Faro trips and vacations

Portugal’s dramatic coastline comes alive in Ria Formosa Natural Park, a must-see on any vacation to Faro. Book a cruise on a traditional fishing boat, then follow the hiking trails to scenic outlooks around the park. If you’re willing to go deeper into the region’s natural beauty, drive 90 minutes north to the trails of Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park.

History is everywhere in Faro. Stop for a photo op under the Arco da Vila, a medieval archway in the Old Town. Then visit the Faro Castle to see ancient city walls dating back to Roman times. You won’t want to leave without laying eyes on the whitewashed Se Cathedral de Faro — built in 1251 — and its working organ.

You’ll taste seafood dishes perfected over centuries in this former fishing village. The best way to get acquainted is to sample the ‘marisqueiras’ (seafood restaurants) near the Faro Marina. If you want to keep costs low on your holiday to Faro, look for budget-friendly menus at traditional seafood eateries in Old Town, or try local specialties like grilled squid and octopus.

With its tiled streets and whitewashed buildings reflecting the sun, the Old Town is where to stay in Faro for a taste of local culture. Stop at the unique Faro Story Spot, a museum with multimedia exhibits on the town’s history, and find some of the best boutiques in town on Rua de Santo Antonio.

Good for: Sightseeing, shopping, history 

If you’re heading to Faro to get the most of the coast, make Praia de Faro your base. Choose between the lagoon on one side of the narrow peninsular and the beach on the other. Kick back on the sand, or try surfing the clear waters. This is also a great neighborhood for nightlife. See the sunset and catch live music at clubs along the waterfront.

Good for: Beach, nightlife, water sports

Faro Marina is the best area to stay in Faro for convenience. Walk from your hotel to the Porta Nova Pier to book a day cruise. Or explore Faro’s seafaring traditions at the Maritime Museum. Enjoy a coffee or cold drink at the waterside cafes, or order pizza at alfresco restaurants.

Good for: Boating, dining, getting around on foot

The beaches are the obvious draw, but you’ll find other great things to do with family in Faro. Set sail on a dolphin-watching tour. Or visit Quinta do Lago nature reserve, famous for its resident flamingos. Take the kids to Albufeira to board the Leaozinho Pirate Ship for a unique cruise down the coast.

For mall shopping in Faro, hit the Forum Algarve to browse local designers and international brands. Walk down Old Town’s Rua de Santo Antonio for everything from the high-end to the handcrafted. For a traditional experience, visit the Mercado Municipal de Faro, a great place to pick up handmade chocolate and artisanal foods.

Museums in Faro focus on history and art. See artifacts and artwork from the region at the Museu Regional do Algarve. Learn about Faro’s natural history and marine life at the Algarve Living Science Center. Dive into Algarve’s art scene with the rotating exhibitions of contemporary works at the Galeria Municipal do Trem.

The nightlife in Faro offers up a selection of bars, clubs, restaurants and lounges. You’ll find the most lively options in the city center. Or you can sip Portuguese wine in the bars and taverns in the Old Town. Looking for a relaxed evening? Head to the Marnia to catch a blazing sunset over the water.

When eating out in restaurants in Faro, try traditional Portuguese dishes such as ‘bife na pedra’ (steak on stone), a local specialty served at Adega Nova. You’ll find a lot of seafood on the menus in Faro — shellfish, sardines, sea bream and skates are some of the most popular ingredients. Time your stay in Faro for July to try amazing local seafood at the Festa da Ria Formosa.

Praia de Faro is the most convenient beach in Faro. For a more secluded setting, take the ferry to Ilha Deserta for white-sand beaches without umbrellas or restaurants. Praia da Quinta do Lago mixes uncrowded sand with amenities like restaurants, bars and beach chairs. It also has calm water for swimming and paddleboarding.