Faro Portugal |

Exploring the Enchanting Charms of Faro, Portugal: A Journey into Sun-kissed Paradise” (updated 2023)

Welcome to Faro, Portugal’s captivating gateway to the stunning Algarve region. Nestled along the southern coast of the country, Faro is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends history, natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. As you embark on your journey, prepare to be enchanted by a tapestry of sun-drenched beaches, historic landmarks, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing seaside escape, an exploration of rich heritage, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Faro has something to offer every visitor. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Faro, Portugal’s hidden gem.

Faro, the largest city in the Algarve region of Portugal is also the capital city. The main transport hub to the region, the main airport and train stations are based here in Faro along with bus services from Lisbon and other regional areas around the country.

Since Faro is centrally located in the Algarve region, it is easy to base yourself here and explore the region via public transportation or a rental car to discover the popular attractions, beaches, nature or adventure experiences in the area.

With a combination of historic and cultural sites, amazing cuisine, natural landscapes and gorgeous beaches, Faro does have all the right attractions and vacation needs for a visit here to the Algarve region.

What is the weather and best time to visit Faro, Portugal

Faro, Portugal benefits from a delightful Mediterranean climate, featuring mild winters and hot summers, making it an appealing destination throughout the year. The optimal time to visit Faro depends greatly on your preferences and the activities you intend to pursue.

The peak tourist season occurs during summer (June to August), offering ample sunshine, long days, and splendid beach conditions. Nevertheless, keep in mind that it can get rather crowded, particularly in July and August. If you relish vibrant nightlife, lively festivals, and basking in the sun on pristine beaches, then summer presents the ideal opportunity to explore Faro.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered shoulder seasons, characterized by more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. During these periods, you can still savor agreeable weather, delve into historical sites, and engage in outdoor pursuits such as hiking and biking.

Winter (December to February) in Faro tends to be mild, with temperatures seldom dropping below 10°C (50°F). Although it might not be the prime beach season, winter offers a tranquil experience, reduced prices, and an opportunity to discover the city’s cultural and historical attractions without the usual hustle and bustle.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Faro, Portugal hinges upon your personal inclinations and desired activities. Take into account the weather, crowd levels, and the type of travel experience you seek to determine the most suitable time for your visit.

Faro, Algarve FAQ

Is Faro worth visiting?

Faro is a fantastic location in the Algarve to base yourself while exploring the region. There’s great attractions, historic sites, natural landscapes and fantastic beaches to explore

How to get to Faro?

The main gateway to the Algarve district is at Faro Airport where you can catch flights from Lisbon and other hubs to Faro directly.

Is there train service to Faro?

The main hub for railway is at Faro from Lisbon and other regional centers in Portugal. You can catch the daily train service to Faro and find out more train information to traveling here for more details.

How many days to visit Faro?

You can easily visit the main highlights of Faro in a day, but if you base yourself here, you can explore the rest of the Algarve, enjoy the beaches and other outdoor pursuits in the area.

Explore Faro’s Historic District (Cidade Velha)

Faro has a rich history and cultural presence in the region and the historic district or Cidade Velha is a noteworthy area to start your visit to the city. Inside the historic city walls of Moorish and Portuguese origin, the entry through the historic main city gate at Porta Nova brings you directly into the heart of the old city.

You can easily explore the old town on your own walking down the cobbled streets through sections of private homes, villas and buildings that open up to expansive plazas and then to some of the historic buildings of the Cidade Velha. But, through the local tourism office just off the main city gates, you can sign up for a free walking tour around the city sections of the city and then the perimeter and newer parts of the city on this tour.

Places around the Cidade Velha to explore include:

Arco da Vila

This historic and beautiful Baroque inspired entry gate used to be part of the old Arabic gateway (sections expose some of the old parts of the portal). The gorgeous gate has a striking bell tower and details and sometimes a favorite spot of local storks to build their nest. Partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, the new neo classical structure is impressive as a gateway to the Cidade Velha.

Follow the gate directly into the old city section with cobbled streets and homes and eventually leading to the larger squares and attractions in the area.

Largo de Se

The large open plaza area of the historic district is lined with beautiful and mature orange trees. Surrounding the square are striking and beautiful government buildings, the grand cathedral, the bishops palace and city hall to enjoy and walk around.

Sit around the square and admire the fabulous combination of Medieval, Gothic to baroque architecture, just in the plaza area alone.

