Key Information About Olhao, Portugal
Olhão, the Algarve’s largest fishing port, offers an authentic glimpse into Portugal’s maritime soul. Defined by its bustling waterfront, lively markets, and unique North African-inspired architecture, the city stands apart from the typical resort towns with its cube-shaped houses and flat rooftops. As the gateway to the stunning barrier islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring pristine beaches and tranquil lagoons. This guide highlights the top 10 things to do in Olhão, focusing on the experiences that define its hardworking fishing community and genuine coastal character.
For more in-depth travel guidance, including where to stay, eat, and explore nearby, check out our full Olhão City Guide.
Quick Facts About Olhão
Best Things to Do in Olhao, Portugal
Shop at the Mercados de Olhão (Olhão Markets)
The soul of Olhão is its vibrant waterfront, centered around the iconic twin red-brick market halls built in 1912. These distinctive structures with domed towers are the best place to find the freshest local products, with one hall dedicated entirely to fish and seafood and the other to produce. Every morning, the area buzzes with activity as locals and chefs gather to buy the day’s catch, offering a fascinating insight into the city’s fishing industry. On Saturdays, the experience expands as a lively outdoor market sets up around the buildings, selling everything from local crafts to household goods.
- Location: Avenida 5 de Outubro, Waterfront
- What to do: Browse the fish and produce halls; shop for local goods at the Saturday outdoor market
- Who it’s best for: Foodies and those seeking local culture
- When to go: Mornings, Monday to Saturday; Saturday is the busiest day
- Need-to-know: Go early to see the fish market at its liveliest
Take a Ferry to the Ria Formosa Islands
The most popular day trip from Olhão is taking a ferry to the stunning barrier islands of Ilha da Armona and Ilha da Culatra. These car-free islands offer vast, unspoiled sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the mainland. Visitors can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood at the simple, charming restaurants in the small fishing communities like Farol and Hangares. It is the best way to experience the pristine nature of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
- Location: Ferries depart from the waterfront terminal
- What to do: Swim in clear waters; explore sandy dunes; visit island fishing villages
- Who it’s best for: Beach lovers and families
- When to go: Ferries run regularly; check the seasonal schedule
- Need-to-know: The islands are car-free, ensuring a peaceful environment
Explore the Old Town (Largo da Restauração)
Just behind the waterfront lies the heart of Olhão’s historic old town, a neighborhood famed for its unique cubist architecture with Moorish influences. This area is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets and alleys where visitors can discover hidden courtyards and traditional tile-fronted houses. The district is ideal for getting lost and finding small, family-run tascas serving local delicacies away from the main tourist strip. It offers a distinct visual character that you won’t find elsewhere in the Algarve.
- Location: Area surrounding Largo da Restauração
- What to do: Wander the cobbled streets; admire the cube-shaped architecture; find hidden cafes
- Who it’s best for: Photographers and urban explorers
- When to go: Daytime for sightseeing; evening for dining
- Need-to-know: The area is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot
Climb the Tower of the Igreja Matriz (Main Church)
The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is the city’s most important religious building, located in the main square of the old town. Built in the 17th century with funds from local fishermen, it features a robust Baroque facade that dominates the area. Visitors can climb the bell tower for a small fee to enjoy stunning panoramic views over the unique cubist rooftops and the sparkling Ria Formosa. It provides the best vantage point to appreciate the city’s “flat roof” architectural style.
- Location: Largo da Restauração
- What to do: Visit the historic chapel; climb the bell tower for city views
- Who it’s best for: Sightseers and history enthusiasts
- When to go: Open during daytime hours
- Need-to-know: There is a small fee to access the tower
Take a Ria Formosa Boat Tour
Discovering the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa by boat is one of the most rewarding activities in Olhão. Numerous tour operators depart from the marina and waterfront, guiding you through the lagoon’s intricate network of channels, marshes, and barrier islands. These tours offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and learning about the local ecosystem, including stops at traditional clam and oyster farms. It is a relaxing way to understand the biodiversity and economic importance of this protected wetland.
