A holiday in Olhão, in the eastern Algarve (Sotavento)
Olhão is known for authentic fishing town, Ria Formosa, islands, food scene. It has around 45 396 residents. It is a popular destination for couples, digital nomads, foodie.
Olhão is about 11 km from Faro airport. It brings together 1 destination with accommodation — Olhão. May, June and September bring warm weather and fewer crowds; July and August are peak season.
Towns and destinations in Olhão
1 home in Olhão
Location and surroundings — Olhão, Algarve
The municipality of Olhão
Olhão sits in the eastern Algarve (Sotavento), in southern Portugal. It is especially well suited to couples, digital nomads, foodie.
Beaches and nature
Explore the Algarve beaches and choose your accommodation by the beach.
Getting there
Faro airport
Olhão is about 11 km from Faro airport, the main gateway to the region.
On the map
Why choose Olhão for a holiday
Olhão suits couples, digital nomads, foodie. The area is strong on apartments, townhouses, country houses. Book early for peak season — complete the booking on Homing, our official partner.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Olhão and what is it known for?
Olhão is a municipality in the eastern Algarve (Sotavento), in southern Portugal. It is known for authentic fishing town, Ria Formosa, islands, food scene, which shapes the atmosphere and the kind of holiday in the area. It has around 45 396 residents. It is about 11 km from Faro airport.
What are the best areas to stay in Olhão?
Olhão brings together destinations with different profiles. Choose your area by the kind of holiday you want: a lively centre, a quiet beach or a residential villa area.
Is Olhão good for couples?
Yes. Olhão is especially popular with couples, digital nomads, foodie, for its beaches, dining and choice of accommodation. The area is strong on apartments, townhouses, country houses, which helps you find the right home. Families value the proximity to the beaches and homes with a pool; groups, the nightlife and the restaurants.
How far is Faro airport from Olhão?
Olhão is about 11 km from Faro airport, usually under an hour by car. There are hire cars, private transfers, taxis and buses from the airport. Hiring a car pays off for visiting the municipality's various towns and beaches.
How many Blue Flag beaches does Olhão have?
Olhão has beaches of recognised quality. The Blue Flag certifies water quality, safety and beach services. See the Algarve beaches to choose by the sand and the access.
What towns and destinations does the municipality of Olhão have?
With accommodation available, Olhão brings together Olhão. Each destination has its own character, from the fishing village to the tourist centre. See the towns section above to open each one's hub and compare what's available.
Is there golf in Olhão?
The Algarve is one of Europe's finest golf destinations and there are courses a short distance from Olhão.
When is the best time to go to Olhão?
May, June and September offer warm weather and fewer crowds, the best balance of climate and calm. July and August are peak season in the Algarve, with more buzz and demand. In winter the municipality is calmer and cheaper, good for longer stays.
How much does it cost to rent accommodation in Olhão, and why book direct?
Prices vary with the season, the town, the size of the home and the length of stay, and are kept up to date on Homing. Booking direct on Homing is usually cheaper than Airbnb or Hotels.com, as it avoids those platforms' commission. Open the listing for any accommodation in Olhão to see the price for your dates, with secure booking.
How do I book in Olhão?
Choose the accommodation, open the listing and click 'View on Homing' to complete the booking on Homing, our official partner. Payment is secure and confirmation immediate, with support in English and other languages. There are no extra middlemen and no hidden fees.