Have been Portugal several times; mostly Lisbon and the North.
Thought this time we would try picking up a car in Lisbon and driving South; emphasis on the Algarve.
Would be spending 15 nights total in Portugal, have we allocated too much time for this rather small portion of Southern Portugal?
Many thanks in advance.
I think two weeks is a bit too long for the Algarve, even though I stayed that long my first trip. But, you could spend a few days in the Alentejo area combined with the Algarve and it might be about right. I’ve not spent time on the west coast, but understand it’s lovely and much less over developed. So that might be an option, also.
You might want to research the Alentejo, especially the Evora area.
I am going to the Algarve for just over 4 weeks from mid March to mid April, so I don't think 2 weeks is too long! Having said that, I have been lots of times and this for me is just chill time, to avoid the miserable British weather and hopefully get some beach time, rather than exploring.
The Algarve is mainly about the beaches and golf - if these aren't your primary concern, then look at the Alentejo instead.
The middle two weeks of April are Easter school holidays and therefore very busy (and more expensive). I booked my accommodation last April.
Evora is certainly worth a couple of days as is the coast around Setubal and Comporta. The coast between here and Aljezur is worth exploring too.
If you are set on the Algarve, I would suggest a week in Lagos and a week in Tavira.
Hello @richard,
I think you should allocate some time to Alentejo as well... Alentejo is the biggest Portuguese region and has a lot to see. Furthermore, it isn't as touristy as Algarve so it's more likely you won't find many tourists and prices there are lower.
Having said that, you should google places like Évora (amazing historic centre), Elvas (the biggest fortified city in Europe), Vila Viçosa (beautiful ducal palace), Monsaraz, Marvão, Castelo de Vide... the western part is also great and has some of the most beautiful beaches and hiking trails in Portugal.
Enjoy your stay in Portugal ;)