Cathedral of Faro or Se

This imposing Cathedral in the Cidade Velha was built in the 13^th century looks more like a fortress then a church which is apparent because it was ransacked by the Earl of Sussex in 1596 and then later damaged by two major earthquakes. Still, the main tower and two chapels exist along with most of the interior details from the 17^th century. Check out the museum and enjoy the views from the tower above when you explore the Se cathedral.

Inside you will enjoy three different styles of the Gothic, Baroque and Mannerist periods along the three naves and chapels of the interior of the Se.

Explore the area of the old town

The Cidade Velha of Faro is over 2000 years old and was occupied by ancient cultures of Rome, Phoenicia, Visigoths, Byzantines and then the Moors before Portuguese rule. The old fortified walls still ring the old city and are an ancient bygone of these previous rulers that came and rule this region of the Algarve.

As you walk around the inside and perimeter of the city walls, you’ll see this fantastic combination of history and architecture, passage ways and portals to admire all of these ancient cultures rolled up into the Cidade Velha.

It’s fun to explore the town, shops, restaurants and historic sites around the old town and appreciate the fascinating mixture of ancient cultures mixed in with the new.

Faro Museu Municipal – Municipal Museum

Located inside the old town the Municipal Museum is located in the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assuncao or Our Lady of Assumption Convent. The museum showcases the history, culture and civilizations of ancient Faro with displays and collections from the region.

This includes artifacts and collections of the early rulers from Roman, Medieval to Moorish periods of occupation at Faro and the Algarve region.

The Archeological Museum is only 2 Euro and open Tuesday to Sunday.

The ancient city walls around the waterfront area

The ancient city walls were ruled by so many countries of Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine to the Moors, it is easy to see the walls for what it is. But the walk around the waterfront promenade allows for different views of the walls and old city architecture along with enjoying the naturalist landscape of the amazing waterways and natural marshes of the impressive Ria Formosa Nature Reserve.

You’ll see a variety of boat tours offering trips through the natural preserve or tours to take you eventually to the beaches of Faro on the outer islands to spend a wonderful beach day here.

Outdoors and adventures around Faro

Faro has amazing outdoor adventures, gorgeous landscapes and large beaches to enjoy in the area.

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve

This large reserve in the Faro waterways leading to the ocean is impressive and huge and stretches over 60Km from the Algarve coastline from Faro, Ohao, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo Antonio

You can explore the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve through cruises that visit the marshlands and islands and also do a tour of the beaches of Faro if you want to do a combo trip.

Here are some options for you to explore below

Tour the nature preserves of Ria Formosa Nature Reserve four islands four stops tour here.

Tour the nature preserves, dolphin and wildlife tour around Faro

Ludo hiking trail via Segway tour and a delicious seafood lunch

Beaches of Faro

The outer islands of the Algarve at Faro and lined with flat expansive golden sandy beaches. You can get to them by a bus ride to different points on these barrier islands and beach areas. You can catch the number 16 bus head towards the beach areas and costs 2.35 Euro each way

Day time departures are every 30-40 minutes from Faro, check out the bus information here for more details to visiting the beaches.

The main beaches to enjoy around Faro includes

Cabo de Santa Maria

Location: Faro, Portugal

Praia de Faro stretches out for over 5 km along Faro Island

Location: Ila de Faro, Portugal

Ilha Deserta – a stretch of over 7 km of fine golden sand

Location: Ilha da Barreta, 8005-556 Faro, Portugal

Praia do Garrao – Part of the Golden Triangle of three beaches with holiday resorts and dining venues

Location: Vale do Garrão 8135 Loulé, Portugal

Praia de Quarteira – one of the most popular and busiest beach areas with resorts and golf courses of Vilamoura nearby.

Location: R. do Poco Romano, Quarteira, Portugal

Exploring the new town of Faro

The new town area of Faro is where all the main public squares and shopping venues are located along with most of the cafes, outdoor venues and places where the locals love to hang out and socialize. Check out some of the favorite venues below.

Hang out at the Harbor Area

The harbor area is a fun hang out spot and popular with locals and tourists alike. You’ll find a variety of cafes and coffee shops around the waterfront and harbor area to enjoy some local food while checking out the views of the harbor area and old city walls and estuary.

You’ll find the many cruise outfitters here also to take you on a cruise around the nature preserves of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve to take you on a local cruise of the area.

Harbor art scenes in Faro

Night time fun in Faro

The nighttime in Faro is actually lively with a host of restaurants, bars and hang out spots that makes the city surprisingly festive and vibrant.

There are cool rooftop bars with views, fun night clubs and tourist walking venues like the pedestrian street of Conserlheiro Bivar with fun shopping, dining and hang out spots late into the night to enjoy. You’ll find lots of fabulous choices for the night with great atmosphere and people watching here.

