Located on Portugal‘s southern coast, Portimão won us over with its magnificent beaches and ochre cliffs, typical of theAlgarve! It’s also a popular destination for sea excursions to the Benagil Grotto. From picturesque walks to lazy beaches and gourmet delights, the city is full of surprises!
What to expect in this article As you can see, between nature, gastronomy and culture, here’s our selection of the best things to do in Portimão and the surrounding area.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Portimão worth a visit?
Absolutely! Portimão is a destination of choice, known for the breathtaking beaches and golden cliffs for which the Algarve is famous. Beyond the beaches, the seaside resort boasts a lively town center and a pleasant waterfront. Between boat tours to discover sea caves, kayak excursions along rocky coasts and swimming in turquoise waters, you’ll have no time to get bored!
1. Explore the iconic Grotte de Benagil
Why visit?
It’s impossible to come to Portimão without exploring the famous Benagil Cave, one of southern Portugal’s most photogenic natural gems. Caressed by the waves, two cliff entrances lead to a small inner beach crowned by a dome open to the sky. You’ll be amazed, just like we were! Try a boat tour or a guided kayak trip (if the sea is calm). Maybe you’ll spot some dolphins along the way. A nautical activity not to be missed!
Practical advice
- Duration: 1h30 to 2h for the boat or kayak trip
- Difficulty: depends on the boat chosen and the intensity of the waves.
- Access: departure from Portimão
- Equipment: bring sun cream, swimsuit and cap.
- Book your boat trip to Grotte de Benagil now!
WHERE TO STAY IN Portimao
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Portimao (coming soon)
2. Stroll through the city center and its Zona Ribeirinha
Why visit?
We loved strolling through Portimão’s historic center, with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings. Some of the houses, decorated with traditional mosaics and flowers, add a touch of cachet to the old town. Bordered by the Zona Ribeirinha and adjoining the marina, this district invites you to stroll and relax. From this promenade, you can watch the ballet of boats entering and leaving the port. While you’re out and about, take a detour to the lovely Parc Fonte do Jardim 1 de Dezembro!
Practical advice
- Duration: 30min to 1h depending on your pace
- Difficulties: cobbled streets, but smooth passage for wheelchair users
- Ideal at the end of the day to enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the city center and the light on the Rivière Arade.
3. Enjoy the iconic Praia da Rocha and Praia dos Três Castelos
Why visit?
Praia da Rocha is one of the Algarve’s most emblematic beaches, with spectacular cliffs and golden sand stretching as far as the eye can see. We loved admiring the panorama from the promenade overlooking the sea and the surfers catching the waves. A little further west, Praia dos Três Castelos, one of our favorite Algarve beaches, offers a calmer atmosphere, with its wind-sculpted rock formations. It’s the ideal place to combine swimming, relaxation and exploring small coves. Two neighbouring beaches with very different atmospheres, not to be missed! They are part of our article on the region’s must-see sites.
Practical advice
- Best experience: visit early in the morning or late in the day in high season.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours or more, as you wish
- Difficulties: stairs to reach the beaches from the cliffs
- Access: 9 minutes by car from the city center, parking lots nearby
- Looking for a thrill? Book your surf session on Praia da Rocha!
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
4. Enjoy Ferragudo and its magnificent beaches
Why visit?
The small village of Ferragudo lies on the other side of Portimão’s Ponte Velha. We were seduced by the authentic atmosphere of this fishing village, which has managed to preserve its traditional character. Narrow streets climbing to the top of the hill, white houses with flower-decked facades and a church overlooking the bay create a picturesque picture. Ferragudo is also home to some magnificent beaches, which you can discover on long, scenic walks along the ocean. These walks offer breathtaking views of rock formations, secluded coves and the blue immensity of the Atlantic!
Practical advice
- Duration: 3 hours or a full day to hike between the beaches
- Difficulties: steep, cobbled village, narrow, slippery footpaths
- Access: 10min drive from Portimão town center
- Equipment: good shoes for the beach hikes, cap, sun cream and water.
- Good choice of restaurants in the town center and around the beaches
5. Observing dolphins in their natural environment
Why observe?
From Portimão, you can embark on a dolphin watching excursion. Sailing along the Algarve coastline while observing these marine mammals evolve freely in their environment is an unforgettable experience. We appreciated the professionalism of the guides and their respect for the animals, with gentle, non-intrusive approaches. Some excursions also combine a visit to the Benagil Cave, adding a spectacular touch to the outing!
