Want to visit Faro in 1 week? The capital of the Algarve is an ideal destination for combining culture, nature and relaxation. This port city offers an authentic experience, with its historic streets, heavenly beaches and natural treasures. But Faro is not only a city to explore, it’s also the perfect starting point for discovering the wonders of the Algarve region. Between boat trips, island exploration and tasting local specialities, you’ll have plenty to fill your week while enjoying a vacation rhythm.
With this itinerary, we guide you through Faro. Make the most of your stay and immerse yourself in this destination right away with our practical tips and lots of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for visiting Faro in 1 week
What can you see in Faro in 1 week? Is it enough or too long?
In just one week, you can explore Faro in depth, discover its main attractions and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the Algarve. Faro is a town on a human scale, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
You’ll have plenty of time to visit the historic center and its must-see monuments, such as Faro Cathedral, the Bone Chapel and the Episcopal Palace. You can also enjoy magnificent beaches, take boat trips in the Ria Formosa natural park, visit the surrounding islands and discover authentic towns such as Olhão and Tavira.
If you like to take your time, relax on the beach, enjoy water sports and explore the surrounding area, a week is ideal. However, if you prefer a faster pace, you can condense the visits into 4 or 5 days and devote the rest of your time to other Algarve destinations such as Albufeira or Lagos.
Getting around Faro
Faro is very easy to get around, especially in the historic center. Most sights are within walking distance.
- For longer distances, you can use public transport. The city bus network efficiently serves the town and surrounding beaches. Cabs are also a practical and affordable option.
- If you’d like to explore the region with no questions asked, we recommend renting a car.
- You can also choose a sightseeing bus tour to explore Faro. Hop-on-hop-off buses are a great way to visit all the sights quickly and easily. Book your Hop-On-Hop-Off pass now.
Where to sleep in Faro?
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)
Our ideal itinerary: A week in Faro
Day 1 – Diving in the heart of Faro
Morning: Discover the historic center(Cidade Velha)
We recommend that you start your visit to Faro under theArco da Vila. This monumental gate marks the entrance to the old town. Once you’ve crossed it, 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. Along the way, you’re sure to come across some of Faro’s must-see sights, including Faro Cathedral, the Episcopal Palace and the Municipal Museum! The 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.
Enjoy a guided bike tour of Faro and discover the city’s history – see activity details
Lunch near the Marina
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. For lunch, enjoy fresh fish in one of the restaurants on the harbor. Perhaps you’ll discover a speciality like cataplana, while admiring the boats and soaking up the Portuguese sun.
Afternoon: Visit Faro Cathedral and its panoramic tower
Once you’ve had your fill, head for Faro Cathedral, which you may have come across in the morning. We have learned that it was first built in 1251. This architectural gem bears witness to the city’s rich history. We were impressed by its harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. A National Monument since 1910, the building offers a unique experience combining religious art and history. We particularly recommend climbing to the top of its bell tower for a panoramic view of the old town!
Evening: Dinner in a traditional tavern to round off the day.
In Faro, you can sample Portuguese gastronomy, and more specifically that of the Algarve. We discovered a delicious mix of flavors with traditional dishes such as Xarém com Conquilhas, Carne de Porco Alentejana,Arroz de Lingueirao and Raia de Alhada. And let’s not forget Pasteis de Nata and the famous bacalhau (cod).
We recommend the Old Tavern Restaurant, a Portuguese tapas restaurant in the heart of the old town.
Day 2 – Set course for Faro’s past
Morning: Visit to the Capela dos Ossos and the Municipal Museum
Located behind theIgreja do Carmo, the macabre Chapel of the Bones takes its name from its raw material. Indeed, we were struck by its walls, entirely covered with carefully arranged human bones and skulls. The special atmosphere of this unique place makes it an unusual visit that will stay with you for a long time!
Then head for the Faro Municipal Museum. Nestled in the former 16th-century Convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Algarve. Here you’ll discover rich and varied collections, covering a period from prehistory to the Middle Ages. Highlights included a 2nd/3rd-century Roman mosaic dedicated to the god Ocean, imperial busts of Hadrian and Agrippina, and exceptional Hispano-Moorish ceramics. The building itself, severely damaged and then rebuilt after the great earthquake of 1755, is a fascinating architectural testimony. Its central cloister offers a haven of peace conducive to contemplation.