If you are looking for night life in Faro, check out all the best hang out spots here for more information.

Enjoy the local cuisine of Faro and the Algarve

Dining here in the Algarve is fun alfresco or at any of the cool seafood restaurants and cafes around the city and waterfront areas. When you are visiting the Algarve, the local cuisine is worth trying out in the menus are any of these dining venues.

Local foods to try here includes:

Grilled Sardines – a local favorite dish easily grilled and found in every restaurant in Faro

Bacalhau a Bras – Codfish with parsley, eggs and fried potatoes

Cataplana de Masicos – mixed local seafood in a stew of tomatoes, herbs and wine

Enchidos – smoke sausages with different ingredients for filling

Pasteis de Nata – a national pastry treat of Portugal

Conquilhas à Algarvia – a delicious clam stew dish of fried onions, Portuguese sausage and local clams with garlic and parsley

Algarve Shrimp – the shrimp in the Algarve are best eaten grilled and hot from the coals and served with garlic and piri piri hot sauce.

Javali or Wild Boar – a substantial meaty local boar stew with vegetables, garlic and spices

Popular and local restaurants in Faro

Here are some of the best eateries and restaurants serving delicious seafood, traditional dishes and other specialty food to enjoy from the region.

Adega Nova: Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Adega Nova serves up traditional Portuguese cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled meats. Don’t miss their famous cataplana, a flavorful seafood stew.

Faz Gostos: Situated in the heart of Faro’s Old Town, Faz Gostos offers a contemporary twist on Portuguese cuisine. Their menu features a fusion of flavors and creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Vila Adentro: Located within the historic walls of Faro, Vila Adentro offers a charming setting for dining. They serve Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes, complemented by a selection of fine wines.

Restaurante O Alambique: This family-run restaurant delights visitors with its homestyle Portuguese cooking. From hearty stews to grilled fish, the menu at O Alambique showcases authentic flavors and generous portions.

Restaurante Ria Formosa: Situated near the marina, Restaurante Ria Formosa specializes in fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy their seafood rice, grilled fish, and shellfish, all prepared with quality ingredients and served with a friendly smile.

Tasca Rasca: A hidden gem loved by locals, Tasca Rasca offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Their menu features traditional Portuguese dishes and tapas-style plates, perfect for sharing and trying a variety of flavors.

Restaurante Dom Rodrigo: Known for its warm hospitality and traditional Portuguese cuisine, Restaurante Dom Rodrigo is a popular choice among both locals and tourists. Try their regional specialties like cataplana and suckling pig.

Restaurante O Horta: Situated in the outskirts of Faro, Restaurante O Horta offers a rustic setting and farm-to-table dining experience. They serve organic and locally sourced dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.

Restaurante Ria Formosa Lounge Bar: Located by the waterfront, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Ria Formosa while you dine. They specialize in seafood and international cuisine, with a menu that caters to various tastes.

Restaurante Ria e Mar: With a prime location overlooking the Ria Formosa, this restaurant combines fresh seafood with breathtaking views. Enjoy their seafood platters, grilled fish, and traditional Portuguese desserts.

These popular restaurants in Faro provide a range of culinary experiences, from traditional Portuguese flavors to innovative creations, ensuring that every palate is satisfied during your visit.

Go Shopping around Faro

There are fun shopping venues around the city to explore and do some serious shopping. With a variety of boutique stores, gift and souvenir shops, jewelry stores and large shopping centers, you’ll have plenty of shopping experiences here in Faro.

The largest shopping experience is located at Forum Algarve, A fresh open air shopping venue with over 100 shops, cinema, hyper market and restaurants to explore and spend your tourist euros.

Also, you’ll find shops off Praça Dr Francisco Gomes near the marina and you’ll see where locals shop and these gorgeous patterned streets with local shopping venues and other tourist shops to draw in visitors and locals with shoe shops, artisanal gourmet venues, crafts and boutique stores and other souvenir shops along this route.

Visit the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)

Housed in the gardens of the Igreja do Carmo (Carmelite church), the Chapel of Bones were created from exhumed bones from finite local cemetery spaces to create this small chapel as a reflection on the human condition and life. The chapel is richly decorated on all the walls, ceilings and altar area with skulls and bones in a patterned effect that is easy on the eyes and not morbid but reflective in nature.

