How to get to Portimao

When planning a holiday in sunny Portimao, located in the picturesque Algarve region in the south of Portugal, you are choosing one of the most attractive resorts on the Atlantic coast. Finding out how to get to the city is effortless: thanks to developed infrastructure, it is easy to arrive here by plane via nearby airports, as well as by train, intercity bus, or car.

Since there is no commercial airport for regular passenger flights within Portimao itself, the most convenient option is flying to the city of Faro (FAO). This air gateway to the Algarve region is located just 60 km from the resort and receives numerous flights from major European capitals.

For long-haul flights or a wider range of departure points, Lisbon (LIS), located to the north of the region, is an excellent choice. Travellers also sometimes consider the Spanish city of Seville (SVQ) as an alternative arrival point. All these transport hubs have good connections to the coast, allowing you to quickly reach your holiday destination.

The railway station in Portimao makes travelling by train an accessible and comfortable way to reach the resort. The station is located within the city limits, which saves tourists from the need to seek complex transfers upon arrival, although a short taxi ride may be required to reach coastal hotels.

The most popular route leads from Lisbon. Travellers should note that the journey is usually not direct: the main route from the capital to the Algarve region involves a transfer at the junction station of Tunes. Here, passengers switch from high-speed intercity express trains to regional trains that take them directly to their destination. The railway line also conveniently connects the city with neighbouring resorts, such as Lagos and Faro.

Intercity buses often prove to be the most convenient way to get to the resort, especially for those who prefer direct trips without transfers. The journey from Lisbon takes an average of 3.5 to 4 hours. Modern transport operating on this route is usually equipped with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making the journey along Portuguese motorways comfortable and tireless.

If you arrive at Faro Airport, a bus will take you to your destination in just 1–1.5 hours. This is an excellent and economical transfer option. There is also established connectivity with Spanish Andalusia: routes from Seville or Huelva are popular among tourists combining visits to two countries.

The main bus station is located within walking distance of the Arade River embankment and the historic centre. From here, it is easy to reach hotels by taxi or local shuttle buses. Thanks to a dense network of routes, buses are also an ideal choice for day trips to neighbouring picturesque towns in the Algarve region.

The fastest route to the coast is from Faro: a drive along the A22 expressway, about 70 km long, will take no more than 50 minutes. If you rent a car in Lisbon, expect a scenic route of 280 km along the A2 motorway, which will require 2.5 to 3 hours of travel time.

For travellers entering from Spain, Huelva is a convenient starting point; the distance of 180 km can be covered in approximately two hours, crossing the border via the bridge over the Guadiana River. The cost of a taxi or private transfer from the nearest airport in the Algarve region usually varies between 60–80 Euros, which serves as a comfortable alternative to driving yourself.

To ensure your holiday in Portimao is as comfortable as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with local specifics in advance. We have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will help you avoid minor difficulties and enjoy your journey through this sunny region of Portugal.

1. Clothing and Climate. It is hot and very sunny in the Algarve during summer, so be sure to bring headwear, high-quality sunglasses, and creams with high SPF. In the evenings, a fresh breeze often blows from the Atlantic, so a light windbreaker or cardigan will be useful even in July. In winter, the weather is mild but humid — a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes will come in handy.
2. Transport. It is pleasant to walk around the historic centre, but distances to the beaches can be significant. To move around the city, it is convenient to use the "Vai e Vem" mini-bus network. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber) work excellently; cars arrive quickly, and trips are reasonably priced.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted in most restaurants and supermarkets; however, cash may be required in souvenir shops, kiosks, or when paying for bus fares. We recommend always carrying some small change and low-denomination notes.
4. Health and Safety. Portimao is a calm and safe city, but one should not leave belongings unattended on beaches and in crowded places. Pharmacies (Farmácia) are easily recognised by a green cross; pharmacists are qualified and often speak English, which facilitates the purchase of over-the-counter medications.
5. Communication. Locals speak Portuguese, but thanks to developed tourism, English is understood almost everywhere: in hotels, cafes, and museums. Learning a couple of words, such as "Olá" (hello) or "Obrigado" (thank you), will certainly help you build a rapport with the Portuguese people.
6. Local Etiquette. The Portuguese are a polite and unhurried people. It is customary to greet others when entering a shop or lift. In restaurants, service charges are not automatically included in the bill, but if you enjoyed the service, it is customary to leave about 5–10% of the total amount.
7. Attention to Appetisers. Be attentive in restaurants: bread, butter, olives, and pâtés that the waiter brings before the main course (couvert) are not a complimentary treat. If you touch them, they will be included in the bill. If you do not wish to pay, simply politely ask for them to be taken away or do not eat them.
8. Gastronomic Advice. Do not miss the opportunity to try the famous grilled sardines, especially if you are visiting in summer. The best places to taste the freshest fish are not in high-end restaurants, but in simple traditional eateries on the embankment near the old bridge, where the appetising aroma from the grill serves as the best advertisement.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and focus on the main things — magnificent beaches, delicious food, and the unique atmosphere of the southern coast. Have a pleasant journey!