Portimão

Portimão

Located on the most south-westerly tip of Europe, Portimão is one of the most popular towns in the Algarve. Although it was once a fishing town dedicated to the fishing and processing of sardine, over time this industry has been replaced by tourism, making Portimão a residential city. However, you shouldn't miss the opportunity of exploring the streets of Portimão, discovering its heritage, and sunbathing at some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. If you're thinking about visiting Portimão, here is everything you must know!

How To Get Here

Portimão is located 71 km away from Faro International Airport which makes it easier to get to this town in the Algarve. From there, you can either book a transfer in advance or rent a car and drive along the A22 motorway. A car will be ideal if you want to explore other towns or beaches in the region. Another tip is to stay away from taxis parked near the airport as they will be very expensive.

What To Do

One of the best things to do in Portimão, or in any other town in the Algarve, is to enjoy its incredible beaches. Portimão's beach stretches for over 8 km with fine, golden sand contrasting with orange cliffs. Although they are the perfect escape on a hot Summer day, the region has excellent weather pretty much all year round which makes them sound even more appealing, right? The main beach in Portimão is Praia da Rocha and, over the years, it has become very popular among tourists. Near the beach, you will find lots of hotels, high rise apartment blocks, restaurants, bars, and shops - pretty much everything you need for a good holiday! Other beaches worth discovering are Praia da Marina and Praia dos Três Castelos, both beautiful.

But there are plenty of other things to do in Portimão. We totally recommend doing a boat trip, whether that is a trip to discover the caves in the region or a dolphin seafari. If you're traveling with kids, make sure to visit the Education Farm (free during the week and 1€ during the weekend) in the region where you can introduce them to the friendly animals. Near the city, you can also find the Zoo (16€), in Lagos, the Zoomarine (18,90€), in Guia, and the Slide & Splash water park (27,00€), in Lagoa, for a day of fun. Also, don't miss the opportunity to walk along the Marina. Then, grab an ice cream and sit by the river.

What To See

There's a lot to be seen in Portimão. The historic center features beautiful plazas and streets filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. During your walk, make sure to stop by the Jardim 1º de Dezembro, a stunning garden featuring azulejo tiles that depict Portugal's history. Near the garden, you can find the Igreja Matriz de Portimão, the main church in the city and a beautiful landmark worth discovering. Take a walk along the Arade River and you'll get to Portimão's Museum where you can learn about the city's sardine fishing & canning traditions. A couple of kilometers later, there's the Forte de Santa Catarina (Fort of Saint Catarina), a medieval fort with an excellent view. However, If you're looking for the best viewpoint in Portimão, head to Miradouro Três Castelos (Three Castles Viewpoint) and take the time to appreciate the breathtaking view.

Where To Eat

You won't have trouble finding a good restaurant in Portimão, whether you're looking for a traditional dish or a fine dining experience. The fish and seafood are the best things to taste in the city, or in any part of the Algarve for that matter, but meat dishes are also delicious. Because of Portimão's past, you must try the grilled sardines that many of the restaurants offer. Dona Barca and Taberna de Portimão seem to be two popular options to try the Algarve cuisine, in case you want a couple of suggestions.

Smart Tips

If you're staying in Portimão, WarmRental recommends that you take a few day trips to surrounding towns such as Silves or Lagos. Rent a car and go discover Silves, the Algarve's ancient capital, or Lagos, the jewel of the crown where you can find some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. One of the best things about the Algarve is that you can easily discover a bunch of cities in the region and that allows you to fully experience what Portugal’s southernmost region is all about.