Exclusive Travel guide to Faro Portugal

• Select a destination >
• UK
• Caribbean
• Central America
• Europe
• Turkey
• Africa
• Other Destinations
• Travel Guides
• Flight Search
• Travel Blog
• Travel Insurance

Exploring Faro:

Faro has a population of about 60,000 and serves as the administrative center of the Algarve. Despite being smaller and quieter than some of the Algarve's resort towns, Faro offers an authentic experience of Portuguese life, with excellent restaurants, a lively marina, and plenty of historical landmarks. Visitors will enjoy its combination of history, architecture, and access to pristine beaches and wildlife.

Key Attractions in Faro:
Old Town (Cidade Velha):
Faro’s historic center, surrounded by medieval walls, is a must-see. The old town is a maze of cobbled streets and beautiful squares, with Arco da Vila, a large archway, marking the entrance.
Once inside, you’ll discover charming whitewashed buildings, historic churches, and museums. The central square, Largo da Sé, is home to the Faro Cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Climb the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of Faro and the surrounding area.
Museu Municipal de Faro, housed in a former convent, features archaeological finds and religious art, offering insight into the region's history from the Roman era to the Middle Ages.

Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro):
Situated in the heart of the old town, the cathedral dates back to the 13th century and reflects the various architectural styles that have influenced the region over the centuries, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The interior is rich with ornate chapels, beautiful tiles, and religious artifacts.
The cathedral’s bell tower offers stunning views of the old town and the Ria Formosa.

Arco da Vila:
This impressive archway serves as the main entrance to Faro’s old town. Built in the 19th century, the structure blends neoclassical design with remnants of medieval and Moorish architecture. It’s an iconic symbol of Faro and marks the entrance to the ancient city walls.

Ria Formosa Natural Park:
One of the highlights of Faro is its proximity to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a vast lagoon system with islands, channels, and marshlands that stretch along the eastern Algarve coast. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, with flamingos, storks, and other bird species migrating through the park.
Visitors can explore Ria Formosa by boat, kayak, or on foot, and there are boat trips that depart from Faro’s marina. These tours often include stops at the islands, where you can enjoy secluded beaches and natural beauty.

Faro Marina:
The Faro Marina is a lovely spot to take a leisurely walk, enjoy a drink at one of the nearby cafes, or take a boat tour. The marina area is lively with tourists and locals and provides stunning views of the boats, the sea, and the town’s skyline.
From the marina, you can also catch ferries or boat tours to the nearby islands of Ilha Deserta and Ilha da Culatra, both of which offer unspoiled beaches.

Igreja do Carmo (Church of Our Lady of Carmel):
This 18th-century Baroque church is famous for its Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), a small chapel made with the bones of over 1,000 monks. The chapel serves as a reminder of mortality but is also an important cultural and religious site.
The church itself is richly decorated with golden altars and stunning religious art.

Faro’s City Walls (Muralhas de Faro):
Surrounding the old town, Faro’s city walls are remnants of its Moorish and medieval past. You can explore parts of these ancient fortifications while walking around the town. The walls offer a glimpse into Faro’s history as an important fortified city.

Palácio de Estoi:
A short drive from Faro, this 19th-century palace is a stunning example of Rococo architecture. The palace is famous for its beautiful gardens, azulejo-tiled pavilions, and ornate design.
Palácio de Estoi has been converted into a pousada (a luxury hotel in a historic building), but visitors can still explore its gardens and admire the architecture.

Praia de Faro:
Located on Ilha de Faro, just 10 minutes from Faro’s city center, Praia de Faro is a long stretch of sandy beach popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s accessible by car, bus, or boat and offers a more traditional beach day experience with bars, restaurants, and water sports activities.
The beach is ideal for families and has calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Faro's Cultural Life:
Carmo Square (Largo do Carmo):
A lovely square in the heart of Faro, where you’ll find the Igreja do Carmo and several cafes. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Faro Municipal Museum: Housed in a former 16th-century convent, this museum offers a fascinating collection of archaeological finds, including Roman artifacts, Moorish relics, and medieval religious art. The museum provides excellent insight into the region's cultural and historical development.
Nightlife:
Faro has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially around Rua do Prior and the Old Town. The city is home to many bars, pubs, and nightclubs, often hosting live music. Popular spots include Columbus Bar for cocktails and O Castelo for its scenic views from the terrace.
Shopping in Faro:
Faro has several shopping streets where you can find a mix of local crafts, Portuguese products, and modern stores. Rua de Santo António is a pedestrian shopping street with boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops.
For fresh produce and local goods, visit the Mercado Municipal de Faro, a large indoor market where locals shop for fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties.

Day Trips from Faro:
Olhão:
A fishing town east of Faro, known for its charming waterfront and excellent seafood restaurants. Olhão’s fish market is one of the largest in the Algarve, and the town is also a gateway to the islands of Armona and Culatra in the Ria Formosa.
Estoi:
Visit the Palácio de Estoi and its beautiful gardens, as well as the nearby Roman Ruins of Milreu, which showcase ancient Roman villas and mosaics.
Albufeira:
A popular beach resort town known for its lively atmosphere, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Faro and offers a more tourist-centric experience.

Practical Information:
Getting Around: Faro is a compact city, and most attractions can be reached on foot. The local bus system is efficient for reaching the beach and nearby towns. Renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore the wider Algarve region.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Faro is from April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the peak months, but if you prefer fewer crowds, visit in May, June, or September. The winter months are mild and ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
Faro is a delightful destination that offers a rich cultural experience, historical charm, and access to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches and natural areas. Whether you're exploring the old town, enjoying the beauty of Ria Formosa, or relaxing on Ilha Deserta, Faro is a must-visit for those looking to experience the authentic side of the Algarve.

© 1999 - 2025 Exclusive Luxury Travel Group Kenya Portugal Spain Morocco Central America & Caribbean