Faro, the capital of theAlgarve, boasts a richly contrasting heritage, a blend of historical heritage and artistic dynamism.
In this article, we take you on a stroll to discover theArco da Vila, the gateway to the old town. Street art in the cobbled streets of the historic center. And the Marina, gateway to the Ria Formosa.
Read this article and discover our ideal itinerary for visiting Faro and enjoying the city’s unique atmosphere, illustrated with photos and a few bonus tips.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Departure under theArco da Vila, gateway to the old town
We recommend you start your visit to Faro under theArco da Vila. This monumental gate marks the entrance to the old town. Rebuilt in the 18th century after the earthquake of 1755, this neoclassical building stands on the site of a former gate in the medieval wall.
Look up and you’ll see a niche housing a statue of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Faro’s patron saint and a testimony to the town’s religious past. Behind this elegant facade, an arched passageway leads you into a maze of cobbled streets, where Faro’s historic soul nestles. TheArco da Vila was under construction when we visited Faro, but we did notice the few stork nests perched atop the monument. They remind us that Faro is a privileged stopover for migratory birds, to be met in the heart of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve.
As we moved forward, we noticed the marks of time on the walls and the remains of the old defensive enclosure. We encourage you to look up and imagine centuries past, the people who came through this door before you, the events that shaped Faro. TheArco da Vila is not just a gateway, it’s a portal to a fascinating past, symbolizing the link between different eras. If you’d like to learn more about the history of the Algarve’s capital, visit Faro’s Municipal Museum!
WHERE TO STAY IN Faro
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Faro (coming soon)
A stroll through the cobbled streets of Faro’s old town
After crossing theArco da Vila, you’ll find yourself immersed in the picturesque maze of cobbled streets in Faro’s historic center. We deliberately got lost in these old town streets, and that’s where the magic happens. Let your steps guide you, and soak up the peaceful, authentic atmosphere. You’re sure to come across some of Faro’s must-see places along the way!
Colorful or whitewashed houses, sometimes adorned with flower-filled balconies or delicate ironwork, bear witness to the Moorish influence in local architecture. Around a corner, you may discover a shady little square and a typical café where you can enjoy a pastel de nata with a cafezinho. Some of Faro’s best restaurants are located in this district!
We enjoyed observing local life, people greeting each other, children playing, lively conversations. Each alley has its own charm and character, making Faro’s historic center a veritable labyrinth of discoveries. Keep your eyes peeled for a local artist’s studio and, above all, for iconic monuments such as Faro Cathedral! Don’t hesitate to climb to the top of its tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Ria Formosa. In fact, a visit is one of Faro’s must-do activities in Faro! As is the nearby Episcopal Palace.
Want to discover Faro with a local? Here are our ideas for activities to explore the city:
- Enjoy a guided bike tour of Faro and discover the city’s history – see activity details
- Do you have a sweet tooth? Opt for a guided tour of Faro with food tour included! – see activity details
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Discover the works of street art that bring centuries-old walls to life
Faro doesn’t just preserve its history, it reinvents and energizes it through urban art. You may be surprised to discover, as you wander through the narrow streets, works of street art that bring the city’s centuries-old walls to life. We loved this combination of past and present, history and modernity. These murals bring a touch of color and creativity to the urban environment.
Each work tells a story, expresses an emotion, conveys a message. Take the time to observe them, to decipher them, to be surprised by their originality and boldness. We recommend that you set off in search of these hidden treasures of Faro’s cultural vitality.
If you’re particularly interested in street art, we’ve heard that Olhão is home to a lot of graffiti, but we didn’t go and see it, so we recommend you find out before you go.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Arrival on the sunny quays of the Marina, adorned with sculptures
After exploring the picturesque alleyways and admiring the urban art, let us guide you to the sunny quays of the Marina. Lined with palm trees and cafés, this promenade seduced us with its lively, vibrant atmosphere. You’ll no doubt notice the few sculptures that adorn the quays, adding an artistic and cultural touch that contrasts with the maritime decor. The port is a place to meet and stroll around, ideal for a stroll, a drink on the terrace or a refreshing ice cream. You can also learn more about Faro’s maritime history at the Maritime Museum located on one of the quays!
The Port of Faro is also a place where you can live and play, and from where you can embark for a trip to the Praia de Faro. Or for one of Faro’s best activities: a boat trip to the Ria Formosa, a protected Natural Park home to magnificent islands and exceptional flora and fauna. We loved watching migratory birds, strolling along deserted sandy beaches and discovering a fishing village.
Book your Ria Formosa boat trip from Faro now!
If you’re looking for a place to wind down your walk while admiring a panoramic view of the Ria Formosa, head for the top of theAP Eva Senses Hotel, which also features in our selection of the best hotels in Faro. Here you can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat while admiring Faro’s landscape and rooftops.
If you’d like to combine your visit to Faro with one of the best excursions to discover the treasures of the Algarve, departing from Faro Marina, here’s our selection:
- Meet the dolphins of the Atlantic Ocean on an unforgettable excursion – see activity details
- Go on an adventure and explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park by kayak – see activity details
- Treat yourself to a sunset boat trip in the Ria Formosa Natural Park – see activity details
- Discover the incredible landscapes of the Algarve coast: Benagil cave, 7 hanging valleys trail, Algar Seco… – see activity details
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Frequently asked questions
What to do in Faro
Looking for sun, nature, history and authenticity? Faro is the ideal destination! In this article, we’ve touched on some of Faro’s unique aspects, but the capital of the Algarve is a city steeped in history, where Roman heritage rubs shoulders with Moorish influences. Many travellers head for the seaside resorts without taking the time to visit Faro, but we were seduced by this sunny city that harmoniously combines historic vestiges and unspoilt nature. We therefore recommend that you devote a few days to it. That’s why we’ve selected 12 must-see places and activities to help you find out what to do in Faro!
Is Faro worth a visit?
Yes, Faro is well worth a visit! We were charmed by this capital of the Algarve, which skilfully blends historical heritage with a seaside atmosphere. You’ll discover a preserved historic center, interesting museums and a fascinating multicultural heritage. Its proximity to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and its fine sandy beaches make it an ideal destination for a long, sunny weekend or a stopover before exploring the Algarve. It’s one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve!
DISCOVER Faro
- Things to do in Faro (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
How do I get to Faro?
You can reach Faro by train from other major cities in Portugal and Spain, including Lisbon (3h30) and Sevilla (3h). You can book your tickets on the Comboios website here. To get to Faro station from the city center, we recommend walking or taking the bus.
Faro airport is served by major European cities, including Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Faro is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as the A22, N125 and N2.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in the Algarve (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha (coming soon)
Things to do in Lagos (coming soon)
Things to do in Portimao (coming soon)
Things to do in Albufeira (coming soon)
Things to do in Faro (coming soon)
