usually recommend basing yourself in Lagos! I love the charming historic town, breathtaking beaches, scenic views, and water activities and tours. Plus, it’s easily accessible by train making it the perfect place to base yourself in southern Portugal.
Albufeira
As one of the largest towns in the region, it’s a very popular place to stay. It’s home to many hotels, restaurants and shops which draws in a lot of tourism and somewhat of a party vibe. Albufeira is very centrally located making it easy to access other parts of the region.
Top Albufeira Hotels:
- Pine Cliffs Resort & Spa: A grand, upscale resort located right on the coast! Pine Cliffs offers spacious and elegantly designed suites with access to a wide array of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a renowned golf course, a luxurious spa, and direct beach access. The resort is known for its picturesque cliffs, lush gardens, and exceptional dining experiences, making it a premier destination for luxury travelers! (Luxury)
- Vila Maria Hotel: An intimate hotel offering chic, comfortable accommodations and personalized service. It provides easy access to local beaches and attractions, making it a great base for exploring the Algarve region… Plus, the infinity pool overlooking the ocean is so dreamy! (Mid-Range)
- Lost & Found Guesthouse & Suites: This small hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and rustic charm, featuring stylish rooms and suites. The guesthouse provides a tranquil atmosphere with convenient access (just 5 minutes drive!) to beautiful beaches and local attractions, ideal for a peaceful getaway. All at a very reasonable price point for 3 days in the Algarve! (Budget)
Portimão
Located near the famous Benagil Cave, Portimão has an ideal location near the center of the Algarve coast. While it doesn’t have the charm of other towns along the Algarve, it’s located near some spectacular beaches and has it’s own train station making it easy to get to.
Top Portimão Hotels:
- Vitor’s Plaza: A family-friendly hotel offering spacious apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for extended stays. The hotel features a variety of amenities, including outdoor pools, a fitness center, a tennis court, and a restaurant. Located near the beautiful Praia do Vau beach, Vitor’s Plaza provides easy access to local attractions and activities, making it a great choice for both relaxation and adventure. (Mid-Range)
- Jupiter Marina Hotel – Couples & Spa: An adults-only hotel designed for a romantic and tranquil getaway. The hotel offers elegant rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Arade River, and a luxurious spa. And, its location is ideal for exploring the nearby beaches and vibrant town center! (Mid-Range)
Carvoeiro
A small and charming fishing village with white-washed houses, Carvoeiro is a lovely place to stay in the Algarve. It’s very centrally located between Portimão and Albufeira so it makes a great base for exploring. Just note that since it’s on the smaller side, there are less hotels and restaurants than some of the larger towns on the coast.
Top Carvoeiro Hotels:
- Tivoli Carvoeiro: A luxurious 5-star hotel perched on a cliff overlooking the picturesque Vale Covo beach. The hotel offers elegantly designed rooms, a stunning infinity pool, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options with breathtaking ocean views. And, its prime location provides easy access to the area’s beautiful beaches and coastal trails! (Luxury)
- Vila Vita Parc: Located about 15 minutes from Carvoeiro, Vila Vita Parc is a luxurious 5-star resort located in the charming town of Porches. Set within lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the resort features elegant accommodations, multiple gourmet restaurants, a world-class spa, and a variety of recreational activities like golf and water sports. Its clifftop location provides direct access to a secluded beach, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing beach getaway… And my absolute dream hotel for 3 days in the Algarve! (Luxury)
- Algar Seco Parque: A charming resort located in Carvoeiro, offering a selection of spacious apartments and villas with stunning ocean views. The resort features beautifully landscaped gardens, multiple swimming pools, and an on-site restaurant. Its prime location near the Algar Seco rock formations and proximity to local beaches and attractions make it an ideal spot for a relaxing and scenic getaway! (Mid-Range)
Is 3 Days in the Algarve Enough?
Yes and no. Three days will allow you to get a taste of this stunning region and is a great introduction to the Algarve. I would recommend basing yourself in one place for 3 days and exploring from there. Of course, if you have longer than 3 days (lucky you!!), you’ll be able to see even more of the region and stay in multiple places.
So, 3 days is a great place to start and whatever you don’t see the first time around, you’ll be able to explore on your next visit!
3 Days in the Algarve Itinerary
Here’s a quick overview of the perfect itinerary for 3 days in the Algarve:
- Day 1: Kayak or boat trip, explore the historic town of Lagos, and enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine
- Day 2: Take in the views at Ponta da Piedade, lunch at Zazu Beach Club, and relax at Praia de Dona Ana
- Day 3: Explore Benagil Cave, relax at Praia Marinha, walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, and have dinner at Vila Vita Parc
Day 1
Boat or Kayak Trip
What better way to start off your first of 3 days in the Algarve than by seeing the coastline from the sea?! The natural beauty of Lagos and its surrounding area makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts! And the best way to see the coastline is by boat or kayak.
Starting from Lagos, both boat and kayaking tours depart daily. While you could do a tour in the afternoon if you prefer, I recommend hopping on one in the morning since the sea is usually calmest then.
