Five days unlock the Algarve's central insight: the west and east coasts are different destinations sharing a name. Split the stay and both reveal themselves.
Days 1–3 — Western base (Lagos)
Settle in and walk Ponta da Piedade at sunset. Day two goes boating toward Benagil's sea cave from nearby ports. Day three hikes the Seven Hanging Valleys in the morning, rewarding yourself with Carvoeiro square's cafés afterward.
Day 4 — Transfer east
Catch the morning train toward Tavira (about two hours with changes, or shorter by car via the A22). Check in, then spend the afternoon on the Ilha de Tavira ferry — warm lagoon shallows and kiosk ice cream reset the travel clock.
Day 5 — Lagoon morning, castle afternoon
Morning birdwatching or kayaking in the Ria Formosa channels, then wander Tavira's church-lined streets and riverside promenade at dusk. If energy allows, detour to hilltop Cacela Velha for the coast's most surprising view.
Logistics
This plan works fully car-free using trains and ferries. Drivers can swap the transfer day for a Monchique mountain loop en route — hairpins, eucalyptus and a summit view over the entire region.
