Beach and Eurocup-3. Sun and engine. The relaxation of the waves and the adrenaline of the race. Do you like this mix? Great, because at the Portimão Circuit we will find all that. Officially known as the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, it is one of the most modern and famous racing circuits in Europe. Located very close to the Algarve’s Atlantic coast, near the city of Portimão, this circuit has gained notoriety for its challenging design and first-class facilities.
Located approximately 10 km north of the city of Portimão. The circuit was inaugurated in November 2008. Designed by architect Ricardo Pina, it is known for its elevation changes and challenging curves, which make it. The main track has a length of 4.684 km and its facilities can accommodate up to 100,000 spectators. It has hosted the Formula 1 Portuguese Grand Prix on several occasions, most recently in 2020 and 2021. It is a regular circuit on the MotoGP World Championship calendar.
Time to spare? Touring the city of Faro 80 km from the circuit is Faro, the capital of the Algarve region. Faro is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful architecture and breathtaking nature. It is a must-see wherever you look. Culture, gastronomy and life. Every visitor on a trip to the south of Portugal should visit Faro without a second thought. Here are some things to do in Faro:
What to see in Faro?
- Arco da Vila: One of the entrance gates to the Old Town, built over an original Arab gate. Photo and selfie if or if.
- Faro Cathedral: After walking through the pedestrian street in the center, we arrived at the Sé. Located in the main square in the old town, this 13th century cathedral offers breathtaking panoramic views from its tower.
- Palácio de Estoi: A beautiful 19th century palace with ornamental gardens and an ideal place for a picnic.
- Ria Formosa Natural Park: A beautiful natural park with a great diversity of flora and fauna. You can go on boat rides, bird watching or just enjoy nature.
- Faro Beach: An extensive golden sand beach that is a delight, ideal for relaxing, swimming and water sports.
- Municipal Market: A perfect place to buy fresh local produce and taste Portuguese delicacies.
Bonus Track only for the brave
- Iglesia do Carmo: It is one of the most loved or hated monuments in the area. Famous for its Chapel of Bones, decorated with human bones. It was built in the 19th century, in 1816. Its motif, like other bone chapels in Portugal, was to recall the transience of life and the inevitability of death. It uses the bones and skulls of Carmelite monks exhumed from local cemeteries. The walls and ceiling of the chapel are adorned with bones and skulls, artistically arranged. It is estimated to contain the remains of more than 1,000 monks. The ambience and atmosphere inside the chapel is solemn and awe-inspiring, providing a reflective experience of life and death. Do you dare?
Do you like cod? At 18 km from the circuit is the Museu de Portimão, one of the most outstanding museums in the Algarve region of Portugal. This museum has a special focus on the fishing industry and the preservation of sardines and cod, products that have been fundamental to the city’s economy throughout its history. The museum is located in a former sardine cannery next to the Arade River, today a historic and protected building, dating from the early 20th century. The restoration of the building has maintained many of its original elements, providing an authentic and evocative atmosphere. And when it’s time to eat comes the ‘Bacalhau à brás’ is a simple but very tasty dish that combines shredded cod with onions, straw potatoes (very thinly fried potatoes) and eggs, all mixed together to form a kind of scrambled eggs. It is usually garnished with black olives and fresh parsley.
Cod Museum Exhibits
- Canning Industry: The most outstanding permanent exhibit is dedicated to the fishing industry and the preservation of sardines and cod. You can learn about the process of catching, preparing and canning sardines, as well as the working conditions in the factories.
- Underwater Archaeology: Another important section of the museum is dedicated to underwater archaeology, displaying artifacts recovered from the seabed that tell the story of maritime trade and shipwrecks in the region.
- Local History: Exhibits on the history and development of Portimão, from its beginnings as a small settlement to becoming a major city.
- Art and Culture: The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and local culture. Opening hours, Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00. Sunday: 10:00 – 14:00. Admission fee is 3 euros for adults, children free. The Museu de Portimão offers a unique experience that combines industrial history with local culture, providing a deep insight into life in this region of the Algarve, where everything comes together, history, culture, beaches, sun and of course, the roar of the engines with the Eurocup-3.
