Algarve in 7 Days: Complete Itinerary

A week is an excellent period to get to know the Algarve at a leisurely pace. This 7-day itinerary through the Algarve combines beaches, historic cities, nature, gastronomy and some of the region's most emblematic landscapes.

Day 1: Faro and Ria Formosa

Start in the Algarve capital. Explore the Old Town of Faro, visit the Cathedral and finish with a boat trip along the Ria Formosa.

• Old City
• Faro Cathedral
• Marina
• Tour in the Ria Formosa

Day 2: Tavira and Cacela Velha

Go to Tavira, one of the most beautiful cities in the lee. Stroll along Gilão, discover the historic center and end the day in Cacela Velha, with views over the Ria Formosa.

Day 3: Vilamoura and Loulé

Start in the historic center and market of Loulé. In the afternoon, head to Vilamoura, enjoy the beach and end the day with a walk around the Marina.

• Loulé Market
• Historic Center
• Vilamoura Beach
• Vilamoura Marina

Day 4: Carvoeiro and Benagil

Reserve this day for the central coast. Visit Carvoeiro, explore Algar Seco and discover the famous Benagil area through authorized operators and access.

• Carvoeiro
• Algar Seco
• Walkwalks
• Benagil

Day 5: Lagos and Ponta da Piedade

Lagos combines history and some of the most famous beaches in the Algarve. Explore the historic center and then head to Ponta da Piedade.

• Historical Center of Lagos
• Dona Ana Beach
• Camilo Beach
• Ponta da Piedade

Day 6: Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente

Discover the wilder side of the Algarve. Visit Sagres, the Fortress and finish at Cabo de São Vicente, one of the best places in the region to watch the sunset.

Day 7: Silves and Monchique

On the last day, swap the coast for the interior. Discover Silves Castle, stroll through the historic center and head to Monchique and Serra da Foia to end the trip with a different perspective of the Algarve.

7-day itinerary in a nutshell

• Day 1: Faro and Ria Formosa
• Day 2: Tavira and Cacela Velha
• Day 3: Loulé and Vilamoura
• Day 4: Carvoeiro and Benagil
• Day 5: Lagos and Ponta da Piedade
• Day 6: Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente
• Day 7: Silves and Monchique

Tips for exploring the Algarve

• Renting a car makes getting around a lot easier.
• Start early in the summer months.
• Book boat trips in advance.
• Take water, sun protection and comfortable shoes.
• Leave some free time to discover places along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 7 days enough to get to know the Algarve?

Yes. A week allows you to see the main points of the leeward, center, windward and interior, although there are many other places for a second visit.

Where to stay to do this itinerary?

A central location, such as Vilamoura or Albufeira, makes getting around easier. Another option is to split your stay between the eastern and western Algarve.

Is a car necessary?

It is not mandatory, but it is the most practical solution for completing a 7-day itinerary and visiting beaches, villages and places far from main transport.

Conclusion

This itinerary through the Algarve in 7 days allows you to discover much more than beaches. Between Faro, Tavira, Vilamoura, Benagil, Lagos, Sagres, Silves and Monchique you will find history, nature, gastronomy and landscapes that show different sides of the region.