Shopping in Olhão – Markets, Makers, and Maritime Charm

Olhão is a coastal town known for its strong fishing heritage and its bustling Mercado de Olhão , which sits right by the waterfront. This market is one of the most iconic in the Algarve, with two red-brick buildings full of local products: one dedicated to fresh fish and seafood, the other to fruit, vegetables, meat, and delicacies like fig compote and carob liqueur. On Saturdays, the outdoor market fills up with local farmers and artisans.

Beyond the market, wander through Olhão’s narrow streets and you’ll find small boutiques, ceramic studios, and shops selling cork products, lace, and hand-painted azulejos. It’s a place where shopping feels like discovery—many of the best finds are tucked between traditional townhouses and lively cafés.

For more variety, head just outside town to the Ria Shopping Center . While small compared to Faro’s Forum Algarve, it features essentials like clothing shops, tech stores, and a supermarket—ideal if you’re staying nearby.

Olhão also hosts regular artisan fairs and events in the summer months, where local artists and craftspeople present their work—from jewelry to home décor, much of it inspired by the sea and the nearby Ria Formosa.

Address Highlights:

  • Mercado de Olhão – Avenida 5 de Outubro, 8700-307 Olhão
  • Ria Shopping – Estrada Nacional 125, 8700-137 Olhão

Family-Friendly Dining in Tavira: Discover the Food Court at Tavira Gran Plaza

If you’re traveling with kids or teens in Tavira, finding a relaxed, one-stop dining spot can save the day. The Food Court at Tavira Plaza offers a wide variety of choices under one roof—perfect when everyone’s craving something different or you need a quick, hassle-free meal.

🍔 One Roof, Many Flavours

The Food Court now features all of these outlets:

  • Burger Ranch – classic burgers, fries & shakes
  • Pizza Hut – family-sized pizzas & pasta dishes
  • KFC – chicken buckets, tenders & sides
  • Soup & Go – warming soups, toasties & salads
  • Al Sultão – authentic Döner kebabs & wraps
  • Los Takitos – tacos, burritos & nachos
  • Brasília Café – light bites & coffee
  • Black Angus – grilled steaks & chicken
  • Blue Fish – fresh seafood dishes
  • Bifanas & Bitoques – Portuguese pork & steak sandwiches
  • Delta Espresso – coffee, pastries & snacks
  • Pizza Real – individual pizzas & breads Tavira Plaza

👪 Built for Families

  • Casual & quick : no need for reservations, perfect between activities
  • Spacious seating : plenty of tables, high chairs available
  • Clean facilities : baby-changing stations in restrooms
  • Play area : small kids’ zone nearby, so little ones can burn off steam

🕒 Opening Hours & Access

  • Food Court : 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
  • Location : Rua Almirante Cândido dos Reis 247, 8800-318 Tavira
  • Parking : Free underground parking; level-access lifts to the food court
  • Website : Tavira Plaza

Fuseta – Oyster Beds, Island Beaches, and Life on the Lagoon

Fuseta is a small fishing town tucked between the Ria Formosa lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s one of the best places to experience the quieter, more authentic side of the Algarve. Unlike larger resorts, Fuseta still feels like a working village—where fishermen mend nets in the harbor and tide charts matter more than time.

One of Fuseta’s most fascinating features is its connection to the local oyster industry . The shallow, nutrient-rich waters of the Ria Formosa provide perfect conditions for oyster farming. At low tide, you can spot rows of oyster beds stretching out across the lagoon. Several small producers offer tastings and boat tours , where you can learn how oysters are grown and harvested—often followed by a chance to taste them, freshly opened and with just a squeeze of lemon.

For swimming and relaxing, Fuseta offers two great options. The main beach sits inside the lagoon and is ideal for families with young children—calm, shallow waters and no waves. For a wilder beach experience, take the short ferry or water taxi to Ilha da Fuseta , a barrier island with wide Atlantic beaches and soft sand that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Fuseta is also a great spot for kayaking, birdwatching , or simply enjoying grilled seafood by the water. Life moves at a gentle pace here, shaped by the rhythm of the tides. Whether you’re slurping oysters, paddling through the channels, or walking barefoot on the sand, Fuseta offers a simple but unforgettable slice of Algarve life.

Praia de Monte Gordo – Where Tourism Meets Tradition

Praia de Monte Gordo is one of the most accessible and vibrant beaches in the Eastern Algarve. Backed by a long line of hotels and holiday apartments, this beach is ideal for travelers who enjoy comfort, convenience, and a lively atmosphere. It’s especially popular with Portuguese and Spanish tourists, and the town buzzes with activity during the summer months.

Despite its tourist appeal, Monte Gordo still holds onto its traditional fishing roots . Along one end of the beach, you’ll find the artisanal fishing fleet , with brightly painted wooden boats resting on the sand and fishermen bringing in their morning catch. It’s a rare glimpse into the Algarve’s coastal heritage—one that continues to thrive even alongside the modern beach scene.

The beach itself is wide, clean, and perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or swimming in the warm, shallow waters. The sea here is among the warmest in Portugal, and the gentle waves make it safe for all ages. Facilities are excellent, with lifeguards, sunbed rentals, and beach cafés lining the promenade.

Monte Gordo also offers plenty off the sand: a pedestrian promenade for evening strolls, traditional seafood restaurants, and even a casino for those looking to try their luck. It’s a beach that offers the best of both worlds—relaxation by the sea and a touch of authentic Algarve culture , all within walking distance.