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Loulé - A Gem in the Algarve.

Holidays in Loulé

Loulé is a historic town in the Algarve, known for its architecture, culture and traditions. It stands out for its commercial and tourist importance.

Its history is rich and varied, dating back to the Paleolithic period.

The Romans settled in Loulé in the 2nd century BC, but the Moors conquered it in the 2nd century AD. 

In 1249, D. Afonso III conquered Loulé from the Moors. From then on, the town continued to flourish and became an important trading centre in the Algarve during the Middle Ages.
Since then, Loulé has been the scene of numerous historical events, such as the Conjurados uprising in 1640, the earthquake of 1755, and the founding of the Republic in 1910.

 

Where is Loulé located?

Its strategic location, close to Faro airport and some of the best beaches in the Algarve makes this city a magnet for national and international tourists.

It is around 15 km northwest of Faro, the capital of the Algarve.

Below, you will find the distances from Loulé to some of the most relevant places in the Algarve:

Quarteira: Approximately 10 km 
Faro Airport: Approximately 13.8 km
Albufeira: Approximately 21.19 km
Tavira: Approximately 32.9 km
Lagos: Approximately 78 km

 

How is the weather in Loulé?

The weather in Loulé is mild all year round. However, the Summers are short and warm, while the Winters are long, cold, and windy.

On average, the temperature ranges between 6°C and 29°C.

 

Things to do in Loulé.

These are some of the activities you can enjoy during your holiday in Loulé:

 

 

Visit the Loulé market

Located in the heart of Loulé, this beautiful historic building of Neo-Arabic architecture is a popular meeting place and a must-visit for city tourists. Over a century old, the Loulé Market houses a charming covered market selling everything from fresh fish to meats, vegetables, and fruits. As with any market, stalls sell fresh flowers, nuts, baked goods, herbs, spices, and more.

The Loulé Municipal Market is open daily from 7 am to 3 pm, closing on Sundays.

Upon entering the market, you will be surprised by the colours, atmosphere, and aromas surrounding you, as well as a variety of stunning stalls and products to tempt you.

Portuguese people take pride in their heritage and culinary delicacies, the reason why you may find semi-homemade products, locally produced at very reasonable prices. One of the market's main attractions is the vast variety of fresh fish, most of which are caught in the Algarve sea waters. In addition to the abundance of delicious food, there are local handicrafts, such as beautifully hand-painted honey pots, which make a great souvenir of your holidays in the Algarve.
 

 

Trilho da Fonte Benémola

A nature trail that invites you to go hiking and birdwatching.

 

Rocha Da Pena

A natural monument, ideal for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.

 

Visit Loulé Castel

Also known as Castelo de Loulé, this is a medieval castle located in the town of Loulé.

Built in the 10th century, it has served as a military fortification, a royal residence, and a cultural and recreational centre. The castle was originally of Arabic origin and was reconstructed in the 13th century. It had a large walled perimeter, part of which is still visible today. One of the highlights is a tower facing Rua da Barbacã, which is made of masonry and dates back to the Late Middle Ages.

The castle is classified as a National Monument, providing a glimpse into the rich history of Loulé's region, the reason why it is a popular attraction for visitors. It is open to the public for visits from Tuesday to Saturday.

 

Visit the nearest beaches to Loulé

The beaches of Quinta do Lago, Quarteira, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura are known for their golden sands and clear waters and are ideal for a day of relaxation

 

 

Events and Festivals in Loulé.

Loulé hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. Find some of them below:

 

Bolo-rei: This event takes place in the centre of Loulé on the 6th of January each year and consists of a public tasting of a gigantic Bolo-rei (King’s Cake).

Feira do Chocolate: An annual chocolate fair that takes place in February in the historic market hall of Loulé.

Volta ao Algarve em Bicicleta: The most important cycling event in Portugal, which takes place every year in February in the Algarve.

Carnaval de Loulé: The Loulé Carnival is a lively spectacle (usually in February or March) with samba music, dazzling costumes and colourful parades.

As the oldest and most famous carnival in Portugal, it transforms the streets of Loulé into a party with Brazilian influences, giant caricatures of celebrities and a lively competition for the best outfit.

Each year, the carnival has a different theme, attracting thousands of visitors to this traditional Portuguese festival.

Festival MED: It is a music festival that takes place in Loulé during June/July.

Noite Branca: A night-time street party with music and bars that takes place in Loulé at the end of August, where everyone is dressed in white.

 

These events are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Loulé.

Please check the exact dates and details of these events as they can change from year to year.

 

Where to eat in Loulé?

Below you will find some suggestions for some of the best restaurants in Loulé:

 

Aurora by Vitor Veloso 

The Aurora restaurant, located in Loulé, at Rua D. Paio Peres Correia, 14, is named after the paternal grandmother of chef Vítor Veloso, to whom he once promised to name a restaurant.

This restaurant offers the highest standards of quality and service, aiming to combine the best products from the Algarve with those from the Ria Formosa.

It serves dinners from Tuesday to Saturday and lunches from Thursday to Saturday. For reservations, you can contact them at +351 289 035 50.

 

Eat Thai Craft Bar 

This is the first Thai restaurant and craft bar in Loulé. It is located at Rua Eng. Duarte Pacheco 81a is known for its authentic Thai dishes and Thai craft beers.
This restaurant is closed on Wednesdays.
For reservations, you can contact them at +351 910 417 191

 

11 da Vila

11 da Vila restaurant is in Loulé, on Largo Dom Pedro I.
It offers Mediterranean cuisine and tries to combine the best products of the Algarve. It serves dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.
For reservations, you can contact them at +351 915 744 972.

 

Pizzaria Luzzo

This restaurant on Avenida 25 de Abril, Travessa do Beco 3 e 5 R/c in Loulé specialises in Italian cuisine, especially pizzas with Roman toppings. They also offer Mediterranean and healthy options.
It is open every day of the week. For reservations, you can contact +351 289 414 372.

 

Where to Stay in Loulé?

Below, you will find some suggestions of where to stay during your holiday in Loulé:

 

Loulé Jardim Hotel

This hotel is in a quiet square and overlooks a park. It is known for its friendly staff, great rooms, a beautiful rooftop pool and gym, as well as an extensive breakfast.

 

Casa Beny 1897 Guesthouse

This Guesthouse is a charming bed and breakfast nestled in the historic city of Loulé. Housed in a 19th-century building. It offers a blend of comfort and tradition, with air-conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen, and a tranquil terrace.

 

Loulé Coreto Hostel

Located on the main street of Loulé, this hostel offers private and shared accommodation in a restored building.

 

If you prefer, you can stay in one of the Algarve Accommodations' apartments in Quarteira and take a day trip to Loulé.

 

Discover Loulé, a town rich in history and culture, nestled in the beautiful Algarve region of Portugal.

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