Portugal’s most interesting market region is a popular holiday destination known for its picturesque beaches, lively towns, and easy-going lifestyle. Algarve’s Most Interesting Markets are very beautiful. Moreover, its whitewashed buildings become crowded each summer, and visitors come to enjoy the waves hitting the sandy beaches.
Algarve’s Most Interesting Markets:
The beautiful cliffs and castles. In casting up to all its natural beauty, the Algarve also has many interesting markets worth checking out.
The Market Of Barcelos:
The first type of market focuses on fresh fruit and fish. The earlier you get to them in the morning, the fresher the items are and the more choices you’ll have. Most towns and villages in the area have them in their main part of town.
- Albufeira – Every first Saturday of the month on Rua Miguel Bombarda from 9 am to 1 pm. Fresh vegetables, fruit, clothing, textiles, household items, and shoes are for sale. Here is more information on Albufeira.
- Sagres – Every first Friday of the month in Vilo do Bispo from 9 am to 2 pm. Fresh vegetables, fruit, clothing, textiles, and household items are on sale.
- Olhao – Famous for having the largest fish and fruit market in the Algarve, most mornings you can walk along the pier in town and see fishermen returning with their catch for sale. This market is highly recommended.
Second Type Of Markets:
The second type of markets is gypsy, flea, and auction markets. Monthly gipsy markets are quite the event, as locals like to dress up for it and enjoy the beer and food. At these markets, you may find it interesting. Authentic souvenirs to bring home to add to your collection from your travels.
- Loulé – Every Saturday, Loulé hosts its famous gipsy market, which is a must-see for every visitor. Ceramics, silks, crafts, and Persian rugs can be found, and music can be heard filling the busy streets. Dancers and performers are entertaining you while you shop at the market.
- Monchique – Every second Friday from 8 am to 2 pm at Largo Seo Sebastiao, you can find handicrafts made from wicker, ceramics, and wood, as well as dry goods and items for the home.
- Quarteira – Every first Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm at Barracha, an auction of household and garden items, electrical appliances, furniture, and antiques is held. Moreover, you can see the items that will be available for bidding the preceding Friday.
Related Reading: Malls, Markets And Mitumba: A Shopper’s Guide To Dar Es Salaam
Guidebook:
The best way to get an insider is to look into the lives of local people through their markets. Learn the art of bargaining and appreciate how hard people work for a day’s wages. Instead of briskly walking by people with your nose in your guidebook, take time to appreciate where you are, listen to the music in the air, to the sounds of people working, and take in the variety of colours all around. Also, find beautiful, fresh produce grown in the local soil and fish caught in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Experience the heart and soul of the region by mixing with its people at the markets, and the souvenirs you bring home will not only be the handicrafts from the gypsy markets but also the memories of experiencing these hubs of commerce.