Faro: 10 Good Reasons To Visit Algarve’s Capital
Welcome to Faro, the heartbeat of the Algarve!
Do you hear the sun already calling you? I do! Almost everyday, since I’ve been here.
Here, you’re not just a traveler. You’re a special kind of explorer who can discover secret alleys, savor local flavours, and experience coastal magic up close.
This is your ultimate invitation to visit Faro! If you’re ready, let’s see why it’s almost impossible to reject!
1. A Gateway to the Algarve
Faro is not just an entry point! It’s a first taste of the Algarve’s magic, and trust me, you’ll want to linger. While many visitors rush through on their way to beach resorts, those who pause will find a city rich in history, culture, and laid-back charm.
Wander through the marina, where sailboats bob lazily under the sun, or explore the historic Old Town, where azulejo-covered buildings whisper stories of centuries past. Faro is small enough to feel intimate yet lively enough to keep you exploring!
The best part? It’s not overrun with tourists. Unlike the Algarve’s bigger resort towns, Faro has a relaxed, unspoiled feel. It’s a place where you can sip a glass of vinho verde in a sun-drenched plaza, watch locals go about their day, and ease into the rhythm of southern Portugal.
2. A Beautifully Preserved Old Town (Cidade Velha)
If walls could talk, Cidade Velha would have a lot to say. Encircled by ancient fortifications, Faro’s Old Town is a beautifully preserved slice of history where every twist and turn leads to another picture-perfect scene.
Step through the Arco da Vila, a big 19th-century gateway that blends Moorish and Neoclassical influences, and suddenly, you’re walking in the footsteps of Romans, Moors, and medieval knights. The Sé de Faro (Faro Cathedral) stands proudly at the heart of it all, an impressive mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Climb to the top and you’ll witness some of the most beautiful views of the city!
Don’t rush through! Cidade Velha is best explored slowly. Pop into tiny artisan shops, let the scent of grilled sardines guide you to a family-run tasca, and soak in the peaceful, old-world atmosphere.
3. The Stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park
If nature had a VIP section, Ria Formosa would be in it. This maze of lagoons, sandbars, and tiny islands is one of Portugal’s most stunning natural wonders. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, kayakers, and anyone who loves the feeling of being completely surrounded by nature.
The park is home to flamingos, herons, and even the rare Portuguese water dog, making every boat trip or boardwalk stroll an adventure. Hop on a traditional fishing boat and sail through calm waterways. And stop at Ilha Deserta so you can see what true paradise looks like!
It’s called “Deserted Island” for a reason. Aside from a single seafood restaurant and a few wandering seabirds, you’ll have the place to yourself.
4. The Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos)
At first glance, Faro’s Igreja do Carmo looks like a classic Portuguese church.. But step inside, and you’ll find something much darker: the Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with the bones of over 1,000 monks. Yes, you read that right.
This sanctuary is both haunting and strangely beautiful. It was created as a memento mori, a reminder of life’s fleeting nature, with an inscription above the entrance that roughly translates to: “Stop here and consider that you will reach this state too.”
Nothing like a little existential reflection on your vacation! Creepy? Absolutely. But also fascinating, thought-provoking, and completely unforgettable.
5. Incredible Beaches Just Minutes Away
Even though it’s not your typical beach town, if you hop on a short ferry ride, you’ll be in paradise. Unlike the more famous, and often crowded, Algarve beaches, the islands off Faro’s coast offer unspoiled sands and clear waters without the tourist overload.
Ilha de Faro is the easiest to reach, with beach bars, surf-friendly waves, and plenty of space to stretch out under the sun. For something quieter, Ilha Deserta is true to its name; a vast, untouched stretch of sand where the only footprints might be your own.
Whichever you choose, expect soft sands, clear waters, and that perfect “why didn’t I come here sooner?” feeling. Just don’t forget sunscreen! The Algarve sun doesn’t mess around.
6. Lively Local Markets & Fresh Seafood
If you want to experience the real flavor of Faro, skip the tourist traps and head straight to the Mercado Municipal. This indoor market is where locals come for fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, and regional delicacies that make your mouth water just looking at them.
As you walk through the stalls, you’ll see plump olives, herbs, and golden rounds of queijo de cabra stacked next to baskets of figs and almonds. But the real star here? The seafood. Picture counters overflowing with freshly caught octopus, clams, and giant prawns, all waiting to be turned into a dish.
If all that browsing makes you hungry, grab a seat at one of the food counters inside. Order a plate of grilled sardines with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, pair it with a crisp white wine, and you’ll understand exactly why the Portuguese take their food so seriously.
7. Authentic, Untouristy Atmosphere
One of the best things about Faro? It still feels like a real Portuguese city. While much of the Algarve has been transformed by tourism, Faro has managed to keep its local charm intact.
Here, you’ll see old men playing dominoes in shady plazas, hear the chatter of shopkeepers in rapid Portuguese, and find small, family-run restaurants where the recipes haven’t changed in decades.
Unlike the flashier beach resorts, Faro isn’t about five-star hotels and luxury shopping. Instead, it offers something more genuine! An easygoing, everyday beauty that sneaks up on you!
8. A Fascinating Blend of Cultures
The most amazing thing about Faro is that it is such a layered city! It’s so special when you get to see a place shaped by both invaders and travelers. You know when you take your time to blend the ingredients for a cake? Faro is something like that!
You can see this mix everywhere, from the Moorish-inspired arches in the Old Town to the Gothic and Renaissance flourishes in the Sé de Faro. Even the local cuisine reflects this history, with dishes like cataplana, or the use of figs and almonds.
This cultural fusion gives Faro a richness beyond its postcard-perfect views. It’s a city where history isn’t just something you read about. It’s something you walk through, taste, and feel in the air.
9. Sunsets Over the Marina
There’s something about a Faro sunset that feels different. Maybe it’s the way the sky turns gold over the marina, reflecting off the calm waters. Or maybe it’s the feeling of having nowhere else to be.
The marina is the heart of the city, where locals and travelers alike gather to slow down and soak in the view. Strolling along the promenade, you’ll pass street musicians, artists selling paintings of Faro’s old streets, and couples leaning against the railings, lost in the moment.
For the best sunset spot, head to a rooftop bar or the edge of the old city walls. The colors of the sky reflecting on the Ria Formosa lagoon? Unforgettable.
10. A Perfect Base for Day Trips
With great train and bus connections, plus easy access to ferries, Faro makes the perfect home base for exploring.
Just a short hop away, Tavira offers a postcard-perfect setting with whitewashed houses, a Roman bridge, and an island beach that feels like heaven.
Head west, and you’ll find Lagos, with its breathtaking cliffs and sea caves. And if you’re craving something totally different, the inland town of Loulé is a treasure trove of local markets, Moorish history, and traditional crafts.
With so much at your fingertips, Faro lets you experience the best of the Algarve while still enjoying the relaxed, authentic charm of a less touristy city.