General information about Portimão
Portimão, located in the Algarve in southern Portugal, is the perfect city for a vacation. Portimão is known for its beautiful beaches, wonderful vegetation and sardines. You will also find great restaurants with tasty local cuisine.
Because Portimão is near water and the Arade River, it is a port city where fishing and trade are important. The sea has been very important in Portimão’s history. The local economy was mainly based on trade, fishing and fish processing. However, in the 19th century, tourism became an important part of the local economy. The tourist area is mainly concentrated around Praia da Rocha beach. Apartments, hotels, resorts and shopping centers were built near the coast. Today Portimão is an attractive tourist destination and a major center in the Algarve.
Portimão from a bird’s eye view – video
See what Portimão looks like today in the video below.
How to get to Portimão?
Portimão is the second largest city in the Algarve (after Faro). The city has a population of about 50,000 and is fairly well connected to the rest of the region and the north of the country.
Portimão is located about 70 kilometers from Faro. You can find the best flights to Portugal on Kiwi’s free search engine.
Travel by car from the airport on the free N125 national road is about 1.30 h or on the toll A22 highway about 50 min. You can also get from Faro to Portimão by public transport -. by bus or train. Check prices and current train and bus connections to Portimão to below or directly in the search engine here >>.
Where to eat in Portimão?
Portimão is not only the famous Praia da Rocha and a picturesque fishing port, but also a true paradise for foodies. This is a city where traditional Portuguese cuisine meets modern interpretations, and fresh fish and seafood are a daily occurrence.
Local flavors of the Algarve
If you want to try authentic Portuguese cuisine, be sure to visit Dona Barca, an iconic waterfront restaurant. They specialize in seafood dishes, and their arroz de marisco (rice with seafood) is a true Algarve gem. It’s worth making a reservation in the summer – the place is very popular with locals and tourists.
Another great option is Casa da Tocha, an atmospheric taverna in the center of Portimão, where bacalhau (cod) in various renditions, wine from the region and a friendly atmosphere reign supreme.
For dinner with a view, I recommend the elegant F Restaurante at the marina – perfect for a romantic evening with Mediterranean cuisine and a glass of vinho verde.
Vegan restaurant
For those looking for fresh and healthy options, a great choice would be Super Juice on Praia da Rocha – a local bar with smoothies, açaí bowls, fresh juices and light lunches. A perfect place for breakfast or recovery after the beach.
All you can eat and Asian cuisine
If you’re in the mood for something more exotic (and filling!), visit Good Wok – an all-you-can-eat restaurant with a wide selection of Asian cuisine: sushi, wok, tempura, soups, desserts. All at a fixed price and in a modern interior. A great option for an evening out with friends or family.
Deserts and sweet treats
You can’t leave Portimão without trying pastéis de nata – preferably at Padaria Central, where they bake them on the spot, still warm, with a crispy crust and tender pudding.
For hot days, I recommend Gelateria Isabella at Praia da Rocha – homemade ice cream, including vegan versions, in original flavors (such as mango-maracuja or chocolate with chili).
Good and cheap local cuisine
For a quick, local and inexpensive lunch, Snack-bar O Infante is ideal – they serve daily Portuguese cuisine, large portions and a homey atmosphere.
What's worth seeing in Portimão?
Portimão, like the entire region, is famous for its local oceanic delicacies served in restaurants, most of which have retained their traditional Portuguese character. It also makes a great base for exploring the area. So what is worth seeing in Portimão? Keep reading!
Zona Ribeirinha
While in Portimão , it is worth taking a walk around the city itself. The center of the main attractions is located around a part of the city called the zona ribeirinha (Arade River zone) where you’ll find restaurants, fountains, parks and green squares. A short distance away on Rua Direita Street are small stores selling souvenirs and local art. It’s worth walking the streets and admiring the local buildings.
Museu de Portimão – sardine museum
The Museu de Portimão is otherwise known as the “Sardinian Museum.” It is located inside one of the main fish canning factories in Portimão . The factory used to be a real tycoon in fish processing in particular sardines and tuna. The most popular exhibit in the museum is the one dealing specifically with canned sardines. In addition, the museum contains numerous archaeological memorabilia from Roman and Moorish times. The museum is a great attraction for adults as well as children. A ticket to the museum costs €3 for adults and €1.5 for youth and seniors (16 – 25 years and +65 years). It is worth remembering that the museum is free on Sundays but only for Portimão residents. For more details, visit the museum.
