Nestled in the heart of theAlgarve, Portimão is an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s wonders: sculpted cliffs, golden beaches, picturesque villages, wild landscapes and ancient remains. By car or boat, excursions around the seaside resort offer rare diversity and unforgettable panoramas. We loved exploring the area around Portimão and had some great surprises!
Use our practical tips and our many photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 9 best excursions from Portimão, to help you make your choice.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Portimão
Of all the possible getaways, 3 really stand out for us:
- Discover the spectacular Benagil Cave and immerse yourself in one of Portugal’s most photogenic natural landscapes – see available options and book now
- Visit Lagos and the impressive Ponta da Piedade, a perfect blend of picturesque charm and wilderness (access by car, bus or train, followed by a boat trip from the Port of Lagos) – see availability
- Explore the Algarve’s vineyards and taste its wines, an authentic and little-known facet of this region renowned for its beaches – see prices and book here
1. Sailing to the emblematic Benagil Cave
Why do we recommend this tour?
It’s impossible to come to Portimão without exploring the famous Benagil Cave, one of southern Portugal’s most photogenic natural gems. Caressed by the waves, two cliff entrances lead to a small inner beach crowned by a dome open to the sky. You’ll be amazed, just as we were. Try a boat tour! Maybe you’ll spot some dolphins along the way. A unique activity not to be missed!
What you will see
- The Benagil cave and its skylight
- Other little-known sea caves
- The ochre cliffs that line the coastline
How much time should I allow?
Allow 2 to 3 hours for this boat trip. This time includes navigation to the cave and exploration time on site. Weather conditions may affect the duration of the excursion.
>> Book your boat trip to the Benagil Grotto now <<
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
2. Visit Lagos and the impressive Ponta da Piedade
Why do we recommend this tour?
A 30-minute drive from Portimão, Lagos is one of the highlights of our Algarve road trip. From Ponta da Piedade’s golden cliffs and breathtaking beaches to its charming historic heart and relaxed lifestyle, this town has everything to seduce travelers. Rich in history and nature, it can be explored in both leisure and adventure mode. We recommend visiting downtown Lagos in the morning and booking an afternoon boat trip to Ponta da Piedade from the Port of Lagos (or vice versa): a memorable experience!
What you will see
- Charming downtown Lagos
- The superb beaches of the seaside resort
- Ponta da Piedade’s arches, caves and tunnels
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to enjoy Lagos and Ponta da Piedade to the full. This allows you to explore the historic center at leisure, have lunch in a local restaurant and take part in the afternoon maritime excursion. The journey from Portimão takes just 30 minutes by car, so there’s plenty of time for this complete getaway.
>> See available excursions to Ponta da Piedade from the Port of Lagos <<
3. Explore the Algarve coast and mountains
Why do we recommend this tour?
This half-day jeep excursion takes you along the coast and into the mountains of the Algarve on an organized multi-stop tour that includes charming villages and unspoilt natural landscapes. We particularly appreciated this opportunity to discover the Portuguese countryside away from the usual tourist trails. This guided tour provides access to exceptional viewpoints and an insight into the authenticity of the region, with commentary from an experienced local guide.
What you will see
This 4WD adventure takes you through several typical villages in the Algarve hinterland. Ferragudo reveals its charm as an authentic fishing village, while Silves reveals its Moorish past through its historic monuments. Odelouca offers panoramic views of the mountain wilderness, and Alvor seduces with its unspoilt seaside atmosphere. The Fortaleza de Santa Catarina completes this discovery with its remarkable military heritage.
How much time should I allow?
This jeep tour lasts between 3 and 4 hours, which corresponds perfectly to a half-day of exploration. The fast pace allows us to discover many different sites while still leaving time to enjoy each stage. This time includes travel between the various villages and photo stops at the most spectacular viewpoints.
>> Experience the Algarve differently: book now your jeep adventure between coast and mountains <<
4. Discover the Algarve’s vineyards and taste its wines
Why do we recommend this tour?
This full-day tour includes visits to several Algarve wineries and a typical Portuguese lunch in a mountain restaurant. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of wine production in this region, which is best known for its beaches. Discovering some of the best local wines while exploring the rolling hinterland is an authentic experience that reveals a little-known side of the Algarve.
What you will see
This oenological escapade takes you first to Villa Alvor, then on to Quinta Do Frances Winery for an in-depth tour of the vineyard and winery facilities. The tour continues on to Monchique and Monte Foia, the highest point in the Algarve, offering exceptional panoramic views of the entire region. The wineries we visit reveal their traditional production techniques and allow us to taste a fine selection of local grape varieties in an authentic setting.
How much time should I allow?
This gourmet tour lasts between 6 and 7 hours, allowing you to take full advantage of the winery visits, tastings and lunch included. This full day also includes transportation to the various sites and time to enjoy the mountainous landscapes of the Algarvian hinterland at a relaxed pace.
