Olhão

Written by Celine Fournier, Finn Weber
02/09/2025
Stunning aerial shot of a coastal town in Olhão, Portugal, at sunset.
Joao Batista, Pexels

Olhão, a vibrant fishing town in the Eastern Algarve, serves as an authentic gateway to the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park and its idyllic island beaches, alongside showcasing a rich cultural heritage through its bustling market and distinctive cubist architecture.

The waterfront, particularly around the municipal market, provides a lively setting with various cafes, bars, and seafood restaurants. The central square is a favored social spot, and the newer Olhão Marina offers modern venues. The annual seafood festival is a highlight for those seeking a lively experience. Hostels often facilitate social interactions, and specific bars like 'Bar do Mercado' attract a mixed crowd.

Top 5 Things to do in Olhão

Activities encompass boat excursions to barrier islands, exploration of the vibrant municipal market, architectural walking tours, and eco-friendly kayaking through the natural park.

1. Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park and its Islands

One experiences the vast beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park by taking a boat trip or ferry from Olhão's harbor. This park, recognized as one of Portugal's seven natural wonders, is a labyrinth of canals, islands, and marshlands. Island hopping allows visitors to discover idyllic barrier islands such as Culatra, Armona, and Farol, each offering unique white sandy beaches and local fishing communities. Many tours include stops for swimming, relaxing, and learning about the diverse ecosystem, which is a haven for various bird species, including flamingos. Opting for a guided tour provides insightful commentary on the flora, fauna, and local fishing traditions.

Cost: Ferry tickets to the islands typically cost a few euros for a round trip. Guided boat tours vary: a 3-hour Ria Formosa boat tour can cost approximately €35-€45 per person, while a 4-hour, 3-island tour might range from €45-€60. Sunset tours are also available.

Transport: Ferries and guided boat tours depart regularly from Olhão Harbour, which is centrally located and within walking distance of the town center. No other transport is needed to reach the islands once on a boat.

2. Immerse in the Olhão Municipal Market

A visit to the Olhão Municipal Market is a sensory experience, highlighting the town's deep fishing heritage. Housed in two distinctive red-brick buildings by the waterfront, one hall is dedicated to a vibrant display of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce, while the other showcases the day's catch from the Atlantic and Ria Formosa. This is an ideal place to observe daily life, sample regional delicacies like dried figs, and find fresh ingredients. Saturdays are particularly lively, with additional outdoor stalls featuring local and regional producers, offering a bustling atmosphere.

Cost: Entry to the market is free. Costs are incurred through purchases of fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts, which can be very affordable.

Transport: The market is situated on Avenida 5 de Outubro, directly on the waterfront, making it easily accessible by foot from anywhere in Olhão's town center.

3. Discover Olhão's Cubist Architecture and Old Town

Wandering through the narrow, whitewashed streets of Olhão's old town reveals its unique 'cubist' architecture, often characterized by flat roofs, external staircases, and small rectangular structures influenced by North African design. One can explore the Bairro dos Pescadores (fishermen's quarter) and other historic neighborhoods to admire these distinctive buildings and murals that depict the town's fishing history. Guided walking tours are available to uncover the legends and historical significance behind this architectural style, offering a deeper understanding of Olhão's cultural identity.

Cost: Exploring the old town is free. Guided walking tours, if chosen, can range from €15 to €30 per person, offering local insights and stories.

Transport: The old town and cubist architecture are concentrated in the central area of Olhão, making it best explored on foot.

4. Kayaking or Paddleboarding in Ria Formosa

For an active exploration of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, kayaking or paddleboarding offers a tranquil way to navigate its serene waters. These eco-friendly tours allow visitors to get closer to nature, observing the diverse birdlife and intricate lagoon system at a relaxed pace. Many tours include boat transfers to a starting island, providing equipment and multilingual guides. It is a rewarding experience for those who appreciate light outdoor activities and wish to connect with the natural beauty of the Algarve from a different perspective.

Cost: A 2.5 to 3-hour guided kayak tour, often including boat transfer to an island, typically costs between €35 and €50 per person. Equipment and safety gear are usually included.

Transport: Tours often include boat transfers from Olhão's marina or a designated meeting point to an island within the Ria Formosa, from where the kayaking begins. The marina is centrally located and walkable.

5. Attend the Olhão Seafood Festival (Seasonal)

If visiting in August, the annual Festival do Marisco (Seafood Festival) is an unmissable highlight. This popular event transforms the municipal garden along the Ria Formosa waterfront into a vibrant celebration of the region's culinary heritage. Visitors can indulge in an extensive array of freshly caught seafood, from prawns and oysters to traditional specialties like 'arroz de marisco' (seafood rice) and 'cataplana'. The festival combines gastronomic delights with lively entertainment, featuring live music from prominent Portuguese artists. It offers a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture and communal festivity.

Cost: Daily entrance tickets for adults typically range from €7 to €10, with children often paying half price or entering for free if very young. A multi-day pass may also be available. Costs for food and drinks are separate and vary based on consumption.

Transport: The festival is held in Jardim Pescador Olhanense, a municipal garden located on the waterfront, making it easily accessible on foot from central Olhão.

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