Download the Original
FREEMAPS here!!
Although only a 5 minute drive from Vilamoura, Quarteira still remains basically
a 'real' Portuguese town, with a more touristic waterfront and large promenade
along the beach front. There is a daily (except Sunday) fish market in the
morning (before 1pm) well worth visiting to see the many different fish you
would never have seen before or even be able to put a name to! The beach
is a real sun trap and is very popular with the Portuguese in the summer.
It is lined by 4 to 6 story buildings not tall skyscrapers. The town has walking streets with sidewalk cafes and many typical shops and pubs. In the off season you can often stroll the length of the beach by yourself. The Portuguese often come here to have some the freshest fish at the best prices in the Algarve.
There
are also several pubs serving more 'British' type food for those
that want something a less adventurous! The 'old' part of
Quateira is a maze of tiny back streets best to park your car and wander
on foot! The Wednesday morning Gypsy market attracts many people to Quarteira
but be careful to check over anything you buy first to ensure the quality.
Many things can be of good value but as with all markets buyer beware!