A fish market and an island with no roads.
A good way to spend a hot day: the morning at Olhão's fish market, then a boat to an island with no roads, only boardwalks and long beaches. Your driver drops you at the quay and collects you when you return; the boat ticket is extra and depends on the sea. For couples and families.
The day, stop by stop
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Mercado de Olhão
The two red-brick buildings on the waterfront are the heart of Olhão. One holds fish and shellfish fresh off the boats, with stalls full of octopus, cuttlefish, clams and horse mackerel; the other sells fruit, vegetables, cheese and dried fruit. Come in the morning, when it is busiest, and on Saturdays the market spills outdoors. Afterwards, sit down in one of the nearby taverns for grilled fish or a cataplana, paid separately.
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Ilhas da Culatra e Armona
These sandy islands in the Ria Formosa have no cars, only boardwalks, fishermen's houses and long beaches facing the open sea. You reach them by public ferry from Olhão pier; your driver drops you at the quay and meets you on your return, and the ticket is paid separately. Culatra still has a working fishing community, while Armona is more of a holiday spot. Check the ferry times the day before, bring sun cream and eat on the island, where the fish comes straight off the boats.
The essentials
- Duration
- 7–8 h · Day (boat depends on the sea)
- Pick-up
- At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.
- Included
- The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.
- Not included
- Entrance tickets and meals.
- Who it is for
- Couples and families; hot days.