Loulé Algarve – Sights & holiday tips
Loulé (Portugal) tips
Loulé is best known for its covered fresh market that is open from Monday to Saturday. This market is a feast for the eyes (and nose) and sells local products, such as artisanal honey, liqueurs, but of course also ‘just’ fruit and vegetables. You will also find Portuguese herbs and traditional ceramics to take home as a souvenir. On the atmospheric central square you can enjoy authentic Portuguese dishes in one of the many restaurants, but of course also excellent alternatives such as Italian or Oriental meals.
On this page you will find my tips and recommendations for a visit to beautiful Loulé, based on my own experiences here. As a resident of the Algarve, I come here regularly to discover new places. Welcome to Loulé!
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The Brief History of Loulé
Loulé has a rich history dating back to Roman times, when it was an important centre for the production of salt and ceramics. Later, the city was conquered by the Moors and served as an important defence post against Christian invasion. During the Middle Ages, Loulé became an important trading centre, with a thriving market and many craftsmen living there.
During the 16th century, Loulé was one of the most important cities in the Algarve, playing a prominent role in trade with North Africa and the Mediterranean. During this period, the city was fortified and given an impressive castle and city walls. Today, Loulé’s rich history is still visible in the old buildings and architecture of the city, and it is a popular destination for tourists interested in the history and culture of the Algarve.
Loulé top 6 sights
The influence that the peoples of the past have had on Loulé is still clearly visible in the maze of streets and the old buildings that can be found in this town. You can easily spend half a day here, walking from historic building to historic building. Along the way, you will be seduced by the smell of Portuguese cuisine and the cheerful souvenir shops where handmade products are displayed.
These are the top 6 sights in Loulé:
1. Loulé Castle & Loulé Municipal Museum
Loulé Castle, known as Castelo de Loulé , dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Moors during their occupation of the region. The castle was originally an important fortress and served as a major defense post against Christian invasion. You can get in for a few euros and an entrance ticket gives you access to the museum inside.
The castle has a rich history and has undergone many changes over the years. During the Middle Ages, the castle was fortified and towers and walls were added. Later, in the 16th century, the castle was restored and watchtowers were built to protect the city from pirates.
Today, Loulé Castle is one of the city’s main attractions and attracts many visitors. From its walls, you have a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings.
Inside the castle you will find a small museum highlighting the history of the town and the castle, as well as some medieval artwork and excavations.
2. Loulé Municipal Market
The Mercado Municipal de Loulé , also known as the Loulé Market Hall, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This indoor market offers a wide range of local produce, including traditional chorizos, almond pastries, Portuguese cheeses and artisanal honey.
The history of the market hall dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, when the city council decided to build a covered market to stimulate local trade. Construction began in 1908 and the market hall opened in 1909. Over the years, the market hall has undergone several renovations to provide modern comfort while retaining its authentic charm and character.
The market is open from Monday to Saturday from 7am to 3pm. In addition to food, you will also find a number of handicraft stores . In the middle is a small square with tables and chairs where you can sit down and try some local tapas. Around the market are a number of cafes and souvenir shops.
3. The Saturday market of Loulé
The Mercado de Sábado de Loulé , or Loulé Saturday Market, is one of the largest markets in the Algarve and takes place every Saturday in the city centre. It is a lively and colourful market where local farmers, traders and craftsmen sell their produce.
Just like in the market hall, market stallholders here sell local products including pastries, olive oil, honey, wine and liqueurs. You can also find craft products such as ceramics, textiles, jewellery and woodcarvings.
4. São Clemente Parish Church & Amuados Garden
The Igreja Matriz de São Clemente is a modest Catholic church from the second half of the 13th century that was renovated in the 16th century. It is believed that there used to be a mosque there and that it was converted to Catholic after the reconquest. The minaret was transformed into a bell tower.
Directly in front of the church is the Jardim dos Amuados , a small but well-maintained park with a viewpoint at the rear.
5. Fonte do Cadoiço
Hidden on the edge of town is the Fonte do Cadoiço , a mini waterfall/stream that ends in a pond. Fish and turtles swim in it.
It is not necessarily a must-visit, but it is a nice stop for a photo. Swimming is not allowed and the water quality is questioned by some visitors.
6. Loulé Municipal Park & Monument to Engineer Duarte Pacheco
The Parque Municipal de Loulé is a small urban park characterized by the striking Monumento ao Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco . The latter is a tribute to Duarte Pacheco, born in Loulé and Minister of Public Works who died in a traffic accident on November 16, 1943.
Although it is not a large park, you will probably pass it if you park your car (for free) on the northwest side of it.
Loulé top 5 activities
There is plenty to do in and around Loulé. For example, you can take a guided culinary tour in the centre, while outside the old town you can visit a vineyard or experience an underground adventure in the old salt mine.
These are the top 5 activities in and around Loulé:
1. An underground excursion in the salt mine of Tech Salt
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If you are looking for an exciting adventure 230 meters underground, then you should not miss the still operational salt mine of Tech Salt ! This salt mine, which was opened to the public in 2019, is entered by lowering yourself down in a metal cage. The experienced guide will then take you through the excavated tunnels and you will learn all about the history of the salt mine, see modern and old machinery and of course, if you see a beautiful salt stone, you can take it with you.
