Markets & crafts in Algarve
Algarve Silves Medieval Fair evening tour
Silves was the capital city of the Algarve between 1249 and 1910, back when this portion of Portugal was its very own kingdom. In those days, you would've seen knights on horses trotting along the streets, huge markets spread across the centre and even archers on the city walls. Well, for nine days in August, the whole of Silves reenacts what the place would've looked like in those days, and this evening tour shows off all of it.
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Loule boasts a rich medieval history, and it has always been a hugely important commercial centre for the Algarve region. Explore its open-air market stalls and its thriving indoor farmer's market on this half-day excursion. Although Loule is the Algarve's second-biggest city, its markets are conveniently located within striking distance of one another. Wander the narrow lanes of open-air “gypsy” market, where locally produced ceramics and all manner of other items weigh down the plentiful stalls. This is the prime territory for picking up some great souvenirs at a bargain price.You might want to cool down by taking things indoors to the beautifully restored farmers' market. Savour the wonderful sights and smells of the plentiful produce, which has been transported that very morning from the surrounding countryside and the clear Atlantic Ocean. And if there's time left over, delve into the narrow side streets that surround the markets. Here, you'll stumble across Loule's little handicraft shops, stuffed with hand-worked copper pans and wicker baskets
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If you're looking to find the authentic Algarve, Loulé's credentials couldn't be more complete – it's one of the oldest cities in the south. See the Roman-era origins and Arabic influences of this pretty city, and then hit the countryside to visit the typical villages of Querenca and Barranco do Velho. It's traditional Portugal to a T.
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Transfers to FATACIL Lagoa’s annual fair
Snap up your transport to one of the Algarve's must-see summer events. FATACIL, held annually in Lagoa, is a vibrant outdoor fair blending the region's cultural roots with lively entertainment. Beatriz, one of our local expert guides, says, “FATACIL is more than a fair, it's where the Algarve's heart beats strongest. From handcrafted treasures to the scent of grilled sardines in the air, every corner tells the story of who we are.” Drawing thousands of visitors each year, FATACIL features artisan stalls, local produce, traditional crafts and live demonstrations that celebrate the very best of the Algarve. From regional wine tastings to browsing homemade cork goods, there's truly something for everyone. Food lovers will be in paradise with the wide range of authentic Portuguese flavours on offer. Savour traditional delicacies like tasty bifanas and smoked octopus, or satisfy your sweet tooth with farturas, the beloved deep-fried favourite. As the sun goes down, the grounds light up with live music, folk performances and equestrian shows, creating a memorable atmosphere. You're free to explore at your own pace, with your guide on hand to help you make the most of your visit. Whether it's your first time or you're a returning visitor, you'll experience a festive and flavourful taste of Algarve culture.
Popular experiences in Algarve
Algarve - Faro hop on and hop off tourist train
Enjoy Faro hop on and hop off tourist train to stroll through the city streets and discover its historical monuments.
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Albufeira - Caves and Dolphin- Watching Aboard the Dreamer
Visit the incredible caves of the Algarve on a jet powered boat and enjoy the view of the dolphins in their natural environment
Algarve - Slide & Splash Ticket
Spiralling chutes. Shriek-inducing slides. Laughs a minute. And plenty of space for you to relax in the sun while the kids have fun. That's what Slide & Splash waterpark in Lagoa is all about. And this summer, it's even better than ever with the addition of The Big Wave and Disco River.
Loulé - Loulé Rock Salt Mine guided visit
Get ready for an adventure in the rock salt mine of Loulé and visit 230 m deep galleries with an expert guide. Find out about the evolution of the mining process throughout history, be amazed by the geological formations of the rock salt walls, and see an art exhibition underground.
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Albufeira - 4x4 off-road half-day guided tour with wine tasting from Albufeira
Join this adventure on a 4×4 vehicle from Albufeira, enjoy fantastic views, learn all about the corking process, stop at a local winery for a tasting.
