Prepare for an unforgettable family adventure through the Algarve, Portugal, where golden beaches, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear waters await. Our guide offers a perfect balance of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxation, ensuring that your four days in this stunning region are filled with fun and lasting memories. Whether exploring rugged cliffs, charming streets, or tranquil shores, your family will have an amazing time in this diverse region. Dive into our Algarve 4 day itinerary and get ready for a trip that everyone will love!
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DAY ONE
Carvoeiro

This charming coastal town is an ideal starting point for your Algarve adventure, thanks to its picturesque beach and stunning views. Whitewashed houses cascade down the hills toward the shore, creating a postcard-perfect scene.
Beyond the beach, you can explore streets lined with a variety of shops and restaurants, offering plenty of options for dining and shopping. The town’s blend of scenic beauty and lively atmosphere makes it a great place to immerse yourself in the Algarve’s charm.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Just a short distance from the town center, you’ll find a scenic boardwalk offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an ideal spot for family-friendly strolls and capturing memorable photos.
The easy path leads you to one of the Algarve’s most spectacular rock formations, making it a must-see for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful outdoor experience.
Algar Seco
This impressive rock formation consists of cliffs, tunnels, grottoes, and caves, some of which can be explored on foot via a staircase from the boardwalk.
The highlight of Algar Seco is the Boneca Cave, known for its two large openings that frame stunning views of the ocean from inside. Additionally, there are natural pools in the area, providing safe spots for a refreshing swim, making it a fun and scenic stop for families.
Benagil Caves Tour
From Carvoeiro, you can easily hop on a boat tour to explore the famous Benagil Caves. We opted for a 90-minute speedboat tour with Carvoeiro Caves Tours, and it was the perfect choice for our family.
The tour length was ideal for kids, and the smaller speedboat allowed us to visit many caves, even the smaller ones, efficiently. The experience was well-organized, and I highly recommend it for families looking to see a lot without a long time commitment.
DAY TWO
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is truly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its turquoise waters, golden sands, and striking orange-yellow limestone cliffs create a breathtaking scene.
The famous “M” rock formation at one end adds to its unique charm. While it’s widely known for its beauty, seeing it in person exceeds expectations.
If you’re visiting, make sure to allow for enough time to fully enjoy this gem, as we wished we had stayed longer. Once you’re done with your beach day, head back toward Lagos for the next adventure.
Ponta de Piedade
Ponta da Piedade, located just outside Lagos, is another natural wonder in the Algarve. Its rugged cliffs and striking rock formations offer a stunning display of untouched beauty.
The area remains largely undeveloped, preserving its authentic charm. Visitors can descend steps to sea level and even take a boat tour to explore the caves and grottoes.
While the Benagil Caves are the most famous, this region is filled with equally captivating natural formations waiting to be discovered.
Green House
As you head back into Lagos, make sure to visit one of the town’s most iconic spots, the Green House. Located in a lively square in the old town, this beautiful green-tiled home is a must-see.
The area is bustling with shops and restaurants, offering a great atmosphere to explore. From here, you can stroll down to the canal for a scenic view or meander through the charming, winding streets of the old town, soaking in the history and culture of Lagos.
Old Town
This part of Lagos quickly became our favorite. The vibrant side streets, colorful buildings, and bustling shops create an energetic atmosphere.
The local restaurants serve up delicious food, and the streets are always filled with life and sound. Despite the lively ambiance, it never feels overwhelming, making it a great area for families to explore and enjoy.
The combination of culture, food, and festive spirit makes this part of Lagos an ideal place to spend some time during your visit.
DAY THREE
Praia da Camilo
This small but picturesque beach, located near Ponta da Piedade, offers stunning views but is known for its limited size and occasional seaweed near the water, which may make swimming less ideal.
It features a unique tunnel connecting both sides of the beach and a long staircase for access, though it may not be suitable for strollers or young children due to the climb.
There are no facilities here, but the view from the top and the nearby boardwalk make it a worthwhile stop for families.
Praia Dona Ana
This beach is perfect for families looking for a fun day by the ocean. Though it’s located at the base of cliffs, requiring a descent down a long staircase, the effort is worth it.
The beach offers convenient changing facilities and outdoor showers. The waves are gentle enough for kids to enjoy safely, and while the Atlantic waters may be cooler than expected, they provide a refreshing break on hot summer days.
Just remember to pack light for the trek down to the shore.
Sagres
Ever dreamed of visiting the edge of the world? Now’s your chance! Just a half-hour drive west of Lagos on the N125 brings you to the southwesternmost point of Europe.
Here, you’ll find rugged, wind-swept cliffs that meet the Atlantic in dramatic fashion. While you’re exploring, be sure to visit the area’s highlights: the historic fortress, the iconic lighthouse, the charming town, and one of the stunning local beaches.
It’s a remarkable spot full of natural beauty and adventure.
DAY FOUR
Zoomarine
For a perfect family-friendly finale to your Algarve trip, spend the day at Zoomarine. This marine-themed park offers something for everyone. Kids will love the dolphin and sea lion shows, and they can learn about marine life through interactive exhibits.
There are also fun water rides, a wave pool, and an aquarium to explore. With plenty of shade and rest areas, it’s a relaxing yet exciting way to wrap up your Algarve adventure, ensuring the kids have a blast while making lasting memories!
Lagoa dos Salgados Nature Reserve
After a thrilling day at Zoomarine, take a short drive to the nearby Lagoa dos Salgados Nature Reserve for a peaceful afternoon in nature. The reserve is an ideal spot for families with young children, offering an easy boardwalk trail that winds through marshlands and sand dunes.
It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to spot local wildlife, including various bird species like flamingos. The tranquil environment provides a perfect contrast to the excitement of Zoomarine, letting you end the day in serene natural surroundings.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE ALGARVE
When choosing where to stay in the Algarve, consider family-friendly areas like Lagos, Albufeira, and Vilamoura, which offer a mix of stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and kid-friendly activities.
Lagos is where we stayed and is ideal for families seeking history and beautiful coastline, while Albufeira has lively beach resorts and entertainment for all ages. For a more upscale vibe, Vilamoura offers luxury accommodations and marina views.
Each area provides easy access to outdoor adventures, local dining, and family-oriented attractions, ensuring a memorable Algarve getaway.
HOW TO GET AROUND THE ALGARVE
Public transportation in the Algarve is available but limited, making renting a car the best option for exploring the region’s many towns and villages. Some of the most scenic and remote sites are only accessible by car, so having your own vehicle allows for flexibility and convenience.
Renting a car from Faro Airport is simple; all you need is your driver’s license and passport. That’s what we did and we were very happy to have the flexibility to go where we wanted when we wanted.
Be sure to book your car in advance during peak seasons, and familiarize yourself with toll roads in the area for a smooth journey.
ENJOY YOUR 4 DAYS IN THE ALGARVE
While the region is vast, four days are enough to experience its unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. With this itinerary in hand, you’ll be ready to explore the best of the Algarve, from scenic beaches to charming towns. Don’t forget to check out our packing guide for your trip to Portugal as well as the essential tips that you need to know so you can be well-prepared for your adventure! Safe travels!