If there’s a region in Portugal that embodies freedom, light and the sea, it’s the Algarve ! Stretching from the wild Atlantic in the west to the Spanish border in the east, it is the perfect setting for one of Portugal’s most scenic road trips.

Between ochre cliffs, white villages, hidden coves and fishermen’s markets, the journey from Sagres to Vila Real de Santo António promises adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments.

Fasten your seatbelt, here’s a full itinerary with must-see stops… and a few well-kept secrets !

Sagres, the Breath of the Atlantic

This is where the adventure begins, at Portugal’s far southwestern tip! Sagres is not just a beer (nope !) ; it’s a mythical place, associated with sailors, storms, wind-swept cliffs and unforgettable sunsets.

Must-see 

Cabo de São Vicente
Known as “the end of the world,” offering a vast panorama where the ocean seems endless.

Fortaleza de Sagres
A remnant of Portugal’s great maritime explorations, perched against the elements.

Three Little Birds Café
A surfer’s hangout, perfect for a local brunch.

Secret tip : head down to Praia do Beliche, a cliffside cove accessible via steep steps. Visit in the morning, it’s usually deserted !

Lagos, History and Postcard-Perfect Beaches

Heading east along the coast, Lagos marks the transition from the wild Algarve to a gentler side. A charming, small-scale town surrounded by stunning beaches.

Ponta da Piedade
Cliffs sculpted by the sea, with golden, turquoise and emerald waters.

Praia do Camilo and Praia Dona Ana, for sheltered, perfect little coves.

Historic centre
Lively and colourful, with typical restaurants like Casinha do Petisco, famous for its seafood cataplana.

Practical tip : park a little outside the town centre and explore on foot or by tuk-tuk; summer traffic can be heavy.

Portimão and Alvor, Seaside Charm and Traditions

The coast becomes more urban near Portimão, yet still full of surprises !

Praia da Rocha
Iconic and impressive, especially at sunset.

Alvor
A small fishing port with a peaceful atmosphere and a charming pedestrian centre.

Restinga Ria
A seaside restaurant with stunning views and delicious grilled fish.

Secret tip : explore the Ria de Alvor by kayak or paddleboard at sunrise, a maze of lagoons inhabited by herons and flamingos.

Carvoeiro and Benagil, Gems of the Central Coast

The road to Carvoeiro winds through hills and spectacular viewpoints.

Algar Seco : amazing rock formations and caves, a true natural wonder.

Benagil : famous for its sea cave, accessible only by boat or kayak.

Tip : set off early to avoid crowds and choppy waters.

For lunch overlooking the Atlantic, try O Algar nearby; fresh fish, infinite views and a relaxed atmosphere.

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Tavira, the Authentic Soul of the East

As you move away from the busier resorts, the Algarve changes character. Tavira is arguably the most charming surprise on the eastern coast !

Roman bridge and cobbled streets in the historic centre ; visit municipal market (full of life, aromas, and colours) ; Tavira Island reachable by ferry or water taxi, offering a quiet, pristine beach perfect for relaxing !

Secret tip : visit Cacela Velha, a hilltop village overlooking the Ria Formosa, especially magical at sunset.

Vila Real de Santo António, Border and Serenity

The final stop on this road trip : Vila Real de Santo António, on the Guadiana river and the Portuguese-Spanish border.

Stroll the paved squares designed by the same architect as Lisbon’s Baixa and enjoy lunch by the river at Grand House Algarve, a historic hotel with timeless elegance.

Bonus : a 10-minute ferry takes you to Ayamonte in Spain, ideal for a quick tapas before returning to Portugal.

Practical Tips

Ideal duration : 5–7 days to enjoy each stop fully.

Transport : renting a car is essential; roads are well maintained and distances are reasonable.

Best time to go : April-June and September-October; mild climate, fewer tourists, and better prices.

Accommodation : mix authenticity and comfort; guesthouses in Sagres, boutique hotels in Lagos, apartments in Tavira.

Essentials : sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, camera and above all… the desire to explore and enjoy !

A road trip through the Algarve is a journey between land and sea, tradition and modernity.

From Sagres to Vila Real, you’ll discover a sunny, authentic, and irresistibly charming Portugal. Each turn reveals a new landscape, each village tells a story, and each beach is a little paradise.

Here, time slows down, colours intensify, it’s easy to see why so many travellers fall in love with this magical corner of Europe.