Start the day with a scenic hike along the Algarve coastline to Praia da Marinha. This beach has been ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe for its crystal-clear water, golden sand, and stunning rock formations. After your hike, relax on the beach or take a kayak tour to explore the surrounding sea caves.
Explore the rugged terrain of the Algarve on an off-road quad bike adventure. Zip through the countryside and visit traditional villages, stop for a picnic lunch in the hills or race your friends up the dunes. Adrenaline and breathtaking views guaranteed!
Drive to Sagres, a paradise for adventure lovers. Start the day with a surf lesson on one of the iconic surfing spots in Europe, be it the beginner-friendly Tonel or the more challenging Beliche. In the afternoon, head to the cliffs on the west coast to try your skills in rock climbing and abseiling, admiring the sunset from a different perspective.
Discover the underwater world off the coast of Albufeira with a scuba diving experience. Meet colorful fish, octopuses, and even barracudas as you explore the artificial reefs and natural rock formations. For certified divers, there are deeper wreck dives and cave dives to explore.
End your trip with an eco-friendly adventure in Ria Formosa Natural Park. Paddle through the salt marshes, canals, and lagoons on a guided kayak tour or stand-up paddleboard excursion. Spot flamingos, storks, and other bird species, and learn about the unique flora and fauna of this valuable ecosystem.
You will need to rent a car to get around the Algarve region, where most of the attractions are located. There are several car hire companies at Faro International Airport, where you will probably arrive. Expect to pay around 100€ for a five-day car rental. Alternatively, you can take buses or trains between towns, but they are less frequent and flexible than driving.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to Benagil Cave, one of the most Instagrammable spots in the Algarve. You can take a boat tour or paddleboard there. For foodies, check out the local seafood restaurants in Olhão or Tavira. If you have less time, you can skip Sagres and focus on other activities closer to Albufeira, such as ziplining, hot air ballooning, or jet skiing.
Faro International Airport (FAO) is the main airport serving the Algarve region. It is located around 40 km east of Albufeira and is well connected to major European cities. From the airport, you can reach Albufeira by car, taxi, or bus in about 30 minutes. Another option is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is around 250 km north of Albufeira and has more international and long-haul flights.