Faro: The Heart of the Algarve

Complete Guide to Faro
Complete Guide to Faro

Faro, located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and relaxed urban life. As the capital of the Algarve, it serves as a great starting point for exploring the region, with easy access to nearby beaches, nature reserves, and traditional villages. The city’s laid-back vibe and warm climate make it a pleasant destination almost year-round.

Wandering through Faro’s old town, visitors can enjoy quiet cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and a mix of architectural styles. The marina and waterfront are especially relaxing spots to spend time, offering scenic views and a slower pace compared to more crowded tourist hubs. It’s easy to spend an afternoon simply strolling, eating fresh seafood, and soaking in the southern Portuguese atmosphere.

Faro also acts as a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a stunning stretch of lagoons and islands ideal for boat trips and bird watching. Whether you're stopping by before heading to the beaches of the Algarve or staying a few days to explore its quiet charm, Faro offers a genuine and less commercialized side of the region that's worth experiencing.

History of Faro

Early Origins of Faro

Faro’s origins date back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area as early as the Paleolithic period. The region developed under Phoenician and Roman influence, serving as a small port and trading post. During the Roman era, Faro was part of a network of settlements along the coast, benefiting from commerce, agriculture, and maritime connections. Archaeological finds, including mosaics and artifacts, reflect its early prosperity and integration into Roman trade routes.

Faro in the Moorish Period

During the 8th century, Faro came under Moorish control, shaping much of its urban layout and cultural heritage. The Moors fortified the town and introduced advanced irrigation techniques, agricultural practices, and architectural styles. Faro thrived as a regional center, with markets and mosques forming the heart of its growing community. Many of the city’s winding streets and certain structural foundations trace back to this period, leaving a lasting mark on Faro’s identity.

Faro under Portuguese Rule

Faro was reconquered by Portuguese forces in the 13th century, marking the beginning of a new era. The city became an important administrative and religious center, with churches and monasteries built throughout the medieval period. Faro’s position allowed it to participate in maritime trade, and the city saw gradual economic and population growth. Fortifications were expanded to protect against pirate raids, reflecting its strategic significance in the Algarve region.

Faro in the Age of Exploration

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Faro benefited from Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Wealth from trade, particularly in spices and other overseas goods, contributed to the city’s development. Nobles and wealthy merchants constructed grand houses and religious institutions, enhancing Faro’s cultural and architectural heritage. The city also faced challenges, including outbreaks of disease and occasional attacks by privateers, shaping the resilience of its population.

Faro in the 18th and 19th Centuries

Faro experienced significant changes following the devastating earthquake of 1755, which damaged many buildings in the city. Reconstruction efforts reshaped the urban landscape, blending Baroque and neoclassical architectural styles. Throughout the 19th century, Faro became increasingly modernized with improvements in infrastructure, education, and governance. The city also began to attract early tourists, drawn by its historic charm and coastal location.

Faro in the 20th Century and Beyond

In the 20th century, Faro continued to develop as a cultural and administrative hub. Modern transportation links, schools, and civic buildings transformed the city, while historic neighborhoods and monuments were preserved. Faro became a center for arts, festivals, and regional commerce. Today, its layered history—from ancient settlement to contemporary urban life—is visible in its architecture, street layouts, and cultural traditions, making Faro a city where past and present coexist seamlessly.

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

Visiting Faro for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Faro on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

18 Best places to See in Faro

This complete guide to Faro not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Faro and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Faro Marina

Faro Marina
Faro Marina
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luke McKernan
Visiting Faro Marina offers a peaceful yet vibrant introduction to the city’s waterfront life. Sleek boats and yachts line the quays, reflecting Faro’s maritime traditions while casting shimmering patterns over the calm waters of the Ria Formosa. With open views across the lagoon, it is one of the top attractions in Faro for travelers seeking scenic walks, outdoor dining, and…
Location: Faro Marina, Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.1km

