The Best things to do in Portimão

• 16 June, 23

Located in the estuary of the River Arade, 70 km from Faro Airport, the drive takes around one hour. Portimao is the largest city in the western Algarve, known for its beautiful sandy beaches with plenty of warmth, which make it a very alluring holiday destination. It has a relaxed vibe unlike many of the neighboring beach towns in the Algarve.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Portimao

1. Chill out on Portimão’s best beaches

Praia da Rocha

Praia da Rocha beach is the most famous beach in the Algarve and the main beach in the city of Portimao is located just a 6-minute drive from Portimao. Surrounding Praia da Rocha has packed full of hotels, bars, and restaurants situated along a stunning beachfront.

Here, there are many water sports available near the beach for those who prefer to stay active, including surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. This is a great destination for families with children, couples, and teenagers who come to discover lots of hidden coves.

Praia do Vau

But if Praia da Rocha is too crowded for your taste, differ only 2km from Praia da Rocha, and you’ll find Praia do Vau. Praia do Vau beach is very popular with families. Sheltered between coppery cliffs, Vau Beach is an exclusive and charming beach, with calm sea waters and lots of fresh fish restaurants.

Benagil Caves

Benaigil is a small fishing village on the southern coast of the Algarve. This is a natural heritage featured in the top mandatory destination lists and “places you have to see”.

The best way to come there is by boat, kayak, or SUP. This way you can get into the grotto and actually stand on the golden sand in the cave. Benagil has long been a favorite with local residents looking to enjoy the warm summer weather on the beach or to explore the caves and rock formations.

2. Discover Portimão Marina

Surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, this Marina has taken the lead in Portugal as a preferred destination for super yachts up to 50 meters. The Marina can be seen from other parts of the city.

You can access the marina by boat, car, public transport, or by walking from Praia da Rocha along the golden sands of the beach until you reach the main marina area.

3. Unlock the story of Portimão’s fish canning industry in Portimão Museum

The Special place Museu de Portimão is well worth adding to your list of things to do in the Algarve. The museum opened its doors to the public in May 2008. Located alongside the riverfront, this museum is housed in what was once one of Portimão’s main sardine canneries, accommodating many of the original machines used in the industry.

Portimão Museum won the Council of Europe Museum Prize in 2010 for the fascinating story of the contribution the industry made to the area.

Not only is it known for its beautiful tourist destinations but Portimão has also been enriched by diverse food with fresh fish and typical Mediterranean dishes from the southern European cuisine influences.