Sightseeing in Portimao - what to see. Complete travel guide

It’s one of the oldest towns on the coast of Algarve. At the times of Phoenicians and ancient Greeks Portimao has already been known as a trading port. Later it became a pirate base on which pirates stored their contraband. In the late 19th century the town was known as a major fishing center. Here were built several canning factories, which provided the majority of revenue to the town’s treasury. The factories and plants operated up to 80s of the 20th century. After this the recession hit the town and Portimao completely changed its orientation and became a famous and popular resort.

Today the only reminder of the industrial past of this place is the museum open in the building of one of old mills. Coast of Portimao is a truly picturesque place well-equipped for recreation. Divers will appreciate calm sea and clear water, and vacationers with children will be able to enjoy beach rest simply every day because there are almost no storms and strong waves here.

In the town there are several historical attractions, visiting which will add a pleasant variety to your program of rest. The district named Alvor is the location of an old church, which construction took place in the 16th century; the Armacao de Pera district is famous by a small fortress built in the early 18th century. Carvoeiro is considered one of the most prestigious areas. Here visitors can enjoy rest in a complex of beautiful villas, located on the coast. Lovers of nightlife and shopping should go to Praia de Vau and Praia da Rocha districts. On daytime there are always many visitors here, which look at shining shop windows and choose gifts, and at night here open numerous bars and discos. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

If the town's attractions are not enough for you, it’s time to make a tour to the neighborhoods and visit the famous Estombar Caves.

The Portimão Museum housed in a restored former cannery building was opened in 2008. A significant part of its exposition is devoted to the history of the foundation of the city, its industrial past, as well as cultural traditions. Some of the exhibits are devoted to the region's unique nature, and another interesting feature of the museum is its modern cinema. Every day, it shows documentaries about interesting historical events and exploring nature.

One of the most beautiful architectural monuments of the city is Jesuit College Church. This magnificent religious landmark was built at the turn of the 17th-18th centuries by order of the nobleman Diego Gonçalves. Since its foundation, the church has remained the largest in the Algarve. The old church is attractive both for its unique architectural appearance and rich interior decoration. It has preserved several beautiful old sculptures and elements of decoration made of precious metals.

Another interesting attraction is the Monastery of St. Francis, which is located in the heart of the city. Founded at the beginning of the 16th century, for many years this monastery had been the main resting place for visiting dignitaries. In 1755, the large-scale monastery building was partially destroyed during the earthquake. It was not possible to restore it, so the monastery fell into decay by the beginning of the 19th century. Today visitors to the historic monument have the opportunity to explore the monastery's preserved galleries, an old church, and a chapter house.

A curious tourist attraction is the old Núcleo Etnográfico railway station building, which has been converted into a museum. It displays a quite interesting exposition dedicated to rural areas of past centuries. The museum's exhibits include traditional costumes of local people, household items, and land cultivation equipment.

Those interested in the region's historical agricultural traditions are advised to visit the Parque da Mina theme park. The beautiful manor keeps an interesting collection of household items. The unique structure was built in the 18th century and belonged to a local noble family. The estate is surrounded by a huge park in which vegetables are grown and even farm animals are kept in the warm season. Here you will find great playgrounds for children and a wide variety of places for walking.