About Faro
Discover Faro, where heritage meets trust.
Things to Do in Faro, Portugal
Faro, the capital of Portugal’s Algarve region, is often seen as a gateway to the coast, but it’s much more than an arrival point. With its historic old town, scenic lagoon, island beaches, and relaxed southern Portuguese atmosphere, Faro offers a rewarding mix of culture, nature, and seaside charm.
One of the best places to start is Cidade Velha, Faro’s old town. Enclosed by historic walls, this charming area is filled with cobbled streets, traditional buildings, and quiet squares. Walking through the Arco da Vila entrance feels like stepping into a more peaceful, timeless part of the city.
Take time to wander without a plan, admire the architecture, and stop in small cafés along the way.
Located in the heart of the old town, Faro Cathedral is one of the city’s most important landmarks. Originally built in the 13th century and altered over time, it blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Inside, visitors can admire religious art and ornate details, while the bell tower offers panoramic views over Faro and the Ria Formosa lagoon.
Nature lovers should not miss Ria Formosa, a stunning coastal lagoon system known for its wildlife, salt marshes, and sandy islands. This protected natural park is one of the Algarve’s most beautiful environments and is ideal for boat tours, birdwatching, kayaking, and photography.
A trip through Ria Formosa gives visitors a different perspective on Faro—one defined by nature, tranquility, and unique landscapes.
Faro is closely connected to its barrier islands, and taking a boat trip is one of the most memorable things to do here. Ilha Deserta is known for its peaceful atmosphere and long, undeveloped beach, making it perfect for visitors looking to unwind. Ilha da Culatra, by contrast, offers a glimpse of traditional island life, with a small fishing community and a laid-back local feel.
Both islands are great choices for a beach day away from the busier resort towns of the Algarve.
Praia de Faro is the city’s most accessible beach and a popular place to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Located on a narrow strip between the ocean and the lagoon, it offers a wide sandy shoreline and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby. It’s a great option for swimming, sunbathing, or watching the sunset at the end of the day.
For something more unusual, visit the Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, inside the Igreja do Carmo. Decorated with the bones and skulls of monks, this small chapel is one of Faro’s most striking and memorable sites. It offers a powerful reflection on mortality and is one of the city’s most famous attractions.
Faro Marina is a pleasant area for a walk, especially in the early evening. Lined with cafés, restaurants, and palm trees, it’s a good place to sit with a drink and watch boats come and go. The marina also serves as a departure point for many tours into the Ria Formosa.
No visit to Faro is complete without trying the local cuisine. Fresh seafood plays a central role, with dishes such as grilled fish, octopus salad, cataplana, and arroz de marisco often found on menus. Traditional Portuguese pastries and regional wines also add to the experience.
Whether dining in the old town or near the waterfront, Faro offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy authentic Algarve flavors.
Take a Day Trip
Faro is also a convenient base for exploring more of the Algarve. From here, visitors can easily take day trips to Tavira, Olhão, Loulé, or some of the region’s famous coastal towns and beaches. For travelers who want a balance of city atmosphere and regional exploration, Faro is an excellent choice.