Algarve isn’t just about sprawling beaches and sunbaked sands—it’s also a place where walking tours reveal the region’s authentic character, flavors, and landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample traditional dishes, a nature lover craving seaside discoveries, or someone curious about rural life, Algarve’s diverse offerings have something for you. We particularly enjoyed tours that blend scenic walks with local stories, like the Faro Old Town Guided Walking Food Tour — a delightful way to explore Portugal’s culinary heritage while strolling through charming streets.
One thing is clear: Algarve’s walking tours are as varied as its coastline, offering experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. From exploring caves by boat to tasting honey and cheese in the hills, each tour provides a window into authentic Algarve life. If you want a taste of both adventure and culture, this list will help you find the perfect walk for your interests.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we highlight five top walking tours: from Faro’s lively old town food tour to coastal cave explorations by boat, hillside goat herding, and mountain walks with local tastings. Each offers a different way to experience Algarve—whether through flavor, scenery, or rural tradition. Now, let’s get into what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. Faro: Old Town Guided Walking Food Tour
At number 1, this 3-hour food tour in Faro’s historic center combines local history with a passion for food. It’s perfect for those who love tasting their way through a city, and the reviews confirm it’s a hit, with a 4.9/5 rating from 65 travelers. The host, Ester, guides you through 4 different restaurants—small, family-run spots that serve authentic Portuguese dishes from the Eastern Algarve. Expect to enjoy around 10 tastings, including generous wine pours and local delicacies you won’t find in mainstream eateries.
What makes this tour special is its focus on off-the-beaten-path venues and genuine regional cuisine. Guests rave about Ester’s personable approach, her knowledge of both food and local history, and the chance to eat like a true local. One reviewer noted that they even returned to one restaurant for dinner after the tour. The tour’s value lies in its combination of food, culture, and intimate local insights—perfect for foodies or those wanting a relaxed, flavorful introduction to Faro.
Bottom Line: If you want a friendly, authentic taste of Faro’s gastronomy with a side of history, this tour delivers. It’s a cozy, delicious way to get to know Portugal’s southern coast.
2. Algarve: Benagil Cave Boat Tour and Algarseco Coastal Walk
Number 2 on our list offers a 4-hour adventure that combines boat rides and coastal walks, providing a comprehensive look at Algarve’s stunning coastline. This tour stands out because it mixes scenic boat trips—including the famous Benagil Cave—with a walk along the Algarseco boardwalk, where panoramic views of towering cliffs and sea arches await. Starting from Lagos, the tour includes a boat cruise of approximately 75 minutes, plus time to walk and absorb the dramatic scenery.
What makes this experience unique is the chance to see Algarve’s caves from the water and then follow up with a stunning seaside stroll. Travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, often highlighting the breathtaking photo opportunities. The Benagil Cave itself is a highlight—a must-see for anyone visiting the coast. The option to choose a private or group experience adds flexibility, making it suitable for different travel styles.
The value here is high, considering the combination of boat and walk, which offers both adventure and relaxation. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a full coastal day packed with natural beauty and photo ops. One reviewer shared, “The boat tour was amazing, and the walk was perfect with great views,” confirming this tour’s appeal.
Bottom Line: For a balanced mix of boat and land, with some of Algarve’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a memorable experience at a reasonable price.
3. Walk in the Hills with Goat Herder-Local Honey, Wine and Cheese Tasting
Number 3 offers an intimate 2-hour walk that transports you to authentic rural Algarve, exploring the hills with a local goat herder. This tour is perfect if you’re curious about traditional Portuguese farming life and want to support local farmers. You’ll visit a goat farm, meet the herders, and sample local goat cheese, honey, jams, bread, and wine.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on rural traditions and authentic farm-to-table experiences. The guide, a local herder with 25 years of experience, shares stories about life in the mountains and explains how products are made. The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating, emphasizing the authenticity and personal touch. It’s a wonderful choice for those interested in agrotourism or rural culture, and the short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
While not a lengthy adventure, it provides a genuine taste of Portuguese mountain life—a step away from tourist crowds. If you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic, and tasty outing, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to connect with local farmers, enjoy fresh cheeses and honey, and experience the slower pace of Algarve’s hills.
4. Algarve: Carvoerio and Benagil Walking Tour and Cruise
Number 4 is a 6.5-hour tour that combines hiking and boat cruising, offering a full day of natural exploration. Starting with a guided walk along the 7-hanging valleys trail, you’ll enjoy a relatively gentle hike through scenic landscapes. Afterward, the tour continues with a cruise around the Benagil grottoes, giving you a chance to see the caves from the water’s perspective.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary, with transportation provided from your accommodation. The guide, Henk, is enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the local environment, explaining the geology and nature along the way. Guests especially appreciated the educational aspect and the dynamic boat trip, which included some exciting turns at high speed through high waves—an adventure for those who enjoy a little thrill.
The combination of hiking and boating makes it suitable for fit travelers wanting a balanced day. The reviews highlight the beauty of the scenery and the expertise of the guides. The price reflects the length and variety, offering good value for a full day out.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an active day that showcases Algarve’s mountains and caves, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
5. Walk through Hills With a Local Goat Herder and Their Goats
Number 5 provides a 2-hour walk in the Algarve mountains with an authentic local goat herder. This tour emphasizes rural life, traditions, and local products. You’ll visit a farm, learn about goat herding techniques, and enjoy a tasting of local goat cheese, honey, bread, jams, and wine.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—walking alongside a herder who shares stories about the region’s agricultural customs. The 5/5 rating confirms its popularity among those seeking a genuine, small-group experience. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in traditional farming practices and supporting local residents.
The walk offers a peaceful escape into nature, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn. It’s perfect for those with moderate fitness levels and a curiosity for rural Portugal. The tasting is a lovely way to cap the experience, making it a memorable cultural outing.
Bottom Line: For a close-up look at Algarve’s farming traditions and a taste of local cheeses and honey, this walk is a charming choice.
$80 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Algarve Walking Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how much time you have. If food is your passion, the Faro Old Town Food Tour offers a relaxed, flavor-packed introduction. For nature lovers, the Benagil Cave boat and coastal walk combine scenery and adventure, while the Carvoerio and Benagil tour provides a longer, active day with both hiking and boat time. Rural enthusiasts will appreciate the hill walk with the goat herder, focusing on traditional farming and local products.
Budget is also a factor—these tours range from around $62 to $101—so think about whether a shorter, more focused experience suits you best or if you want a full-day adventure. Booking early is wise, especially in the busy summer months, and always check the availability and starting times to fit your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Algarve offers a wonderful variety of walking tours, from tasting authentic regional dishes and visiting dramatic coastlines to exploring mountain farms and ancient caves. For a culinary journey, the Faro Old Town Food Tour is hard to beat. If you crave seaside sights, the boat and coastal walk around Benagil is unforgettable. And for those interested in rural life, the hillside goat herder tour provides a genuine connection with local traditions.
No matter what you choose, each of these experiences promises a deeper, more personal look at Algarve beyond the beaches. Remember to book early to secure your spot, especially during peak season, and prepare for a memorable journey through one of Portugal’s most captivating regions.