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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

The Algarve, Portugal

Air Travel

Major Airports

Faro Airport (FAO) closest international airport to Sagres (115 km east). Main gateway to the Algarve.

Lisbon Airport LIS

  • Approx. 300 km north of Sagres. Portugal's largest international airport.
  • Wider range of international flights, including direct connections from North America.
  • Travelers flying into Lisbon arrange additional land transport.

Airlines & Routes

Faro Airport served by numerous European airlines: Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Jet2.

International Connections

  • National carriers like TAP Air Portugal, British Airways, Lufthansa.
  • Direct flights from North America mainly to Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal, Delta, United, Air Canada).
  • Seasonal availability and price fluctuations. High season highest prices.

Faro Airport FAO

Offers duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.

Lisbon Airport LIS

Extensive facilities, dining, shopping, airline lounges. Direct connections to metro.

Baggage Tip

A Digital luggage scale avoid overweight baggage fees.

Airport Transfers

From Faro Airport FAO

  • Car Rental: Most popular option. Numerous companies at FAO. 1h 15m drive.
  • Private Transfer/Taxi: Most expensive. Pre-booking recommended. €90-€120.
  • Shuttle Services: Shared, more economical alternative. Pre-booked.
  • Public Bus: Most budget-friendly. Multiple changes (Faro Airport to Faro city to Lagos to Sagres).

From Lisbon Airport LIS

  • Car Rental: Drive approx. 3 hours via the A2 and A22 motorways.
  • Bus (Rede Expressos): Metro to Sete Rios terminal. Direct buses to Lagos (3.5-4h). Local bus/taxi from Lagos to Sagres.
  • Train: No direct connection. Metro to Oriente/Sete Rios. Train to Tunes, then Lagos. Longer and complex.
  • A Portugal road map helpful backup to GPS.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Portugal shares land border with Spain. Both Schengen members. No formal border checks.

Train Connections

Sagres no train station. Nearest in Lagos. Regional trains connect Lagos to Algarve towns.

Long-Distance Buses

Rede Expressos main long-distance bus company from Lisbon to Lagos.

Self-Driving & Rentals

Car Rental Basics

To rent a car, typically 21-25 years old. Valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU.

Requirements & Booking

  • Major credit card in driver's name for deposit.
  • International car rental chains (Hertz, Avis) at Faro Airport and Lagos.
  • Booking car in advance recommended for better rates.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads (A2, A22) excellent. Local roads in Sagres generally good.

Driving Regulations

  • Driving on the right. Roundabouts common. Speed limits posted.
  • Alcohol limits strict (0.05% BAC).
  • Tolls on motorways. A22 uses electronic-only system. Rental cars equipped.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Motorcycles and scooters available for rent in Lagos and sometimes in Sagres during warmer months.

Rental Details

  • Helmets mandatory and provided.
  • Rental requirements similar to cars.
  • A Car phone mount useful for phone's GPS.

Bicycle Rentals

Sagres no formal bike-sharing programs. Surf shops and activity centers offer rentals.

Cycling Experience

  • Rent mountain bikes for off-road trails.
  • City bikes for town exploration.
  • Electric bikes for easier rides.

Important Notes

  • Specialty vehicles like tuk-tuks not common.
  • Some smaller roads leading to remote beaches unpaved or narrow.
  • Free street parking available, but limited in town center peak season.
  • Quiet country roads around Sagres suitable for cycling.
  • Helmets recommended for cycling safety.
  • No river transportation. Sagres on Atlantic coast.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes imposed. Costs typically included in ticket price.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airport departure (Faro/Lisbon): 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Schengen flights: 1.5-2 hours, confirm airline recommendations.
  • Allow extra time for returning a rental car.

Airport/Station Facilities

Faro Airport offers check-in, security, duty-free, restaurants, lounges.

Lisbon Airport Features

  • Extensive facilities, wide range of retail and dining options.
  • Numerous lounges.
  • Streamlined security procedures.

Final Checks

Confirm airport check-in and luggage drop-off deadlines with your airline.