Portimao Holidays 2025/2026
If you’re looking for a buzzy, cosmopolitan city, look no further than Portimão, the largest city in the western Algarve. Holidays to Portimão bring shopping and delicious seafood to the table – it was once a key port for the country’s fishing industry. Take a stroll along the scenic promenade, leading to the quaint and tree-lined plazas of the old town. Explore the snazzy boutiques and long strips of shops. Discover the history of the city with its iconic buildings, or simply indulge in freshly cooked food at the local cafes and restaurants. Holidays to the Algarve have never been so exciting.
Portimao Holiday Deals
Stunning views
There are marinas and there’s Portimão Marina. You really won’t believe your eyes when you see the vivid ochre and terracotta colours that this place offers. Once you’ve spent time admiring the view, you can check out the surrounding shops, or indulge in a selection of welcoming restaurants and bars. Yachts out of your price range? Then why not hire a jet ski to discover the sites?
Time to unwind
Take a wander down to the stunning river front where the picturesque Manuel Bivar gardens create a picture of pure elegance, then cool down with an ice cream at one of the cafes along the front. Portimão’s famous fish restaurants are also waiting for you at the end of the waterfront near the bridge – just follow the delicious aroma of sardines being cooked on the grill.
Top-notch shopping
Portimão is one of the best towns for shopping in the Algarve, with retail parks and malls galore. For big shoppers, Aqua Portimão is the famous shopping centre with all your favourite brands. Set over two floors, there are more than 100 stores to pick from. The food hall is well worth a visit, too, and is packed full of restaurants.
Beach life
Holidays to Portimão in the Algarve are ideal for beach lovers. Although Portimão is a city, it’s well known for its impressive sandy beaches with plenty of warm, calm waters. Active types have plenty of choice, too: you’ll find impressive coves for snorkellers and scuba divers, hundreds of surf spots and golf courses, as well as the chance to enjoy mountain biking and horse riding.
More to explore
Portimão is also a great hub to explore the rest of the Algarve. Beautiful Albufeira, for example, is only a 30-minute drive to be exact. The pretty old town is packed with inviting cafes, restaurants and shops – take a stroll around the cobbled alleyways for a real Albufeira experience. And when the sun goes down, the place springs to life, so whether you want to put your dancing shoes on for a boogie, or flat shoes on for a relaxing meal out, nothing is too far from Portimão.
The rest is history
Those of you intrigued about the region’s past can dig deep into Portimão’s history. Some of the most iconic attractions include the Fortaleza de Santa Catarina, a castle built in the 17th century to guard the approach to Portimão harbour. You can walk through the main gate and admire the fantastic coastal views from the fort’s terrace. The award-winning Portimão Museum also offers one of the most interesting collections of archaeology in the Algarve.
If you want more from your Portugal holiday than just basking on the beach, Portimão should be on your radar. The city has a low-key and relaxed ambience, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the hectic world we live in. From strolling along the banks to trying some delicious seafood with a glass of wine on the side, it offers so much.