Olhão

Olhão

Located on the coast of Algarve, Olhão is a town full of character and one of the region's biggest surprises. The top attractions in this sunny city are the municipal market, the beautiful old town with cobblestoned streets and the dreamy islands. If you're planning a trip to Olhão, WarmRental prepared a travel guide with everything you need to do and see to make sure you make the most of your vacation in this beautiful town.

How To Get Here

Olhão has a pretty location as it's only 15 km away from Faro, where you can find the region's airport. Then, from the airport to Olhão, you can either use the train (1.40€), the bus (3.25€) or book a transfer in advance. However, there's also the possibility of renting a car which will come handy if you plan on exploring other towns nearby. And if you're curious, Olhão is only a 30-minute drive from the border with Spain.

What To Do

Our first recommendation is that you take a boat trip to see the islands. Because Olhão is located on the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a series of lagoons and an island along the coastline of the Algarve, the town doesn't have a proper beach. However, you can visit all the islands - Ilha da Culatra, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Armona - where you can enjoy beautiful beaches with golden sand and clear waters. There are ferries going back and forth all day during the Summer so you won't have trouble getting there. In these beaches, there are many water sports available such as snorkeling, bodyboard, and surf so fun is guaranteed. For those who prefer another type of activities, don't miss the opportunity to take a walk at Quinta do Marim to get a better view of the Ria Formosa, rich in fauna and flora.

Another thing to do in Olhão is to visit the municipal market which actually includes two different markets. In the Avenida 5 de Outubro, you can find two red-brick buildings along the waterfront that house the fish market and the fruit and vegetable market. Here you will be able to find fresh fish and seafood, as well as a selection of local fruits and vegetables. The best day to visit it is on a Saturday morning, so make sure you add it to your calendar.

What To See

If you're looking into discovering more about the history behind Olhão , head to the town's picturesque center. In Praça da Restauração, you can find the Nossa Senhora do Rosário church, a baroque building built in 1698 thanks to the contributions from the fishermen. Inside there are impressive gilt carved woodwork as well as beautiful fresco paintings. From the bell tower, you can enjoy an amazing view over Olhão and Ria Formosa. Another church worth discovering is the Nossa Senhora dos Aflitos chapel. Built in the 17th century, it is the original church of the former fishing village where the fishermen's wives used to come pray for the safety of their husbands during when they were in the sea.

Nearby, you will also find the Compromisso Marítimo founded in the 18th century with the intention of supporting local fishermen. However, it is now home to the Olhão city museum where you can learn more about the city's past. Last but definitely not least, along the waterfront you'll find a promenade with a beautiful garden, Jardim Pescador do Olhanense. Here, you can stop for some shade and appreciate the beauty of the garden while planning what to do next.

Where To Eat

If you're in Olhão , don't miss the opportunity of trying fresh fish. You can cook it at home if you're staying at a vacation home or head to one of the local restaurants. Anyway, since Olhão is a typical fishing town, we recommend you to don't miss the opportunity to eat in a typical Portuguese fish restaurant, such as Prazeres, Vai e Volta or O Horta, just to name a few.

Smart Tips

If you're staying in Olhão and have a car , don't miss the opportunity of visiting a few of the surrounding towns such as  Faro  or Tavira . Faro, the capital of the region, has a historic center surrounded by ancient Moorish walls worth discovering. In Tavira,  you can witness the beauty of the  seven arch bridge with Roman origins. Exploring both of these towns will give you a new perspective of the Algarve . Also, there are tons of fantastic beaches to discover every day!