At the entrance of the River Arade, Portimão is a former sardine port that has become a famous seaside city. From this pleasant town, you can explore Silves, the former capital of the Algarve. The town is dominated by a Moorish castle, one of the best preserved in Portugal. You can also admire the incredible cathedral with its baroque façade, built on the site of an old mosque. Then, go to Monchique, a small mountain town surrounded by a forest lush eucalyptus and cork oaks. In the maze of narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, discover here a wilder and more authentic Algarve.
Included Excursions
Historical Alvor and Portimão: Portimão is the perfect starting point for exploring the Algarve, a region known for its stunning beaches and vibrant fishing culture. Begin with a short drive to the picturesque fishing village of Alvor, where you can stroll along the scenic boardwalk and experience the local fishing life. Then, return to Portimão to visit the town's museum, which is located in a former canning factory and highlights the area's fishing heritage. After the museum visit, enjoy some leisure time in Portimão before heading back to your ship.
Seco and Benagil: Portimão is your entry point to the Algarve, a region famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant wetlands, and charming towns. This excursion highlights the natural beauty of the coastline east of Portimão, particularly the striking Seco and Benagil Caves. A brief walk from your ship leads you to the pier, where you board a local boat. As you depart Portimão, pass a medieval fort and the fishing village of Ferragudo. Enjoy the scenic journey along beautiful beaches to Carvoeiro, where you can admire the stunning rock formations of Algar Seco. Continuing east, reach the renowned Benagil grottoes, where you can explore the incredible caves shaped by centuries of erosion, weather permitting.
Silves and Monchique: Silves features traditional cobblestone streets lined with shops selling local crafts, including the well-preserved Moorish Silves Castle, which offers stunning views of the area, and a 13th-century Cathedral built on a former mosque site. Next, head to Monchique, a charming town with artisanal shops. Here, visit a 17th-century Franciscan monastery and a 16th-century Parish Church adorned with blue ceramic tiles. Before returning to Portimão, stop at Caldas de Monchique, famous for its healing hot springs.
Historic Lagos and the Ponta da Piedade: Begin with a short drive to Lagos, stopping first at Ponta da Piedade, a stunning headland featuring impressive cliffs, rock formations, and hidden grottos offering breathtaking views from the boardwalk. A walking tour of Lagos includes highlights like the Governor's Castle, the 16th-century walls, and Ponta da Bandeira Fort. You can also have some free time to wander the charming streets lined with stone houses.