Afternoon: Bike tour of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
After a morning rich in cultural and historical discoveries, it’s time for a little brain-breathing! Head for the Ria Formosa for a bike ride! This magnificent natural park, made up of 6 islands, is home to a uniquely preserved ecosystem. We were absolutely charmed by the scenery offered by this unique location. Enjoy a timeless stroll along the paths of this small natural paradise, whose endless sandy beaches are among the most beautiful in the Algarve. We also observed exceptional flora and fauna. The unspoilt nature and landscapes of this internationally renowned nature reserve make it a must for your stay in the Algarve!
Our advice:
- Click here to discover the cycle routes around Faro
- Book your all-inclusive bike tour of the Ria Formosa, departing from Faro – see prices and availability
Late afternoon: Enjoying your hotel’s services
Why not take a break and enjoy the comfort of your hotel? Faro is home to a rich and varied range of accommodations and services! In addition to the spa, some establishments will surprise you, for example, with their pretty swimming pools with panoramic views. See our hotel suggestions above.
Evening: dinner in a bistronomic restaurant
Faro is home to some fine restaurants where local gastronomy blends with inventive cuisine. For a refined culinary experience, we recommend the Michelin-starred Restaurant Alameda. We were delighted with dishes that showcased the region’s produce, prepared with finesse and creativity. The elegant atmosphere and meticulous service make this an excellent place to enjoy a last dinner in Faro in pleasant surroundings.
Day 3 – Relaxing on the beach
Put your towel down on the Praia de Faro
La Praia de Faroalso known as Praia da Ilha de Faro, is a magnificent stretch of golden sand located on a sandbank between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa Lagoon. We were charmed by its relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the town center, it is linked to the mainland by a pontoon. We enjoyed relaxing here after days exploring the city. Here you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and dine in the bars and restaurants lining the coastline. In fact, some of them are among our favorite Faro restaurants!
Lunch in a restaurant overlooking the ocean
Restaurants, fast-food outlets and ice-cream stands can be found close to the beach. During our visit, we had lunch at the Restaurant Sal’Mare and recommend this establishment! Other quality restaurants are also nearby, including Le Sultana and Elementos. To find out more, read our article on the best restaurants in Faro!
Boating activities
If you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to enjoy the ocean, the Praia de Faro offers a variety of water sports: paddle, kayak… An opportunity to discover the coast from a new angle.
Admire the sunset on the beach with a cocktail
To round off the day, visit one of the restaurants and beach bars along the Praia de Faro. With its vast stretches of sand and unobstructed ocean views, it’s the perfect place to watch the sun set while sipping a cocktail!
Alternative to the beach: Day trip to the small town of Loulé
Exploration of the Loulé Salt Cave
In Loulé, the Grotte de Sel is a fascinating site that we loved discovering. At a depth of 230m, it reveals an impressive subterranean landscape of salt formations. A guided tour reveals the history of this still-active mine and allows you to explore its most remarkable features.
Discover the Château de Loulé
Then head for the medieval castle. It offers a wonderful immersion in the history of the Algarve. We enjoyed discovering its ramparts, which offer a panoramic view of the city, and visiting its archaeological museum.
Day 4 – Discover Faro’s maritime heritage
Morning: Excursion to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
After exploring it by bike, why not discover the Ria Formosa by boat? This labyrinth of canals, islands and marshes is a unique wetland that stretches along the Algarve coast, so a visit by sea is ideal to take full advantage of the beauty of its protected landscapes, observe the local wildlife, especially migratory birds, and explore its small islands, accessible only by boat. We enjoyed discovering this exceptional ecosystem where turquoise waters meander between islands populated bymigratory birds. Classified as a Natural Park since 1987, the Ria Formosa is home to remarkable biodiversity and a long tradition of salt extraction and fishing. Here you can discover an authentic fishing village and magnificent unspoilt beaches.
Afternoon: Learn more at the Faro Maritime Museum
Faro’s Maritime Museum is well worth a visit if you’re interested in the world of fishing and navigation. We enjoyed observing historic boat models and traditional navigation and fishing equipment. The museum’s main hall offers a fascinating insight into the region’s maritime history, with detailed explanations of fishing techniques.
Evening: Dinner in a restaurant serving local specialities and enjoy Faro’s nightlife.
