Key Information About Quarteira, Portugal
Quarteira offers an authentic Algarve experience, a classic seaside resort where the charm of a traditional fishing town meets the lively energy of its long, sandy beachfront. It is a destination built around sun, sea, and straightforward relaxation, providing a genuine taste of Portuguese coastal life. To help you make the most of your visit, this guide highlights the top 10 things to do in Quarteira, offering a practical way to plan your time and experience the best of the area.
For more in-depth travel guidance, including where to stay, eat, and find practical information, check out our full Quarteira City Guide.
Quick Facts About Quarteira
- Location: Southern Portugal, Algarve Region (part of the municipality of Loulé)
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Nearest Airport: Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 24 km from Quarteira.
- How to Get There: Direct buses from Faro Airport; taxis, ride-hailing services, and car rentals.
- Currency: Euro (€)
Best Things To Do In Quarteira, Portugal
Walk the Beachfront Promenade
The sprawling promenade is the vibrant heart of Quarteira and the city’s main social hub. This iconic walkway, lined with palm trees and distinctive patterned pavement, stretches for kilometers along the coast, offering uninterrupted ocean views. It’s a perfect representation of the city’s relaxed seaside culture, constantly bustling with walkers, cyclists, and people enjoying the many cafes and restaurants. Taking a stroll here is the best way to soak in the local atmosphere, whether it’s for a morning jog, an afternoon walk, or an evening outing.
- Location: Runs the entire length of Quarteira’s coastline, from Passeio das Dunas to Praia da Gaivota.
- What to do: Walk, cycle, stop for a coffee or ice cream, people-watch, enjoy sunset views.
- Who it’s best for: Everyone—families, couples, solo travelers, and fitness enthusiasts.
- When to go: Anytime, but especially lively in the late afternoon and evening.
- Need-to-know: The path is flat and fully paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Relax on Praia de Quarteira
Praia de Quarteira is the city’s main beach, a vast expanse of golden sand that defines the local lifestyle. Its calm, clean waters are ideal for swimming, making it a safe and popular choice for families with children. The beach is fully serviced with amenities and backed by the promenade, providing immediate access to a wide variety of restaurants and shops. It’s the energetic center of Quarteira, offering everything needed for a comfortable and classic Algarve beach day.
- Location: The main central beach, running along the city’s entire waterfront.
- What to do: Sunbathe, swim, rent a sun lounger, try water sports.
- Who it’s best for: Families, beach lovers, and anyone looking for a convenient day on the sand.
- When to go: June to September for the warmest sea temperatures. Arrive early in July and August to secure a good spot.
- Need-to-know: Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent daily during the high season.
Visit the Wednesday Gypsy Market
The Quarteira Wednesday Gypsy Market is one of the most famous open-air markets in the Algarve, offering an authentic and bustling Portuguese shopping experience. Held just outside the city, this sprawling market features over 150 stalls selling a huge variety of goods. Shoppers can find everything from clothing and leather goods to cork products, linens, and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere and sheer variety make it a must-do activity for anyone looking for bargains and a vibrant slice of local culture.
- Location: On the eastern outskirts of Quarteira; easily reachable by foot, taxi, or a local tourist train.
- What to do: Browse for bargains, shop for souvenirs, practice your haggling skills, soak in the atmosphere.
- Who it’s best for: Bargain hunters, souvenir shoppers, and visitors wanting an authentic local experience.
- When to go: Every Wednesday morning, typically from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Need-to-know: It can get very crowded, so go early to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat. Bring cash, as most vendors do not accept cards.
Explore the Mercado do Peixe
For a true taste of Quarteira’s fishing heritage, a visit to the Mercado do Peixe (Fish Market) is essential. Located near the harbor, this bustling indoor market is where local fishermen sell their daily catch. The sights and sounds provide an authentic glimpse into the city’s culinary soul and deep connection to the sea. In addition to the incredible array of fresh seafood on the ground floor, the upper level features vendors selling fresh fruit, vegetables, and other local produce.
- Location: In the Largo das Cortes Reais, near the harbor and the town center.
- What to do: See the fresh catch of the day, buy local produce, experience an authentic Portuguese market.
- Who it’s best for: Foodies, curious travelers, and anyone self-catering during their stay.
- When to go: Mornings (Monday to Saturday) are the best time to see the market at its most active.
- Need-to-know: The market closes in the early afternoon, so an early visit is recommended for the best selection.
Have a Thrilling Day at Aquashow Park
Located just outside the city, Aquashow Park is one of Portugal’s largest and best water and theme parks, offering a guaranteed day of fun. The park features a huge range of attractions, from thrilling water slides and a giant wave pool to Portugal’s biggest water roller coaster. It stands out by combining a classic water park with amusement park rides, providing entertainment for every level of thrill-seeker. It’s the perfect activity for families and groups looking to cool off and enjoy a high-energy day away from the beach.
- Location: Just a few kilometers north of Quarteira, easily accessible by car, taxi, or a dedicated bus.
