8-Day Self-Drive Tour: Algarve & Alentejo from Faro

Arrive at Faro International Airport, collect the rental car, and check in to the hotel. Spend time in the old town exploring the Arco da Vila, the Faro Municipal Museum, Igreja do Carmo, and the Chapel of Bones, which documents the monastic tradition of the Franciscan friars through a room lined with human bones. A second full day in Faro allows for leisurely exploration of the waterfront and surrounding wetlands.

Drive to Silves and visit the red sandstone castle, the Gothic-Romanesque Silves Cathedral, the Roman Bridge over the Arade River, and the Cruz de Portugal stone cross. Before leaving, try the Morgado de Silves, a regional cake made from almond paste, soft egg filling, and marzipan decorations shaped after local nature motifs.

Head north to Beja, a Roman-era town whose medieval castle and Church of St. Mary of the Market reflect layers of conquest and rebuilding. Optional drives to Serpa and Aljustrel reveal Alentejo plains, rose-covered hills, and the quiet Roman heritage of small villages rarely visited by international travelers.

Arrive in Evora and spend two nights exploring the Roman Temple, the Se Cathedral, the Chapel of Bones inside Igreja de Sao Francisco, and the Museu de Evora. The city's restaurants serve Alentejo staples including Migas con Carne, black pork dishes, and regional wines made from Alicante Bouschet and Aragonez grapes.

Drive south to Alcoutim, a border town facing the Spanish village of Sanlucar de Guadiana across the Guadiana River. Visit the Alcoutim Castle and the freshwater beach before continuing to Tavira, where the castle, the Church of Misericordia, and traditionally tiled houses line the banks of the Gilao River.

Spend the final morning in Tavira before driving back to Faro Airport to return the rental car and depart. The island beaches of Tavira, reachable by boat, make for a pleasant last few hours if the schedule allows.