Practical Information: Olhao

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Portugal has three main mobile network providers: MEO, Vodafone, and NOS.

Connectivity Options

Prepaid SIM cards are available at Faro Airport, official provider stores, and some supermarkets in Olhão. Your passport is necessary for registration. An unlocked smartphone is necessary.
For convenience, consider an eSIM. This allows activation of a local data plan without a physical SIM card, often with immediate connectivity. Check Airalo for eSIM plans.
Portable Wi-Fi devices are another option for consistent connectivity. Consider Solis Wi-Fi.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available and often free in hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes throughout Olhão. Many public areas, including municipal buildings and markets, offer free Wi-Fi access.

Staying Connected

Portugal generally has good 4G and growing 5G coverage in Olhão and most of the Algarve, ensuring reliable mobile internet access.
Postal Services: CTT (Correios de Portugal) is the national postal service. Olhão has a post office (Correios) for sending postcards or parcels. They also offer banking services.
Official Language: The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.

Language & Translation

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including hotels, most restaurants, and by tour operators in Olhão. In smaller, local establishments or among older generations, English proficiency may be less common.

Translation Resources

Google Translate: Download the app and the offline Portuguese language pack for use without internet. The camera translation feature works for menus or signs.
Carrying a small Portuguese phrasebook can aid quick reference and demonstrates initiative.
Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases is appreciated and helps interactions. Consider a language learning platform like Rosetta Stone.

Important Phrases with pronunciation

Basic Portuguese phrases will enhance your interactions.

Greetings & Courtesy

Olá (oh-LAH): Hello
Bom dia (bong DEE-ah): Good morning (until early afternoon)
Boa tarde (BOH-ah TAR-deh): Good afternoon (from early afternoon until sunset)
Boa noite (BOH-ah NOY-teh): Good evening/night (from sunset onwards)
Obrigado/a (oh-bree-GAH-doo/dah): Thank you (use "o" for male, "a" for female)
Por favor (por fah-VOR): Please
Desculpe (dish-KOOL-peh): Excuse me/Sorry
Sim (sing): Yes
Não (nown): No
Adeus (ah-DEH-oosh): Goodbye
Fala inglês? (FAH-lah een-GLESH): Do you speak English?
Eu não percebo (yoo nown per-SEH-boo): I don't understand
Quanto custa? (KWAN-too KOOSH-tah): How much does it cost?
A conta, por favor (ah KON-tah por fah-VOR): The bill, please

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 3:00 PM-7:00 PM. Sat 9:00 AM-1:00 PM (smaller shops). Supermarkets usually have continuous hours.
Restaurants: Lunch 12:30 PM-3:00 PM. Dinner 7:00 PM-10:00 PM/11:00 PM. Many close one day a week (often Sun/Mon).
Cafes/Pastelarias: Open earlier (around 7:00 AM) until 7:00 PM or later.
Markets (Mercados de Olhão): Generally mornings only, 7:00 AM-2:00 PM. Fish market closed Sun/Mon. Fruit/vegetable market closed Sun.

Banking & Holidays

Banks: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM-3:00 PM. Some smaller branches may close for lunch.
ATMs (Multibanco): Widely available 24/7 in Olhão.
Religious & Public Holidays: Many businesses close or have reduced hours. (Jan 1, Apr 25, May 1, Jun 10, Aug 15, Oct 5, Nov 1, Dec 1, Dec 8, Dec 25, Good Friday & Easter Sun).
Seasonal Closures: Low season (Nov-Mar) may see reduced hours or closures for tourist businesses (boat tours, island restaurants). Check ahead.

Plan Ahead for Closures

Verify operating hours for specific attractions or services, especially during holidays or the low season.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for formal introductions. Among friends, women greet each other and men with one kiss on each cheek (right then left). Men typically shake hands with other men. Use "senhor" (Mr.) / "senhora" (Ms.) for respect.

Appropriate Attire

Dress is generally casual in the Algarve. When visiting churches, ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Smart casual attire is fitting for most mid-range and upscale restaurants. Beachwear stays at the beach or pool.

Dining & Tipping

Start eating after everyone is served. Keep hands visible above the table. The Couvert (bread, olives) is not free; politely decline if not wanted. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; round up or leave 5-10% for good service.

Photography Permissions

Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. It is polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Respect their decision if they decline. Be discreet; avoid flash in religious sites.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid sensitive political discussions unless initiated by locals.
Football (soccer) is a national passion; discuss with care, as loyalties run deep.
Approach discussions of Portugal's colonial past with sensitivity and respect.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Portugal is generally tolerant and progressive regarding gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. LGBTQ+ rights are enshrined in law, and same-sex marriage is legal. Olhão is a relaxed town, and public displays of affection are generally accepted without issue.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting churches, ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor; silence phones.
Do not use flash photography.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Older towns, including Olhão's historic center, may present challenges with uneven cobbled streets, narrow sidewalks, and lack of ramps.
The waterfront promenade in Olhão is flat and well-maintained, offering better accessibility. Newer buildings generally incorporate accessibility.
Services for Visual/Hearing Impairments: Specialized services directly in Olhão may be limited. Guide dogs are generally permitted. Research relevant organizations prior to your visit.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Mercados de Olhão: Market buildings are mostly accessible with ramps.
Public Ferries: Generally accessible, but boarding/disembarking may require assistance depending on boat type and tides.
Accessible Taxis: Less common in Olhão; advisable to pre-book in larger towns like Faro.

Research for Smooth Travel

For specific accessibility needs, researching accommodations and tours in advance is highly recommended to confirm their features.

Additional Practicalities

considerations for a well-prepared visit.

Safety & Security

Olhão is generally a safe town. However, standard precautions for travelers apply.

Safety Guidelines

Guard your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets or during festivals.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Money & Banking

Portugal uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. ATMs are readily available.

Financial Tips

Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card issues.
Carry some cash for smaller purchases or local markets.
Avoid exchanging money at airports for better rates; use ATMs.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Portuguese people are generally friendly and welcoming. A few gestures of respect can greatly improve interactions.

Social Norms

Politeness and patience are valued.
Always say "please" (por favor) and "thank you" (obrigado/a).
Keep your voice moderate in public places.

Airport Services

Faro Airport (FAO) is the main gateway to the Algarve. Services there cater to travelers' needs.

After Arrival

Airport Lounges: Access independent airport lounges globally with Priority Pass.
Flight Compensation: Services like Compensair help with compensation for flight delays or cancellations.
Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Bolt), and shuttle services are available from Faro Airport to Olhão.

Practical Information