Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in the sun-drenched landscapes of the Algarve, Portugal. Here, golden beaches, quaint villages, and clear blue waters beckon. Our guide offers a carefully curated mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and relaxation to help you maximize your 2 days in the Algarve. Prepare to create lasting memories that your family will cherish forever.
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DAY ONE
Carvoeiro
This charming coastal town is an ideal starting point for an Algarve adventure, thanks in part to its stunning beach area.
While you’re near the coast, you can take some time to enjoy the calm blue waters of Carvoeiro Beach.
Alongside the ocean, white-painted houses dot the hillsides that slope down to the beach, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Further inland, several streets are lined with shops and restaurants, providing plenty to explore and enjoy.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Just a short distance from the town center, there is a picturesque boardwalk offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s an ideal place to enjoy panoramic vistas or snap some great photos, and the path is easy and family-friendly. Following the boardwalk leads to one of the most impressive rock formations in the Algarve.
Algar Seco
This rock formation features a series of cliffs, tunnels, grottoes, and caves, some of which can be explored on foot, accessible by a staircase from the boardwalk.
The Boneca Cave is particularly popular in Algar Seco, known for its two large openings that offer a view of the ocean from inside the cave. Additionally, there are natural pools in the area that are safe for swimming.
Benagil Caves Tour
From the town of Carvoeiro, it’s easy to take a boat tour of the famous Benagil Caves. We chose Carvoeiro Caves Tours, which handled everything for our family.
With several options available, we opted for the 90-minute speedboat tour. The duration was perfect for our two kids, and the smaller speedboat allowed us to see a lot in a short time.
It also made it easier to navigate in and out of some of the smaller caves. I highly recommend this tour.
DAY TWO
Praia da Marinha
This beach is one of the most beautiful in the world, standing out even in a region renowned for its natural beauty. Seeing it in person is truly stunning.
The combination of turquoise waters, golden sand, and the orange-yellow limestone cliffs that border the beach is breathtaking. At the end of the beach is the famous “M” rock formation.
Praia da Marinha is a place I wish I had known more about beforehand. I had heard it was beautiful, but words and pictures don’t do it justice.
I regret not spending more time to enjoy this gem, so make sure you don’t make the same mistake. Give yourself plenty of time to experience Praia da Marinha. It really could be a full day activity.
Once you’ve finished your beach activities, head back to the Lagos area for your next destination.
Ponta de Piedade
This is another natural highlight of the Algarve, located just outside the town of Lagos. The magnificent cliffs and rock formations here are stunning in their rugged beauty.
The area around Ponta da Piedade remains remarkably undeveloped, preserving its authentic, natural feel. You can descend the steps down to sea level and even take another boat tour.
While the Benagil Caves are the most famous in the region, they’re not the only ones to explore.
This entire area is filled with caves, grottoes, and other natural formations waiting to be discovered.
Green House
As you head back into town, be sure to visit one of the most popular spots in the old part of Lagos, the Green House. Located in a charming square in a bustling part of town, this lovely green-tiled building is a sight to behold.
The area is also filled with restaurants and shops to explore. You can follow the street down to the canal for a pleasant view, or wander through the winding side streets of the old town for a more immersive experience.
Lagos Old Town
This area of Lagos was our favorite. The charming side streets, colorful buildings, and abundance of shops and restaurants serving delicious food make it a wonderful place to spend time.
The streets are always lively and vibrant, filled with sounds and activity. Despite the festive atmosphere, it never felt overwhelming and was a welcoming area for families as well.
HOW TO GET AROUND THE ALGARVE
While public transportation is available in the Algarve, it can be limited, making car rental the best option for exploring the region’s charming towns and villages. Many of the most scenic and remote locations are only accessible by car, providing the flexibility and convenience to plan your own schedule.
Renting a car from Faro Airport is straightforward—just bring your driver’s license and passport. That’s exactly what we did, and having our own vehicle made it easy to travel wherever we wanted, whenever we wanted.
To ensure a smooth experience, book your car in advance during peak seasons and familiarize yourself with the toll roads in the area.
THE BEST AREAS TO STAY IN THE ALGARVE
When deciding where to stay in the Algarve, consider family-friendly destinations like Lagos, Albufeira, and Vilamoura, each offering a unique blend of attractions. Lagos, where we stayed, is ideal for families seeking a mix of history and breathtaking coastline. Albufeira is known for its lively beach resorts and entertainment options that cater to all ages, making it a vibrant choice for families. For those looking for a more upscale experience, Vilamoura offers luxury accommodations and stunning marina views. Each of these locations provides easy access to outdoor adventures, local dining, and family-friendly activities, ensuring an unforgettable Algarve getaway.
ENJOY 2 DAYS IN THE ALGARVE
Although the Algarve is a vast region, you can experience much of its unique charm in just three days. You’ll find it’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and tranquility. Now that your itinerary is planned, you can start preparing for the other parts of your journey. Be sure to check out our essential planning guide for the Algarve as well as our helpful packing guide for your trip to Portugal.
