Points of Interest

The markets

The Olhão Market is a real experience starting with its traditional architecture presented in a four-story roof and four cylindrical glazed turrets with metal domes. Inside, indulge in the appetizing aspect of fruits, vegetables and dried fruits from the region. Admire the freshness of the fish, just caught and, by the way, with the reaction of the many foreign tourists who make pilgrimages there … The Fish Market has been used as a space for cultural events. It is an ex-libris of the town.

Saturday gains more life, when people come from the surroundings, small producers, who set up their market outside the building … Here the experience is unique, because bargaining is inserted in the landscape of Ria Formosa that a foot step away, extends to the islands and the sea.

Fishing boats supply the market daily, making it the most famous in the Algarve, when it comes to fish and seafood.

You can also see a replica of the caique “Bom Sucesso”, which on July 6, 1808, with only 17 Olhanenses on board, went to Brazil to inform the king of the expulsion of the French.

The Loulé Market was opened on June 27, 1908. The building was built according to a project by Architect Alfredo Costa Campos, from Lisbon, although the same project has undergone some changes. Here you can find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, diverse handicrafts, gourmet stores and cultural events. Venture out to the stunning gypsy market and bargain for some prices.

Quinta Marim

The Environmental Education Center of Marim, which also houses the headquarters of the Natural Park of Ria Formosa, is a farm on the edge of Ria Formosa with about 148ac. There you’ll be able to spot different passerines, also several species of waterfowl in the pond and marshland, a refurbished tidal mill, archaeological remains, some recovered traditional houses among other points of interest; all in a restricted space representative of the most significant components of this natural protected area.

Milreu Roman Ruins

Located to the west of the historical village of Estoi, 8km from Faro, the Roman Villa of Milreu reveals a continuous occupation since the 1st century and until the 11th century. The knowledge of its history reveals that it was inhabited by families of high social and political status, to which were provided the needs not only of a rural daily life, but also of great playfulness life. The “villa” had hot springs, highlighting the mosaics with marine decoration.

The richness of this rustic villa is reflected in the significant volume of archaeological finds, as predominantly marine – themed mosaics, marbled coatings and various ceramic, painted stucco and decorative sculpture.

Nowadays, the Ruins Manor House, transformed into an interpretation center, gives you an idea of how the Romans would spend their days in the Algarve. The archaeological site features a manor house, agricultural facilities, a wine press, a spa and a temple dedicated to water activities.