Long sandy beaches, fabulous caves and cliffs that cut through the landscape are just some of the sights we like to associate with the south of Portugal. But where is the space for the local gastronomy? The towns with their narrow streets and the stories of when the Muslims occupied our territory? We've packed our bags to travel for 5 days around the Algarve. Are you ready to embark on this journey with us?  

The Algarve is favoured with mild temperatures almost all year round. So, when we think about a long-delayed road trip with friends, why not include this region in the GPS? If most of us only think of the Algarve for our summer holiday plans, join us to discover that the south is made up of much more than just beaches. 

Many flavours are waiting for you, traditions that are still preserved and some of the most beautiful places you can find. Follow our instructions for 5 days in the Algarve.

Do you want to start travelling to one of the most popular places among tourists? If a low-cost trip is in your plans, then, you'd better start planning. Take advantage of our tips for a low-cost adventure. 

Creating your itinerary helps control unnecessary spending. Take the time to analyse our suggestion of 5 days in the Algarve, select the places you're most curious about and hit the road. Find out more about the precautions you should take when travelling by car here.

We promise that travelling through the Algarve will prove to be a pleasant surprise. It's a destination that matches any adventurous profile, offering countless entertainment options. Between water sports, nightlife, typical chimney villages and cities with unique architecture, the choice is yours the suggestions are ours. 

Our 5-days in the Algarve will take you from Barlavento to Sotavento, the way the Algarvians divide their territory. As if to say, from Vila do Bispo to Albufeira and from Loulé to Vila Real de Santo António.

The Barlavento offers diverse adventures. The Algarve's best-known destinations are on this side of the map, with countless caves to explore, beaches that offer fun for surfers and entertainment for those who like long days. In Barlavento you'll find:

 

The Sotavento offers families the most peaceful destinations without losing all the charm of the Algarve. The National Road 2 ends in this corner of the map of Portugal, with small islands waiting to be explored by you, towns, and cities with a lot of history. You'll find: 

Where for some people their adventure along the Costa Vicentina ends, for us the 5 days through the Algarve begins. Odeceixe is a town well known for its sea sports, much sought after by surfers. It offers numerous hiking trails that connect you to Zambujeira do Mar. Its famous cliffs are worth a visit and there's nothing like trying a surf lesson. 

Monte Clérigo is a small village, very close to Aljezur, which is on our list of places not to be missed in the Algarve. And there's nothing better than saving a sunset for the tranquillity of Pontal da Carrapateira, with its breathtaking views. Don't forget to discover the village of Pedralva, where you can enjoy donkey rides, bike rides and much more. 

Hit the road to reach Vila do Bispo, where you'll be treated to several craft shops and a wall full of dishes to get you started on this "Instagrammable” adventure. Right next door, the unmissable tip of Sagres. We may not be deep-sea sailors, but even the best car hire should pass by the mythical "Rose of the Winds" that resides here. Let yourself be inspired by the beauty of the Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse and the Almadena Fortress.

During these 5 days in the Algarve, we had to include Praia do Burgau. Stop for a coffee, take a dip in the sea - weather permitting - and continue your journey towards the heart of the Algarve. 

 

It's almost impossible not to have come across the fabulous landscapes of Lagos during your research. The yellow cliffs, the golden sandy beaches, and the caves that dazzle us are almost all in this corner of the Algarve. So set aside part of a whole day on our itinerary so you can venture out on one of the many boat trips. Discover a more detailed Lagos itinerary.

Between Portimão and Lagos, you'll discover a true paradise unknown to many. Around 1,500 hectares make up the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. Discover the countless animals that live here. The best time to visit it is between May and September.  

Alvor's beaches have somehow managed to retain the appearance of a deserted beach. It's the perfect combination of tranquillity and the beauty of the Algarve. Numerous trails await you here. The Ria is great for water sports.  

