For many, Faro is just the name of the airport. Many forget that behind the name, a city steeped in history and religion is waiting to be explored. With a wealth of attractions and things to see in this beautiful city, you will be sure to really enjoy your visit. Here are 20 things to do in Faro.
You may also find our guides for 20 things to do in Porto and Lisbon useful.
Day 1
Visit some of the main sights and go for an afternoon excursion.
- Get your bearings and take a walk around the interesting old town, the Cidade Velha. The cobbled streets and old architecture will win your heart in no time at all.
- Visit the famous and perhaps somewhat chilling Chapel of Bones. Constructed in 1816 from over 1,200 human skulls and bones, it is odd but one of the cities greatest attractions.
- Take time also to explore Carmo Church, the church within which the chapel of bones is found. The interior is beautiful.
- Found on the ramparts of the old city walls, Hermitage of Nossa Senhora do Ó was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and remains one of the most impressive chapels in Faro, particularly the façade.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum with its lovely roman mosaic floor to see a nice selection of artefacts from the Roman era onwards. A stroll around the courtyard compliments it nicely.
- Get active and go quad biking! Take in wonderful views of the countryside and mountains and have a ball in the process.
- Dating back to the 13th century, Sé de Faro is particularly special. Climb the bell tower and take in the views of Bishop’s Palace below.
- Hire a car and take a drive along the Algarve coast to the nearby town of Tavira. Take a stroll along the Gilão River just for starters before exploring the town itself.
- As afternoon turns to evening, head to one of the numerous golf courses nearby for a round or two of golf.
- Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at O Farol Cervejaria back in Faro. The plates of the day are recommended!
Day 2
Get out and about and soak up some culture too!
- Start the day with a visit to the municipal market. Markets are always a great place to pick up some breakfast and enjoy the hustle and bustle as the locals go about their day.
- On the edge of Faro lies the amazing Ria Formosa Natural Park; one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders. Take a tour with the company Formosamar and explore it in any way you choose from horseback to a kayak.
- The small palace, Paço Episcopal, with its pointy red roofs is found near to the cathedral. Dating back to 1581, it is steeped in history and is worth a visit if only to spy the superbly crafted interior.
- Get a glimpse of the old simple life in with a visit to the Museu Regional do Algarve. Small fishing boats and an old water cart are just some of the items on display.
- Pop into Trem Gallery for a quick look at the current displays including the work of painters, photographers, installation artists and sculptors from both local and international artists.
- Café do Coreto overlooking the marina makes a great spot for your midday meal, or even afternoon tea. Let the sun soothe and relax you as you people watch and enjoy the food.
- Travel to Milreu to see the Roman ruins, now regarded as a national monument. Step back in history and discover the remains of a luxurious rural villa.
- Take a trip to the renowned water park, Zoomarine. It’s the perfect place to cool off in searing the Algarve heat and plenty of fun too!
- Visit Praia de Faro beach for a walk just before sunset and sit down to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
- Find a busy taverna in the old town and enjoy your evening with a few well deserved drinks!
You might find yourself hard pressed to fit all twenty activities in in just two days. At the very least however, you have a list of the best things to see and do during your time here. However, if you can recommend any other things to do in Faro, please let us know!