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Igreja de São Pedro

Igreja de São Pedro Faro
Igreja de São Pedro Faro
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Glen Bowman
Igreja de São Pedro is one of Faro’s most atmospheric and historic churches, quietly tucked into the heart of the Old Town. Originally built in the 13th century on the foundations of an earlier mosque, the church reflects the city’s rich blend of Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage. Its simple exterior gives little hint of the beauty inside, making it…
Location: Igreja de São Pedro, Largo de São Pedro, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Faro. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Arco da Vila

Arco da Vila Faro
Arco da Vila Faro
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Aleksandr Zykov
The Arco da Vila is one of Faro’s most iconic entrances into the Old Town, blending neoclassical elegance with fragments of its Moorish past. Commissioned in the early 19th century by Bishop Francisco Gomes do Avelar, the arch was constructed on the site of a medieval gateway and incorporates original Islamic-era stonework. This layered history makes it one of the…
Location: Arco da Vila, Rua da Misericórdia, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km

Traveling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card. Having used it for over 5 years, we've saved loads on fees!

Faro Maritime Museum

Faro Maritime Museum
Faro Maritime Museum
All Rights Reserved / Visit Algarve
Visiting the Faro Maritime Museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s rich maritime heritage and its long-standing connection to the sea. Housed in a historic 18th-century building, the museum presents Faro’s seafaring history through carefully curated exhibits, including models of ships, navigational instruments, maps, and artifacts recovered from shipwrecks along the Algarve coast. The building itself, with its traditional…
Location: Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão, Faro, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, | Distance: 0.2km

Explore Faro at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Faro one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Town Hall

Faros Town Hall
Faros Town Hall
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Abrget47j
Faro’s Town Hall, or Câmara Municipal de Faro, stands prominently on Largo da Sé, forming part of the historic heart of the Old Town. Occupying the site of a former convent, the building was reconstructed in the 19th century after the 1755 earthquake, adopting a clean Neoclassical style that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding medieval architecture. Its whitewashed façade, symmetrical…

Museu Regional do Algarve

Museu Regional do Algarve
Museu Regional do Algarve
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergei Gussev
The Museu Regional do Algarve is one of Faro’s most atmospheric cultural experiences, offering a warm and intimate look into the everyday life of the Algarve before modern tourism transformed the region. Set inside the old Convento de São Francisco, the museum focuses on domestic traditions, folk crafts, and rural customs, making it one of the best places to visit…
Location: Museu Regional do Algarve, Rua do Pe da Cruz, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.3km

Palacete Belmarço

Palacete Belmarço
Palacete Belmarço
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Michael Paraskevas
The Palacete Belmarço is one of Faro’s most elegant early 20th-century buildings, reflecting the prosperity and modern ambitions of the city’s bourgeoisie during that period. Commissioned by wealthy merchant Manuel Belmarço, the palace was completed in 1912 and stands as a symbol of Faro’s transition into a more cosmopolitan and economically thriving center. Its construction marked a departure from the…
Location: Palacete Belmarço, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.3km

Paço Episcopal

Paço Episcopal fARO
Paço Episcopal fARO
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergei Gussev
The Paço Episcopal is one of Faro’s most significant architectural and historical treasures, representing centuries of religious authority and cultural influence in the Algarve. Located beside Faro Cathedral in the Old Town, the palace has served as the residence of Faro’s bishops since the Renaissance, evolving over time with Baroque and neoclassical additions. Its imposing presence and decorative details make…
Location: Paço Episcopal de Faro, Largo da Sé, Faro, Portugal | Price: Adults: €2 | Distance: 0.3km

Largo da Sé

Largo da Sé, Faro, Portugal
Largo da Sé, Faro, Portugal
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergei Gussev
Largo da Sé is the symbolic center of Faro’s Old Town, a quiet and atmospheric square enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. Entered through the grand Arco da Vila, the square opens into a broad cobbled space lined with orange trees and framed by some of Faro’s most important landmarks. With its blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles,…
Location: Largo da Sé, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km

Porta Nova

Porta Nova, Faro
Porta Nova, Faro
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rick McCharles
Porta Nova is one of Faro’s most graceful and historically meaningful city gates, marking an important entrance into the Old Town. Built in the 18th century to replace earlier fortifications, the gate blends defensive purpose with neoclassical style, making it one of the top attractions in Faro for visitors who enjoy architectural detail and historic charm. Its understated elegance and…
Location: Porta Nova, Rua da Porta Nova, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km

