Choose the real Algarvian experience trip to step into Portugal's sunlit villages and seaside markets, where every meal, handshake, and story is tailored to your curiosity. Savor market fresh flavors, learn age-old culinary crafts from local producers, and shape each day to match your interests with hosts who welcome you into their kitchens and lives.
Reserve your place now and turn your Portugal trips into a personal, authentic story that lasts long after you return.
| Day | Location | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Olhão | • Arrival in the Algarve and transfer to your hotel in the traditional fishing village of Olhão • Settle in and relax | Olhão |
| 2 | Olhão | • Private guided tour of Olhão’s cubist old town • Visit lively fish and fruit markets, meet vendors and learn seasonal stories | Olhão |
| 3 | Ria Formosa / Olhão | • Cruise the Ria Formosa lagoons with a local skipper • Explore wild sandy beaches and fishing villages • Taste fresh seafood and grilled fish straight from the sea | Olhão |
| 4 | Olhão / Loulé | • Visit a family-run olive oil farm • Continue to Loulé for free time and lunch • Afternoon Traditional Sweet Workshop | Olhão |
| 5 | Faro / Olhão | • Market-to-table Cataplana cooking experience • Visit Faro’s fish and fruit market with a private chef to select ingredients • Hands-on cooking of a traditional Cataplana | Olhão |
| 6 | Olhão | • Day at leisure | Olhão |
| 7 | Olhão → Airport | • Private transfer to the airport • Departure | — |
Arrive in the Algarve and transfer to your hotel in the traditional fishing village of Olhão, a living snapshot of genuine Algarve life. Check in and relax after your journey in a carefully chosen base that reflects the authentic, tailor-made spirit of your Portugal travel.
Stroll the old town's narrow streets, browse markets, or pause at a waterfront café to soak up local rhythms on this Portugal trip.
Explore the cubist fishing village of Olhão on a private guided tour tailored to your interests. Known for its whitewashed buildings and strong maritime roots, Olhão is one of the best places to visit in Portugal if you're after real-deal local culture without the tourist gloss.
Visit the lively fish and fruit markets, meet charismatic vendors, and learn about seasonal produce and local legends. Stroll the backstreets and dine in traditional tascas, sampling authentic Algarvian dishes paired with regional wines.
Cruise the Ria Formosa lagoons, a lesser-known stretch of the Algarve and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. An experienced skipper shares local insights into the region’s unique fauna, flora, and island life, making this a standout addition to any Portugal itinerary.
Explore wild sandy beaches and traditional fishing villages, and taste fresh seafood and grilled fish pulled straight from the sea. It’s a laid-back, local side of the Algarve you won’t find in the resort brochures.
Tips from Joel
Portugal
Travel Expert
In Ria Formosa, skip the boat tours that cram in multiple islands. Instead, take a ferry to Ilha da Culatra and spend the day there. It’s a working fishing village with sandy streets, no cars, and grilled fish so fresh it barely made it to the plate.
Explore a family-run olive oil farm to learn the history and techniques behind award-winning olive oils. Stroll the olive grove and taste varieties suited to the Mediterranean climate of the Algarve.
Travel on to the charming city of Loulé, where you have free time for lunch. In the afternoon, a local host runs a Traditional Sweet Workshop so you can learn Algarvian pastry methods, make your own sweets, and taste them. For more culinary traditions across the country, consider adding a Portugal food and culture trip to your journey.
Join a private chef on a visit to Faro’s fish and fruit market to select the freshest seafood and produce for an authentic Cataplana. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal with food in mind, this experience offers a deep dive into how local ingredients are sourced and celebrated.
Back in the kitchen, get hands-on with traditional Algarvian techniques as you cook your own Cataplana. Then sit down to enjoy your creation, paired with regional wines and small plates. Ideal for travelers looking for real culinary immersion, no gimmicks, just good food and local flavor.
Wake to birdsong and tranquil views. Savor a breakfast of local produce and soft morning light. This day is tailor-made for authentic relaxation or exploration.
Choose a Traditional Cooking Class, a Wine Tasting and Blending Workshop, Wild Dolphin Observation, or a Catamaran cruise to visit hidden caves. To explore beyond the coast and dive deeper into heritage and traditions, consider adding a cultural trip to Portugal to your itinerary.
Your Portugal trip ends in the sunlit Algarve as your private transfer carries you to the airport. Savor final lagoon views and reflect on curated moments from hidden beaches, local taverns, and guided boat rides.
Take home authentic memories, local flavors, and tailor-made stories that will call you back to Portugal.