Places to visit around the Algarve from Faro

After visiting Faro, there are some other local attractions and easy road trips to explore around Faro and the Algarve region. This includes these popular places and attractions below:

Visit the Palacio De Estoi

One of the unique palaces to visit just outside Faro at Estoi is this colorful palace made in baroque and neo-Rococo style with a fun French inspired topiary garden. This restored palace is now a unique Pousada or inn that was built in 1840.

The inn is for guests but you can visit the gardens, ground floor and the bar area.

If you would like to stay for the night, check out the reviews to staying at the Palacio de Estoi here.

Explore Tavira

Located on the western side of the Algarve and close to the border, Tavira is a delightful and historic city filled with old world charm but a distinctive small scale city. Located on the banks of the Gilão River, the city has and old historic district with the large castelo de Tavira of Moorish influence dominating the central part of the historic district and the outer areas of town has the Ria Formosa Natural Park with inlets, lagoons and beach areas that are fun to explore in the area. Tavira Island attracts many wildife and area birds like flamingos, spoonbills and many other local birds that flock to the area.

Outside of the main castelo in the historic district and surrounding areas, you can visit the Santa María do Castelo Church, the igreja da Misericordia and the Ponte Antiqua o Rio Gilao which is a pedestrian bridge from the Moorish time frame and has fantastic water views and mansions that you can see from the bridge area. There’s also the elegant Praca da Republica which is the main square and lined with many cafes, fountains and monuments including the Moorish horseshoe arch, once part of the castle defenses and now a historic site you can visit in the area.

Check out this guided city tour of Tavira and other attractions around the eastern side of the Algarve here for more information.

Explore the markets and streets of Loule

The town of 70,000 people is the largest municipality with over 70,000 residents and the marketplace here is a must visit along with exploring the more modern city center. The Marketplace sits in a historic building that has a Moorish influence and design. Inside, you’ll find the freshest produce, regional arts and crafts, eateries and specialty artisanal producers from the area.

Surrounding the market are tree lined streets, boutique stores and busy narrow streets that still harken to the medieval period into the Cidade Velha or historic center, a gothic church an ancient castle. It is working class city and not on the tourist map but still fascinating to explore and see the daily lives and activities of locals in the area.

Here are some inside tips to enhance your visit to Faro, Portugal:

Explore Faro’s Old Town (Cidade Velha): Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the historic center, admiring the picturesque architecture and discovering hidden gems like the Sé Cathedral and Arco da Vila.
Visit Ilha Deserta: Take a short ferry ride to this uninhabited island located in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Enjoy the pristine, unspoiled beaches, and keep an eye out for rare bird species that inhabit the area.
Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious seafood dishes that the region is known for. Visit local restaurants and try specialties like grilled sardines, cataplana (a traditional seafood stew), and pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts).
Take a Boat Tour: Explore the breathtaking coastline and caves by taking a boat tour along the Algarve coast. Admire the stunning rock formations, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Discover Faro’s Museums: Immerse yourself in the local culture and history by visiting Faro’s museums. The Municipal Museum and the Maritime Museum offer fascinating insights into the city’s past.
Attend a Festa or Festival: Experience the vibrant local culture by participating in one of Faro’s traditional festivals or street parties. The FolkFaro festival in August and the Festa da Ria Formosa in September are popular events worth checking out.
Rent a Bike: Explore the city and its surroundings on two wheels. Faro has well-maintained cycling paths that allow you to discover the area at your own pace, including the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Visit Faro’s Market: Don’t miss the Mercado Municipal, the city’s central market. Sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional delicacies while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Take a Day Trip to Tavira: Just a short distance from Faro, the town of Tavira offers a charming and authentic Portuguese experience. Explore its historic center, visit the Tavira Castle, and enjoy panoramic views from the Tavira Island.
Relax at Faro’s Beaches: Spend a day unwinding on the beautiful beaches near Faro. Praia de Faro, Ilha de Faro, and Praia de Farol are popular choices with pristine sands and clear waters.

By following these insider tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to Faro, Portugal, and create unforgettable memories.

Details to visiting Faro and the Algarve Region

If you are exploring Faro and the Algarve having renting a car is the best option and flexibility of choosing where you want to go and how long you want to stay at each spot. Traveling around the toll roads and surface roads in the Algarve is easy and straightforward for you to explore with a rental car in the region.

Car rental for Algarve region

Check the best car rental rates here with Auto Europe

If you are flying into Faro Airport

Arrange your Faro Airport private transfers here

More Faro adventure experiences

If you are looking for more outdoor and adventure oriented experiences around the Faro area, check out these fun group tours below.

Hop on Hop Off 24 hour island tour experiences

Segway nature and birdwatching tour

Algarve quad adventure tour

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