- Location: Departs from the Marina or Waterfront
- What to do: Spot migratory birds; learn about shellfish farming; cruise the lagoon channels
- Who it’s best for: Nature lovers and birdwatchers
- When to go: Tours operate daily; booking in advance is recommended
- Need-to-know: Some tours include stops at the islands for swimming
Feast on Fresh Seafood
Olhão’s reputation as a fishing capital makes it a premier culinary destination, particularly for seafood lovers. The waterfront promenade and old town are lined with restaurants like Terra i Mar, serving freshly grilled fish caught the same day and local specialties like cataplana. Whether you choose a lively terrace on Avenida 5 de Outubro or a creative tapas spot like Cha Cha Cha in the alleys, the quality of the ingredients is exceptional. Dining here is about savoring the authentic flavors of the ocean in a lively maritime setting.
- Location: Waterfront Avenue and Old Town streets
- What to do: Order a Cataplana; try the fresh grilled fish of the day
- Who it’s best for: Foodies and seafood enthusiasts
- When to go: Lunch or Dinner; evenings are particularly lively
- Need-to-know: Popular restaurants like Cha Cha Cha often require reservations
Visit the Caique Bom Sucesso Replica
Moored on the waterfront near the markets is a replica of the Caique Bom Sucesso, a small fishing boat with a heroic history. In 1808, seventeen local fishermen sailed this vessel all the way to Brazil to inform the exiled King João VI that Napoleon’s forces had been defeated in the Algarve. The king rewarded this bravery by granting Olhão a Royal Charter, elevating it from a village to a town. Seeing the boat offers a tangible connection to the city’s proudest historical moment and maritime heritage.
- Location: Waterfront, near the Market Halls
- What to do: View the historic boat replica; learn about the 1808 voyage
- Who it’s best for: History buffs
- When to go: Viewable anytime
- Need-to-know: It is an open-air monument located on the water
Join a Mosaic Tile Workshop
For a creative and hands-on cultural experience, visitors can participate in a workshop at Mosaic Olhão. Led by an experienced artist, these sessions guide you through the traditional process of designing, painting, and glazing your own Portuguese azulejos (tiles). It is a fun and relaxing activity that allows you to create a unique souvenir while gaining a deeper appreciation for one of Portugal’s most iconic art forms. The workshops are suitable for all skill levels.
- Location: Mosaic Olhão (check local address)
- What to do: Design and paint your own traditional tile
- Who it’s best for: Creatives and families
- When to go: Check schedule for workshop times
- Need-to-know: A great rainy day activity or break from the sun
Attend the Festival do Marisco (Seafood Festival)
If you visit in August, the Festival do Marisco is an unmissable event that transforms the Jardim Pescador Olhanense into a massive open-air feast. As one of the biggest food festivals in Portugal, it allows visitors to enjoy enormous platters of prawns, clams, and fish cooked in traditional ways. The festival combines this culinary celebration with live music from famous national artists, creating an energetic party atmosphere. It is the ultimate expression of Olhão’s identity as the seafood capital of the Algarve.
- Location: Jardim Pescador Olhanense, Waterfront
- What to do: Eat extensive seafood platters; watch live concerts
- Who it’s best for: Food lovers and festival-goers
- When to go: Held annually in August
- Need-to-know: It attracts thousands of people, so expect crowds
Stroll the Riverside Parks
Flanking the market halls are two pleasant green spaces, Jardim Pescador Olhanense and Jardim Patrão Joaquim Lopes. These landscaped parks provide a shaded retreat with benches, sculptures, and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll with views of the fishing boats and the Ria Formosa. They serve as a social hub for locals and a relaxing spot to take a break while walking between the markets and the ferry terminal. It is a peaceful way to enjoy the waterfront scenery away from the bustle of the commerce areas.
- Location: Along the waterfront, adjacent to the markets
- What to do: Walk the paths; sit and watch the boats; enjoy a coffee
- Who it’s best for: Families and casual walkers
- When to go: Anytime; lovely at sunset
- Need-to-know: Public restrooms are available in the park area
Your Guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Olhão
This guide to the Top 10 Best Things to Do in Olhão highlights the city’s most authentic experiences, each selected for its connection to the local maritime culture, history, and natural surroundings. Whether you are looking for a beach escape on the barrier islands or a deep dive into the town’s unique markets, this list helps you focus on the activities that define the area.
For a broader look at the city, including accommodation and transport advice, visit the full Olhão City Guide.