Get ready for breathtaking coastal views, cave exploration, swimming, and even dolphin watching!
Note: If you go on a kayaking tour, I recommend bringing a dry bag for your phone or camera — which you’ll definitely want for photos. This is the dry bag I use for all my trips and I love it!
Explore Lagos
After soaking in the unbelievable beauty of the coastline, it’s time to head into the charming town of Lagos!
Lagos boasts a well-preserved historic center with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and quaint squares. The town’s history dates back to Roman times, and it was an important maritime center during the Age of Discovery. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the 17th-century Church of Santo António and the Mercado de Escravos, which is believed to be the site of Europe’s first slave market.
Enjoy Authentic Portuguese Cuisine
After a full day of exploring the coast and the lovely old town of Lagos, it’s time for a traditional Portuguese meal. I recommend having dinner at Casinha do Petisco, a local family-run restaurant serving authentic dishes.
They are known for their cataplana, a traditional strew from the Algarve region made with fresh seafood and smoky cured meat in a rich broth.
For dessert, you can’t miss trying pastel de nata, a type of Portuguese custard tart pastry, famous for its rich, creamy filling and crisp, flaky crust. And, I highly recommend Adoce A Vida, a charming café in historic Lagos that is known for its delightful array of desserts and pastries — particularly the pastel de nata!
And… That’s a wrap on day one of your 3 days in the Algarve!
Day 2
Take in the Views at Ponta da Piedade
This dramatic rock formation located near Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural landmarks! Accessible by boat or via a scenic walking trail, Ponta da Piedade features towering limestone cliffs, sea caves, and rock arches carved by the sea over centuries.
While you’ll likely have seen Ponta de Piedade on your boat or kayak tour the day before, but it’s totally worth seeing it from above via the scenic walking trail as well. The trail is an easy walk but, if you’re visiting in the summer, I suggest doing it in the morning before the hot afternoon sun!
The first time I visited Ponta da Piedade was at sunset on my first day in the Algarve… My jaw literally dropped when I saw the dramatic cliffs! Later, I visited during the day and was just as stunned at its beauty and the sparkling turquoise sea below… Definitely my favorite place in the Algarve!
Lunch at Zazu Beach Club
This gorgeous restaurant has a trendy bohemian vibe with panoramic views of the sea and Praia da Luz. Zazu Beach Club serves a variety of Portuguese, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. Every dish we had there was absolutely delicious — especially the ceviche!
Relax at Praia de Dona Ana
Lagos is renowned for its stunning beaches, which range from secluded coves to expansive sandy stretches. Praia da Dona Ana is one of the most famous beaches, known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and striking rock formations.
The beach is backed by tall limestone cliffs, which not only provide a stunning backdrop but also offer shelter from the wind, creating a super tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
This has become one of my favorite beaches in the area as the water is usually very calm and perfect for swimming… And I just love the views of the crazy unique rock formations!
And, despite its natural beauty, Praia de Dona Ana is well-equipped with facilities for visitors. During the peak tourist season, amenities such as sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent. There are also parking, public restrooms and showers near the beach, as well as lifeguards on duty for safety during the summer.
Day 3
Explore Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Algarve. The cave features a large circular opening in its dome-like ceiling, allowing sunlight to filter through and illuminate the interior in a mesmerizing display of light and shadow.
Inside the cave, visitors are greeted with a sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The cave’s interior is spacious and awe-inspiring, with towering cliffs rising dramatically around it. The combination of the natural light streaming in from above and the azure waters creates a magical atmosphere!
The Benagil Cave can be accessed by boat trip or kayak from nearby coastal towns such as Benagil, Carvoeiro, Portimão, or Lagos. Many local boat tour operators offer guided excursions to the cave, allowing visitors to admire its beauty up close and even explore the interior on foot.
I had a great experience doing the boat ride to the Benagil Cave as it was on a smaller boat tour and we were able to see so much of the gorgeous coastline around Praia Marinha. Arriving inside of the Benagil Cave, I was awestruck by its beauty but we decided to stay on the boat since the interior beach it was quite crowded…
The cave has become especially popular in recent years (perhaps from social media!) so I would recommend trying to visit very early in the morning or during the off season!
Relax at Praia Marinha
After an exhilerating morning seeing the Benagil Cave, it’s time to relax at the beach and spend the rest of the afternoon at nearby Praia Marinha, a gorgeous beach close to the Benagil Cave.
Praia Marinha is renowned for its striking cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. This picturesque beach is often considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal, offering visitors the chance to relax, swim, and explore the surrounding caves and spectacular rock formations.
Walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Once you’re done with your beach day, I would recommend walking some of The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. It’s a scenic coastal hiking route that stretches along the Algarve coastline, starting from Marinha beach and ending at Praia de Vale Centeanes. Spanning approximately 5.7 miles, the trail offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and turquoise waters. Along the way, hikers can admire the dramatic rock formations, explore sea caves, and maybe even spot marine life!
While the trail is quite long, you could easily just walk part of it near Praia Marinha to take in the views and snap some photos. And, if you time it right, the views are just incredible at sunset!
