5-Day Affordable Beach Escape to Algarve, Portugal

Day 1: Relaxed arrival

Faro, Portugal on June 10, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Padaria Portuguesa

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and strong coffee at this popular local bakery to start your day the Portuguese way.
EUR5, 0h45m

10:00am

Explore Faro Old Town

Wander the cobbled streets, visit the Faro Cathedral and enjoy views from the bell tower. It’s a charming introduction to Algarve’s rich history.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Vila Adentro

Savour fresh seafood and traditional Algarvian dishes in this authentic restaurant tucked inside the Old Town.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Faro Municipal Museum

Discover artefacts and exhibits detailing Algarve’s culture and history inside a 16th-century convent.
EUR2.50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Praia de Faro

Unwind on Faro’s nearby sandy beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It’s less crowded during weekdays.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Estamine Restaurant

An affordable spot serving grilled fish and traditional Portuguese dishes, perfect to enjoy local flavours by the marina.
EUR20-25, 1h30m

Day 2: Tavira exploration

Tavira, Portugal on June 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Brisa do Rio

Sample fresh pastries and coffee at this riverside café before exploring the town.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:30am

Tavira Castle and Camera Obscura

Visit the well-preserved castle ruins and the Camera Obscura for panoramic views of the town and surrounding coastline.
EUR3, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk along Tavira Island

Take a short ferry ride to Tavira Island’s long golden beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing in warm water.
EUR3.50 round trip, 3h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Restaurante Brisa do Rio

Enjoy traditional seafood dishes alongside the Gilão River with scenic views.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

5:00pm

Stroll the Roman Bridge and riverside

Relax during golden hour walking over the iconic bridge and exploring riverside shops and cafés.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at A Ver Tavira

Enjoy affordable, freshly caught seafood dishes in this cozy local favourite.
EUR20, 1h30m

Day 3: Beaches of Lagos

Lagos, Portugal on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jardim da Estrela

Relax with locally-sourced pastries and coffee in a garden setting before heading to the coast.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Praia do Camilo visit

Visit one of Lagos’ most picturesque beaches featuring cliffs and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and photos.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Ponta da Piedade rock formations

Explore dramatic limestone cliffs via walking trails or boat tours showcasing spectacular caves and grottos.
Free to walk, boat tour approx. EUR20, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at O Camilo Beach Restaurant

Dine beachside with fresh grilled fish and seasonal sides in a relaxed atmosphere.
EUR20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Lagos Old Town

Wander charming streets lined with shops, cafés and bars, and visit the 17th-century Forte da Ponta da Bandeira.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Goji Lounge Café

Enjoy affordable Mediterranean-inspired dishes with vegetarian options in a lively setting.
EUR15-20, 1h30m

Day 4: Sagres and nature

Sagres, Portugal on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at A Sagres

Start your day with coffee and a Portuguese pastel at this local café before exploring the rugged coast.
EUR4, 0h30m

9:00am

Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente)

Visit the southwesternmost point of Europe with stunning cliff views and lighthouse visits; park open daily 9am-6pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Sagres Fortress

Explore this fortress overlooking the Atlantic with historical exhibits relating to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
EUR3, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at A Sagres Restaurante

Taste fresh fish dishes and traditional Algarve specials in a casual setting.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Praia do Tonel beach

Relax or try surfing at this popular beach known for scenic views and excellent waves.
Free, surf rental approx. EUR15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Faro

Travel back to Faro for the final evening of your trip.
EUR15 by bus or car rental cost vary, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Faaron Steakhouse

Enjoy a final meal featuring grilled meats and Portuguese wines at this popular Faro restaurant.
EUR20-25, 1h30m

Day 5: Departure

Faro, Portugal on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pastelaria Padaria Palmeira

Grab a quick pastry and coffee at this local bakery before heading to the airport.
EUR4, 0h30m

10:00am

Head to Faro Airport

Make your way to the airport for your departure. Public transport options and taxis are available.
EUR5-15, 1h0m