The main beaches in Portimão
Praia da Rocha – Portimão’s largest beach
Praia do Vau
Praia do Alemão
Praia do Alemão beach is one of the most unique beaches in Portimão. Located to the west of Praia do Vau, it is famous for the many rock formations around the beach. There are countless hidden corners on the beach where you can see arches, caves and hidden little beaches. A great beach for families with children. At the beach begins about 5 km walking trail Verandas sobre o Mar along the cliffs with wonderful views of the ocean.
Attractions for children in Portimão
Portimão also has several attractions for the youngest tourists. At Praia da Rocha itself, there is a children’s park located directly on the beach. The park has a wooden pirate ship, swings and several structures to climb on. The children’s playground at Praia da Rocha is very popular. It is an ideal place where both parents and children can relax. There is a restaurant and restrooms next to the park . Unfortunately there is no shade in the park so on hot days it is worth bearing in mind.
In the center of the city is recently redesigned the Parque da Juventude which translates into Youth Park. Parque da Juventude is an amazing space for younger and older visitors. It has a skate park, pond with turtles and 2 parks for smaller kids.
Update 2025 – The park is now restored and open to the public.
The park has a small playground and a cafe where you can buy drinks, ice cream, snacks and typical Portuguese fast food such as tostas – toast with cheese or ham, bifanas – braised pork sandwich or a typical hamburger. An additional attraction is a small pond with fish and turtles, as well as peacocks and ducks running throughout the park.
Another attraction in Portimão for children is the Quinta Pedagogica which is an educational farm. The farm has a variety of animals – rabbits, horses, cows, black piglets and fowl. On designated days there is feeding of the animals along with the caretakers. The farm also grows a variety of typical Portuguese crops. The grounds include picnic tables and a small playground for children. Entrance to the farm is free.
Another place worth visiting in Portimão with kids is the 3D art and illusion museum where you can mess around and take cool photos. You can buy a ticket to the museum buy here >>.
Sightseeing around Portimão
Portimão is a great base for exploring the area. Popular towns and cities are not far away and can be easily reached by car or public transportation, such as Lagos (about 20min), Albufeira (about 40min), Sagres (about 50min). Also worth a visit are the town located in the mountains of Monchique and the thermal baths in the town of Caldas de Monchique, where we can enjoy relaxing pools of thermal water.
Also worth a visit are the nearby fishing village of Ferragudo, with its beautiful Castelo de São João do Arade castle, and picturesque Alvor , with its beautiful marina and expansive Praia de Alvor beach.
Tours from Portimão
Portimão is an excellent base from which to explore the region. Several excursions to nearby attractions are offered at Marina’s port. First of all, you can find many different offers to the famous Benagil cave , which can be visited by boat, speedboat or kayaks. You can also go on a trip on a pirate ship, exploring the coast from Portimão to Praia da Marinha. The latter attraction is sure to appeal to the youngest tourists. Check below for prices and availability of all tours.
Benagil cave tour from Portimão
stoBenagil Cave is one of the Algarve’s main attractions. Its center can only be accessed from sea level. In 2024 additional restrictions were imposed on its visit due to the high number of accidents. As a result, kayaks and SUP boards are not allowed to enter the center of Benagil Cave and stop at the beach. Only guided kayak or SUP tours are allowed in without landing on the beach. There is also no swimming inside the cave allowed. Visiting the cave by kayak or board is possible only with a guide and it is not possible to go down to the beaches. In addition, entering the cave by swimming is prohibited. There are fines for violating the prohibitions.
You can, on the other hand, take a speed boat tour from Portimão to the Benagil cave and see the center of the cave and the entire coast along the way, and such a trip can be booked with me. Below you will find a description of the tour and photos.
Expedition details:
- Itinerary: speedboat excursion
To Benagil Cave and Praia da Marinha beach from the port of Portimão. On the way to the cave, other points of interest and caves are visited from ocean level, including the town of Ferragudo with the famous Castelo de São João do Arade located on the beach 
. - Benagil cave tour: At Benagil cave itself, the boat stops for about 5 minutes. It is not allowed to stop on the beach so the boat drifts on the ocean giving you time to take pictures and admire the cave
. You can also text me directly on Whatsapp: +351 910 952 171. - Swimming in the ocean: at the end of the tour there is also a stop for swimming in the ocean for those who want to do so
- Cruise hours: Tours run daily at 11am and 3pm.
- Duration: The expedition lasts about 2 hours.
- Cost of the tour:
- January-June: 30 euros adult, 20 euros child (5-12 years),
- July – October: 33 euros adult, 25 euros child (5-12 years),
- Guide: The tour comes standard with a guide who speaks English and Portuguese.
