The Algarve in One Day

The Algarve in one day: the most beautiful beach, the Moorish castle and the grottoes of Lagos.

For anyone with a single day who wants to take the Algarve home in their memory: the beach of arches, the red castle of Silves and the rock formations of Lagos. It is a full day, with more driving than the short outings, but your driver handles it all and waits at every stop. Designed for cruise passengers in Portimão.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Praia da Marinha

   From the clifftop viewpoint you look down on stone arches and a rock that, from the right angle, forms a heart. A long staircase leads down to the beach, where the clear water is good for swimming and spotting fish among the rocks. The Seven Hanging Valleys trail also starts here. Go early in the morning, before the groups arrive, and wear comfortable shoes for the steps, which take some effort on the way back up.

2. 

   2

   Castelo de Silves

   Silves was one of the Algarve's leading cities under Moorish rule, and its reddish stone castle still towers over the town. You can walk the ramparts with views across the rooftops, the Arade river and the orange groves around. The cathedral sits just below and is worth a look. Castle admission is paid separately. The streets climb steeply, so wear comfortable shoes, and try local oranges or an almond sweet in town.

3. 

   3

   Ponta da Piedade

   South of Lagos, by the lighthouse, the coast breaks into arches, rock pillars and caves above clear green water. From the clifftop viewpoints and boardwalks you take in the whole outline, and a long staircase leads down to sea level, where small boats and kayaks slip into the grottoes. Boat trips are paid separately. Late afternoon light is the loveliest; the staircase is steep, so wear sturdy shoes.

The essentials

Duration

7–8 h · Full day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Anyone with only one day (cruise passengers in Portimão).

The route