Despite years of passing it by, thinking it had little to offer, our recent visit couldn’t have proved us more wrong. In this article, we’re thrilled to share the best things to do and see in Olhão.
From bustling markets and stunning natural sights to its rich culture and culinary delights, we’ve discovered that Olhão is a vibrant destination packed with surprises. Join us as we explore Olhão’s top attractions and hidden gems, showing you why it’s a must-visit for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and foodies alike.
Best Time to Visit Olhao, Portugal
Lukas and I have a special affection for visiting Olhão, Portugal, in February and November. These months might seem unconventional choices, but they hold a unique appeal for us. The cooler but pleasant sunny weather is perfect for leisurely walks along the Ria Formosa and enjoying the local cafes without the hustle and bustle.🤭
However, the peak summer months of July and August offer sun-drenched days perfect for beach hopping and island excursions, albeit with larger crowds.
For those seeking milder weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) present a delightful balance of pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to experience local life more authentically.
Where to Stay in Olhao?
For those in pursuit of a designer accommodation, Pure Formosa Concept Hotel is a must-try. Opened recently in 2021, it has quickly risen to popularity, thanks to its stylish rooms equipped with all the essentials—air-conditioning, a minibar, and private bathrooms.
However, the crowning glory is undoubtedly the rooftop terrace, providing an idyllic setting for unwinding in the evening under the sweep of panoramic views.
Perfectly positioned within a short stroll from quaint local shops and the bustling heart of the city center, the hotel’s prime location offers seamless immersion into Olhão’s vibrant culture.
Best Things to Do And See in Olhao
Now let’s explore together our list of best things to do and see in Olhao, Portugal. Olhão captured our hearts with its picturesque streets and lively atmosphere. As vegetarians, we were thrilled to explore the local markets, bursting with fresh produce and vibrant colors.
A highlight was definitely the boat trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park, a serene escape into nature’s beauty. Dining by the waterfront, we discovered delightful vegetarian options that were both flavorful and satisfying. Olhão is a gem that offers memorable experiences beyond its culinary traditions.
Casa Dr. Bernardino da Silva
The Casa Dr. Bernardino da Silva, standing as historic house number 14 on Avenida da República, was erected in the 19th century and served as the residence of the esteemed local physician, Dr. Luís Bernardino da Silva. In 1932, it transformed into the headquarters of the Olhão Recreational Society, founded in 1858 with the aim of fostering cultural and artistic activities for the local aristocracy. This society was pioneering in the Algarve and stands as the fourth oldest of its kind in Portugal.
Famed for its vibrant carnival celebrations, the Olhão Recreational Society also boasted a huge terrace at the back of the building, where open-air cinema screenings were held until the 1980s. By 2015, the society ceased to use the house, which has since 2017 been occupied by a new entity – the Cultural Association Re-Criativa República 14.
The Olhão City Museum
The Olhão City Museum is a fascinating place to learn more about the history and culture of this picturesque Portuguese town. Housed in the former Casa do Compromisso Marítimo building from the 18th century, originally intended to support fishermen, the museum offers a deep dive into the town’s past and its fishing traditions.
We were captivated by the many fascinating stories of Olhão’s past and learned about the town’s development and evolution. The museum also hosts various programs and events suitable for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal place for exploring the city’s cultural heritage, whether you’re interested in art, history, or fishing traditions.
The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário
The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, the largest church in Olhão and the second stone building constructed in the town (between 1698 – 1722), stands as a testament to the communal financial efforts of local fishermen. The construction of this religious site began as a direct result of Olhão being established as a self-governing municipality in 1695. Despite the building not being completed, religious activities started in 1715, driven by the people’s desire for emancipation from the nearby town of Faro.
Highlights of the Igreja Matriz include:
- Sundials on the bell tower walls and an inscription describing the simple and humble lives of the sailors who funded and built the church in 1698.
- A majestic baroque façade designed by Inácio Mendes (who also designed the Contraria do Corpo Santo de Faro), adorned with angel statues and a notable wooden carving of the resurrected Christ.
- The golden altar of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, crowned by angel statues with a Portuguese shield.
- A small chapel at the back of the building, opening directly onto the street, dedicated to Nosso Senhor dos Aflitos (Lord of the Afflicted).
- A beautiful panel of traditional tiles depicting Christ on the cross.
