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Our Five Top Traditional Markets in the Algarve

In the market

Offering a journey into the fishing and farming heritage of our local towns, a trip to the market is a great way to get to know the real Algarve. Markets are held throughout the region, and each offers an insight into the people and places that inspire a unique and diverse way of life.

Offering a journey into the fishing and farming heritage of our local towns, a trip to the market is a great way to get to know the real Algarve. Markets are held throughout the region, and each offers an insight into the people and places that inspire a unique and diverse way of life.

Many of them are held in the morning, so you can combine a trip to the market with a local attraction, a boat trip, round of golf, or a day on the beach. To help you get to know the Algarve a little better we’ve selected our favorite Algarve markets, highlighting some of the very best local produce and regional traditions!

1. Loulé market

Truly located at the heart of the city, the beautiful municipal market building is over 100 years old and was inspired by the Moroccan influences of the local architecture.

The market is open from Monday to Saturday, 6.30am to 3pm, selling local, organic produce and fresh fish, although the best time to visit Loulé is on a buzzing Saturday morning when both the farmer’s market and the gypsy flea market are held.  A great example of a traditional indoor market, this is a great place to visit throughout the year, where you can also savour local food in the courtyard.

Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
2. Quarteira market

One of the most popular markets in the Algarve, and held every Wednesday from 8am to 2pm, Quarteira market is known as the place to find almost anything – from local produce to traditional crafts and everything in between.  

The market is held in the center of the town, so it is perfect for a family trip to the market in the morning and an afternoon at the Aquashow water park to cool down.

The Quarteira fish market (and the fruit market next door), is one of the most popular ones is open daily in high season (June to Sept). 

3. Olhão municipal market

Dating back to 1866, the red brick building faces out over the docks where the boat trips to the Ria Formosa islands of Armona and Culatra depart. It is a popular spot for picking up local goods and fresh fish, but also to sit with friends and family and watch the world go by.

The market is open daily from 7am until 1pm, and on a Saturday morning there is also an open-air farmer’s market held at the same time.

Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
4. Sagres Farmer's market

Held in front of the municipal market building, the farmer’s market is a great way to get a real sense of the Algarve and the traditions of the ocean. This is the perfect place for agricultural products and fresh fish connected with this unique coastal destination.

First Friday of every month, this is where locals come to buy and sell their fruits, vegetables, and fish alongside their fellow producers.

5. Portimão market

A modern take on the regional market, this was created as a place to shop for local, organic produce for the entire week. Located on Avenida São João, the market was opened in 2007 and is one of the largest in the Algarve.

Bringing together the charm and community of traditional markets with contemporary gastronomy, this is a treasure trove for food lovers!

Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection
Vila Vita Collection