The Algarve is a beautiful part of Portugal, with amazing weather, unique rock formations and lush beaches, this place really has a lot to offer! The best part is, most cities and towns are within 2 hours driving time from each other, making them perfect day trips (of half-day trips) from wherever you are staying in the Algarve.
I have been travelling to the Algarve almost every year recently as there is just something about it that keeps me coming back to it (well that and a holiday home).
So if you are thinking of travelling to the Algarve but not sure where to go then have no fear! Hopefully, this guide will give you some ideas of where to make your day trips!
So let’s get into it:
1. Monchique, Algarve
Monchique is a mountainous area of Portugal and has some of the most amazing views overlooking the Algarve.
Mount Fóia
At 2959 ft, Mount Fóia is the highest point of the Algarve and is one that can’t be missed off this of day trips!
If you are driving there (which is the option we took) you’ll follow the A22 which will take you up some twisty roads which are not for the faint-hearted, especially if the driver is your dad *face-palm.*
But once you reach the top, trust me the view will be worth it!
If you’re into hiking, there are a few hiking trails you can take which is perfect for soaking up even more of the views.
We went in December and arrived there around 11.00 am were practically the only ones! If you do travel off-peak you could even opt to watch the sunset there!
Tip: The crowds can get busy in the summer months, so it’s best to travel early in the morning.
Miradouro da Fonte Santa
Before reaching Mount Fóia, there is a beautiful viewpoint with amazing views of the Algarve (you can even spot the sea!) called Miradouro da Fonte Santa.
I personally preferred this viewpoint than the one at Mount Fóia and it is often over-looked!
We found the easiest way to find this spot was by following Google Maps (just make sure you download offline in case you lose reception!).
The parking area is a little small (bare left and park up anywhere along the pathway) but we were the only ones there, which was perfect.
Tip: Looking for a place to eat? Before you reach Miradouro da Fonte Santa, there is a cute restaurant called Rampa Restaurant. Here you will find the best chicken Piri Piri’s in Portugal (in my opinion).
Monchique Market Town
If you are into cute narrow cobbled streets then Monchique Market Town is something you’re not going to want to miss!
I felt like I was taken back in time whilst wandering around.
I found there wasn’t much to do there, but if you’re after something a little different, then this is for ya!
Other Places:
Caldas de Monchique is the perfect place to visit for those wanting to pamper themselves in the thermal spring baths. If you are looking for a spa day on your day trip in the Algarve then this place sounds perfect.
2. Lagos, ALGARVE
Lagos is home to beautiful beaches and cliffs- you’ve most likely seen pictures of these already as they are perfect for that Instagram worthy shot in the Algarve and for that reason alone, you’ll deffo want to add this to your list of day trips!
Ponta da Piedade
The beautiful group of rock formations along Lagos coastline is something not to miss. I don’t think you can make a trip to Lagos and not see the Ponta da Piedade!
This can be explored by foot or via a boat or kayak!
Wind down at one of Lagos’ Beaches
Lagos has some fantastic beaches, so to end your perfect day, sit along the beach and watch the awesome sunset. There are plenty of beaches to choose from. The ones I can’t wait to relax on are Praia do Camilo and Praia do Pinhao.
Benagil Cave and Dolphin watching
Ahhh the iconic Benagil caves! These amazing rock formations can be found along the Algarve coast and known for the distinctive hole in the top of the cave! You can take a boat tour from Lagos to see these iconic caves.
You also have the option to see the Benagil caves from Albufeira (which is what we did!), so scroll down for more info on that.
Other Places
Located a little further out of Lagos, you’ll find Seven Hanging Valley Trial.
3. Albufeira, Algarve
This former fishing town is only a 30-minute drive from Faro Airport and is easily accessible by car (but parking can be a little bit of a nightmare).
Home to beaches, rock formations and cute craft shops, this place has it all making it one of the best day trips in the Algarve.
Marina de Albufeira
Marina is the main place where excursions and trips are booked.
But if you don’t have anything booked, this is a great place to grab a drink or bite to eat and enjoy the view, as well as boat spotting (some of them are pretty luxurious!).
This is where we booked a boat with Dream Wave to see the Benagil Caves and wild dolphins! (If you do book a boat trip some companies can’t guarantee that you’ll be able to see the dolphins (as they are wild) or go inside the caves because of the weather. We booked a 10.00 am slot and managed to see both!
Tip: If you are driving in, I recommend parking outside the Marina where there is parking along the streets.
You’re then able to walk down the multi-coloured steps and buildings towards the Marina and also be able to walk through Old Town. Keep in mind that it is a good 30 minute or so walk to Old Town!
Elevador do Peneco
If you do walk from the Marina to Old Town you’ll pass by the Elevador do Peneco. This is an amazing viewpoint overlooking the beach!
Old Town
The cobbled streets of Old Town Albufeira have a variety of shops ranging from pottery and ceramic shops to souvenir shops.
You’ll also see many cork shops selling practically anything made out of cork. Bags, hats, even sunglasses cases! Something to check out whilst you’re there!
Praia do Túnel
This is located near Old Town and if you travel through it, you’ll find the beach in front of you where you can sit down and relax!
Tip: Once you come out of the tunnel, to your left you will find a little restaurant overlooking the beach and sea called Sunset Beach Club. The food is a little basic but I found it’s a great spot to eat somewhere with a view and somewhere we always go to! Plus there are so many cats around!
