• Located at the mouth of the River Arade Portimão is a fishing port - and one of the better places for shopping in the Algarve.
• Most of the town was destroyed during the earthquake of 1755, so Portimão has a more modern feel than some of the other Algarve centres.
• It grew as a centre during the late 19th century with the development of the fishing and canning industries, still today it is possible to sample fresh sardines from the day's catch.
• The riverfront area with its gardens and squares has bustling cafes from where you can watch the harbour, and it is a good starting point for boat trips along the coast to visit the grottoes and coves.
• Places nearby are Ferragudo, a delightful fishing village just across the river, and the well known village of Carvoeiro with its elegant villas and hotels is just a few kilometres to the west.

Portimão Attractions:

Just 5 minutes' south of the town by bus is Praia da Rocha, undoubtedly one of the most photographed and one of the most beautiful beaches of the area. This was one of the first of the Algarve's tourist developments.

Both Carvoeira and Ferragudo are also good beach destinations, and well worth visiting.

There are several golf courses close by, including 3 courses at Penina and Alto Golf.