Getting to know Faro
What you can do for free in Faro
- Visit the beaches
Even if you’re not visiting Faro during peak season, when the temperatures are perfect for sunbathing, it is still a good idea to visit the beaches. The coast looks fabulous and you can still enjoy the view and the warm and lovely atmosphere. - Visit the Old Town (Cidade Velha)
If you want a change of scenery and a little bit of insight on the history of Portugal and the Algarve region, the Old Town is the place to go. Go through the Arco da Vila, a 19th-century gateway into Cidade Velha, and enjoy the vibe. - Go for a walk on Rua Dom Francisco Gomes
This pedestrian cobbled street is really easy to reach from the Marina and it is where most of the shops and restaurants in Faro are.
Top spots to visit
- Ria Formosa
This natural park is one of Portugal’s 7 natural wonders. Here you will find an abundance of wildlife, serene beaches and wonderful views. There are boats that you can take from Faro to go on a tour or a day trip to reach some parts that would be more difficult to get to otherwise. - Igreja do Carmo
This 18th century Carmo church is the landmark of Faro’s city centre. Behind this church, you will also find the fascinating Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) - Museu Municipal
This award winning museum’s permanent collection displays pieces starting from prehistory and continuing with the Roman, Moorish, and medieval periods, and the 18th and 19th centuries.
Hidden spots to visit
- Estoi and Milreu
Estoi is a small historical village in Algarve that contrasts with the rest of the region. If you find your way towards Estoi, you should stop by and visit the Milreu Roman Ruins. The ruins have a rich history behind them and are an overall fascinating place to visit.
If you want to find more hidden gems in the region, you might need to explore the Algarve region a bit more. There are many fantastic beaches, coasts and natural wonders in all of the little towns in the region. For example, the Benagil Caves are an absolute delight for anyone visiting the region, and they can be reached by boat from various stops along the coast. Explore the region and personalize your vacation!
Restaurants
While the restaurants in Faro are diverse, you will definitely see a lot of Mediterranean and Seafood-based menus. Check out some of the best places in Faro, such as Restaurante Al Ria, Taberna ze-ze, Ria Formosa Restaurant and Portas de Sao Pedro.
Recommended time for visiting
The hottest months in Faro are July, August and September. If you are looking for milder temperatures, you can visit the region in the timeframe between February and July, or between September and December. The busiest month for tourism in Faro is January, followed by August and February. You can expect higher hotel rates during these months.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Avg. temp. (°C) | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 18 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 19 | 16 | 14 |
I’ve got a crush on the world // Veni, vidi, amavi
