A maritime centre that boasts low-key restaurants serving traditionally grilled sardines, Portimao is a Portuguese gem with water sports and shopping opportunities. This sunny coastal city is the site of many prestigious sailing events, including the Portimão Portugal Match Cup.

Things to do

If you’re seeking a day in the sun, take a trip to the fine white sands of Praia Da Rocha. This beautiful beach offers a relaxing ambience, comprehensive facilities and restaurants with superb ocean views. Take a stroll near the unique rock formations on the west side of the beach to find picture-perfect landscapes.

For a dose of history, visit the Museu de Portimao, a modern museum housed in a 19th-century fish cannery. Learn about sardine processing, browse superb archaeology exhibits and attend family-friendly workshops.

You can’t say you've visited Portimao until you’ve strolled down the Alvor Boardwalk. Perfect for an afternoon cycle or run, the boardwalk offers exquisite ocean views and a peek at local wildlife, such as wading birds, fiddler crabs and sea daffodils.

To experience Portimao like a local, visit the Igreja Matriz, one of the area’s most beautiful Portuguese Alvor churches. Travel just north of the city centre to take in impressive views of its 14th-century Gothic features and tour the inside to gaze upon unique hand-painted tiles and Baroque Revival and neo classical gilding.

Getting around

Portimao is well-served by public transportation, connected to the rest of the western Algarve region by bus and rail. It’s about a 1.5-hour train ride from Portimao into Faro. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making walking one of the most convenient ways of getting around.