Practical advice
- Duration: 2 hours to half a day
- Difficulty: comfort varies according to boat and weather conditions
- Access: departure from Portimão
- Equipment: sunglasses, swimsuit, windbreaker and camera.
- Book your dolphin-watching tour for a unique experience!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
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6. Visit the Portimão Museum
Why visit?
Housed in a former canning factory, the Portimão Museum traces the city’s industrial and maritime history in an immersive way. We particularly enjoyed the reconstruction of the sardine production lines, the everyday objects and the stories of local life. It’s a great opportunity to discover Portimão’s port identity beyond its beaches. Temporary exhibitions regularly enhance the visit. The venue is modern, well-designed and accessible to all.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1 to 1h30
- Challenges: facilities for people with reduced mobility
- Access: 10min walk north of town center
- Price: €3 for adults, free for children under 15
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday (2.30pm-6pm from 1/09 to 14/07, 3pm-11pm from 15/07 to 31/08). Closed on Mondays and public holidays. More up-to-date info on the official website here.
7. Surfing the waves of the Algarve
Why practice?
With its steady waves and Atlantic orientation, Praia da Rocha is one of the best surf spots in the Portimão region. All day long, you can watch surfers tame the rollers, whether they’re beginners or more seasoned surfers. From the beach, we enjoyed the rhythmic spectacle of the boards. We even witnessed a very experienced windsurfer gliding with ease between the waves and the ochre cliffs of the Algarve!
Practical advice
- Duration: 1h30 to 3h
- Difficulty: requires good physical condition, depends on weather conditions
- Access: go directly to the beach or transfer is included from your accommodation.
- Equipment: swimsuit and sunscreen required
- Book your surf session at Praia da Rocha now!
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8. Stroll around Portimão Marina
Why visit?
Located at the mouth of the River Arade, the Marina de Portimão offers a pleasant setting for strolling between sea and sky. On the other shore, the coastline and Ferragudo Castle add a picturesque touch to the walk. We loved strolling between the catamarans, sailboats and warmly-colored buildings, which seemed to warm up this particularly rainy day. Despite the grey skies, the atmosphere remained peaceful, almost contemplative. It’s a perfect place to watch the boats come and go.
Practical advice
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Difficulty: flat asphalt road
- Access: 8min drive from Portimão town center, on-site parking
9. Visit the Jesuit College Convent
Why visit?
Less well known than other monuments in the region, the Jesuit College Convent is well worth a visit. Its sober architecture, enhanced by a touch of yellow, contrasts with the elegance of its Baroque interior. Inside, we found the atmosphere peaceful, conducive to discovery and contemplation. It also provides an insight into the town’s religious and educational history. A great cultural stopover in the heart of Portimão! Next door, a small art gallery completes your visit.
Practical advice
- Duration: 15 to 30min
- Difficulties: small steps at the entrance to the religious building
- Access: located in the historic city center
- Price: free admission
- Opening hours: not specified
- Dress appropriately (place of worship)
10. Contemplating the Church of Notre-Dame de la Conception
Why visit?
Overlooking the historic center, the Church of Notre-Dame de la Conception immediately catches the eye with its white silhouette and sober yet imposing architecture. Although the interior was closed during our visit, we took the time to admire the exterior details. An imposing portal stands at the heart of the façade, framed by finely carved stone motifs. At the top, a stork’s nest sat peacefully, adding a lively and unexpected touch to the building. On one of the side walls, an azulejo depicting Christ completed a picture that was both spiritual and rooted in Portuguese heritage.
Practical advice
- Duration: 15 to 30 min
- Difficulties: series of steps at the main entrance
- Access: in the historic center
- Price: free admission
- Opening hours: not specified. More info on the official website here
- Dress appropriately (place of worship)
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
11. Enjoy the view from the Santa Catarina Fortress
Why visit?
Perched at the eastern end of Praia da Rocha, Santa Catarina Fortress offers superb panoramic views of the entire Portimão coastline. Although there is little information on this ancient defensive construction, the site is well worth a visit for the view it offers. From its ramparts, we could see the Praia da Rocha Lighthouse Promenade, the marina and the mouth of the Arade River, which flows into the ocean. The atmosphere is peaceful, with the sound of the waves below and seagulls circling the ramparts.
