A car remains the most practical way to explore the Algarve, particularly for reaching beaches and coves away from the main resorts. The Via do Infante (A22) motorway crosses the region from east to west (tolled); the EN125 national road is slower but serves every coastal village.
The train (Comboios de Portugal) links Faro west to Lagos and east to Vila Real de Santo António, with roughly hourly departures. From Lisbon, the Alfa Pendular express reaches Faro in 2h45 (around €25-35 single). Lagos is 3h30 from Lisbon by direct train. These rail connections allow car-free visits to the main towns, but the most remarkable beaches remain difficult to reach by train alone.
From the main towns, boat shuttles serve some beaches and islands (Meia Praia from Lagos, Ria Formosa islands from Faro and Olhão). Bicycles and scooters are easily rented in the larger resorts for short coastal hops.
Read also
- Lagos, the Ponta da Piedade cliffs — Praia da Dona Ana, Ponta da Piedade and the cobbled old town: the best of the Algarve.
- Portugal — Complete country guide: entry rules, budget, regions to explore and best time to visit.
- Lisbon, capital of the discoveries — Alfama, tram 28, Belém and azulejos: the complete guide to Portugal's capital.