Olhão, Algarve | Portugal (4K video)
Olhão is one of the Algarve’s most authentic coastal towns, shaped by its strong fishing heritage. Just a few minutes from Faro, it offers fresh seafood, island getaways, and real local charm.
Olhão is a coastal town in the Algarve with deep roots in the fishing industry. Located just 10 kilometers east of Faro, it grew in the 17th century as a working fishing village and remains one of the region’s most important ports today. Known for its strong maritime identity, Olhão is a place where tradition is still very much alive — from the boats in the harbor to the flavors served at the local markets.
In fact, it was in Olhão that the Algarve’s first canning factory was established in 1882, setting off a boom in the production of canned tuna and sardines that would stretch along the coast. This industry quickly became a major source of income for the region and a key part of its cultural identity.
Beyond its industrial legacy, Olhão is known for its vibrant market by the waterfront, its narrow cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, and its access to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful islands. Just a short boat ride away, the islands of Armona, Culatra, and Farol offer crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, and a peaceful escape from the mainland.
Olhão is real Algarve — raw, authentic, and full of character.