Discovering the Charm of Faro
Faro, the largest city in Algarve, is a must-visit. Start your journey in the historical old town and enjoy the scenic views of Ria Formosa.
Top Attractions in Faro
- Explore the Ria Formosa: Take a boat tour to see the natural beauty of this lagoon.
- Visit Faro Cathedral: Discover the rich history and stunning architecture.
- Stroll through the Old Town: Wander the cobbled streets and admire the ancient buildings.
Best Places to Eat in Faro
- O Castelo: Enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes with a view of the old town.
- Faz Gostos: Savor modern takes on classic Algarve cuisine.
- Tasca do Ricky: Try local seafood in a cozy setting.
Day Trips from Faro
- Explore the Rota Literária do Algarve: A literary journey through Algarve’s landscapes and famous writers’ inspirations. Start in Faro, visit Lagos, Loulé, and Portimão. Ideal for literature enthusiasts.
- Visit the Fishing Villages: Discover Ferragudo, Carvoeiro, and Salema for a taste of local life.
- Roam the Medieval Streets of Silves: Enjoy the Islamic-influenced architecture and historical sites.
Exploring Lagos: A Coastal Gem
Lagos is a beautiful, historical city on the Algarve Coast. It’s very tourist-friendly due to the picturesque town, dramatic rock formations, and many restaurant and shopping options. Once you get into Old Town, the cobblestone streets are very narrow and crowded with people, so I definitely recommend mapping to a parking garage and walking.
Must-See Sights in Lagos
On your first day, settle in and explore the area around Lagos. There are some amazing beaches within walking distance of the center of Lagos, which is a bustling little beach town with lots of bars and restaurants (many of them catering overtly to tourists).
A little further out, there are some beaches that are more easily accessible with a car.
Water Activities in Lagos
You can also explore the rock formations and caves by foot. Along the coast between Lagos and Albufeira, there are a number of amazing places to explore. The majority are easily accessible by driving and parking at the top, and if you desire, hiking your way down. The Algar Seco, seen below from the water as well as on foot, was one of our favorites. Walking through the rock to those “windows” was so cool!
Local Cuisine to Try in Lagos
Lagos is a more developed city that sees a huge influx of tourists every summer.
The old town is charming, with plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops to choose from, all within walking distance of most of the places to stay. It’s lively and buzzing, so don’t expect a quiet stay if you’re here in the summer.
In Lagos, we stayed at The Salty Lodge, an apart-hotel with spacious apartments that had everything we needed for our stay, including a full kitchen.
Unveiling the Beauty of Loule
Loule is a perfect spot to explore Algarve’s culture. Visiting the medieval Castle and the local museum will help you understand how the city changed over the centuries.
Historical Landmarks in Loule
Another landmark you can’t miss is the Moorish-styled Loulé Market. Inside you’ll find the freshest local produce, fish, seafood, and traditional handicrafts. I recommend visiting on Saturday, early in the morning. That’s the busiest day of the week at the market and when you’ll have more vendors.
For a remarkable experience, join a guided tour of the Rock Salt Mine, 200 meters deep into the earth. You’ll discover unique geological formations and the mine’s history.
Shopping in Loule
Loule Market is also a great place for shopping. You can find unique items and traditional handicrafts. The market is lively and full of energy, especially on Saturdays.
Cultural Events in Loule
Loule hosts various cultural events throughout the year. These events are a great way to explore Portugal’s culture through its music, dance, and art. Don’t miss the annual Carnival, one of the most famous in Portugal.
Portimão: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Portimão is a historic fishing town dating back to pre-Roman times. Although much of its historic buildings were destroyed in an earthquake in the 1700s, the town has managed to blend tradition with modernity. The riverfront area is a pleasant place to spend an hour or two, especially if you’re heading east from Lagos or the western coast. Portimão is also a stop on many cruise ships’ itineraries, so it gets packed during the day as day trippers head into the city or nearby areas.
Tavira: A Town Steeped in History
Tavira is a charming riverfront town with a rich history. The Roman bridge and medieval castle remains are must-see landmarks. Don’t miss the Igreja da Nossa Senhora das Ondas or the Convento da Nossa Senhora da Graça. Enjoy an unforgettable sunset at the beach on Tavira Island.
Lisbon: The Heart of Portugal
Lisbon is a fascinating and inspiring place to spend a few days. The city is always alive with people, buses, and cars. Train stations are conveniently located, making travel easy. The variety of restaurants is huge, offering something for everyone.
Road Trip Essentials: Algarve to Lisbon
Scenic Stops Along the Way
Consider taking the inland motorway for a quicker route. Make a lunch stop at Alcacer do Sal or Ourique. For a more scenic journey, travel along the Alentejo Coast. Pause at Aljezur and Vila Nova de Milfontes for breathtaking views.
Travel Tips for the Journey
Plan extra time for meals and amazing views. You will be stopping more than you think. If you have an evening flight from Lisbon, factor in extra time. This route is ideal for all travelers.
Recommended Itineraries
- Head down via the inland motorway and return along the Alentejo Coast.
- Spend a full day exploring the scenic coastal route.
- Combine both routes for the ultimate guide to visiting Lagos, Portugal. Transportation tips, accommodation options, and activities. Easy access from Faro and Lisbon airports.
