Getting Around the Algarve: Car, Train and Bus

The Algarve stretches about 150km along the south coast, with resorts, villages and beaches spread between Sagres and the Spanish border. Here’s how to get around: by car, by the regional train, by bus, or with transfers and taxis.

Quick answer: a car is the easiest way to explore beaches and villages, and the A22 motorway is now toll-free. Without a car, the Algarve regional train links Lagos, Portimão, Silves, Faro, Olhão and Tavira (some stations are outside town), and Vamus buses connect the resorts. Taxis, Uber and Bolt fill the gaps.

By car

• Freedom: reach coves, the west coast and inland villages.
• Roads: the A22 runs the length of the Algarve. The N125 is the slower coastal road.
• Parking: hard to find near popular beaches in summer, so arrive early.
• Rental: book early for summer. See car rental and driving in Portugal.

By train

• The line: Lagos to Vila Real de Santo António via Portimão, Silves, Tunes, Faro, Olhão and Tavira.
• Pros: cheap and scenic, especially in the east.
• Cons: slow, with changes, and some stations (like Albufeira’s) are a taxi ride from town.
• Connections: change at Tunes or Faro for trains to Lisbon. See Lisbon to the Algarve.

By bus

Vamus Algarve runs regional buses between the main towns and resorts, including the airport line. Check current timetables before you travel. See Faro airport transfers.

Taxis, ride-hailing and transfers

Uber and Bolt operate in the main towns, and taxis are easy to find. Pre-booked transfers are best from the airport. See Uber vs Bolt vs taxi.

Boats and bikes

• Ferries to the Ria Formosa islands. See ferries.
• Cycling: the Ecovia coastal route. See cycling.

More: where to stay in the Algarve and the 7-day Algarve itinerary.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.