Climbing the bell tower from inside the church, which costs only about 1€, offers a perfect opportunity to uncover the secrets of hundreds of houses with roofs transformed into typical terraces (“açoteias”) and “mirantes” (higher structures protruding from the terraces).
In addition to the Igreja Matriz, the surrounding islands, such as Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona, are worth visiting for their beautiful beaches and natural scenery.
Igreja Pequena – Little Church
Igreja Pequena, the smallest church in the town, has the honor of being the first stone building in the city. It served as the main religious site for prayer until the construction of the Matriz Church was completed. The exact year of construction is unknown, but some historians consider it to be the same chapel mentioned in historical records, founded by King Dom João I in the 14th century.
Compromisso Marítimo – The Maritime Commitment Building
The Maritime Commitment Building is a historically significant structure that epitomizes the efforts and contributions of the sailors from Olhão. This beautiful example of simple architecture is located close to the small church (Igreja Pequena) and was completed in 1771. Today, this building houses the City Museum, which features an interactive room, archaeological exhibits, spaces for temporary exhibitions, and a bibliographic center.
On the main façade of the building, you’ll find symmetric windows adorned with wrought iron balconies and a carved stone niche that houses a statue of our patroness, Our Lady of Mercy. This statue holds deep significance in Olhão, as legend has it that it was found by local fishermen floating in the sea. During times of poor fishing, fishermen would bring candles and olive oil as offerings to please the Virgin Mary and ask her to refill their nets with fish.
The Maritime Commitment is also linked to the most significant historical moment of the city – the uprising of the local population against Napoleon’s troops in 1808. Equally remarkable is the story of a young couple who, in 1959, illegally left Olhão and crossed the ocean to Brazil on a simple 6.5-meter boat – a tale of forbidden love that is preserved on the building.
Casas ‘Cubistas’ of the Old Neighborhoods
Walking through the old quarters of Olhão, one’s eye is caught by the unique “cubist” architecture. Its houses, resembling those in North Africa and the Mediterranean, are formed by clusters of cubes. Their historical origin is entirely unique, thanks to the constant movement of people from Olhão to North Africa and back, dating from the 18th century.
These homes exhibit several specific characteristics. For example, traditional cubist houses in Olhão always include a high parapet that defines the terrace (“açoteia”) on top of the house. It’s common to find additional rooms added at the back or side of the terrace. These rooms are called “pangaio,” and atop them is a second, smaller terrace – “mirante” or lookout.
Smaller rooms may be added on top of the “mirante,” creating a small third terrace, “contramirante” or upper lookout. Thus, Olhão’s cubist houses form simplified pyramids, rising upwards in steps leading to smaller rooms with their respective terraces.
The houses in Olhão serve specific functions and traditions worth mentioning:
- The terrace – used for storage and drying fruits and clothes.
- The lookout (belvedere) – from here, fishermen watch the sea conditions and ship movements before heading to the harbor, while women in Olhão watch for the return of their men from fishing.
Another specific feature of Olhão’s architecture is the rectangular layout of the houses. The rooms have vaulted ceilings, and kitchens are located at the back of the house, leading into an inner courtyard.
As you wander through the streets of Olhão’s old quarters, don’t miss these unique cubist houses and their interesting details that reflect the rich history and culture of the area.
Os Mercados – The Market
One of the best experiences in Olhão is visiting the Os Mercados marketplaces. There are two striking red brick buildings – on one side, the fish market, and on the other, the fruit and vegetable market. The markets are among the liveliest places in the city, especially on Saturday mornings when people from the surrounding countryside come to sell their homemade products.
Architecturally, the Os Mercados markets are very interesting. The buildings from 1916 have a zinc-covered roof in the shape of four overlapping trapezoidal structures that enclose the entire building. These roofs are supported by iron beams, giving them a late 19th-century appearance.
The red brick walls and rounded corners give the buildings a pleasant look. The large black gates have an open spiral pattern in a blacksmith frame.
A Alfandega – Customs House
Located at Largo Patrão Joaquim Lopes with direct access to the former Fishing Beach, where the markets and city gardens are now located. The architectural style of the Customs House is typical of the 19th century.
The main façade has two floors in the side buildings and three in the central building. This architectural setting is very visually appealing due to its symmetrical simplicity, further emphasized by the arrangement of many doors and windows.
