The Best Markets in the Algarve

Markets are a big part of Algarve life, from covered fish and produce halls to sprawling Saturday markets and monthly country fairs selling everything from cheese to ceramics. Here are the best markets in the Algarve and tips for visiting.

Quick answer: the best-known is Loulé, with its Moorish-style market hall and a big Saturday market. Olhão’s twin waterfront halls and Saturday market are a close second. Most towns have a covered municipal market for fish and produce (best in the morning, Monday to Saturday), plus monthly or weekly street markets.

The best markets

• Loulé: the red-domed market hall and a huge Saturday market. See Loulé.
• Olhão: fish and produce halls on the seafront, plus a busy Saturday market. See Olhão.
• Lagos: a municipal market by the river and a Saturday farmers’ market. See Lagos.
• Tavira: a market near the river. See Tavira.
• Faro: a modern municipal market. See Faro.
• Monthly markets: many towns and villages hold traditional fairs once or twice a month, with clothes, tools, plants, pottery and food.

What to buy

• Fresh produce: oranges, figs, almonds and carob.
• Fish and seafood: clams, oysters and the day’s catch.
• Sweets: Dom Rodrigo and fig and almond sweets. See Portuguese desserts.
• Medronho: a strong fruit brandy from the hills.
• Crafts: copper cataplanas, ceramics and baskets. See cataplana.

Tips

• Go early: fish markets are best before 10am.
• Cash: handy for small stalls.
• Bags: bring your own.
• Check dates: monthly markets move around, so ask at the tourist office or your hotel.

More: Portugal souvenirs and the Algarve on a budget.

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