Dinner at Vila Vita Parc
This nearby luxury resort is home to 12 (!!) restaurants including Restaurant Ocean which boasts two Michelin stars. While I didn’t get to dine there, I enjoyed the food at Restaurant Adega, their Portuguese concept, and drinks on the Manzar Terrace with breathtaking sunset views, live music, and Moroccan decor. Dining at Vila Vita Parc is definitely a special way to end your 3 days in the Algarve!
Best Time to Visit the Algarve
The best time to visit the Algarve depends on your preferences and what activities you’re interested in. Here’s a breakdown of the weather and tourism seasons so you can plan your perfect 3 days in the Algarve:
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak season in the Algarve, characterized by hot and dry weather with temperatures often reaching the mid to high 80s or low 90s. This is the ideal time for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, as the sea is warmer this time of year and the days are long. However, popular tourist areas can get crowded during this time, and accommodation prices tend to be higher during the high season.
Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers adding to the region’s natural beauty. Daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 70s, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. Spring also offers fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
Fall (September to November): Fall in the Algarve brings pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s. The sea remains warm enough for swimming well into September, and you’ll find fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.
Winter (December to February): Winter in the Algarve is mild compared to other parts of Europe, with daytime temperature highs in the low 60s. While it may not be warm enough for swimming, winter is still a nice time to visit, especially for those interested in exploring historic towns, hiking, and enjoying local cuisine — without the tourist crowds.
I’ve visited the Algarve in June and September and had wonderful experiences in both months — but I noticed that the water temperature was warmer at the end of the summer. The average water temperature high is 77°F in August and September which is the highest all year. Something to consider if you’re like me and love to swim!
How to Get to the Algarve
Getting to the Algarve is pretty easy, as it’s a well-connected region in Portugal. Here are some common ways to reach the Algarve:
By Air: Faro Airport (Aeroporto de Faro) is the main airport serving the Algarve region, and is located a few miles west of Faro, the regional capital. Faro Airport operates domestic and international flights, with numerous airlines offering direct connections to major cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt, among others. From the airport, you can easily reach various destinations in the Algarve by taxi, shuttle bus, or rental car.
Last summer, I flew from Los Angeles to Faro (with a quick layover in London!) and had a great experience at the Faro Airport. It was small, easy to navigate, and I didn’t have any wait times!
By Train: The Portuguese railway network, operated by Comboios de Portugal, connects the Algarve region with other parts of the country. The main railway station in the Algarve is located in Faro, with regular train services running to and from Lisbon and other cities along the coast. The journey from Lisbon to Faro by train takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of service.
By Bus: Rede Expressos is the main long-distance bus company in Portugal, offering regular bus services to the Algarve from Lisbon, Porto, and other cities. The journey from Lisbon to Faro by bus takes around 3 to 4 hours. Additionally, local bus companies operate services within the Algarve, connecting towns and villages throughout the region.
By Car: The Algarve is easily accessible by car via the A22 motorway, also known as the Via do Infante. This toll road runs along the length of the Algarve coast, providing quick and convenient access to major towns and resorts. If you’re driving from Lisbon, you can take the A2 motorway southbound, which connects to the A22 near Albufeira. From Spain, you can cross the border at various points and access the Algarve via the A22.
After my last lovely visit in the Algarve, I drove to Lisbon in a rental car and found the drive very pleasant — it’s pretty much a straight shot up the A2 and with some scenic views!
How to Get Around the Algarve
Getting around the Algarve is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. Here are some common ways to explore the region during your 3 days in the Algarve:
Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the Algarve, as it offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and access remote areas that may not be easily reachable by public transportation. Several car rental companies operate at Faro Airport and in major towns throughout the region. The road network in the Algarve is well-maintained, easy to navigate, and there are typically plenty of parking options available in towns and at tourist attractions.
I tend to get a tad nervous renting a car in a foreign country but Portugal was so easy! The roads were easy to navigate (once you get the hang of the roundabouts!) and I found that drivers there were very laid-back — no aggressive drivers or high speeds like in some other European countries (I’m looking at you Italy 👀).
Public Bus: The Algarve has an extensive network of local and regional buses operated by several companies, including EVA Transportes and Frota Azul. Local buses connect towns and villages within the region, while regional buses provide links to destinations further afield. The main bus terminal in Faro serves as a hub for regional bus services, with routes connecting to major towns and cities across Portugal. Bus schedules and routes can be found online or at bus stations.
Train: The Algarve is served by a railway line operated by Comboios de Portugal, which connects Faro with other cities along the coast and inland. Trains run frequently between Faro and Lagos, stopping at towns such as Albufeira, Portimão, and Tavira along the way. The train offers a scenic way to travel along the coast, with views of the countryside and coastline. Tickets can be purchased at train stations or online through the CP website.
Ridesharing: Ridesharing services like Uber are also be available in some areas, offering a convenient way to travel short distances or explore the region without a rental car.
That’s a wrap on the perfect Algarve itinerary! From gorgeous beaches to rocky cliffs, there’s so much to explore with 3 days in the Algarve. Now, it’s time to book your ticket to Portugal!
Leave a Reply