From Lisbon to the Algarve, the Coolest Coastal Spots for a Sweet Treat
If there’s one thing that completes a perfect beach day in Portugal, it’s a scoop (or two) of creamy, dreamy ice cream.
Whether you’re strolling through the cobbled streets of Cascais or sunbathing in the Algarve, these beachside ice cream shops bring the perfect mix of flavor, freshness, and seaside charm.
Here are the 10 best ice cream shops by the beach in Portugal, including top spots in Lisbon, Cascais, Ericeira, Comporta, Sesimbra, and five beachy towns in the Algarve:
1. Nannarella – Lisbon (Santos & Belém)
📍 Near Praia de Algés & the Tejo riverside
Famous for its Roman-style gelato and creamy textures, Nannarella is a local favorite.
Just a quick walk from Lisbon’s riverside beaches or after a visit to Belém Tower, this spot is ideal for cooling down with flavors like salted caramel or pistachio.
Must-try: Ricotta with caramelized fig 🌿
Instagrammable factor: 10/10 — especially on a cone by the water!
2. Santini – Cascais
📍 Near Praia da Rainha & Praia da Duquesa
An iconic name in Portugal since 1949, Santini offers refreshing fruit sorbets and rich gelatos right in the heart of Cascais.
Grab a cup after sunbathing at Praia da Rainha or before a walk down to Boca do Inferno.
Must-try: Mango or coconut sorbet 🥭🥥
Pro tip: Always busy—go mid-afternoon for shorter lines.
3. Veneza Ice Cream – Ericeira
📍 Praia dos Pescadores (center of town)
An iconic ice cream shop in Ericeira, Veneza has been serving up nostalgic, old-school scoops for generations.
It’s steps away from the ocean and a must-visit after a surf session or a walk through the charming center. Locals love it for its consistency, creamy textures, and classic Portuguese flavors.
Must-try: Morango (strawberry) or nata com doce de ovos (cream with egg custard) 🍓🍮
Vibe: Local, family-run, and full of character — no frills, just great gelado.
4. GULATO – Comporta
📍 Comporta Village, near Praia da Comporta
GULATO is a stylish gelato shop nestled in the heart of Comporta’s chic village, just a few minutes from the beach.
Known for its high-quality, handmade gelato using natural ingredients and Portuguese flavors, it fits beautifully into Comporta’s relaxed yet refined beach vibe.
Must-try: Pineapple & mint sorbet or almond with fleur de sel 🍍🌿
Vibe: Modern, minimal, and totally Comporta cool — perfect for your post-beach stroll with cone in hand.
5. Gelatomania – Sesimbra
📍 Marginal near Praia da California
With a beautiful sea-facing location, Gelatomania has dozens of artisanal gelato flavors, including creamy, fruity, and even alcohol-infused options.
Enjoy it with your feet in the sand or on a sunset walk.
Must-try: Passionfruit with prosecco 🍾
Family-friendly: Yes, with shaded seating nearby.
6. Crema di Gelato – Lagos, Algarve
📍 Rua Silva Lopes, near Praia da Batata
Located in the vibrant heart of Lagos, just a short walk from Praia da Batata, Crema di Gelato is a fan-favorite for authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily.
With natural ingredients and a creamy texture, it’s perfect for cooling down after a swim or exploring the historic old town.
Must-try: Stracciatella or dark chocolate & orange zest 🍫🍊
Bonus: Vegan options available, and you can sit outside and people-watch with a cone in hand.
7. Nosolo Italia – Albufeira, Algarve
📍 Praia dos Pescadores (Albufeira old town)
Part of the beloved Nosolo Italia brand, this seaside location offers generous portions of luxurious Italian gelato, frozen yogurt, crepes, and waffles.
Located right above Praia dos Pescadores, it’s perfect for a sweet break after sunbathing or a late-night stroll.
Must-try: Hazelnut gelato or wild berry frozen yogurt 🍦🍇
Atmosphere: Trendy, lively, and beachy — with terrace seating and views of the sea.
8. Gelados & Companhia – Carvoeiro, Algarve
📍 Largo da Praia, Carvoeiro (just steps from Praia do Carvoeiro)
This cozy, family-run spot is one of the best-kept secrets in Carvoeiro for real, small-batch gelato.
With a rotating selection of fresh flavors made daily, Gelados & Companhia is a must-stop after a swim or sunset at the beach.
Must-try: Algarve fig & honey or classic vanilla with regional toppings 🍯🌿
Vibe: Friendly, authentic, and right by the beach — perfect for families and couples alike.
9. Amorino – Vilamoura, Algarve
📍 Marina de Vilamoura, near Praia da Marina
Amorino brings its signature flower-shaped gelato cones and luxurious French-Italian charm to the Vilamoura Marina.
Just a short stroll from Praia da Marina, this is the perfect place to indulge in organic gelato after a beach day or while exploring the marina’s restaurants and shops.
Must-try: Salted caramel or their famous gelato flower with multiple flavors 🌸🍨
Bonus: Vegan sorbets, gluten-free cones, and their iconic macaron + gelato combo.
10. Yummy – Faro, Algarve
📍 Downtown Faro, near Doca and Jardim Manuel Bivar
Located in the heart of Faro, just a short walk from the waterfront and ferry connections to the Ilha de Faro beach, Yummy is a colorful, modern ice cream shop serving handmade gelato and creative flavors.
It’s the perfect refreshment stop before or after a trip to the islands.
Must-try: Strawberry cheesecake or Algarve orange & cinnamon 🍓🍊
Vibe: Bright, playful, and ideal for families or anyone exploring Faro’s historic center.
🍨 Final Scoop: Tips for Ice Cream Lovers in Portugal
- Summer = long lines at the most famous spots — go early or mid-day
- Many shops offer vegan, sugar-free, or gluten-free options
- Ask for “copo pequeno” (small cup) or “cone” if you want to blend in like a local
- Most gelato is less sweet and more flavorful than typical American-style ice cream — enjoy the creamy goodness!
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