The Algarve region of Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, lively resorts, and delicious seafood, but it also has a rich cultural heritage that is waiting to be discovered. One of the best ways to uncover the Algarve’s traditional heritage is by visiting its traditional markets. From bustling farmers’ markets to charming craft markets, the Algarve has a wide range of markets that offer a glimpse into the region’s past and present. Here are some of the best traditional markets in the Algarve that you won’t want to miss.
Fairs and Markets
LAGOS MONTHLY MARKET
1st Saturday of the month
Location: Land next to the Municipal Stadium
ODIÁXERE MONTHLY MARKET
4th Monday of the month
Location: Largo da Alegria (next to the Windmill)
VIV’O MERCADO
Every Wednesday | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (winter) and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (summer)
Location: Mercado de Levante
Org.: CM Lagos, NECI, CASLAS, Projeto Novas Descobertas, Associação Infância Viva, and certified organic producers, among others
- INFO on facebook.com/vivomercado
Viv’o Mercado is an initiative that aims to vitalize a new market day for the sale of local, organic products, handicrafts, and food stalls. In addition to focusing on promoting organic farming, it also features a social area, entertainment, a children’s space, and a set of food stalls, with the motto “from the stall to the plate.”
MERCADO DE LEVANTE/AGRARIAN REFORM MARKET
Every Saturday | 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Location: Mercado de Levante
Sale of horticultural products from local producers (fruit, vegetables, poultry, flowers, honey, regional sweets, teas, aromatic herbs, etc.)
SANTO AMARO MARKET
Monday to Saturday | 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Rua Filarmónica 1.º de Maio (Santo Amaro)
Sale of fish, seafood, meats, fruit, vegetables, flowers, honey, regional sweets, teas, aromatic herbs, cafeteria, handicrafts, etc.
AVENIDA MARKET
Monday to Saturday | 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Location: Rua Portas de Portugal (next to Avenida Descobrimentos)
Sale of fish, seafood, meats, fruit, vegetables, honey, dried fruits, regional sweets, teas, aromatic herbs, cafeteria, restaurants, handicrafts, etc.
MARKET IN ALMÁDENA (LUZ)
Monday to Saturday | 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Largo da Sociedade
MARKET IN ESPICHE (LUZ)
Monday to Saturday | 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Rua Francisco António dos Santos
MARKET IN BENSAFRIM
Tuesday to Saturday | 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Urbanização Municipal
MARKET IN BARÃO DE SÃO JOÃO
Tuesday to Saturday | 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Rua Armando Jacques Favre Castelo Branco 42
MARKET IN ODIÁXERE
Monday to Saturday | 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Location: [Local]
- Olhão Market: The Olhão Market is a bustling farmers’ market that is held in the town of Olhão every Saturday. The market is known for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Visitors can also find a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Loulé Market: The Loulé Market is a charming craft market that is held in the town of Loulé every Saturday. The market is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, embroidery, and basketry. Visitors can also find a variety of food and drink.
- Portimão Market: The Portimão Market is a bustling farmers’ market that is held in the town of Portimão every Tuesday and Saturday. The market is known for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Visitors can also find a variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
- Albufeira Market: The Albufeira Market is a charming craft market that is held in the town of Albufeira every Wednesday. The market is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, embroidery, and basketry. Visitors can also find a variety of food and drink.
- Lagos Market: The Lagos Market is a bustling farmers’ market that is held in the town of Lagos every Saturday. The market is known for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Visitors can also find a variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
In conclusion, the Algarve has a wide range of traditional markets that offer a great cultural experience, whether you’re looking for fresh produce, traditional crafts or a unique souvenirs. These markets are just a few of the many options available in the region, so be sure to research and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.