Portugal
Faro: The capital city of the Algarve, a historic city with a charming walled Old Town (Cidade Velha), a striking cathedral, and a macabre Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos). Its marina and pedestrianized shopping streets are also appealing.
Tavira: Considered one of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve, known as the "Venice of the Algarve" due to its many bridges spanning the Gilão River. Features numerous churches, a Roman bridge, and the ruins of a Moorish castle.
The Algarve's natural beauty stretches beyond Olhão, with diverse landscapes awaiting exploration.
Ria Formosa Natural Park: Olhão sits within this park. Further exploration includes visiting the park's headquarters at Quinta de Marim, offering walking trails and insights into the park's ecology. Boat tours from Olhão explore channels, salt marshes, and wildlife.
Barrier Islands (Armona, Culatra, Farol): Ferry accessible from Olhão, these islands are a must-visit for extensive, pristine sandy beaches and unique, car-free island communities. They suit beach lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Beyond Olhão, the Algarve contains a wealth of historical and cultural sites.
Loulé: Famous for its lively Carnival and a market hall. Located a 30-40 minute drive from Olhão.
Silves: Further west (an hour's drive), with a prominent red sandstone Moorish castle, a grand cathedral, and a medieval atmosphere. Once the Moorish capital of the Algarve.
São Brás de Alportel: An inland town known for cork, traditional crafts, and a quieter pace. Villages in the Serra do Caldeirão (Barranco do Velho, Cortelha) offer a glimpse into rural life.
Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Piedade (Loulé): A significant religious site in Loulé with a beautiful chapel and panoramic countryside views.
Consider combining your visit with other regions for a broader Portuguese or Iberian experience.
Olhão's location lends itself to multi-day extensions into other parts of Portugal or Spain.
Portugal's capital, about a 2.5-hour train ride from Faro. Offers a contrasting urban experience.
The capital of Andalusia, rich in Moorish history, stunning architecture (the Alcázar and Cathedral are highlights), and the passionate art of flamenco. A compelling cultural contrast.
Dedicate a few days to explore the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and surf culture of the western Algarve.
North of the Algarve, this vast region offers rolling plains, vineyards, cork forests, and historic fortified towns.
These itineraries span wider regions for cultural and scenic discovery.
Travel along the N125 or A22 highway, stopping at towns like Tavira, Faro, Lagos, and Sagres, to experience the full diversity of the Algarve coastline.
Head north from the Algarve into the vast, serene Alentejo plains, visiting historic towns, vineyards, and experiencing a different facet of Portuguese life.
Combine your visit to the Algarve with comprehensive explorations of Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley for an immersive journey through Portugal's diverse regions.
Strategic planning for longer trips from Olhão.
Direct train services (Alfa Pendular or Intercidades) from Faro (approx. 3 hours) offer a comfortable connection. Buses are also available.
Direct bus services run from Faro to Seville (approx. 2.5-3 hours), a straightforward international trip. Consider booking on GetYourGuide.
Easily accessible by train or bus services along the Algarve line, or by renting a car for maximum flexibility.
Travel along the N125 or A22 highway, stopping at towns like Tavira, Faro, Lagos, and Sagres.
Head north from the Algarve into the Alentejo plains, visiting historic towns and vineyards.
Combine Algarve with Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley for an immersive journey.
