Algarve - South Region
Faro <-> Lisbon: 278 km
(172 miles)
Faro <-> Porto: 549 km
(341 miles)
60.995
(2019 Resident Population Annual Estimates)
Mediterranean, with mild temperature throughout the year
Faro Airport is the second busiest in Portugal, behind Portela airport in Lisbon, with a movement of over 9 million passengers/year
Faro is a small and calm city that mixes modern places with ancient architecture. It is the capital of the Algarve region and its airport is the third of the three main gateways to the country, along with Lisbon and Porto airports.
With less tourist tradition than other destinations in the Algarve, the city has benefited, in recent years, from the opening of ‘hostels’ and local accommodation units which, together with the increase in air routes, have brought thousands of tourists to the city.
In addition, the opening of the University of the Algarve, more than 30 years ago, gave a new lease of life to the Algarve capital and today its around 10,000 students are helping to bring Faro to life.
Far from being a resort town, the streets mix young people of all ages, wealthy and well-off, people on vacation and people dodging the hustle of another day’s work.
In the squares and esplanades, nationalities and languages are mixed, giving the city a cosmopolitan tone. Despite its multiculturalism, it is true that the capital of one of the most touristic regions in the country remains genuine. Maybe that’s why I’m winning so many fans.
The city of Faro has medieval origins and is surrounded by walls. Therefore, it has countless monuments that reveal a significant past. Strolling through the historic center is a very interesting way to get to know a bit of the region and feel as if you were embarking on a journey back in time.
The Estoi Palace, built in the Rococo pattern – a French artistic style with similarities to the Baroque, is an interesting sample of the Algarve’s architecture. The building work ended in 1909. The place has beautiful ornaments in its interior and a beautiful garden on the outside, with some paintings, busts and statues.
Another monument that enriches the city’s landscape is the Cathedral of Faro. Also known as Igreja da Sé or Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria, the cathedral is located in Largo da Sé square and was built right after the Christian reconquest over the Moors in the 13th century.
As for the natural beauty, Ilha Deserta is an essential attraction. As its name says, the island is empty and has that secluded, far-away look that so pleases the traveler who wants to relax in the midst of nature.
Another must-see, Praia da Falésia is rightly named as one of the most beautiful in Portugal. It has a narrow strip of sand, clear water and is surrounded by the geological formation that names it.
After diving and walking around feeling the breeze on your face, it’s worth stopping at a restaurant facing the sea and enjoying the whole day, until late afternoon in this little piece of Portugal that looks more like a tropical paradise.
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