A Language of Love: Local Algarve Favorites

A Morning in Olhão

Bica | Local term for a small coffee

Start your day in the charming fishing town of Olhão. Immerse yourself in the local rhythm as you explore the vibrant Praças de Olhão markets. Here, the colorful display of fresh produce and the tantalizing aroma of the seafood section awaken the senses. “One building is dedicated to fresh seafood, featuring everything from classic tuna to octopus and even eels (that are still alive!)” After wandering through the market, grab “uma bica”, a small but strong Portuguese coffee, to fuel your exploration.

Caminho | Path

Victoria & Hugo always take time to stroll around the charming historic city of Olhao. “The town features beautifully restored houses, cozy "Tascas" , or bars, and various restaurants. One recommended route is "O caminho das Lendas," “The path or legends” a pedestrian path through a myriad of maze-like narrow streets, connecting five of the main squares in the historic zone of Olhão. Each restored square is associated with a unique legend of Olhão. "We love taking a pic of our kiddo by "o menino dos olhos grandes", the kid with big eyes, to compare how much they grew from one summer to the other.”

Day Trips - Island Hop to Paradise

Ilha | Island

No trip to the Algarve is complete without exploring the beautiful islands of the Ria Formosa. There are many choices, from the simple Fuzeta Island to the busy Culatra or Ilha de Faro. Farol is the best. Take a boat trip to Ilha do Farol, a car-free paradise known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere. "The eastern side of the Algarve offers a unique beach experience, distinct from the west's majestic rocky cliffs and tight beaches," shared Victoria and Hugo. "Here, you'll find long sandy beaches with a charming local flavor."

Nowhere is this more evident than on Ilha do Farol. Accessible by taxi boat from Olhão, this island is a true escape. As Victoria and Hugo describe it, "You have several options for getting to these islands: ferry boats, taxi boats, or even renting a boat to explore the islands throughout the day, much like a hop-on-hop-off tour."

Once on the island, you'll be greeted by the "charming, relaxed local flavor" that Victoria and Hugo adore. With no paved roads and no cars, the atmosphere is undeniably inviting. Spend your days swimming in the shallow waters, exploring the island's natural beauty and indulging in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. As Victoria and Hugo put it, "The village has lovely restaurants where you can eat some of the best fish you'll ever taste."

Insider Tip: Like our local friends, get there early to claim your spot on the beach. Bring an umbrella for shade, and remember— a slow, long lunch with plenty of cold drinks is the key to beat the heat on a perfect island day.

Tapas & Treats

Tasca | Bar

The Algarve is a food lover's paradise, and Faro is no exception. “In the Algarve, summer nights are long, so there is time to enjoy a little of everything in one night.” Discover the true essence of Portuguese cuisine by visiting local tascas. These unassuming eateries offer a taste of authentic flavors. Se7e Pedras is a standout, where traditional dishes are given a contemporary twist. To cap off the evening, head to Columbus Bar for a truly unforgettable cocktail experience. Their extensive menu boasts a dazzling array of creatively crafted gin drinks that will tantalize your taste buds. I learned to love gin in Portugal, and I have a feeling you might too!

Garrafa | Bottle (as in bottle of wine)

For a more intimate dining experience, head to Ti Maria’s Garraferia in Tavira. “Ti Maria is known for its typical food with a sophisticated, high-end twist. We love it because it's away from the bustling tourist areas. For the best experience, we suggest dining in a tapas style to sample all of their delicious dishes. Ti Maria's menu combines traditional Portuguese flavors and contemporary culinary techniques. This restaurant gem is well-loved by us and many others.”

Bolinha de Berlim | A little ball (of fried dough), a malassada

No trip to the Algarve is complete without indulging in bolinhas. A local favorite, bolinhas could be compared to a malasada or donut. Marieta's Cafe, a must-visit in Olhão, is renowned for its delectable versions. Grab a box and take them to the beach!