- Polish version of the tour: for an additional charge of 30 euros, I can join the cruise as a translator and additionally tell stories about life in the Algarve. -> MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE.
- Collection point: Clube Naval De Portimão, link to map >>.
- Parking: there is a large, free parking lot at the port.
- Reservation: please fill out form >>, will verify availability and send confirmation to email
. - Payment: payment for the cruise is made in cash after the cruise directly to the guide.
Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave Tour Portimão
Watching dolphins in their natural marine habitat is one of the Algarve’s popular attractions.
For a boat trip in search of dolphins and coastal sightseeing, you can go from Portimão with a reliable and friendly company Capitão Nemo. All cruises are accompanied by a marine biologist who will tell you interesting facts about the lives of these amazing animals. If you book online through links below, you can enjoy an exclusive 10 % discount! Use code: 25POP10 at the checkout and embark on unforgettable adventure!
Here are some of the available tour options from Portimão. The duration of the tour is approximate, as it all depends on how quickly you can find the dolphins.
1. Visit to Benagil cave with dolphin watching:
Tour details:
- Duration: up to 3 hours
- Price: 55 euros/person 12 years +, 35 euros/child(2-12 years)
- When: Cruises are daily at various times depending on ocean conditions
- Meeting point: Cais São Francisco, Ac. Porto Comercial de Portimão, 8500-512 Portimão , there is a large free parking lot on site
- Online reservations can be made directly here >> or you can contact me and I will add the reservations to the system for you. Below is the contact form. You can also get back to me on Whatsapp. Contact information here >>.
- Duration: up to 3 hours
- Price: 55 euros/person 12 years +, 35 euros/child(2-12 years)
- When: Cruises are daily at various times depending on ocean conditions
- Meeting point: Cais São Francisco, Ac. Porto Comercial de Portimão, 8500-512 Portimão , there is a large free parking lot on site
- Online reservations can be made directly here >> or you can contact me and I will add the reservations to the system for you. Below is the contact form. You can also get back to me on Whatsapp. Contact information here >>.
3 A dolphin search and watch tour:
- Duration: approximately 2 hours
- Price: 55 euros/person 12 years +, 45 euros/child(2-12 years)
- When: Cruises are daily at various times depending on ocean conditions
- Meeting point: Cais São Francisco, Ac. Porto Comercial de Portimão, 8500-512 Portimão , there is a large free parking lot on site
- Online reservations can be made directly here >> or you can contact me and I will add the reservations to the system for you. Below is the contact form. You can also get back to me on Whatsapp. Contact information here >>.
Other trips from Portimão
There are quite a few options for optional tours. It is worth looking at Getyourguide, where you will find various interesting ideas and good promotions. Sample tours from Portimão below. Online reservations can be made directly at Getyourguide and then show the reservation to the tour operator.
Accommodation in Portimão in Polish
Portimão is a city where you should stay longer to take advantage of the beautiful beaches and explore the surrounding attractions and towns. The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels on Praia da Rocha itself to budget apartments and hostels.
You can also book accommodation in one of the apartments operated by a friendly agency My Algarve >>, especially if you are looking for service in Polish. To check availability you can go directly to this link >> or enter the dates in your browser below.
Accommodation in Portimão with my friends
I would also like to recommend to you the apartments operated by my, local friends – Maria and Delcio and João.
Both are great hosts and have very nice apartments in Portimão.
If you decide to stay with my friends, mention that you got to them through me. They know that I write about them :).
Maria and Delcio – a Portuguese-Canadian couple of friends with whom I have been friends since almost the beginning of my stay in the Algarve.
In their offer they have 4 apartments:
- Apartment 1 room with pool for max 3 people, about 4 km to the nearest beach Praia do Vau >> here
- Apartment 2 rooms for 4 people, 5 min on foot from the bus station, about 2 km from Praia da Rocha >> here
- 1 bedroom apartment for 2 people, 5 min walk from Praia da Rocha >> here
- Apartment 1 room for 2 people, about 4 km from the nearest beach >> here
João – Portuguese artist, architect and traveler, with whom I share a love of yoga, exploring the world and long conversations.
His apartment is a two-bedroom apartment in a quiet part of Portimão , about 2 km from the nearest beach. Check out the full offer here >>.
Car rental in Portimão
If you want to rent a car from Portimão without deposit, credit card, with full insurance, then be sure to check out the offer of a proven company, which I sincerely recommend here. I recommend here >>.
