Visit Olhos d'Água
The real fishing village behind the stories, on Portugal's Algarve coast. What's on, how to get here, and the local businesses that help families enjoy their stay.
What's on
Regular dates from the parish of Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Things can change, so please check before you go.
Flea market
First Sunday of every month
Beside the municipal market in Olhos d'Água. Next dates: 6 December, 3 January, 7 February.
Village market
Mornings, from 7am
Fruit, fish, bakery and flower stalls until 1pm at the municipal market, Praceta Torre da Medronheira. The bar and butcher stay open until 7pm.
Feira Franca
29 November
A big fair day at the Albufeira fair and market ground.
New Year's Eve
31 December
Albufeira's end-of-year celebration, a short drive from the village.
Sardine Festival
August (2027 dates to follow)
Festa da Sardinha by the fishermen's square in Olhos d'Água: grilled sardines, music and dancing on summer evenings.
Folk dance festival
August (2027 dates to follow)
Festival de Rancho Folclórico in Olhos d'Água, with traditional Algarve dance groups.
Getting here
Most visitors fly into Faro. The village is about half an hour away by road (around 31 to 34 km).
From Faro Airport
- Taxi: about 30 minutes from the airport rank. Larger taxis take up to 8 people.
- Private transfer: about 30 to 40 minutes, booked ahead. Ask about child seats.
- Car hire: about 30 minutes. The A22 motorway has been toll-free since 1 January 2025.
- Bus: the airport bus to Albufeira, then a local bus to Olhos d'Água. From November to April there are far fewer buses, so check the timetable first.
Before you travel
- UK visitors: entry rules for the EU are changing, so check the latest on GOV.UK before you book.
- From elsewhere: please check your own government's travel advice.
- Rock pools and cliffs: visit the rock pools at low tide with children close by, and keep away from the foot of the cliffs.
Partner with Secret Life in the Village
Families come to the stories first, then want to visit the real village. These spaces are for businesses that help them get here and enjoy their stay.
Where to stay
Family-friendly hotels, apartments and villas in and around the village.
Space availableGetting here
Flights, airport transfers and car hire.
Space availableThings to do
Boat trips, tours and days out for families.
Space availableEat and drink
Family-friendly restaurants and cafés.
Space availableRun a business in or near Olhos d'Água?
Travel companies, hotels, airlines and local businesses: we'd love to hear from you about partnerships and sponsorship.
Get in touchDates last checked 1 November 2026; travel information last checked 16 October 2026. Secret Life in the Village is not a travel agent and does not sell travel. The places in the stories are made up: real cafés, shops and restaurants in the village have nothing to do with the stories.