Faro

Faro is often considered just a gateway; it is home to the only airport in the Algarve region, therefore tourists land here and move towards the seaside towns and beaches.

Due to this lack of interest, the city managed to keep a peaceful atmosphere and a traditional charm, which is manly concentrated in the historic center. Faro was destroyed during the earthquake of 1755. It is located at the edges of the Ria Formosa National Park. The Faro islands are famous for their untouched and wild beaches.

Things to do in Faro

If you are planning a visit to Faro you can’t miss its historical buildings and monuments. Porta Arco da Vila is the main gateway to the old town. The structure dates back to the XIX century and it is located across from the ancient city walls; nearby you will also find the tourist information center.

In the main square of Faro there are the Municipal buildings and the Sè Cathedral, which was robbed by the British and damaged during the earthquake. Today the cathedral is a mix of styles. Visit the sacred place and go up to the top of the clock tower to enjoy the view and to see where the storks nest.

While strolling around the center, you can observe the ancient walls from the Moorish time and various access gates. The Archeological Museum is located at the east entrance of the fortress.

The Manuel Bivar Garden is a great place to enjoy some relax; here local people come to play cards and hang out. The square that houses the garden overlooks the small harbor.

Capela Dos Ossos

The Capela Dos Ossos is a place off the most classical touristic itineraries. The skulls and bones of many people were placed in that chapel, as cemeteries were too full.

The chapel is located in the complex of the Carmo Church and the bones are embedded in the designs and ornaments of the structure of the church itself.

Estoi

The little village of Estoi is located not too far from Faro. The pink palace of Estoi is the most beautiful example of rococò architecture in the Algarve region.

The interiors perfectly preserve the azulejos; colored ceramic tiles and classical ornaments of Portugal.

Just off Estoi there are the ruins of Milreu; a big ancient roman villa whose mosaics can be still admired today.

Tour & Activities

Guided tours to the National Park of Ria Formosa leave daily from the small harbor of Faro; these are boat trips to the two sandy beaches located at the last end of the Park.

Praia de Faro is located five kilometers from Faro; it is by far the best beach in the whole area around the city. It is located at Ilha de Faro, a small town where you will find bars and restaurants.

An alternative beach that is worth a visit is the one of Ilha Deserta, which can be reached by ferry. It is a small island which is almost uncontaminated. It is the southernmost point of Portugal, that is to say Capo Santa Maria.

Moving around

If there is a city in the Algarve region where public transports are great, this is definitely faro. From here buses and trains leave daily to the main tourist destinations.

Once in Faro you can choose to use the bus or to rent a car if you want to explore the Algarve region.

Weather Faro