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Algarve or No Algarve?

We are a couple in our early 60s who are going to use all the credits from cancelled vacations for an Iberian trip in May 2023. We have chosen Portugal, where we have never been, and are struggling with going to the Algarve region. Our interests are photography, history, architecture, nature, good food, and making memories. I have added some places in Spain to this itinerary that I have always wanted to see, but would consider saving those for another time if the Algarve matches our interests.

I have watched many videos on visiting the Algarve, and some show some beautiful scenery with very walkable beaches. Others show small cities with "ex-pats" going to American-style shopping areas and talking about golf. I have nothing against shopping or golf, but those are activities I see every day. A couple videos I have watched on youtube brag that "you'll feel just like you are in the United States because everyone speaks English and you can watch the NFL in local bars." Those aren't the places that would be home runs for us.

So far, the Algarve city that seems most interesting to me would be Tavira, mainly because of the architecture. My wife is more into beach communities preferably with a hotel on the waterfront. I haven't seen too many places like that in my research.

I have been planning an itinerary, and was wondering if you think I should substitute some of these destinations with somewhere in the Algarve:

May 10 FLY TO LISBON
May 11 LISBON STAY IN LISBON

May 12 LISBON
May 13 LISBON
May 14 SINTRA

MAY 15 SINTRA
MAY 16 Coimbra
MAY 17 Coimbra
MAY 18 Porto
MAY 19 Porto
MAY 20 Porto
MAY 21 Fly to Granada
MAY 22 Granada
MAY 23 Granada
MAY 24 Train to Seville
May 25 Seville
MAY 26 Sevilla
MAY 27 Fly to Lisbon
MAY 28 Fly home

Obrigado pelo seu tempo!

Posted by
11611 posts

I would skip the Algarve. Sintra does not need two nights. You have left out Cordoba, Spain which is a must see for La Mezquita. It can be seen as a day trip from Sevilla but overnight would be even better.
You don’t mention how you are getting around. Are you renting a car in Portugal? And renting another car in Spain to avoid large drop off fees?

Posted by
3961 posts

This sounds like a nice itinerary. I concur with Suki. I would delete one night from Sintra. I would skip Algarve. We spent a total of 4 nights in Lisbon and felt it was enough to see everything we wanted to see. Any plans for day trips from Porto? Douro Valley or? We enjoyed Coimbra for 2 nights. I think Portugal will be busy next year. I have about a half dozen friends going next year.
Enjoy your planning!