>> Gourmets? Discover the Algarve vineyards on a guided tour <<
5. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys
Why do we recommend this tour?
This spectacular trail skirts the golden cliffs of the Algarve, offering some of the finest coastal views in Portugal. You have 2 options for this experience: go off on your own for a self-guided hike, or choose an organized tour that also includes a boat excursion to the Benagil Cave. We recommend this second option, which perfectly combines overland hiking and maritime discovery for a full day rich in discoveries.
What you will see
This hike starts at Praia da Marinha, considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, and takes you all the way to Praia do Vale de Centeanes. The path winds along the ochre cliffs, revealing secret coves, natural arches sculpted by the ocean and surprisingly shaped rock formations. If you opt for the organized excursion, you’ll board a boat to explore the famous Benagil Cave.
How much time should I allow?
If you opt to hike on your own, allow 25min to reach Praia da Marinha from Portimão and around 3h to walk, depending on your pace and photo stops. The full guided tour lasts around 7 hours and includes the coastal hike and the sea excursion to the cave.
>> Book your guided tour between land and sea now <<
DISCOVER Portimao
6. Stroll through the village of Alvor and enjoy its superb beach
Why do we recommend this tour?
Halfway between Portimão and Lagos, Alvor is a small, characterful seaside resort that won us over. We loved its tranquil atmosphere, cobbled streets and unspoilt seafront. Its main beach, Praia de Alvor, is one of the longest in the region and is bordered by natural dunes. Accessible via wooden footbridges, it’s a really pleasant place to stroll. It’s the perfect place for walking, sunbathing or water sports. The Alvor Estuary is also very popular with kitesurfers!
What you will see
- Alvor village center and main church
- The Praia de Alvor and its golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see
- The Ria de Alvor nature reserve, a haven for birds
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day to a full day to discover Alvor to your heart’s content. The village is just a 15-minute drive from Portimão, so you can spend as much time as you like. Half a day is enough to visit the center and enjoy the beach, while a full day offers the chance to also explore the nature reserve and enjoy water sports activities on site.
7. Visit the Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar
Why do we recommend this tour?
A 20-minute drive from Portimão, the Alcalar Megalithic Site plunges you back into the third millennium BC, into the mysterious world of the prehistoric communities that populated the region. This tour will particularly appeal to archaeology and ancient history enthusiasts, as you need to be able to project yourself to fully appreciate the site. The remains are not visually spectacular, but they bear witness to a fascinating era. A small museum located next to the ticket office features a re-enactment video and a number of useful explanatory panels to help you better understand the site. A cultural break off the beaten track!
What you will see
- The 2 main funerary temples, impressive examples of prehistoric architecture
- The 19th-century lime kiln, an ingenious construction that demonstrates the site’s continuity of occupation
- A small introductory museum
How much time should I allow?
Allow between 30min and 1h for a simple visit to the archaeological site. However, to enrich your experience and better understand the daily life of prehistoric populations, the Portimão Museum offers several educational activities at the Alcalar site. It’s a great way to bring the visit alive and immersive, particularly appreciated by families who want to discover this exceptional heritage in an appropriate educational setting.
>> Find out more about the Alcalar site <<
8. Enjoy the dynamic seaside resort of Albufeira
Why do we recommend this tour?
A 35-minute drive from Portimão, Albufeira seduced us with its golden beaches, picturesque historic center and lively atmosphere both day and night. Once a fishing village, now one of Portugal’s most popular destinations, the town offers a fine balance of nature, relaxation, culture and entertainment. Here you’ll find magnificent beaches nestling at the foot of cliffs, whitewashed houses and a wide range of water sports.
What you will see
- Albufeira’s old town
- The beaches of Praia do Peneco, Praia dos Pescadores and Praia da Oura
- Evening street entertainment
How much time should I allow?
A full day is the ideal length of time to discover the city and enjoy the beaches without rushing. Allow an extra 2 or 3 days if you also want to enjoy the renowned nightlife, as Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s most popular party destinations. The 35-minute drive from Portimão makes it easy to organize this getaway according to your preferences.
>> See our guide to visiting Albufeira <<
9. Visit Faro and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
Why do we recommend this tour?
Located 1 hour’s drive from Portimão, Faro is much more than just a point of arrival by plane. We were charmed by this capital of the Algarve, which skilfully blends historical heritage with a seaside atmosphere. You’ll discover a preserved historic center, interesting museums and a fascinating multicultural heritage. Its proximity to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and its fine sandy beaches make it a destination that is both urban and natural.
What you will see
- Faro city center and its Arco da Vila
- The Ria Formosa and its islands accessible by boat
- The peaceful atmosphere of the marshes
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day from Portimão, or even 1 day more to explore the destination in depth. Many excursions leave from the port to discover the Ria Formosa by boat.
>> See our detailed article on Faro <<
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
What to do in the Algarve
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
Best excursions
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in the Algarve
How many days?
Itineraries
Where to stay in the Algarve
Lagos, Portimao or Albufeira
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