Olhão - Cubist Architecture

Welcome to Portugal's most unique architectural city.

Olhão is unlike any other town in Portugal. Its whitewashed cubic houses, flat roofs, rooftop terraces, mirantes and roof-to-roof staircases create a fascinating urban landscape that has earned it the nickname "The Cubist City." Inspired by centuries of contact with Morocco and North Africa, this distinctive architecture has become the symbol of Olhão and one of the Algarve's hidden treasures.

This self-guided walking tour takes you far beyond the famous market and waterfront. Discover elegant traditional fishermen's houses, beautifully restored private homes, boutique hotels, contemporary architectural interventions and award-winning renovations that respect the unique character of the old town. Together they tell the story of a city where tradition and modern architecture live side by side.

Along the way you will learn how Olhão's characteristic houses were built, why they look so different from the rest of Portugal, and how today's architects are giving this remarkable architectural heritage a new future.

Included in this tour:

• 25 remarkable architectural projects
• Traditional Cubist houses and hidden courtyards
• Outstanding contemporary renovations
• Boutique hotels and Alojamento Local projects
• Historic streets, rooftop terraces and mirantes
• Starting at 'Casa Pires' in the center of the city near the market halls