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The Algarve is one of the most fascinating regions of Portugal, with dream beaches, charming villages, and natural landscapes that seem to be taken from a postcard. If you want to explore every corner at your own pace, the best option is to rent a car at the Record go office in Faro and hit the road. On this three-day trip, you will discover the historic center of Faro, Tavira, Praia da Marinha, Algar Seco, Carvoeiro, Lagos, the Temple of Zeus, the Bridge of Piety, Sagres, and Cape St. Vincent.
Day 1: Faro and Tavira, history and tradition
Explore the historic center of Faro
Start your trip by touring Faro’s old town, a city with an impressive historical legacy. Walk along its cobblestone streets and visit landmarks like the Arco da Vila, Faro Cathedral, and the Vila-Adentro neighborhood, where time seems to have stopped.
Pick up your car at the Record go office in Faro After exploring the city, it’s time to pick up your car hire in Faro with Record go Mobility. This will give you complete freedom to move around and make the most of your Algarve road trip.
Tavira, the pearl of eastern Algarve
Just 30 minutes by car from Faro, Tavira will surprise you with its peaceful atmosphere and unique architecture. Don’t miss the Roman Bridge over the Gilão River, Tavira Castle with its spectacular views, and the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, a temple with a bell tower that dominates the city.
Relax at Tavira Island
To end the day, nothing better than some sun and sea on Tavira Island, a paradisiacal beach accessible by ferry. Enjoy the golden sand and crystal-clear waters before returning to Faro for a delicious seafood cataplana dinner.
Day 2: Dream beaches and cliffs
Visit Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world
Start the day with a 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha, considered one of the most stunning beaches in the world. Its turquoise waters and iconic golden cliffs make it a must-visit for any traveler.
Explore Algar Seco and its rock formations
A few kilometers from Praia da Marinha, in Carvoeiro, you’ll find Algar Seco, an incredible system of caves and stone arches eroded by the sea. Be sure to visit the famous “Boneca” cave, from where you’ll get an unparalleled view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Discover Carvoeiro and its coastal atmosphere
After touring the cliffs, stop at the charming fishing village of Carvoeiro. Here you can enjoy a fresh fish lunch and stroll through its cozy center before continuing your journey.
Lagos, history and stunning beaches
In the afternoon, head to Lagos, a vibrant city with a fascinating past. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the Ponta da Bandeira Fortress, and discover the Temple of Zeus, a curious structure inspired by Greek mythology.
Watch the sunset at the Bridge of Piety
To end the day, head to Ponta da Piedade, a natural viewpoint with spectacular cliffs. From here, you’ll see the sun setting on the horizon while the sea crashes against the rocks in an unforgettable show.
Day 3: Sagres and the end of the world
Sagres, a place full of history
Start the last day of your trip by driving to Sagres, a destination famous for its strong winds, cliffs, and its connection to the Age of Discoveries. Visit the Sagres Fortress, where Prince Henry the Navigator studied ocean routes.
Tonel Beach, a paradise for surfers
If you love surfing or just want to enjoy an incredible landscape, Tonel Beach is the ideal spot for a stop. Its big waves and wild atmosphere make it one of the most spectacular beaches in the Algarve.
Cape St. Vincent, the end of the world
The last stop of the trip takes you to Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of Europe. Here, you’ll find the Cape St. Vincent lighthouse, one of the most powerful on the continent. The feeling of being at “the end of the world,” surrounded by cliffs and the ocean, is something you’ll never forget.
Return to Faro and car drop-off at Record go After a spectacular sunset at Cape St. Vincent, it’s time to return to Faro and drop off your rental car at the Record go office. This will conclude your trip in total comfort, ready for your next destination.
Tips to make the most of your road trip in Faro and the Algarve
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Book your car hire with Record go in Faro in advance to get the best price and category suited to your trip.
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Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be exploring many areas with cliffs and cobbled historic centers.
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Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses; the Algarve has sunny weather almost all year round.
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Make spontaneous stops, as the Algarve is full of viewpoints and hidden corners worth discovering.
Now that you have the perfect itinerary, all that’s left is to start the engine and enjoy an unforgettable road trip through Faro and the Algarve. Have a great trip! 🚗☀️