Arco do Repouso

Arco do Repouso, Faro
Arco do Repouso, Faro
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Kolforn
The Arco do Repouso is one of Faro’s most intriguing medieval gateways, blending centuries of history with enduring local legend. Dating back to the Moorish period, the arch once formed part of the defensive walls protecting the city. Its name—meaning “Arch of Rest”—comes from the tale that King Afonso III paused here after reclaiming Faro from the Moors in the…
Location: Arco do Repouso, Muralhas de Faro, Rua do Repouso, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km

Teatro Lethes

Teatro Lethes faro
Teatro Lethes faro
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Matthias Süßen
Visiting Teatro Lethes offers a memorable look into Faro’s artistic spirit and long-standing cultural heritage. Originally built in the 16th century as part of a Jesuit college, the building was transformed into a theater in the 19th century, creating one of the must-see places in Faro for culture lovers. Its modest classical exterior hides an interior filled with Baroque and…
Location: Teatro Lethes, Rua de Portugal, Faro, Portugal | Hours: Box office and tour hours vary; performances typically take place in the evenings. | Price: Ticket prices vary by performance; guided tours may have a small fee. | Website | Distance: 0.4km

Faro Municipal Museum

Faro Convento Senhora da Assunção Claustro
Faro Convento Senhora da Assunção Claustro
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Nol Aders
Visiting the Museu Municipal de Faro offers an immersive look into the city’s layered history, art, and cultural identity. Set within the former convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, the museum’s architecture is part of the experience, with cloisters, vaulted ceilings, and peaceful courtyards that frame the exhibits beautifully. It is one of the top sights in Faro for travelers…
Location: Museu Municipal de Faro, Largo Dom Afonso III, Faro, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Distance: 0.4km

Igreja do Carmo

Carmo Church, Faro Portugal
Carmo Church, Faro Portugal
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Kjell Vikanes
Igreja do Carmo is one of Faro’s most impressive Baroque monuments, offering a deep dive into the city’s artistic, religious, and cultural identity. Built in the early 18th century, the church stands slightly outside the Old Town, making it a peaceful retreat while still remaining one of the top attractions in Faro for those drawn to historic architecture. Its twin…
Location: Igreja do Carmo, Rua do Carmo, Porto, Portugal | Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Price: Adults: €2:00 | Distance: 0.4km

Faro Cathedral

Catedral de Faro Portugal
Catedral de Faro Portugal
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Matt Kieffer
Visiting Faro Cathedral is a journey into the heart of Faro’s history, art, and spirituality. Built in the 13th century on the site of an earlier mosque, the cathedral reflects the layers of the city’s past, with its Gothic foundations later enriched by Renaissance and Baroque additions. Its stone walls, graceful arches, and understated bell tower capture the character of…
Location: Faro Cathedral, Largo da Sé, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km

Muralhas de Faro

Muralha de Faro
Muralha de Faro
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sónia Lopes
The Muralhas de Faro, or Walls of Faro, are among the city’s most defining historic features, enclosing much of the Old Town and preserving nearly two thousand years of architectural and cultural evolution. Originally built by the Romans when Faro was known as Ossonoba, the walls were later expanded and fortified by the Moors, creating one of the best places…
Location: Muralhas de Faro R. do Castelo 2 8000-243 Faro Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.5km

Praia de Faro

Praia de Faro
Praia de Faro
Praia de Faro is one of the Algarve’s most popular and accessible beaches, stretching for several kilometers along the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Its soft golden sand, gentle waves, and wide open shoreline make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family days by the sea. With plenty of space even in summer, the beach is one of…

Ria Formosa Lagoon

Ria Formosa
Ria Formosa
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ricardo Oliveira
Visiting the Ria Formosa Lagoon from Faro is a must for nature lovers and anyone curious about the Algarve’s extraordinary coastal landscapes. Spanning more than 170 square kilometers, this protected lagoon system is made up of tidal flats, salt marshes, barrier islands, and meandering channels that create one of the must-see places in Faro. Its calm, sheltered waters and rich…
Powered by GetYourGuide
1

