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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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1 Week Southern Portugal Trip Itinerary

Discovering Southern Portugal – An Enchanting Journey

Embark on a journey to the captivating southern region of Portugal, where the sun-kissed beaches meet the rich tapestry of history and culture. Start your adventure in the laid-back city of Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, with its charming old town and picturesque marina. Be sure to explore the nearby Ria Formosa lagoon, a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Next, find yourself mesmerized by the stunning cliffs and historic sites of Lagos, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural excursions. Wander through the cobbled streets, dive into the past, and relax on some of Portugal's most famous beaches.

Move on to Albufeira to experience a bustling resort town with a vibrant nightlife and abundance of water-based activities for all ages. Enjoy the sun on its expansive beaches and indulge in local cuisine at one of the many seaside restaurants. Let history lead you to Silves, a testament to ancient civilizations with its impressive Moorish castle and the remnants of its storied past. In Portimão, delight in the energetic atmosphere, discover the majestic Praia da Rocha beach, and take part in an unforgettable boat tour along the coast.

Conclude your journey in Sagres, a place of dramatic landscapes and raw beauty. Stand at the edge of Europe at the windswept Cape St. Vincent, and feel the weight of history at the fortress where sailors once prepared to explore unknown worlds. Sagres also offers some of the best surfing spots in Portugal, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.


Recommended Activities

  • Faro is the capital of the Algarve region, offering a historic old town with medieval architecture, a scenic marina, and the nearby Ria Formosa lagoon, a natural park known for its diverse bird life.
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  • Lagos is famous for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves such as Ponta da Piedade, pristine beaches, and a charming old town with cobbled streets and lively nightlife.
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  • Albufeira boasts a vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches like Praia dos Pescadores, an active nightlife with numerous bars and clubs, and is close to theme parks and water parks for family-friendly fun.
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  • Tavira is known for its enchanting historical center, traditional Portuguese architecture, the Roman bridge spanning the Gilão River, and its proximity to the beautiful Ilha de Tavira beaches.
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  • Silves is steeped in history featuring a well-preserved Moorish castle, a Gothic cathedral, and an archaeological museum. It offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich history and cultural heritage.
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  • Portimão is a bustling coastal city with a major port, offering access to stunning beaches like Praia da Rocha, seafood restaurants along the waterfront, and opportunities for water sports and boat tours.
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  • Sagres is situated at the southwestern tip of Portugal and is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, historic fortress, and Cape St. Vincent lighthouse, plus it's a hotspot for surfing and maritime history.
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Restaurants

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    Can the Can Lisboa

    Can the Can Lisboa

    A unique restaurant in Lisbon that offers a modern twist on traditional canned fish, a staple of Portuguese cuisine, in a stylish, contemporary setting.
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    The Old Pharmacy Wine Inn

    The Old Pharmacy Wine Inn

    Located in Lagos, this atmospheric venue was once a pharmacy and now offers an extensive selection of wines paired with tapas in a setting surrounded by antique woodwork and charm.
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    Restaurante Rei das Praias

    Restaurante Rei das Praias

    Situated on the beach in Ferragudo, diners enjoy fresh seafood with their toes in the sand at this restaurant accessible by a wooden walkway, offering stunning ocean views.
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    Ode Marine Restaurant

    Ode Marine Restaurant

    Offering a secluded dining experience near Odeceixe beach, this restaurant serves locally sourced, organic dishes emphasizing sustainability and connection to the sea.
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    Arte Náutica Beach Restaurant

    Arte Náutica Beach Restaurant

    On the sands of Armação de Pêra beach, this restaurant provides an elegant beachfront dining experience with a menu that highlights the best of Algarve's seafood cuisine.
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    Boneca Bar Restaurante

    Boneca Bar Restaurante

    Carved into the cliffs of Carvoeiro, this eatery offers spectacular sea views from its terraces, serving a mix of Portuguese and international dishes in a truly distinctive setting.
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    Gulli Bistrot

    Gulli Bistrot

    In the heart of Albufeira, this inventive bistro merges Italian cuisine with Algarvian flavors, presenting innovative dishes in a quirky, art-filled environment.
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    A Ver Tavira

    A Ver Tavira

    Perched high in Tavira with panoramic views of the town, this restaurant offers a sophisticated menu focused on fresh, local ingredients, with a special emphasis on tuna dishes.
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Hotels

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    Pousada Palácio de Estoi

    Pousada Palácio de Estoi

    A luxurious hotel set in a Rococo palace, providing a unique blend of historical architecture and modern comforts in Faro's countryside.
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    Hotel Vivenda Miranda

    Hotel Vivenda Miranda

    Nestled on the cliffs near Lagos, this boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean with a tranquil, intimate atmosphere.
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    Conrad Algarve

    Conrad Algarve

    Located in Quinta do Lago, this high-end resort offers an unusual setting with its contemporary design, elevated service, and sophisticated amenities.
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    Belmar Spa & Beach Resort

    Belmar Spa & Beach Resort

    This resort in Lagos provides an indulgent experience with its comprehensive spa facilities and direct access to a beautiful beach, delivering modern comfort in a scenic location.
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    Ecorkhotel, Évora Suites & SPA

    Ecorkhotel, Évora Suites & SPA

    An eco-friendly hotel situated near Évora, uniquely clad in cork to provide excellent natural insulation, offering a sustainable stay in the Alentejo region.
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    The Literary Man - Óbidos Hotel

    The Literary Man - Óbidos Hotel

    Claimed to be the world's largest literary hotel, located in Óbidos, it offers thousands of books and a cozy, intellectual ambiance for book lovers.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Mad Cool 2024 | Wednesday Ticket

    Mad Cool 2024 | Wednesday Ticket

    The event will take place at Recinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid.
    Map IconRecinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid (334.89 mi)
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    Mad Cool 2024 | Thursday Ticket

    Mad Cool 2024 | Thursday Ticket

    The event will take place at Recinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid.
    Map IconRecinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid (334.89 mi)
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    Mad Cool 2024 | Friday Ticket

    Mad Cool 2024 | Friday Ticket

    The event will take place at Recinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid.
    Map IconRecinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid (334.89 mi)
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  • Event Icon

    Mad Cool 2024 | Saturday Ticket

    Mad Cool 2024 | Saturday Ticket

    The event will take place at Recinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid.
    Map IconRecinto Iberdrola Music in Madrid (334.89 mi)
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    Fletcher | Ultimate Meet and Greet Experience 

    Fletcher | Ultimate Meet and Greet Experience 

    The event will take place at Palacio Vistalegre in Madrid.
    Map IconPalacio Vistalegre in Madrid (336.37 mi)
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    Fletcher | Soundcheck Experience Package 

    Fletcher | Soundcheck Experience Package 

    The event will take place at Palacio Vistalegre in Madrid.
    Map IconPalacio Vistalegre in Madrid (336.37 mi)
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    The Teskey Brothers

    The Teskey Brothers

    The event will take place at La Riviera in Madrid.
    Map IconLa Riviera in Madrid (338.25 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Jul 2024
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Music for Your Journey