Practical advice
- Duration: 15 to 30min
- Difficulties: uneven steps to access upper floor, but best view from first floor
- Access: overlooks Praia da Rocha
- Price: free admission
- Opening hours: not specified
12. Shopping at Portimão’s Municipal Market
Why visit?
Portimão’s Municipal Market doesn’t impress with its functional, industrial-style architecture, but it’s well worth a visit for what it has to offer. Inside, we found all the richness of local flavors: regional cakes, Algarve wines, exotic fruits and colorful vegetables, freshly caught fish, seafood, charcuterie, cheeses, fragrant honeys and homemade jams. We also spotted decorative objects handmade by a group of retirees. An authentic, lively place, perfect for filling up on specialities!
Practical advice
- Duration: 45min to 1h
- Difficulties: several floors but elevators
- How to get there: 10min walk from the historic center, covered parking on site
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
- Discover Algarve cuisine and the market on a gourmet tour!
DISCOVER Portimao
- Things to do in Portimao (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
13. Enjoy the nightlife and sunsets
Why visit?
Praia da Rocha is an excellent destination for enjoying the Algarve’s nightlife. This district is very lively once the sun goes down. This area is home to most of Portimão’s bars and nightclubs, offering a festive atmosphere until the early hours of the morning. We loved watching a stunning sunset over the ocean while sipping a cocktail at Restaurant Vista, overlooking the beach. In fact, it’s one of our favorite restaurants in the resort.
Practical advice
- Best experience: book your restaurant table in advance, especially in high season.
- Access: downtown and Praia da Rocha
- A quieter atmosphere outside the summer season
- Check the sunset time beforehand
14. Explore the Alcalar megalithic site
Want to go back in time? A 20-minute drive from Portimão, the Alcalar Megalithic Monuments plunge us into a site where, some 5,000 years ago, a large prehistoric community settled and lived. The visit is short but rewarding, as long as you know how to project yourself, as the remains are not very spectacular visually. A small, slightly dated museum near the ticket office features a reconstruction video and a number of useful explanatory panels to help visitors better understand the site. A cultural break off the beaten track, ideal for lovers of ancient history.
Practical advice
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Difficulty: paved paths with slight inclines
- Access: 20min drive from town center, on-site parking
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm (closed Sundays and Mondays). More info on the official website here.
Other magnificent golden beaches in and around Portimão
Other beaches in Portimão
In addition to the well-known Praia da Rocha and Praia dos Três Castelos, Portimão is home to several more discreet beaches that are well worth a visit. It’s a quieter place, with cliff-protected coves and ideal spots for swimming and relaxing. See our selection here:
- Praia do Vau
- Praia do Alemão
- Praia dos Careanos
- Praia de Boião
Beaches of Ferragudo
Just opposite Portimão, the village of Ferragudo boasts a number of peaceful, unspoilt beaches that are well worth a visit. Their more unspoilt atmosphere contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Portimão’s urban beaches. Here are the ones we recommend:
- Praia do Pintadinho
- Praia do Molhe
- Praia dos Caneiros
- Praia da Angrinha
- Praia Grande
Alvor Beaches
Just a few kilometers from Portimão, the seaside resort of Alvor is renowned for its long sandy beaches and spectacular rock formations. There’s a wide variety of beaches, from wide stretches ideal for strolling to more secret coves! The most essential are:
- Praia dos Três Irmãos
- Praia da Prainha
- Praia da Torralta
- Praia de Alvor
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Family activities in Portimão
Slide & Splash Water Park
Looking for a change from the beach? The Slide & Splash Water Park, about 15 minutes away by car, is one of the biggest and most popular in Portugal! Here you can spend a busy day in the giant slides, current pools, children’s zones and wave pools. And don’t forget the massage center and fish spa. It’s a fun and refreshing activity, perfect for families or groups of friends looking to return to childhood.
3D Fun Art Museum Portimão
This interactive museum is an excellent option for a family outing. You’ll discover life-size trompe-l’œil sets, in which visitors become the actors in funny, offbeat or spectacular scenes. It’s a fun, accessible and original activity, ideal for sharing family time together. The tour is quick but full of laughter and surprises!
