Olhao Municipal Market

Towering over the waterfront, this market is a symbol of Olhão's industriousness and agricultural traditions, which are depicted on tile paintings inside the buildings.

Olhão Municipal Market is spread across two redbrick structures, containing a fruit and vegetable area and a fascinating fish section. Dating back to 1916, the buildings face the Mortina Estuary in a busy part of town, enclosed by gardens, bars and restaurants. Appreciate the sights, sounds and smells of the market for a sense of the local culture and traditions.

Capture photos of the two vast redbrick structures that dominate the pedestrian waterfront district. Dark green domes sit atop the windowed turrets. Peruse the stalls displaying an array of fresh fish and seafood. The other market building contains stalls selling vegetables and meat that would be perfect for an evening meal.

From the inside, marvel at the non-traditional tiles originally painted by artist António Costa Pinheiro. These depict scenes of everyday life and work in the Algarve. On Saturdays, an open-air bazaar for handicrafts is set up beside the main market.

Dine at one of the cafés and restaurants beside the market buildings. Colorful umbrellas provide shade for the outdoor tables that spill onto the plaza. Stroll along the cobbled promenade, ice cream in hand, and enjoy views of the estuary as it merges with the Atlantic Ocean. Framing the view are the picturesque Coco Island and rows of boats occupying the marina.

A variety of boat excursions launch from a location beside the market buildings. Set off on a trip to the islands of the Algarve.

A market has existed in the town since 1866, long before the construction of the two buildings in the early 1900s. Visit the market any day from early morning until early afternoon. Access is free.

Olhão Municipal Market borders the Martina Estuary and Coco Island at the southern end of the town. To reach the market buildings, arrive at the Olhão railway station and walk south for about 10 minutes. While in the neighborhood, visit the Museu Municipal de Olhão, the Nossa Senhora do Rosario Church and the Municipal Auditorium.