Portimao

Portimao

In Portimao, a fishing port since Roman times, you can sample fresh local seafood in harborside cafes, climb among huge, oddly-shaped rocks carved by waves or journey to Sagres, where Prince Henry´s school of navigation still stands on a rocky promontory pointing toward the beckoning Atlantic.

Attractions

Although it lacks great monuments and museums, Portimao is worth exploring. Just wander through its colorful streets, stopping at any sight that interests you. The once-colorful fishing boats used to unload their catch here at the port but have moved to a terminal across the river. High-rise buildings ring the area, but the core of the old town is still intact.

Shopping

Fish, fruit, and vegetable markets are held every morning (except Sun) until 2pm in the market building and open square. On the first Monday of every month, a gigantic day-long regional market sells local artifacts, pottery, wicker, and even snake oil. Boutiques offering the Algarve's best selection of sweaters, porcelain, and pottery abound.

Food

Try to be in Portimao for lunch. Of course, you can dine at a restaurant, but it's even more fun to walk down to the harborside, where you can find a table at one of the low-cost eateries. The specialty is charcoal-grilled sardines, which taste like nothing you get from a can. They make an inexpensive meal accompanied by chewy, freshly baked bread; a salad; and a carafe of regional wine.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Portugal.

Weather Forecast

Sailing Calendar

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