The Golden Seven: A 7-Day Algarve Golf & Sightseeing Itinerary

If you have seven days to spend in Southern Portugal, you can perfectly balance legendary rounds on the green with the region’s rich history and stunning coastlines.

This itinerary is designed with Vilamoura as your home base—it’s the "Golden Triangle" of Algarve golf and puts you within 20–40 minutes of almost everything.

Day 1: Arrival & The "Grande Dame"

• Morning: Land at Faro Airport and take the quick 25-minute transfer to Vilamoura.

• Afternoon Golf: Warm up at the Dom Pedro Old Course. It’s a classic parkland layout with towering umbrella pines that offer welcome shade.

• Evening: Walk the Vilamoura Marina. It’s the heart of the town's social life. Grab a cocktail at Atlantic Piano Bar and dinner at Chez Carlos for a legendary steak.

  
  

  

Day 2: Coastal Classics & Red Cliffs

• Morning Golf: Head to Vale do Lobo (Royal Course). You’re here for the 16th hole—a dramatic carry over the red cliffs with the Atlantic crashing below.

• Afternoon Sightseeing: Drive 15 minutes to Loulé. Explore the Moorish-inspired indoor market and the medieval castle. It’s a great spot to buy local cork products or salt.

• Dinner: Treat yourself to fresh seafood at Casa do Lago in Quinta do Lago, overlooking the serene saltwater lake.

Day 3: Nature’s Fairways & Hidden Caves

• Morning Golf: Play Quinta do Lago (South). It’s a former Portuguese Open host that winds through the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

• Afternoon Adventure: Head to the coast for a boat tour to Benagil Cave. These departures often leave from nearby Vilamoura or Albufeira. Seeing the "cathedral" sea cave from the water is a non-negotiable Algarve experience.

  
  

  

Day 4: The "Edge of the World" (Rest Day)

• The Drive: Take a scenic road trip to the westernmost tip of Europe: Sagres.

• The Sights: Visit the Fortaleza de Sagres and the lighthouse at Cabo de São Vicente. The wind-whipped cliffs here feel like the end of the world.

• Lunch: Eat grilled sardines or cataplana (seafood stew) at a local shack in the fishing village of Salema.

Day 5: Championship Challenge in the Hills

• Morning Golf: Drive north to the Faldo Course at Amendoeira. This is arguably the most strategic and difficult course in the region. Bring extra balls—you’ll need them!

• Afternoon Sightseeing: On your way back, stop in Silves. The red sandstone castle is the best-preserved in the Algarve and offers 360-degree views of the countryside.

Day 6: The Crown Jewel

• Morning Golf: Save the best for last with Monte Rei (North) near Tavira. It’s consistently ranked the #1 course in Portugal. The service here is world-class—they even clean your clubs after the round.

• Afternoon Sightseeing: Spend the afternoon in Tavira, often called the most beautiful town in the Algarve. Walk across the Roman Bridge and enjoy the slow pace of the Gilão River.

Day 7: Farewell Fairways & Souvenirs

• Morning Golf: A final 18 holes at San Lorenzo. It’s famous for its border with the Ria Formosa wetlands—watch out for the flamingos!

• Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping at the Mar Shopping Algarve or a final dip at Praia da Falésia.

• Evening: A celebratory Michelin-starred dinner at Willie’s in Vilamoura to toast to a week well-played.

  
  

  

  Praia da Falesia, Algarve

Quick Travel Tips:

• Transport: Renting a car is highly recommended for this itinerary to reach Tavira and Sagres easily.

• Dress Code: Remember that Algarve clubhouses are traditional; collared shirts and tailored shorts/trousers are required.

• Tee Times: Book your "Major" courses (Monte Rei and Vale do Lobo) at least 3 months in advance.

What to Pack for a 7-Day Algarve Golf Itinerary?

• Here is your comprehensive packing checklist for a 7-day Algarve golf itinerary and adventure, updated for 2026 with the latest rental cost comparisons.

  
  

  1. On-Course Essentials

  • The Basics: 5–6 breathable, moisture-wicking polo shirts. (Note: Most Algarve clubs require collars).

  • Bottoms: 3 pairs of tailored golf shorts or trousers. Jeans are generally a no-go on the course.

  • Layering: Even in summer, early morning tee times can be brisk. Pack a lightweight, windproof gilet or a "quarter-zip" pullover.

  • Footwear: Soft-spiked golf shoes. Many courses have banned metal spikes to protect the greens. Don't forget several pairs of specialized golf socks!

  2. Sun & Element Protection

  • Hat/Visor: A wide-brimmed hat or a classic baseball cap.

  • High-SPF Sunscreen: Opt for a non-greasy formula so it doesn't mess with your grip.

  • Polarized Sunglasses: Essential for tracking your ball against the bright blue sky.

  • Compact Umbrella: In the off-season, a "passing shower" is common. A small, sturdy golf umbrella is a lifesaver.

  3. Off-Course / "19th Hole" Style

  • Evening Wear: Chinos and a linen shirt or a summer dress will get you into any high-end restaurant in Vilamoura.

  • Swimwear: For the resort pool or a recovery soak at the beach.

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring the cobblestone streets of Lagos or Tavira.

  4. Travel & Tech

  • Handicap Certificate: Keep a digital copy on your phone. Premium courses like Monte Rei or Vale do Lobo may ask for it.

  • Rangefinder/GPS Watch: Most courses have markers, but a GPS helps navigate those tricky doglegs.

  • Hard-Shell Travel Bag: Only necessary if you are bringing your own custom set.

  
  

  The Big Debate: Fly With Your Clubs or Rent?

  
  

  • With airline baggage fees rising, many golfers now opt for local rentals. In 2026, the Algarve has a very competitive rental market. Here is what you can expect to pay:

Rental Source	1-Day Price	Weekly Price (7 Days)	Best For...
Direct from Course	€45 – €55	N/A (Daily rates apply)	One-off rounds or trying specific new models.
Local Rental Agencies	€25 – €30	€55 – €80	Multi-course trips; includes free delivery to your hotel.
"Budget" Services	€20 – €25	€50+	Saving maximum cash on entry-level sets.

Pro Tip: Services like 18Store, ClubStays, and Green-Tee are the most popular because they deliver the latest models (like the TaylorMade Qi10 or Callaway Paradym) directly to the airport or your villa. If you play more than three rounds, renting a premium set for a week is often cheaper than the round-trip airline fee for your own bag!

Looking for more details? You’ll find more planning advice in my Ultimate Guide to Golfing in the Algarve.