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Faro - Highlights of East Algarve from Faro
Visit the east of Portugal, including Faro, Olhão, Monte Gordo and the Vila Real de Santo António, during a guided tour.
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With the world's largest sand sculpture exhibition on your doorstep, a trip out here promises all kinds of sandy fun and games. The International Sand Sculpture Festival runs every year near Lagoa with mega sculptures, workshops, activities and more to enjoy and be in awe of.There's nothing quite like it – 45,000 tonnes of sand, painstakingly sculpted into incredible artistic creations. Sculptors from all over the world come to take part and show off this different take on architecture. And with your ticket, you'll get to see it all and a few things more.Once you've searched out a few sculptures, there are activities for kids, demonstrations and workshops on everything to do with sand sculpting. There's even a fish spa if you need to relax your feet, and a snack bar to replenish energy levels before your next sculpture hunt. What's more, if you go between June and mid-September, you can take it all in at night.
Algarve - Fatima Full Day Tour
This full day tour takes you on a pilgrimage all of your own. You'll journey from Albufeira early in the morning to cross the Portuguese hinterlands towards ‘the Shrine of the World', which attracts about four million pilgrims every year – the one and only Fatima.
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Portimão - Algarve caves and dolphin watching tour
Explore the caves of the Algarve and observe the dolphins in their own habitat on this 2-hour boat tour from Portimão.
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Portimão - Benagil Caves and Marinha boat tour from Portimão
Explore the Algarve's Benagil Cave and admire Praia da Marinha on this guided boat tour from Portimão
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Algarve - Transfers to FATACIL Lagoa’s annual fair
Snap up your transport to one of the Algarve's must-see summer events. FATACIL, held annually in Lagoa, is a vibrant outdoor fair blending the region's cultural roots with lively entertainment. Beatriz, one of our local expert guides, says, “FATACIL is more than a fair, it's where the Algarve's heart beats strongest. From handcrafted treasures to the scent of grilled sardines in the air, every corner tells the story of who we are.” Drawing thousands of visitors each year, FATACIL features artisan stalls, local produce, traditional crafts and live demonstrations that celebrate the very best of the Algarve. From regional wine tastings to browsing homemade cork goods, there's truly something for everyone. Food lovers will be in paradise with the wide range of authentic Portuguese flavours on offer. Savour traditional delicacies like tasty bifanas and smoked octopus, or satisfy your sweet tooth with farturas, the beloved deep-fried favourite. As the sun goes down, the grounds light up with live music, folk performances and equestrian shows, creating a memorable atmosphere. You're free to explore at your own pace, with your guide on hand to help you make the most of your visit. Whether it's your first time or you're a returning visitor, you'll experience a festive and flavourful taste of Algarve culture.
Algarve - Full day 4x4 tour of the Algarve’s countryside and traditions
Rumbling through the Algarve in a 4x4, you'll head to Quinta da Fornalha, an organic farm and heritage site, where you're off to a scrummy start with a fresh produce tasting. Then, take in the views at Beliche Dam before you reach the rural village of Odeleite. There's time to grab yourself some lunch here before rounding off your day with two historic villages, Castro Marim and Cacela Velha. With it's Morrish roots, white-washed houses and intricate chimney pots, Cacela Velha is the best-preserved village along the Algarve coast.
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Algarve - Algarve 4x4 tour of Tavira with Ria Formosa boat ride
You'll hop in a 4x4 to see a real mix of the Algarve's landscapes, including the historic village charm of Cacela Velha, the bustling market of Tavira and the scenic dam and reservoir of Barragem do Beliche. In the fishing village of Fuseta there's time to grab yourself some lunch, before boarding a boat trip through the bird-watching haven of the Ria Formosa, where you'll learn about local oyster farming. Wrap up your day at Praia da Barra Velha, one of the Algarve's most idyllic beaches.