Best Day Trips from Faro

A day trip from Faro offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Faro provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Roman Ruins of Milreu

Roman Ruins of Milreu
Roman Ruins of Milreu
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Concepcion AMAT ORTA
The Roman Ruins of Milreu offer a captivating look into the ancient heritage of the Algarve and the daily rhythms of life in Roman-era Ossonoba. Situated just outside Faro near the village of Estoi, Milreu was once a thriving 1st–5th century villa complex complete with luxurious living quarters, agricultural buildings, and thermal baths. Its mosaics, architecture, and peaceful rural setting…
Location: Milreu Roman Remains, Estoi, Portugal | Hours: May-September: Tuesday to Sunday 10.00-1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m.-6.00 p.m October-April: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 p.m.-1.00 p.m.-2.00 p.m.-5.00 p.m | Price: €2.00 | Website | Distance: 9.1km
Visiting Roman Ruins of Milreu

Ilha de Culatra

Ilha Culatra
Ilha Culatra
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tristanm70
Visiting Ilha de Culatra offers a serene escape from the bustle of Faro and the mainland Algarve. Reached by a short ferry ride from Faro’s marina, the island immediately feels worlds away, with sandy paths, quiet neighborhoods, and wide open beaches that make it one of the best places to visit in Faro for nature and relaxation. The absence of…
Location: Ilha da Culatra, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 9.5km
Visiting Ilha de Culatra
Powered by GetYourGuide

Palácio de Estoi

Palácio de Estoi
Palácio de Estoi
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Marnal
Visiting Palácio de Estoi offers a captivating journey into the elegance and artistry of 19th-century Portugal. Just north of Faro, this romantic palace blends Moorish influences with grand Romantic styling, creating an atmosphere that feels both exotic and stately. Its decorative façade, intricate stonework, and azulejo tiles make it one of the top attractions in Faro for travelers who appreciate…
Location: Pousada Palácio de Estoi, Rua de São Jose, Faro, Portugal | Distance: 9.6km
Visiting Palácio de Estoi

Huelva

Huelva
Huelva
CC BY-SA 4.0 / FJavier GómezL
Visiting Huelva offers a relaxed and authentic Andalusian experience, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying rich culture, great food, and beautiful surroundings. Located in western Andalusia, near the Portuguese border and the Atlantic coast, Huelva blends urban charm with natural beauty. The city is compact and easy to explore on foot, with shaded plazas, inviting…
Visiting Huelva
Powered by GetYourGuide

Chipiona

Chipiona at sunset, Spain
Chipiona at sunset, Spain
Chipiona, a charming coastal town along the Atlantic in Andalusia. It offers visitors a mix of stunning beaches, maritime culture, and relaxed Andalusian charm. The town’s Playa de Regla is its most famous beach, known for golden sands and calm waters, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Its beachfront promenade, lined with cozy cafés and traditional seafood restaurants, provides…
Visiting Chipiona

Cádiz

Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz, Spain
Visiting Cádiz offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of Andalusia, blending centuries of history with a vibrant, sun-soaked coastal lifestyle. As one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Cádiz sits proudly on a narrow spit of land in southwestern Andalusia, surrounded by the Atlantic. The city's cobbled streets, historic fortifications, and elegant Baroque architecture are a testament to its…
Visiting Cádiz
Powered by GetYourGuide
1

Where to Stay in Faro

Faro offers a variety of accommodation options across different areas, each catering to diverse preferences. Whether you’re seeking historic charm, waterfront views, or tranquil surroundings, there’s a place for you.

In the heart of the city, the Cidade Velha (Old Town) boasts cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture. Staying here places you steps away from landmarks like the Arco da Vila and the Sé Cathedral. For a blend of modern comfort and historic ambiance, consider Hotel Faro & Beach Club or AP Eva Senses Hotel. These establishments offer easy access to the marina and the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Adjacent to the Old Town is the Doca de Faro (Marina) area, ideal for those who enjoy waterfront views and a lively atmosphere. The marina is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for evening strolls. A recommended stay here is Hotel Ibis Faro, offering modern amenities and proximity to the marina’s attractions.

