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Located in the Portuguese region of Algarve, Portimão is renowned for its Autodromo racetrack dedicated to Formula 1. However, despite its seaside resorts and facilities catering to hordes of visitors, the town has retained its originality and authenticity. With beaches, historical monuments, and green spaces, you’re bound to have a great time here. Here’s what we recommend you see and do in Portimão.
😍 Nearby. Faro is a jewel often overlooked by travellers in a hurry to reach the white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts further west. Be smarter and read our guide.
🗒️ What you need to know before your trip to Portimão
Before we delve into the must-see and do things in Portimão, here are some hopefully useful tips for your stay.
How to get to Portimão?
Perhaps the most economical way to get to Portimão is to fly to Faro, located about 50 kilometres to the east, and then take the train or bus. Faro is a sun-soaked destination well-served by low-cost carriers. For instance, trains run between the two towns every half hour. Expect a journey of around 1h30.
When to go to Portimão?
This might be a less relevant question for Portimão than other European spots: the climate here is favourable year-round. Naturally, summer is the most popular time to visit, but you might encounter many tourists, and there’s the risk of a heatwave. So, consider visiting in the shoulder season. In October, for instance, you can find water temperatures still around 21 degrees Celsius.
Which hotels to choose in Portimao?
Portimão is a popular destination for European tourists, so there’s no shortage of hotels. If you’re looking for a hotel that might not have tons of charm but offers great amenities (spacious rooms, hearty meals, and a swimming pool), then head to Jupiter Algarve Hotel, located on Rocher beach. If you’re seeking something more authentic and are on a budget, Villa Alcaide on Vau beach is perfect.
Booking.com🔝 The 8 essential things to do in Portimão
Without further ado, let’s move on to our pick of the essential things to do in Portimão. Your Portuguese getaway starts here.
Take a walk in the Ribeirinha area
What better way to start your Portimão tour than with the beautiful pedestrian avenue of Ribeirinha? This magnificent area showcases exotic features thanks to the palm trees lining the path. Its charming garden benches will surely tempt you to sit for a while, relax and take in the surrounding beauty.
Discover the Portimão Museum
To grasp the history of this southern Portuguese town, one of the must-visit places is its museum, which opened in 2008 within a former sardine canning factory (official site). It enlightens visitors about the town’s history, from prehistoric times to the region’s industrial boom. The Roman and Islamic influences it experienced are still evident today, with remains you’ll undoubtedly admire. Additionally, exhibitions illustrate the fish canning process in the town, shedding light on Portimão’s fishing industry and its historical significance.
Visit the Santa Catarina Fortress
This imposing military-style structure was built around 1620, under the advice of the Italian engineer Alexandre Massai, to defend the mouth of the Arade river. The Santa Catarina de Ribamar Fortress has long helped protect the peninsula from pirates, privateers, and military invasions.
Situated on the main avenue Tomás Cabrera, it offers splendid sea views. Access requires a walk, adding to the adventure, especially since it leads directly to Rocher Beach (Praia da Rocha).
Visit the megalithic monuments of Alcalar
Comprising a village and a necropolis, the Alcalar site, strategically built on a rock, provides another deep dive into the city and region’s history. Its two recently restored burial chambers offer an informative visit. Reaching this site requires a 11-kilometre drive from the city, but rest assured, the journey is well worth it.
Tour the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve
For motor sports enthusiasts visiting Portimão, touring the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve (official site) is a must. But it can also fascinate the uninitiated. Completed in October 2008, this sports complex, boasting a 4.692 km race track and state-of-the-art facilities, hosts the Formula 1 Portuguese Grand Prix each season.
Our tip: even if you’re not a Formula 1 fan, give it a try. Karting is available! This fun activity generally appeals to most. The 1.5 km track, one of Europe’s largest, offers exhilarating speed peaks. More information on this page.
Go shopping at the Mercado Municipal de Portimão
This municipal market is well worth a visit due to its rich offerings. Find everything you need, especially local products: fish, fruits, vegetables, and deli items. Plus, prices are quite affordable, offering a more authentic and intriguing experience than the supermarket. To get an idea of the delightful items available, check out the market’s Facebook page.
Bask in the sun at Praia da Rocha
Visiting Portimão without hitting the beach would be a mistake, as the coastline defines this region and particularly this town. Beach options are plenty in Portimão, including Alvor Beach, Vau Beach, Alemaõ Beach, and previously mentioned Rocha Beach.
Praia da Rocha, translating to ‘Rock Beach’, is arguably the most beautiful and one of the most famous in Portugal. Recognisable by its surrounding red cliffs, soft golden sand, and particularly its shallow, stunning blue waters, its waves are perfect for water sports, delighting surfers and bodyboarders alike. Plus, unforgettable evenings await, with nearby bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Simply partying in town
Indeed, in Portimão, party-goers will never be bored. The town boasts one of the best nightlife scenes in the region. Whether it’s the Marginália Bar, a concert venue near the Vekha bridge, the Spot3 bar close to Praia da Rocha, or the Algarve Casino Hotel, you’re set for memorable times.
Spot3 | Areal Praia da Rocha Unid B3, Praia da Rocha, Portimão
Marginalia Bar | R. Arco Maravilhas 35
Our concise selection of must-see and do activities in Portimão wraps up here. But if you have other activity suggestions, please share them in the comments.