The Customs House was officially opened on June 28, 1842, and functioned until the 1970s. In this square, you can find a statue of the famous figure from Olhão legends, Floripes, the magical Moorish woman.
Legend of Arraul
Arraul is an ancient legend from the Olhão region, named after a brave young man whose name means “friend who does good” in Sanskrit. According to the legend, Arraul created the belt of sand dunes that forms Ria Formosa and protects this part of the Algarve.
This young hero allegedly emerged from the depths of the lost city of Atlantis. When Atlantis’s waves were swallowed by the sea, Arraul was saved by a whale, which spat him back onto the shore. Thanks to strong underwater currents, he reached Sítio das Prainhas, where the history of Olhão began.
To protect the coast from further disasters, Arraul decided to transfer land from the slope of Cerro da Cabeça to the coast. This created the islands of Fuseta, Armona, and Culatra and expanded the sandy lagoon of Ria Formosa as we know it today.
João Lúcio’s Cottage
This historic cottage, located in Quinta de Marim near the Olhão campsites and Ria Formosa Natural Park, is a three-story, circular building without a clear front or back, considered one of the finest examples of Symbolist architecture in Portugal due to its exotic nature.
At the center of the house, you’ll find four staircases with four different shapes – fish, guitars, violins, and snakes, arranged according to the four cardinal directions and signifying entrances to the house’s center, ending with a large skylight.
The building houses the Ekoteka Olhão, a public service that supports environmental educational activities along with various cultural events. Visiting this cottage will be an interesting experience not only for architecture enthusiasts but also for those interested in the environment and culture.
Lenda do Mouro Ecnatada
In Olhão, Portugal, there are many interesting things you can do and see. One of the most intriguing is a visit to the legendary site known as Lenda do Mouro Ecnatada. This fascinating attraction entices tourists with its charm, history, and captivating stories.
This place became famous due to one of Portugal’s legends, which tells the tale of an enchanted Moor who guards a treasure hidden in the rocks. According to the legend, when someone discovers the treasure and tries to take it, the enchanted Moor turns them into stone.
Lenda da Floripes
In Olhão, Portugal, stands a statue with an intriguing and touching legend. It’s the story of a beautiful young woman in white who often appeared as an apparition at the tidal mill, where the Grupo Naval de Olão now stands and from where boats depart to the archipelago.
According to the legend, the only person who dared to come to this place at night was a drunken middle-aged man who fell asleep on the way. The beautiful woman in white approached him tenderly and sat beside him. When the drunken man began to tell his friends about it, none of them had the courage to visit the place and verify the story.
Lenda de Marim
Lenda de Marim is another sculpture in Olhao worth visiting. It is based on a legend of love and honor that originates from the times of the Moorish empire on the Iberian Peninsula. The legend tells the story of a girl named Mariam and her beloved Galvín, who became a hero in the fight against his people’s enemies.
Mariam and Galvín promised each other faithful love forever. However, when Galvín was captured by enemies, his love was tested. Marim waited for his return and remained faithful, despite being tempted by other suitors. Eventually, Galvín returned, and they spent the rest of their lives together.
Jardim Patrão Joaquim Lopes
Jardim Patrão Joaquim Lopes is a beautiful park located on the coast of Olhão, Portugal. This park offers a stunning view of the adjacent marina and the Ria Formosa lagoon. Visitors can admire beautiful gardens and relax in the shade of trees.
Murals
Strolling through the Largo and Rua da Fábrica Velha, nestled within the Barrio do Levante, Lukas and I stumbled upon an unexpected treasure – stunning murals that weave the rich tapestry of Olhão’s fishing and canning history right before our eyes.
The transformation of this once deteriorating neighborhood into an open-air gallery is a testament to the municipality’s vision. They enlisted the talent of celebrated street artists such as Asur (Dgiphi) from the urban scene, along with Kaset, Gnose, and Pedro Mistic from The Satori Artistic Association. Their canvas? The very walls of the old town, brought to life with scenes straight out of old photographs from the Municipal Archive of Olhão.
Atelier Zea
During our recent visit to Olhão, Portugal, we stumbled upon a beautiful art studio called Ateliér Zea. This studio caught our attention with its intricately crafted pieces depicting colorful and historical Portuguese doors. These doors are made from various materials and adorn many buildings in Portuguese towns.
