The Algarve Beyond the Resorts: The Ultimate 7 day Travel Guide.
Many people picture the Algarve as crowded resorts and nightlife in Albufeira, but the region has a quieter, more authentic side. Tranquil beaches, tiny fishing villages, scenic cliffs, and forested trails. This guide shows how to experience the Algarve from west to east, with practical advice on accommodation, transport, beaches, and hidden gems, so you can plan a week that feels relaxed and achievable.
Day 1–3: Western Algarve: Luz, Carvoeiro, and Lagos
We started in Luz, a laid-back town ideal for beach access and small village charm. Staying close to the beach means sunrise walks and quick dips in the ocean without needing to drive.
For transport, we used a rental car for flexibility exploring cliffs and hidden coves, and Uber for evenings or short trips, cost effective, convenient, and widely available.
Things to Do in Luz
Praia do Camilo: Visit early to enjoy the beach before the crowds.
Cliffside sunset: Watch the light spill over the ocean — perfect for a picnic or photography.
Dinner at Arte: Fresh local seafood at a relaxed pace.
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro blends fishing village nostalgia with dramatic cliffs.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk: Start near the hilltop church. Hike along wooden paths hugging cliffs to Algar Seco rock pools and Boneca Bar.
Praia de Vale Covo: A quiet beach near the Tivoli Hotel, ending at the red lighthouse.
Uber or park if you prefer not to hike.
Lunch tip: Restaurante Casa da Tocha (20-minute drive from Carvoeiro) offers top-quality seafood at excellent value.
Lagos
Historic Lagos is famous for cobbled streets, tiled buildings, and cliffside beaches.
Start with coffee at Black and White.
Quick snack at Casa do Prego, then explore the streets.
Late lunch at Azimute Lagos for local seafood.
Sunrise at Praia da Marinha: Park at the clifftop and walk for multiple viewpoints — the clifftop trail is perfect for picnics.
Transport tip: For smaller beaches without parking, Uber is convenient and cost-effective, avoiding the stress of finding parking.
Book a Sea Safari with Ocean Blue Portugal
What a day. After a quick coffee at Everyday People near the marina, we headed straight out on the boat for an incredible 3 hour experience, made even better by perfect weather and stunning coastline and wildlife.
After some time relaxing at Praia do Caneiros beach, we wrapped things up with a late lunch at Casa Rei das Praias, great food, ocean views, and a sea breeze that made for the perfect ending.
Sunrise at Camilo Beach, Lagos
Watching the sunrise at Camilo Beach offers a rare chance to experience its stunning beauty in peace, before the crowds arrive. With the soft light illuminating the cliffs and the calm sea, it’s a quiet, personal moment that captures the beach’s true charm.
Day 4–7: Eastern Algarve: Tavira, Cacela Velha, and Alvor
We moved east, staying just outside Tavira. The location was quiet but a short drive from the historic center and beaches. Local buses (e.g., number 16 to Tavira beaches) and Uber complemented our rental car, making travel seamless.
Tavira Highlights
Santa Luzia: Small fishing village, known for octopus dishes and calm waterfront.
Cabanas: Quiet boardwalk with easy beach access by ferry.
Cacela Velha: Clifftop village above the Ria Formosa — incredible views at low tide. Watch tides if you walk down to the beach.
Praia da Armona: Accessible by short ferry or private boat taxi, ideal for a full day of slow beach time.
Alvor: Secret Caves and Snorkelling
Explore hidden sea caves near Praia de Boião: Snorkeling or join a small Zip&Trip tour with a local marine biologist.
Uber or drive from Tavira or Lagos if visiting en route.
Where to Stay
Tavira outskirts or Hospedaria style stays provide peace, but a short drive keeps beaches and town centers accessible. This was our choice, see below.
Tip: You don’t need a car for every trip, Uber works well for evenings, short beach trips, or restaurant hops.
Places to Visit and Things to do
The eastern Algarve offers a quieter, more understated charm, and these spots are well worth a visit. Santa Luzia is a small fishing village known for its octopus dishes and relaxed waterfront. Cabanas has a sleepy, low-key vibe, with a boardwalk and easy access to the beach by boat. Cacela Velha, a personal highlight, is perched above the coast with incredible views, whitewashed houses, and a timeless feel that makes it especially memorable. For something a little different and a day on the beach, take the short ferry or private boat taxi to Praia da Armona, a long, sandy stretch with clear waters and a slow, peaceful rhythm that’s perfect for a full day of unwinding.
Algarve Food & Drink
Seafood everywhere: Octopus in Tavira, oysters in Cacela Velha, fresh fish in Carvoeiro.
Boneca Bar (Carvoeiro): Wine on the rocks overlooking the Atlantic.
Picnics: Clifftop trails at Praia da Marinha or Lagos.
Local cafés: Coffee in village squares is part of the slow Algarve experience.
A little tip we’ve learnt: Share dishes when possible to try more flavors without over ordering.
Practical Travel Tips
Transport: Car rental is ideal, but Uber and buses make the region accessible without a car.
Flights: Faro Airport is the main hub; budget flights are available from most European cities.
Timing: Shoulder season (late September–October or May–June) offers warm weather, swimmable seas, and fewer crowds.
Packing: Sturdy shoes for cliff walks, swim gear, and light layers for evenings.
Budgeting: Eating at smaller local restaurants or cafés keeps costs low.
Final Thoughts
A week in the Algarve doesn’t have to mean crowded resorts and rushed sightseeing. By dividing your time between west and east, embracing slower paced travel, and using practical transport options, you can experience peaceful beaches, authentic villages, and local cuisine. Focus on daily highlights, let the region set your pace, and skip the tourist traps, this is how the Algarve is meant to be explored.