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Algarve - Half-day 4x4 nature and culture tour in Guadiana
Buckle up for a 4x4 adventure exploring some of Guadiana's inland beauty. You'll begin at a rural estate to learn about sustainable farming and to sample organic produce. Then, soak in scenic views at Beliche Dam before diving into the world of cork, Portugal's national symbol – you'll see how it's harvested and learn about its cultural importance. As you speed across rolling green hills and valleys, your guide will share stories of the land. The tour ends in Odeleite Village for a look at what rural life is like.
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Algarve - Catamaran sunset tour with DJ or live guitarist in Vilamoura
Sail along Portugal's stunning Algarve coast on this catamaran sunset tour from Vilamoura, enjoy live music, while sipping drinks, spotting dolphins, and watching the sun dip below the horizon.
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Algarve - Boat tour dolphin quest in Vilamoura
Set sail from Vilamoura on this exciting dolphin-watching adventure along the Algarve coast, and cruise through crystal-clear waters.
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Algarve - Catamaran trip discovering Benagil Cave from Vilamoura Marina
Embark on a catamaran journey from Vilamoura Marina, explore the Benagil Cave and other coastal highlights. Enjoy a welcome drink while onboard.
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Algarve - Gageiro sailing with drinks and tapas– ticket only
What could be more serene than a morning sailing trip from Marina de Portimao? You'll cruise along the picturesque Algarve coast towards the stunning rock formations of Praia do Vau.Relax and enjoy the scenic views with cold drinks and tasty tapas onboard, while experiencing the thrill of sailing along one of Europe's most impressive coastlines. Make sure you dive in for a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the ocean, then stretch out on deck to dry off as you look up at the red and golden cliffs that surround the coast here. The iconic stand-alone rock formation of Praia do Vau looks like a great, lonely giant at the end of the beach. It's a real treat to see and perfect for snapping insta-worthy photos of.
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Algarve - Sites & Bites: Tiborna tasting and Faro Old Town tour
Tuck into the tastes of the Algarve on this half-day foodie tour in Faro. With hotel pick-up included from Albufeira and Armacoao de Pera, it's an ideal way to explore the region's history-soaked capital, laidback lifestyle and, of course, local flavours.The tour kicks off at Arco da Vila, a neoclassical gateway leading into Faro's compact old town. From there, your guide will show you through narrow cobbled lanes lined with tiled facades and wrought-iron balconies. Stops include the Town Hall, the Baroque Faro Cathedral and the Municipal Museum. The latter's a former convent that holds a solid collection of religious art and archaeological finds. Make sure to look out for traditional azulejos along the way. These hand-painted ceramic tiles tell stories in cobalt and white and can be found tucked away in unexpected corners. Things shift from oldy worldy to hands-on at Faro Story Spot, where you can expect sensory exhibits, multimedia displays and even a chance to taste a traditional Tiborna. This simple yet sublime snack involves rustic bread drizzled with olive oil and topped with seasonal ingredients. It's served with a glass of local wine, juice, or water – you can take your pick.After some free in the old town, head over to Tertulia Algarvia, a small restaurant and cultural centre known for keeping regional food traditions alive. Here, you'll finish off your tour with the Algarvian Trilogy, a mini dessert trio featuring fig, almond, and carob – three ingredients that define the local pantry – paired with a smooth shot of Algarvian liqueur.
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Algarve - Dolphin-watching boat ride with lunch and transfers
Set sail on a dolphin-watching adventure off the Algarve coast. Cast off from Albufeira Marina, zipping along the coastline to the Carvoeiro sea caves – they're some of the most famous caves in the Algarve. There's time to get a good look at the rock formations and natural skylights these caves are known for – and snap a few photos – before jetting out into open water. You'll be in with a chance of spotting pods of wild bottlenose and common dolphins as you zoom over the waves. Then, as you return to the marina, you'll tuck into a tasty lunch with Albufeira's scenery as your backdrop.
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