Faro

Why Go to Faro

Faro offers a heady mix of historic charm, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty that make it a compelling destination for a UK traveller. As the primary airport city in the Algarve, it’s your gateway to explore one of Portugal's most beloved regions but it also merits a longer stop in its own right.

Beyond being just a transit point, Faro boasts a lovingly restored old town (Cidade Velha), characterised by cobblestoned streets and Moorish-style city walls. You can meander through history, exploring sites like the Arco da Vila and the intriguing Faro Cathedral with its eclectic architecture.

What Faro is Known For

Faro is known for its beautifully preserved historic old town and its role as the administrative centre of the Algarve. Its museum in the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção delves into the region's past with a fascinating display of artefacts. Nature lovers are drawn to the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park, a sprawling wetlands reserve famed for birdwatching and its serene landscapes of lagoons and islets.

One underrated aspect of Faro is its cultural scene, with a plethora of galleries and events such as the annual F Festival celebrating music and arts. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or culture vulture, Faro has a unique charm that appeals to a wide range of travellers.

Best Areas and Neighbourhoods

The historic centre of Faro, known as Cidade Velha, is where you’ll find the city’s main attractions. It's the perfect place to get lost in narrow streets that open onto lively squares, each lined with cafes and restaurants.

For a different vibe, visit Praia de Faro, the town's expansive beach on a barrier island just a short bus ride away. It’s less touristy than other Algarve beaches, offering a more local feel with plenty of space to stretch out.

The area around the marina is another lively spot, especially at night, with its array of bars and eateries. It's a great place to unwind with a drink while watching life along the waterfront.

Getting There and Around

Faro is easily accessible from the UK, with flights taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes from London. Several budget airlines offer frequent services, with returns often costing as little as £27.

Once in Faro, the city is compact enough to explore on foot, particularly the old town. For farther distances or to reach outlying areas such as the Ria Formosa, the local bus and train network is affordable and efficient. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are available, though walking will save costs in the city centre.

Food and Drink

Faro is a haven for those wanting to enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine. Local specialties worth trying include cataplana, a seafood stew typically served with fresh shellfish. For a sweet treat, sample some pastéis de nata, iconic Portuguese custard tarts.

Dining in Faro is often an affordable pleasure. A typical meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around £15, while a budget meal can be had for less than £10.

Don’t leave without trying the ‘petiscos’, Portuguese tapas style dishes perfect for sharing. A highly recommended spot for this is Tasca do Ricky, a local favourite known for its warm atmosphere and flavoursome dishes.

Money-Saving or Insider Tip

Avoid dining at the obvious eateries near the marina, as they can be tourist traps with inflated prices. Instead, head into the quieter streets of the city centre where you'll find more authentic restaurants catering to locals at better prices.

As for sightseeing, consider buying a combo ticket for the various museums and attractions instead of individual entries. It’s a small saving, but worthwhile if you plan to visit multiple sites.

Contrarian Suggestion

While the charismatic town and beaches of Faro draw plenty of attention, the Igreja do Carmo is often overlooked despite its captivating bone chapel, a truly unique attraction that gives an eerily beautiful insight into the area’s history. With bones lining the walls in artistic fashion, it’s certainly not for the squeamish, but it offers a different perspective on Faro’s past.

Conclusion

Faro serves as much more than just an entry point to the Algarve. Its balance of history, culture, and nature makes it a worthy destination in its own right. The serene beauty of its natural parks, the charm of the old town, and the lively marina offer diverse experiences that cater to families, solo travellers, and couples alike.