To round off your day, treat yourself to dinner in a restaurant serving local specialities. Seafood and grilled fish often feature on the menus of establishments celebrating traditional Algarve cuisine. After your meal, enjoy the city’s night-time ambience as you stroll through the illuminated streets of the historic center, or sit on a terrace for a drink by the marina. We loved Faro’s peaceful, pleasant atmosphere after dark.
Day 5 – Discover the Algarve and go on excursions
Morning: Learn more about the region at the Algarve Regional Museum
To get your day off to a good start, head for the Musée Régional d’Algarve, one of the city’s best museums. It allowed us to immerse ourselves in the traditional culture of the region. Here you’ll discover a fascinating collection of ethnographic objects, including farming tools, ceramics and local basketry. We particularly enjoyed the dioramas, which recreate typical Algarve interiors, bringing the region’s traditions to life. You can even see a water cart that was in use until 1974, a testament to the region’s enduring traditions!
Afternoon: Choose the excursion(s) that best suit your needs
In our opinion, Faro is an ideal base from which to explore the wonders of the Algarve. As well as excursions into the Ria Formosa Natural Park, nature lovers will appreciate the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail (more info here), offering breathtaking scenery with its steep cliffs and panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. We particularly recommend excursions to iconic sites such as Sagres, with its historic fortress, or Lagos, known for its authentic charm and 17th-century fort. Boat trips to sites such as the Benagil Cave or to watch dolphins are also must-do experiences, allowing you to discover the region’s natural and maritime wealth.
Here is our selection of the best excursions from Faro to discover the treasures of southern Portugal:
- 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
- Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park by boat and discover magnificent unspoilt islands with the help of a guide. – 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
Day 6 – Day of discovery of Tavira and its island
Morning: Exploring Tavira
Head for Tavira, a charming town just a 30-minute drive from Faro. It is crossed by the Gilão River, which flows into the sea and lends the town its charm. We loved the pretty bridges that straddle it and the typical Portuguese architecture. White walls, overhanging roofs, flowering trees and colorful motifs on house facades. Its castle is also worth a visit! We recommend that you spend the morning exploring the city, and grab a bite to eat at one of its restaurants when hunger strikes.
Afternoon: Farniente on the Ilha de Tavira
Tavira is also famous for its beaches on the protected barrier islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. These unspoilt beaches, accessible only by boat, offer the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. The best-knownIlha de Tavira is easily accessible by ferry from the city center. With its long sandy beaches bordered by calm waters, it’s ideal for swimming and lounging. There are also a number of restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy local specialities or cool off with an ice cream! Find out more here.
Evening: Dinner by the water in Tavira
Enjoy a waterside dinner in a restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Gilão River. Enjoy local specialties and the romantic atmosphere of this authentic town.
Day 7 – Final moments in Faro
Join a food tour for one last taste of the Algarve
What better way to round off your stay in Faro than with a gastronomic immersion? A food tour will allow you to (re)discover local specialties as you wander the city’s narrow streets with a guide. You can taste (or rediscover) clams à la cataplana, pastéis de nata and local wines, while learning more about the Algarve’s culinary traditions.
Book your guided tour of Faro with food tour included! – see activity details
Take a final stroll through the city streets and revisit your favourite spots
Before leaving Faro, enjoy a final stroll through the historic center. Return to the squares and alleyways that have left their mark on you, admire the tiled facades of the houses once again and let yourself be carried away by thepeaceful atmosphere of the old town. It’s also an opportunity to capture a few souvenir photos.
Shopping to take home
Before leaving Faro, take the time to do a little shopping to bring back souvenirs for your loved ones. You’ll find plenty of local products, including cork objects, hand-painted ceramics, traditional embroidery, canned fish and bottles of Algarve wine. We also spotted some lovely clothing boutiques in Faro!
Watch the sunset with a panoramic view of the Ria Formosa
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.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you would like to be informed when our guide to Portugal is published, please register:
Alternative 1: Visit more beaches
If you’d like to enjoy more of the coastline, the Algarve offers a multitude of beaches with varied landscapes. In addition to the Praia de Faro, easily accessible from the town, there are many other beaches to explore:
- Further west, Praia da Marinha, with its impressive cliffs, and Praia de Benagil, famous for its natural grotto, are must-sees for lovers of spectacular beaches.