MosaicOlhão (Lavandas e Maravilhas)
In Olhão, on Rua de Comercio, you’ll find the MosaicOlhao shop, where you’ll discover many finished pieces for sale. It’s very likely that you’ll see artists working in the shop, creating decorative pieces of various sizes.
Mozaic Olhão also offers custom work. If you’re interested in personalizing your home decor or creating a gift for someone special, just ask the artist. If you’re able to wait a bit, he will meticulously create a personalized masterpiece tailored to your request.
Ilha da Culatra: A Serene Escape
Ilha da Culatra stands out as a mesmerizing barrier island within the Ria Formosa, just off the coast of Olhão. It’s a must-visit destination, boasting quaint fisherman huts transformed into holiday homes and local residences.
These homes, alongside a smattering of restaurants and bars, add charm to the island’s streets. Despite its small settlement dating back to the 19th century, Ilha da Culatra is largely a protected natural haven.
Explore its beauty via boardwalks leading you through dunes and scrublands, home to diverse birds and reptiles, towards pristine white beaches. For those seeking tranquility away from the usual tourist spots, a walk along the beach away from the sunbeds and umbrellas provides a perfect retreat. Remember to tread carefully; stick to the boardwalks to protect the fragile dunes.
Ilha da Armona: A Popular Retreat
Ilha da Armona, another stunning barrier island in front of Olhão, invites visitors to explore its dedicated paths, relax on beautiful beaches, and wander through the streets of a former fisherman settlement.
Now a favorite among tourists for overnight stays, the island offers holiday homes along its paved streets and necessary amenities on one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches. With a small permanent population relying on fishing and tourism, Ilha da Armona emphasizes the importance of sustainable tourism practices. Respect the natural park’s regulations and the local community during your visit.
Ilha do Farol: A Beacon of Beauty
Ilha do Farol, part of Ilha da Culatra, is distinct for its community and the iconic Cabo de Santa Maria lighthouse, Portugal’s oldest. This area offers a tranquil beach experience along its 6-kilometer stretch. As you enjoy Ilha do Farol’s scenic beauty, engage in responsible tourism to preserve its pristine condition.
Ria Formosa Natural Park
The magnificent Ria Formosa Natural Park stretches along the east and west coasts of the Algarve. This park encompasses lagoons, wetlands, salt marshes, and islands, creating a vast ecological range. It’s a haven for abundant wildlife and many plants essential for their survival, attracting tourists and locals alike for various activities.
Exploring the park traditionally involves boat or water taxi tours to witness its unique nature, diverse islands, and wetlands, and sometimes even a beautiful sunset. Besides boat tours, the park can be visited in several other ways:
- By bike
- On foot
- On a Segway
- By kayak
The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering many bird-watching tours. Local species include waders, flamingos, and kingfishers. Choose a scenic route that suits your ability and taste. For better trip planning, you might try Alltrails+.
There are several bike rental shops around the Olhão market, where you can rent a bike and set off to explore the beauties of this park.
Ria Formosa Natural Park is a beautiful example of the Algarve’s natural wealth and diversity. It’s a place worth visiting for anyone wanting to experience an oasis of peace and relaxation amid enchanting surroundings.
We usually use GetYourGuide to book our tour our tour for our friends.
Jardim Pescador Olhanense
Jardim Pescador Olhanense is a beautifully maintained park that serves as a serene escape right in the heart of Olhão. Lukas and I found it to be the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. The park, located conveniently next to the market on the waterfront, offers stunning views of the lagoon and marina, making it an ideal place to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Explore the Heart of Portugal’s Cork Industry
We also booked (through GetYourGuide) 50-minute journey, unraveling the traditional processes behind cork preparation and its myriad of applications. The tour began with a visit to a traditional cork factory, where an audio guide led us through the intricate steps of preparing and packaging cork. It was a deep dive into the craftsmanship that transforms cork bark into usable products.
Our next stop was a cork shop, showcasing innovative uses of cork in fashion accessories crafted from cork fabric. This visit opened our eyes to the versatility and sustainability of cork, far beyond its conventional uses. The Algarve region, with over 720 thousand hectares of cork forests, stands as the backbone of a significant cork industry, reflecting the ecological and economic importance of this unique material.