4. Loulé, Algarve
Loulé is full of cobbled streets, markets and shops. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat and also just soak up the Loulé atmosphere.
Markets
On Saturday Loulé has a brilliant food market.
Mercado Municipal de Loulé is also another market (and my personal favourite) selling a variety of things from food to souvenirs. This is the perfect place to pick up something to take back home!
Loulé Castle
Also known as Castelo de Loulé, this famous castle was re-built in 1924 the site dates back to the 2nd Century!
At the time I went, we didn’t pop inside (honestly I have no idea why) but it is something I would love to see when I’m back.
Tip: near the entrance of the castle you will find a small Church with an amazing painted ceiling (not as extravagant as the one in Vatican City!). I was surprised at the number of people walking by and not noticing how beautiful the Church was, it doesn’t take too much of your time and is deffo something you have to see in Loulé.
5. Estoi, Algarve
Estoi is one of the more quieter day trips in the Algarve, and possibly something you may only need half a day for! Even so, it is not one to miss and ended up being one of my favourite places in the Algarve.
Roman Ruins of Milreu
Okay so you don’t need much time for this but this is an awesome place to check out for a few hours as many of the ruins are beautifully intact!
Best of all, we were literally the only people there for a good hour or so!
Tickets are €2 per person (so cheap!!) and there is a small car park on site.
Palácio de Estoi
Just a two min drive (and 15-minute walk) from the Roman Ruins, is this beautiful palace that has recently been converted into a luxury hotel.
Despite it being a hotel, the gardens and ground floor are free to roam to non-hotel guests and are a perfect place to check out.
6. Faro, Algarve
This list of day trips would not be complete without the capital of Algarve, that’s right ladies and gentleman, Faro itself must be on here.
Faro is a very quiet calm place, and you would not think that you are in the capital of Algarve.
In fact, lots of people say they didn’t find much to do in Faro and whilst there isn’t much to do, there certainly is a lot to see. You just have to take the time to really wander!
Faro Marina
If you are taking a car, I suggest parking near the Marina where you’ll find lots of spaces hidden around. But bring some coins with ya in case you have to pay!
The famous Faro sign is also here, perfect for a little photoshoot. There are also many cafes around the area however the times I’ve visited they’ve been closed (as I’ve always visited December-March which is off-peak).
If you explore further into Faro, you’ll find loads of other places to eat, so have no fear!
You’ll also see so many storks and their nests- see if you can spot them!
Old Town
These narrow cobbled streets are perfect for exploring and getting lost in.
We followed the signs for Sé and ended up in a huge courtyard surrounded by beautiful orange trees!
Faro Cathedral
I haven’t been inside the Cathedral but I can’t wait to go. Apparently the inside is beautiful with amazing carvings.
If you climb to the top you’ll be greeted with some amazing views of Faro which is something I can’t wait to do next.
Entry fee costs €3.50 per adult, not bad eh?!
7. TavirA, Algarve
This is my favourite part of the Algarve as it’s a real off beaten path destination.
Tavira Castle
Also known as Castelo de Tavira, this 11th-century Moorish castle is in ruins but is worth a visit as you can climb to the top of the castle and capture the views of the city.
My favourite part is the colourful courtyard in the castle gardens, filled with beautiful flowers, plants and trees.
Tip: Be careful when walking up the steps of the castle, there are hardly any railings and we saw a few people skid!
Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana de Tavira)
Take a stroll along the Ponte Romana Bridge and admire the clear blue rivers beneath. You may even spot some fish!
8. Seville, sPAIN
Although Seville is located in Spain, it is only a 2-hour drive from Faro Airport, making it a doable day trip!
The last time I was in Portugal I had the option to go but for some reason didn’t. And honestly, I’m regretting it BIG time.
This picturesque city is famous for flamenco dancing, Moorish buildings and so much more.
Plaza de España
If you search for Seville, most likely you will be shown pictures of the Plaza de España. This grand plaza is absolutely beautiful and I can’t wait to visit to learn more about the history of it!
Royal Alcázar of Seville
Take a few hours out to roam around this place and take in the gardens and beautiful architecture. Something not to miss when in Seville!
Seville Cathedral and Giralda
Seville is home to one of the largest cathedrals in the world and also UNESCO World Heritage site. Nearby is the Giralda Tower offering gorgeous views of Seville.
Best time to vISIT THE aLGARVE
Almost every time I’ve visited Portugal, I’ve visited off-peak in March. Although the crowds are low, it is a little chilly and some days can be rainy, so bring an umbrella! Some places to eat and shops are shut in the more offbeat destinations but you’ll still be able to find something to eat or buy.
I decided to switch it up and visited in December around Christmas time last year and LOVED the weather. It was nice and warm with a cool breeze and there weren’t many people around.
I have heard however that September is the best time to visit to get both the good weather and low crowds.
gETTING TO AND aROUND THE aLGARVE for day trips
If you are travelling by plane the best way to get to the Algarve is heading to Faro Airport. All these destinations are within driving distance from there!
I usually use Skyscanner to search for the best and cheapest deals to and from Faro.
To get around the Algarve I highly recommend renting a car. Every year we hire a car and have found it to be the easiest way to get around. Just makes sure to always have some change on you in case you pass tolls!
There you have it guys, my top 8 day trips from Algarve! These are perfect day trips to do but I found some of them I did in half a day, giving me time to rest up back at the hotel!
Have you visited the Algarve before?
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