Explore the Algarve on a budget: hostels with pools, free beaches, and Portugal's best cheap food.
The Algarve is surprisingly affordable outside peak season.
Itinerary
1
Faro and Surroundings
- Explore Faro old town (free)
- Faro Beach (free access)
- Lunch at a local tasca (cheap daily menu)
- Budget boat to Ria Formosa
- Grilled sardines dinner
2
Lagos
- Bus to Lagos (cheap)
- Hiking Ponta da Piedade (free)
- Praia do Camilo
- Bifana lunch (typical sandwich)
- Beach sunset
- Lagos nightlife
3
Benagil and Coast
- Seven Hanging Valleys Trail hike (free)
- Benagil view from the cliffs
- Marinha Beach
- Supermarket picnic
- Bus back in the afternoon
4
Silves and Farewell
- Bus to Silves
- Silves Castle (cheap entry)
- Piri-piri chicken lunch
- Last shopping
- Return to Faro
Practical Tips
Transport
Eva/Vamus buses connect main cities for €3-6.
Food
Daily menus at tascas cost €6-8 with drink included.
Accommodation
Hostels with pool from €15-25/night in low season.
Approximate Budget
International flights€50-200
Accommodation (hostel 4 nights)€60-100
Food€40-80
Local transport€20-40
Activities€20-40
Total per person€300-550
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Algarve expensive?
Not in low season. Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe.
Can you do it without a car?
Yes, with buses and hiking. But a car gives more freedom for remote beaches.
More routes in this city
Ready to live this adventure?
Download Odysseus and access this route with all the details
or get the app