- On the Albufeira side, you’ll find livelier beaches like Praia da Falésia and Praia dos Pescadores, ideal for combining relaxation with a festive atmosphere.
- Some of Lagos‘ beaches are among the finest in the Algarve. The Praia Dona Ana, surrounded by golden cliffs, is perfect for a swim in crystal-clear waters. The Praia do Camilo, accessible via a wooden staircase, offers an idyllic setting with its spectacular rock formations. For a wilder experience, Meia Praia, a long sandy beach, is ideal for a stroll facing the ocean.
Alternative 2: More adventures
For those who love action, Faro and the surrounding area offer a wide range of thrilling activities:
- You can take a kayak or paddle excursion through the Ria Formosa.
- Diving enthusiasts can discover the seabed off the Algarve coast or explore the world’s largest artificial reef off the Algarve.
- For an adventure on land, go hiking in the Serra de Monchique, a mountainous region offering superb panoramic views of the coast. A quad bike ride in the hinterland will also allow you to explore wilder landscapes and enjoy thrills off the beaten track.
- Finally, why not try a paragliding flight to admire the Algarve from the sky?
Alternative 3: Discover more of the Algarve region
- Albufeira, about a 45-minute drive from Faro, is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. We enjoyed strolling through the old town with its white streets, taking advantage of beaches such as Praia da Falésia and discovering the vibrant nightlife with its many bars and restaurants.
- Further west, Portimão is another coastal town not to be missed, known for its marina and the famous Praia da Rocha, a beach fringed by impressive golden cliffs. The town is also an excellent starting point for a boat trip to the Benagil Cave.
- Lagos, an hour’s drive from Faro, offers a more picturesque setting, with magnificent beaches such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo, surrounded by spectacular rock formations. The old town of Lagos is also a delight to explore, with its cobbled streets, ramparts and lively squares.
We recommend renting a car to easily explore these destinations from Faro, while enjoying varied landscapes and a different atmosphere at every stop.
What to do in Faro with children
Faro offers many family-friendly activities. Faro’s beach offers safe swimming for children. Boat trips in the Ria Formosa are particularly popular with younger visitors, who can observe marine life and birds, and have fun on almost untamed beaches. Faro’s historic center, with its cobbled streets, street art and lively squares, lends itself well to family strolls and a chance to hone your historical skills.
What to do near Faro
There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in the Algarve! In fact, we made the most of it. Cruises, boat trips, kayaking or snorkeling will brighten up your seaside escapades. From Faro, it’s easy to head out to sea to explore spectacular rock formations such as the Benaguil Cave, or to meet Atlantic dolphins. Here is our selection of excursions around Faro:
- Discover the Algarve countryside on an all-terrain quad bike! – see activity details
- Visit a salt cave and its geological formations – see activity details
- Admire the Algarve coastline and the Benaguil Cave from a paddleboard – see activity details
- Explore the Algarve wine region and taste regional wines – more activity details
What you need to know for your stay in Faro
The weather in Faro
At the height of summer, temperatures in Faro can become quite high, fluctuating between 23 and 28°C on average. This heat can make your stay less comfortable. If you’re visiting Faro in high summer, protect yourself from the sun and plan your activities accordingly, giving preference to early-morning or late-afternoon visits. If you’re afraid of the heat, why not visit Faro in winter?
The crowds in Faro
During the summer months, particularly July and August, Faro is very busy with tourists, which can sometimes make visits less enjoyable. Tourist sites, restaurants and accommodation are often very busy. You can avoid these inconveniences by visiting the city out of season, in spring or autumn, when temperatures remain mild and crowds are smaller.
Adapt your itinerary when it rains
Even in the Algarve, it can sometimes rain. Here are some ideas for enjoying Faro despite the bad weather:
- Visit Faro’s best museums: take the opportunity to explore the Municipal Museum, the Maritime Museum or the Regional Museum of the Algarve.
- Discover theIgreja do Carmo and its Chapel of the Bones: an unusual and fascinating place to visit in any weather.
- Go shopping: stroll through the boutiques in the town center or visit the Forum Algarve, a large shopping center on the outskirts of Faro.
- Taste the local gastronomy: warm up with a traditional dish in one of Faro’s best restaurants or take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare Algarve specialties.
- Explore the Grotte de Sel de Loulé: a unique experience that’s a change from the Algarve’s classic seaside activities! – Find out more and book
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)