Between Lagoa and Albufeira, the village of Porches awaits your visit. It's a land of traditional ceramic pieces, perfect for souvenirs. Before setting off on your 5-day Algarve holiday, take the opportunity to discover the streets and history of Portimão.

Continue your journey to Silves, where you'll find the town's incredible castle. It's one of the few examples of Islamic influence in the region and has been well preserved. It has been a national monument since 1910 and here you'll discover the Municipal Archaeological Museum, where you can see some of the main finds unearthed.  

Head down to Lagoa and get ready for some more paradisiacal scenery. It's on this side of the Algarve that you'll find the famous Carvoeiro beach and the Benagil Cave. So, a boat trip is a must to discover the natural beauty of one of the region's "ex-libris". You can also try your hand at a range of water sports.  

During these 5-days in the Algarve, there's nothing like passing through Armação de Pêra, where you'll find a fishermen's neighbourhood that is still very characteristic of the Algarve and well worth a visit. Continue to Albufeira, where the marina makes you dream of bigger adventures. The centre of Albufeira guides you through the intense city life, with streets full of shops and restaurants. In addition, the city has a great nightlife offer, with numerous bars and some of the best beaches in the Algarve.

Are we still travelling or are you already tired? Because the Algarve is only halfway through, we still have plenty of suggestions for you. So set your pace for 5 intense days of pure exploration.

Can we call Vilamoura our Monte Carlo? From the incredible Vilamoura Marina to the imposing houses with Algarvian architecture and the long stretches of sand, this town is straight out of a fairy-tale. It is the departure port for countless boat trips, so don't miss out on some of the offers available, such as seeing the extraordinary dolphins.  

Right next door is Quarteira, a town where fishermen are still part of the local charm. The small lighthouses that await the entrance of the boats at the quay are the perfect place for an end-of-day stroll. Here you can see the fishermen getting ready for another long night's work. From the beach, you can admire the dozens of boats that will spend the night at sea, already moored in their respective places. 

Throughout the summer, Quarteira offers various cultural options. From music festivals to craft fairs and entertainment on the promenade. Faro is about 30 minutes away and that's where we're heading.

The streets of the Algarve's capital have a historic part where you'll find not only the Cathedral but also the ancient walls, which lead you through narrow alleys and whitewashed houses until you reach the beautiful Arco da Vila. Then you can discover the small marina and watch the aeroplanes land at the airport next door. To get to the beach you'll have to take a boat, but we promise it's well worth the journey. 

Olhão awaits you with streets begging you to leave the car behind and explore everything on foot. The old city, with its narrow streets, offers you a program that guides you through the Islamic history of the region. Take the route of the legends of Olhão. Fresh fish is a constant in the Algarve, so take advantage of these 5 days in the Algarve to taste the various local delicacies.

The Ria Formosa Natural Park calls for a boat trip. There's nothing like taking the opportunity to discover Culatra Island, Armona Island or Farol Island. There are seventeen thousand hectares of pure discovery, offering options such as cycling or a walking tour, to discover the local fauna and flora.

Tavira should be a must-see destination for everyone. The city is uniquely beautiful, and its inhabitants are very welcoming. However, it is Cacela Velha Beach and the town itself that win over everyone. It is known that during Arab rule it was an important settlement with a charter since 1283. You will find its fort housed in an ancient fossil cliff.

Monte Gordo beach, close to our final destination, is great for family holidays. If you want to do this, be sure to follow our tips for travelling with children. With streets full of shops, restaurants, and a varied hotel offer.

Vila Real de Santo António awaits you with its extensive sandy beaches, but also cosmopolitan life. Thanks to its proximity to Spain, the architecture itself deserves a calm walk through the city's streets, with a Pombaline style reminiscent of the Portuguese capital. Take the opportunity to cross by boat to Ayamonte, in Spain.

Whatever your adventure, Guerin is the right company. Choose the car hire best suited to your trip from Guerin's vast fleet and don't wait any longer. Take advantage of the best travel tips on our blog.