- What to do: Ride water slides, relax in the wave pool, try the water roller coaster, enjoy the theme park rides.
- Who it’s best for: Families with children, teenagers, and anyone looking for a thrilling day out.
- When to go: Open daily during the warmer months, typically from May to September.
- Need-to-know: Tickets can be purchased online in advance to avoid queues; lockers are available for rent.
Take a Boat Tour from Vilamoura Marina
Quarteira’s close proximity to the glamorous Vilamoura Marina makes it the perfect base for exploring the stunning Algarve coastline by sea. A wide variety of boat tours depart from here daily, offering unforgettable excursions to see the region’s famous caves and rock formations. The most popular trips head west to the spectacular Benagil Cave, but other options include dolphin-watching tours and coastal cruises. Seeing the coastline from the water provides a completely different perspective and is a highlight for many visitors to the area.
- Location: Tours depart from Vilamoura Marina, a short walk from Quarteira via the Passeio das Dunas.
- What to do: Visit Benagil Cave, look for wild dolphins, cruise along the coastline.
- Who it’s best for: Nature lovers, families, couples, and photographers.
- When to go: Tours run year-round, but the summer months offer the calmest seas.
- Need-to-know: It’s highly recommended to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they fill up quickly.
Learn Local History at the Quarteira Exhibition
To truly understand Quarteira’s evolution from an ancient settlement to a modern resort, a visit to this permanent exhibition is essential. Its name, “With Feet on the Land and Hands in the Sea,” perfectly captures the city’s 6,000-year history and deep connection to the ocean. The museum displays archaeological artifacts that tell the story of the area, from prehistoric times to its more recent past as a humble fishing village. It provides valuable context to the city’s identity and offers an insightful journey through time, away from the sun and sand.
- Location: In the Centro Autárquico building in Largo das Cortes Reais, near the fish market.
- What to do: View archaeological artifacts, learn about local history, discover the city’s fishing heritage.
- Who it’s best for: History buffs, curious travelers, and visitors looking for an indoor activity.
- When to go: Typically open on weekdays during business hours.
- Need-to-know: Entry is often free as it’s a municipal exhibition. Allow about an hour for a visit.
Walk the Scenic Passeio das Dunas
The Passeio das Dunas is a beautiful wooden boardwalk that provides a peaceful, scenic connection between Quarteira and Vilamoura. The path winds through a protected area of natural sand dunes and coastal vegetation, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling town center. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or cycle while enjoying the fresh sea air and ocean views. This restored natural area showcases a different side of the coastline and stands in pleasant contrast to the built-up promenade.
- Location: Connects the western end of Quarteira’s promenade to the Vilamoura Marina.
- What to do: Go for a walk or bike ride, sit on the benches, enjoy the natural scenery.
- Who it’s best for: Nature lovers, walkers, and anyone seeking a quiet break.
- When to go: Beautiful at any time of day, but especially pleasant at sunrise or sunset.
- Need-to-know: The boardwalk is flat and accessible, suitable for all fitness levels.
Find a Quiet Spot at Praia da Gaivota
While still part of the city’s main beach, Praia da Gaivota at the far eastern end offers a much more tranquil and spacious experience. This section of the beach is noticeably less crowded than the central area, making it ideal for visitors seeking peace and quiet. You can enjoy the same golden sand and calm waters but with more room to spread out and relax. It’s the perfect choice for a laid-back day of sunbathing or reading a book by the sea without the hustle of the main tourist strip.
- Location: The easternmost stretch of Quarteira’s main beach.
- What to do: Relax in a quieter setting, sunbathe, swim.
- Who it’s best for: Travelers looking to escape the crowds, couples, and readers.
- When to go: Anytime during the beach season for a more peaceful experience.
- Need-to-know: There are fewer immediate amenities here, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood at La Cabane
Indulging in fresh, locally caught seafood is an essential Quarteira experience, and La Cabane offers one of the best settings to do so. This restaurant is celebrated for its high-quality, authentic Portuguese cuisine, particularly its seafood dishes. The elegant atmosphere and superb service make it an ideal choice for a memorable meal. Ordering a traditional cataplana (seafood stew) or the giant tiger shrimp provides a true taste of the Algarve’s rich culinary heritage.
- Location: Centrally located, near the main promenade.
- What to do: Try the seafood cataplana, enjoy fresh grilled fish, have a special occasion dinner.
- Who it’s best for: Foodies, couples, and anyone seeking a high-quality traditional Portuguese meal.
- When to go: Evenings are best to enjoy the full dining experience.
- Need-to-know: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer months, as it’s a very popular spot.
Your Guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Quarteira
This guide to the Top 10 Best Things to Do in Quarteira highlights the city’s most worthwhile experiences – each selected for its local value, popularity, or unique appeal. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, this list helps you focus on the activities that define the area. For a broader look at the city, including neighborhoods, transport, and more travel advice, visit the full Quarteira City Guide.