For a more relaxed environment, the Montenegro and Quinta do Eucalipto neighborhoods provide a peaceful retreat. These areas are slightly removed from the city’s hustle and bustle, making them suitable for families or those seeking tranquility. Consider Hotel 3K Faro Aeroporto, which offers convenient access to the airport and nearby green spaces.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, the Islands and Praia de Faro region is perfect. Accessible by ferry, these islands offer pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Camping Park Faro provides a unique glamping experience, combining comfort with nature.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Faro. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Faro Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Faro

Visiting Faro in Winter

Winter in Faro is mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C. This season is ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. While the weather is cooler, it’s still pleasant for exploring Faro’s historic center, museums, and coastal paths. Winter also offers a chance to experience local traditions without the high-season tourist rush, making visits to markets and churches especially enjoyable.

Visiting Faro in Spring (Best)

Spring is the best time to visit Faro, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C and sunny days becoming more frequent. The city comes alive with vibrant blooms in public gardens and parks. Spring also hosts several notable events, including music festivals and local fairs celebrating Algarve culture. This season is perfect for outdoor activities, walking tours, and enjoying Faro’s charming streets and waterfront areas.

Visiting Faro in Summer

Summer in Faro brings warm weather and longer daylight hours, with temperatures often reaching 28°C. This is peak tourist season, making it ideal for beach lovers and those who enjoy lively cafés and nightlife. Summer festivals, including music and food events, attract visitors from across the region. While popular attractions can be crowded, the festive atmosphere and full range of activities make Faro an exciting summer destination.

Visiting Faro in Autumn

Autumn in Faro offers a balance of warm temperatures and fewer tourists, with averages between 18°C and 25°C. This is harvest season, and local markets and restaurants feature fresh seasonal produce, including seafood and regional delicacies. Cultural festivals and music events continue into the autumn months, making it a great time for visitors who want a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences without the summer crowds.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 15°C
  • February 16°C
  • March 17°C
  • April 21°C
  • May 22°C
  • June 26°C
  • July 28°C
  • August 28°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 23°C
  • November 19°C
  • December 16°C

How to get to Faro

Getting to Faro by Air

Nearest airports: The main airport serving Faro is Faro Airport, which handles both domestic and international flights. It is located a short drive from the city center and is well-connected to public transport and taxis.

Faro Airport offers flights from major European cities, with seasonal increases in frequency during the summer months. Low-cost carriers and national airlines operate regular routes, making it accessible for travelers coming from across Europe. Upon arrival, options include shuttle buses, taxis, or car rentals to reach the city center efficiently. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Faro on Booking.com.

Getting to Faro by Train

Faro is located on Portugal's main southern railway line, the Algarve Line, connecting it to major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Trains run frequently from Lisbon's Gare do Oriente and Santa Apolónia stations, as well as from other towns along the Algarve.

The Faro train station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers to access hotels, the old town, and bus services. Regional trains also connect Faro with other Algarve towns, providing easy day trips along the southern coast. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Getting to Faro by Car

Major roads: Faro is accessible via the A22 motorway, which runs across the Algarve from east to west. The city is also connected by national roads to smaller towns and coastal villages.

Driving to Faro allows flexibility in exploring the surrounding Algarve region at your own pace. Car hire is available at Faro Airport and in the city center, with well-signposted routes and parking options throughout the city. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelling around Faro

By Bus

Faro has a network of local buses connecting the city center to suburban neighborhoods and nearby towns. Bus services are frequent during the day and provide a convenient way to reach beaches and cultural sites.

By Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Faro, particularly around the train station, airport, and main squares. They are a quick and flexible option for short trips within the city.

By Bicycle or Walking

Faro’s historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many streets are best explored on foot, and bicycle rental services are available for those who want to cycle along coastal paths or through parks.

By Car within Faro

Driving within Faro can be useful for reaching outlying areas or day trips along the Algarve. The city has designated parking zones and public parking facilities, though some narrow streets in the old town are best avoided by car.