The Algarve is made for road trips. From dramatic Atlantic cliffs and hidden beaches to historic towns, mountain villages and lively coastal resorts, there is something different around almost every corner.
If you are flying into Faro Airport, renting a car is one of the easiest ways to start exploring the region. Several well-known car rental companies, including SIXT, Hertz and Europcar, have rental facilities at the airport, allowing you to pick up your car shortly after arriving. There are also several local car rental companies operating in the Algarve, so it is worth comparing the available options before your trip.
Having a car gives you the freedom to discover the Algarve at your own pace and, more importantly, to reach many of the smaller villages, beaches and viewpoints that are harder to explore by public transport.
If you are staying in Armação de Pêra, you are in a particularly convenient position to explore the region by car. Located in the heart of the central Algarve, the town makes a great base for heading west towards Lagos and Sagres, inland towards Silves and Monchique, or east towards Albufeira, Vilamoura and Faro.
To make things easier, we have selected 10 places that showcase some of the best of the Algarve, from the wild Atlantic coastline in the west to the historic towns and lively resorts of the central region.
1. Sagres
At the southwestern tip of mainland Portugal, Sagres is where the Algarve feels at its wildest. Dramatic cliffs, powerful Atlantic waves and enormous open skies make this a favourite destination for surfers, nature lovers and anyone looking for a different side of the Algarve. The area also played an important role in Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and maritime history.
Don’t miss: Cape St. Vincent and the spectacular coastal viewpoints around Sagres.
2. Burgau
Small, whitewashed and tucked into the coastline, Burgau is one of the Algarve’s charming lesser-known villages. Sometimes labelled the “Portuguese Santorini”, its traditional white houses contrast beautifully with the blue Atlantic, while the small beach below the village makes it an ideal stop for a relaxed morning or afternoon by the sea.
Don’t miss: A walk through the village followed by lunch overlooking Praia de Burgau.
3. Lagos
Lagos combines history, culture and some of the Algarve’s most spectacular coastline. Just outside the historic centre, you will find beaches surrounded by golden cliffs, including Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. Further along the coast, Ponta da Piedade is one of the Algarve’s most famous landscapes, with enormous rock formations, arches and caves rising from the Atlantic.
Don’t miss: Ponta da Piedade, ideally combined with a boat trip along the coastline.
4. Monchique
The Algarve isn’t only about the coast. Drive inland towards Monchique and the landscape changes completely, with forested hills, winding roads and panoramic views across the region. Head towards Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve, for some of the best views in southern Portugal. The surrounding countryside is also ideal for hiking and exploring at a slower pace.
For a little more adventure, look out for the new suspension bridge in the Monchique hills. Crossing the bridge, surrounded by the mountain landscape, is sure to give you some Indiana Jones vibes and makes for a memorable stop along the way.
Don’t miss: The mountain roads, Fóia viewpoint and a traditional lunch in the hills.
5. Silves
For history and culture, Silves is one of the best day trips in the region. Once the capital of the Moorish Algarve, the town is dominated by its impressive red sandstone castle. Wander through the historic streets and you will quickly notice how different inland Algarve feels compared with the busy coastal resorts.
Don’t miss: Silves Castle and the historic centre.
6. Armação de Pêra
Located right in the heart of the Algarve’s central coastline, Armação de Pêra is an ideal place to experience the region at a more relaxed pace. The former fishing village is known for its long sandy beach, traditional character and beautiful coastline. From here, you are within easy driving distance of many of the Algarve’s best-known destinations, making it possible to explore in either direction without spending your entire holiday on the road.
Don’t miss: A walk along the beachfront, the old fishing-village area, and the coastal views around Armação de Pêra.
7. Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is one of the Algarve’s most picturesque coastal villages, built around a small beach and surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. One of the best ways to experience the area is on foot. Follow the coastal boardwalk towards Algar Seco, where the Atlantic has carved tunnels, caves and unusual rock formations into the cliffs.
Don’t miss: The Carvoeiro boardwalk and Algar Seco.
8. Albufeira
Albufeira is probably the most recognisable holiday destination on this list, and for good reason. Although it is one of the Algarve’s busiest regions, the Old Town is still worth exploring, with its narrow, whitewashed streets, traditional architecture, restaurants and lively atmosphere. Around the town you will also find numerous beaches and viewpoints.
Don’t miss: Albufeira Old Town and a walk along the coastline.
9. Vilamoura & Loulé
These two destinations make a great combination for a day exploring the Algarve. Vilamoura is known for its impressive marina, golf courses, restaurants and resort atmosphere. Nearby, Praia da Falésia stretches for several kilometres beneath spectacular red and orange cliffs.
Drive inland afterwards to Loulé, where the atmosphere changes completely. Its historic centre and famous municipal market offer a glimpse of traditional Algarve life, with local produce, seafood and regional specialities.
Don’t miss: Vilamoura Marina, Praia da Falésia, and Loulé Market (the main market is on Saturday morning).
10. Faro
Finish your road trip in Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Many visitors only see Faro when arriving at the airport, but the city deserves more time. Explore the historic Old Town, walk through the medieval walls and discover the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of the most important protected coastal areas in the Algarve.
Don’t miss: Faro Old Town, the Ria Formosa and the waterfront.
Ready to explore the Algarve?
The Algarve is best experienced with a little curiosity and plenty of time to stop along the way. With a car, you have the freedom to take the scenic route, linger over a long lunch, discover a beach you hadn’t planned on visiting, or wander through a village you might otherwise have driven past.