Remember to buy your tickets in advance here!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
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Other attractions around Portimão
Alvor
We enjoyed our getaway to Alvor, a charming fishing village just a 30-minute drive from Lagos. Its small pedestrian center, cobbled streets and waterside restaurants create a peaceful atmosphere. The long walk over the wooden footbridges through the marshes is perfect for a sunset stroll. And the huge Alvor Beach is superb! It’s a beautiful interlude between nature and authenticity.
Lagos
One of the highlights of our Algarve road trip, Lagos won us over completely. From Ponta da Piedade’s golden cliffs and breathtaking beaches to its charming historic heart and relaxed lifestyle, this town has everything to seduce travelers. Rich in history and nature, it can be explored in both leisure and adventure mode.
How to get to Portimão + parking
Where is Portimão?
- On the southwest coast of the Algarve in Portugal,
- 10min drive from Ferragudo,
- 15min drive from Alvor,
- 30min drive from Lagos,
- 40min drive fromAlbufeira,
- 55min drive from Faro.
See our map of Portimão for all the places we think you should visit:
How do I get to Portimão?
Portimão is located on the southwest coast of the Algarve, about 65km from Faro. From Faro Airport, you can reach Portimão by rental car (approx. 50min via the A22), by regional bus (1h45 to 2h journey time) or by train from Faro city center. It’s an easily accessible destination for exploring Portugal’s southern coastline.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Parking in Portimão
Parking in Portimão is fairly easy, especially outside the high season. A large free parking lot runs alongside the Zona Ribeirinha, not far from the Portimão Museum, perfect for exploring the city center on foot. In high season, it can fill up fast. If you’re looking for a more secure, covered option, the nearby Parking Saba Largo 1º de Maio is a convenient paying alternative. Remember to arrive early in summer to avoid saturated areas, especially around Praia da Rocha.
Getting around Portimão
Portimão city center and the Zona Ribeirinha are within easy walking distance. The alleyways are well laid out, with smooth passages to facilitate wheelchair access. To reach Praia da Rocha or the city’s other beaches, it’s best to travel by car, cab or local bus. That said, in our opinion, the car remains the best option for exploring the surrounding area at your own pace: Ferragudo, Alvor, Lagos… all these must-see sites are much more accessible on your own.
Useful tips for visiting Portimão
How long and when is the best time?
We recommend spending at least 2 days in Portimão to discover the beaches, stroll around the town center, visit the museum and explore the surrounding area. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons to avoid the crowds and enjoy the pleasant climate. In summer, the atmosphere is more festive, but the beaches are very busy. Winter remains mild, perfect for walks along the water’s edge.
Visiting directions and difficulties
Portimão is easily discovered on foot, following a free itinerary between the narrow streets of the city center and the Zona Ribeirinha promenade. On the Praia da Rocha side, a wooden footbridge crosses the sand, ideal for a stroll along the seafront, but you then have to climb some stairs to get back to the road. Further west, the beaches are dominated by high cliffs, which can be explored on foot along well-maintained paths. We advise you to keep to the marked paths: the rock is crumbly and the cliff edges can be unstable. Bring comfortable shoes, especially if you want to explore several areas in one day.
Where to eat in Portimão
Portuguese gastronomy is well represented in Portimão, from seaside restaurants to more confidential addresses. We’ve selected 3 establishments that particularly impressed us, both for the quality of their food and the atmosphere of their surroundings:
- Restaurant Vista: this Michelin-starred restaurant, located in the magnificent Hotel Bela Vista, gave us a real taste slap with its refined and creative cuisine, centred around seafood!
- Restaurant Numa: a modern, elegant restaurant that seduced us with the finesse of its revisited Portuguese dishes and the quality of its attentive service.
- Restaurant Mãe Terra: a friendly place run by a passionate young couple where organic produce and vegetarian dishes are the order of the day – we simply loved it here!
You’ll soon find our full selection here.
Visiting Portimão in winter
In our opinion, visiting Portimão in winter is well worth it, especially if you don’t like crowds! This period offers a more authentic and tranquil experience, in pleasant contrast to the hustle and bustle of summer. We particularly appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent coastal scenery without being disturbed by a horde of tourists. Read our dedicated article to discover our winter visiting tips!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in the Algarve (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha (coming soon)
Things to do in Lagos (coming soon)
Things to do in Portimao (coming soon)
Things to do in Albufeira (coming soon)
Things to do in Faro (coming soon)
