Portimão has always been a town of fishermen and sardine factories. Every August the town celebrates that with the Festival da Sardinha, the sardine festival. For a few days everything revolves around grilled sardines, music and good company.
What is the sardine festival?
During the festival, large grills are set up by the river in Portimão, where sardines are grilled over charcoal. You eat them the Portuguese way: on a slice of bread, with a glass of wine or beer. There are also performances, stalls and often fireworks.
When is it?
The festival usually takes place in the first half of August. The exact dates vary each year, so check the website of the municipality of Portimão beforehand.
Eating sardines like the Portuguese
In Portugal sardines are grilled whole, with coarse salt. You eat them with your hands and place them on a slice of bread, which soaks up the flavour. Sardines are at their best in summer, so even outside the festival this is the time to try them.
The Portimão museum
Want to learn more about the history of the sardine in Portimão? Then visit the Museu de Portimão, in an old sardine factory by the river. Read more in our blog about a day trip to Portimão.
From Ferragudo to the festival
Ferragudo lies directly opposite Portimão, on the other side of the river. In summer a water taxi runs, but by car you are there quickly too. During the festival it is busy, so allow for parking.
Staying in Ferragudo
With a villa in Ferragudo you are close to the party, but sleep in the peace of the village. View Casa Coppa and Villa Cocheira.