Planning a family trip to the Algarve? Great choice. But with such a sprawling and diverse region, the question is: how many days should you set aside? You’ll want to strike the right balance between seeing the must-visit spots and giving yourself time to explore the hidden gems and natural beauty that make the Algarve so special. So let’s break it down and find the perfect amount of time to make the most of your trip.
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HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN THE ALGARVE?
Four days in the Algarve—just enough time to get a real taste of this sun-soaked slice of southern Portugal. This place has some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever see, the kind that make you forget about time.
But it’s not just about the coastline. Towns like Lagos and Carvoeiro call out to be explored, with their cobblestone streets and a vibe that makes you want to linger.
If you’re up for a little adventure, the boat tours are a must. The Benagil Caves? Yeah, they’re as iconic as they come. Four days here is the sweet spot—you’ll soak in the beauty, savor the experience, and leave before the magic wears off.
4-DAY ALGARVE ITINERARY
DAY ONE
Carvoeiro – Carvoeiro is a charming coastal town with a stunning beach, vibrant atmosphere, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk – This scenic boardwalk offers breathtaking Atlantic views and leads to some of the Algarve’s most spectacular rock formations.
Algar Seco – Algar Seco features impressive cliffs, tunnels, and caves, including the Boneca Cave with stunning ocean views.
Benagil Caves Tour – The 90-minute Benagil Caves tour from Carvoeiro provides a family-friendly way to explore the famous caves by speedboat.
DAY TWO
Praia da Marinha – Praia da Marinha is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, known for its turquoise waters, golden sands, and iconic rock formations.
Ponta de Piedade – Ponta de Piedade, near Lagos, offers rugged cliffs and captivating rock formations that can be explored by foot or boat.
Green House – The Green House in Lagos’ old town is a must-see, surrounded by a lively square filled with shops and restaurants.
Lagos Old Town – Lagos’ old town is a vibrant area with colorful streets, bustling shops, and a lively atmosphere perfect for family exploration.
DAY THREE
Praia da Camilo – Praia da Camilo is a small, picturesque beach with stunning views, accessible by a long staircase and connected by a tunnel.
Praia Dona Ana – Praia Dona Ana offers family-friendly beach fun with gentle waves, changing facilities, and dramatic cliff views.
Sagres – Sagres, located at Europe’s southwesternmost point, is known for its dramatic cliffs, historic landmarks, and natural beauty.
DAY FOUR
Zoomarine – Zoomarine is a family-friendly marine park offering animal shows, interactive exhibits, and fun water rides for all ages.
Lagoa dos Salgados Nature Reserve – Lagoa dos Salgados Nature Reserve provides a peaceful setting for families to enjoy a boardwalk trail and spot local wildlife like flamingos.
Click here for a detailed version of this itinerary.
IF YOU HAVE LESS THAN FOUR DAYS TO SPEND IN THE ALGARVE
You’ll have some tough decisions to make. The best way would be to choose between Zoomarine and Lagoa dos Salgados Nature Reserve and cut out either Praia Dona Ana or Praia da Camilo.
From there you can rearrange the itinerary as you see fit; however, no matter what you have to cut from your itinerary these absolutely have to be included:
Benagil Caves Tour
Praia da Marinha
Ponta de Piedade
Lagos Old Town
WHY YOU NEED MORE TIME IN THE ALGARVE
The Algarve is a feast for the eyes and soul—vast, diverse, and packed with beauty. Sure, the landscapes alone will make you pause, but there’s more here than just nature.
This region has culture seeping out of every corner, waiting for those willing to look. And the food? You don’t want to rush that—trust me. This is the kind of place where you need to take your time, sit down, and let it all sink in.
Rushing through the Algarve would be a crime; you’d miss the heart of what makes it special.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME IN THE ALGARVE
A visit to the Algarve requires careful planning so that you can make the most of all that it offers. This is the ideal location for a family vacation so make sure that you schedule enough time for an amazing visit. As you plan, be sure to check out our guide on how to get to the Algarve, the best time to visit the Algarve as well as our best tips for a fun family trip to the Algarve.