2. A tour of the Quinta da Tôr vineyard
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There is no better way to end a beautiful day in Loulé than with a tour of the Quinta da Tôr vineyard . During the tour you will learn about the production of wine, see the different steps in the process and of course you will get to taste some. The latter with some home-made olive oil and bread.
3. A culinary tour of Loulé
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For the most delicious experience through historic Loulé, join Happy Van for a Loulé food tour . During this three-hour tour, you will explore some excellent restaurants while your guide tells you more about the history and traditions of Loulé. Taste seven different types of tapas accompanied by regional wines. This excursion is the perfect combination if you are looking for an excellent and versatile evening meal including wines, tour and facts about Loulé.
4. Aquashow Waterpark
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If no calendar appears below, then the park is still closed.
For a combination of slides and roller coasters, you must go to Aquashow Park Algarve! This cheerful water park & amusement park is the ideal day out for the whole family full of water fun and adrenaline. Aquashow Park Algarve is centrally located between Faro and Albufeira on the edge of the town of Vilamoura.
In addition to various slides of different heights and speeds, you will find several outdoor and indoor swimming pools, roller coasters, and a luxury hotel where you can stay for a multi-day visit.
5. Quad Tour in the Algarve Countryside
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Get on a cool quad bike alone or together and go off-road through the Algarve’s interior during this exciting quad tour ! Just outside Loulé, this 90-minute excursion departs from Almancil, where you will discover the hilly landscape of the Algarve under the guidance of a guide.
Please note that you are only allowed to drive a quad bike if you have a driver’s license.
Affordable car rental in the Algarve
The best way to discover all the beauty in the Algarve is with a rental car. By renting a car for a few days you can much more easily reach the sights and activities that are not always accessible by public transport.
By renting a car from Luzcar, you are helping a local family business run by Portuguese entrepreneurs. This way you support the local economy and you also get top service, which is often a stark contrast to the large corporations. Luzcar is based in Lagos, but they also offer cars at the airport in Faro. This way you can pick up the car immediately upon arrival and return it at the airport upon departure.
Luzcar’s reputation speaks for itself. Almost 5 out of 5 on Google Maps.
Accommodation tips for Loulé
In the old centre of Loulé you will find a number of charming accommodations housed in traditional Portuguese houses. From romantic B&Bs to luxury apartments. If you prefer to stay outside the city, there are also many nice rural options where you can completely relax in the hilly interior of the Algarve.
These are my accommodation tips for Loulé:
1. Loule Jardim Hotel
The beautiful Loule Jardim Hotel is a three-star hotel located on a quiet square within walking distance of the center of Loulé. The modern rooms are equipped with all amenities and on the roof terrace you can cool off in the (in winter covered) swimming pool on a hot day.
Breakfast is served in the Mediterranean-style conservatory and the hotel bar offers a variety of international drinks and cocktails.
2. Casa Beny 1897 Guesthouse
In the rooms of Casa Beny 1897 Guesthouse it seems as if time has stood still. This guesthouse is located in the centre of Loulé and has a fantastic roof terrace overlooking the city.
You can prepare your own meal in the shared kitchen, but for an additional fee you can also get a continental breakfast.
3. Casa Mocho Branco
Just outside the city you will find Casa Mocho Branco , an oasis of tranquility in the rural part of the Algarve. From the pool or the hot tub on the patio, you can look out over the hilly landscape all the way to the ocean.
On the terrace you can enjoy an extensive breakfast every morning, which is highly regarded. Rooms vary from standard double rooms to a luxury villa.
Loulé restaurant tips
In the table below you will find some of my recommendations for restaurants in the town of Loulé. Two excellent Portuguese restaurants, but also a steakhouse that is worth the detour!
| Restaurant name and type of cuisine | Score & number of reviews on Google Maps |
|---|---|
| Oliwander’s restaurant Portuguese An atmospheric restaurant with a nice roof terrace. Beware: no access for muggles | 5/5 (114) |
| Bica Velha Portuguese A delicious authentic Portuguese family restaurant where sharing dishes is highly recommended! | 4.8/5 (327) |
| Barbacoa Steak House Steakhouse Just outside Loulé, this steakhouse is an excellent choice if you like well-cooked meat. | 4.8/5 (307) |
Parking in Loulé
In Loulé you can’t park in the old town, but there are plenty of places to park your car in the surrounding streets. Along the N270 (Av. José da Costa Mealha) you can park on both sides, but these spaces fill up quickly. There are also a number of larger parking lots and parking garages around the center, if you don’t feel like searching for a space for a long time.
Free parking near the centre of Loulé:
- Parking next to the bus staion (500 meters walk to the center, largest parking lot)
- Av. 25 de Abril 34 Parking (450 meters walk to the center)
- R. de São Paulo 6 Parking (150 meters walk to the center)
Paid parking near the center of Loulé :
- Parque de Estacionamento Municipal – (350 meters walk to the center) Price still to be verified but according to reviews its cheap.
More of our local tips for your Portugal adventure
⭐ Check out our favourite sights in the Algarve on this page
⛵ Check out this overview of all activities you can do in the Algarve
🚗 This is the best car rental company in the Algarve
📌 Discover the top towns and cities to visit in the Algarve here
🏖 These are our favourite beaches in the Algarve
🛎 Get inspired with our local tips for accommodations in the Algarve
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