Trip guides / Planning
How Many Days in the Algarve?
How long should you spend in the Algarve? It depends on whether you want a beach holiday, a touring trip or a mix. Here’s how many days to allow and how to use them.
Quick answer: 4 to 7 days is ideal. With 3 days, base yourself in one area, such as Lagos or Albufeira, and do a boat trip to the sea caves. With a week, split your time between the west (cliffs and coves) and the east (Tavira and the Ria Formosa), or add Sagres and the wild west coast.

What you can do
- 3 days: one base, beaches and a Benagil boat trip. See 3 days in the Algarve.
- 5 days: add Sagres or Tavira.
- 7 days: see the whole coast. See the 7-day Algarve itinerary.
- 10 days or more: add the Costa Vicentina, Monchique and Seville.
Choosing a base
See where to stay in the Algarve and east vs west Algarve.
Getting around
A car makes it easy to explore. See getting around the Algarve.
More: the best time to visit the Algarve and the best Algarve tours.
See also: is the Algarve worth visiting?
Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.
Still got questions?
Ask 305,000+ travellers and locals in our free Facebook groups.