Sagres, a sleepy fishing town, is the perfect day trip! It is the most southwestern point in continental Europe. Visit the End of the World at Cabo de Sao Vicente. In the Age of Discoveries, people really thought they were looking out at the edge of the world (hello flat-earthers LOL) Take a look at the Fortaleza de Sagres (Sagres Fort) or catch the sunset at the Farol de Sagres (Sagres Lighthouse). This region of Portugal can be quite windy. Perfect for surfing or windsurfing! There are less crowds, making it easier to enjoy the vast beaches: Praia do Tonel, Praia do Martinhal, & Praia da Mareta. Hike the coastal trails!
Go on a grotto tour of the seaside cliffs and caves! Or, check out a catamaran day trip or a dolphin tour! Hike the Fisherman's Trail Go shopping and find a souvenir in Old Town Lagos Visit the lighthouse and admire the view at Ponta da Piedade Lay out on the beach at Praia do Camilo, Praia do Canavial, or Praia do Barranco do Martinho. Photo op at Praia dos Estudantes! Visit the old town of Lagos and its historical museums. Eat some fresh seafood!
Take a day trip to Silves and explore the medieval castle Visit the Benagil cave--you can swim there from the beach or take a tour! Eat a meal inside the face of a beachside cliff! Tim & Sara had dinner there on August 12, 2022 to begin the year countdown Visit Quinta dos Santos for a glass (or bottle) of wine
Faro is the largest city in the Algarve. Stroll around the old town of Faro, or a stroll around the marina. Have a rooftop cocktail as the sun sets. Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Feel regal at the Palacio de Estoi! Lounge out on the beach at one of the "deserted islands". Visit Olhao and soak in the Salt Mines!
Tavira is another fisherman town, that has its own quiet charm to it! Praia do Barril is a fun beach to go to with the kids! Take the small train or walk the trail to the beach; there are gorgeous views along the way. Tim's favorite beach! Praia Verde is another popular beach. Check out the restaurant O Infante Panoramico, where you have panoramic views from atop the hill. Visit the town of Tavira with lots of history: the Islamic museum, the Roman bridge, the Tavira Castle, and beautiful churches! Sara's favorite is Igreja da Misericordia.
Have a couple days in your trip? Dedicate at least 2-3 days in Lisboa & Sintra! Visit the Pena Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, & Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra. You need an entire day here; start early!! Visit the Baixa in Lisboa, and go on a tuktuk tour of the hilly city! Listen to Portuguese fado, in Alfama. Eat a fresh pastel de nata from Pasteis de Belem. Visit the Belem Tower, and the Monument of Discoveries!