Don’t miss these things to do in Faro on your next city break

Explore the exciting activities and things to do in Faro, from its historic Old Town to the untamed Ria Formosa islands, and enjoy a refreshing getaway

Often overshadowed by more glamorous coastal areas, Faro captivates visitors with its quaint, old-world allure. In this sunlit corner of southern Portugal, Moorish arches adorn cobblestone streets that lead to Baroque bell towers towering over terracotta rooftops, where the salty Atlantic breeze blends with the aroma of grilled sardines. Blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year, Faro makes it easy to uncover all its top attractions. Late spring to early autumn provides perfect weather for sightseeing and boat tours, while July and August offer a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for beach days, despite the warmer temperatures and increased number of visitors.

Exploring the Old Town is one of the best activities in Faro

Faro’s Old Town, also known by locals as Cidade Velha or Vila Adentro, is the ideal starting point for your sightseeing tour of Faro. Within the city walls, you'll discover centuries of history. This area is a charming maze of whitewashed houses, boutique cafés, and bougainvillea-covered courtyards. As you explore its labyrinthine alleys, the gentle clinking of cutlery from a family-run taverna is often the only sound you hear. 

At the center lies the Sé Cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, with a bell tower providing expansive views of the city and lagoon. Constructed in 1251, it was significantly damaged by a fire in 1596 and the Lisbon earthquake in 1755. Its understated exterior contrasts with the interior, which features a valuable collection of 17th and 18th-century art, making it a must-visit in Faro.

Sé Cathedral

The Arco do Repouso, an entrance to history

The Old Town remains surrounded by medieval walls, primarily accessed through two impressive gateways: the elegant Arco da Vila, a symbol of Faro, and the historic Arco do Repouso. The latter is steeped in myths and legends. Locals speak of a Moorish princess who once found refuge here, while others say it was where King Afonso III rested after reclaiming the city from Andalusian rule in the 13th century. Passing through it transports you to another era, where sun-faded façades recount stories of sailors, traders, and spice routes. Beyond its historical significance, the area is charming with its blend of vegetation and stone. For those interested in Faro's Islamic and medieval heritage, the Municipal Museum, located in the nearby former convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, offers archaeological and sacred art collections.

Carmo Church

Looking for unique activities in Faro? The Carmo Church, known as Igreja do Carmo, is a stunning example of 18th-century baroque architecture, with its intricate giltwood altar shimmering in the afternoon sun. However, it's the Chapel of Bones, adorned with the skeletal remains of over a thousand monks, that leaves a more haunting impression. This architectural memento mori is both eerie and oddly peaceful. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the inscription “Pára aqui a considerar que a este estado hás-de chegar” (Stop here and think about the fate to come), serving as a reminder of humanity's inevitable mortality. This spot is certainly one of the more unusual attractions to explore in Faro during your vacation.

Take a walk along Faro’s Marina

Venture away from the lively Old Town towards the coast and take a leisurely walk along Faro’s Marina. Ideal for a romantic evening date or experiencing the local vibe of the city, the Marina features charming views of yachts gently rocking on serene waters, with seafood restaurants and cocktail bars inviting you to stay. Besides being a must-see attraction in Faro, boats also depart from here to the islands of the Ria Formosa, a protected natural area of stunning beauty, perfect for a trip to unspoiled beaches and tranquil waters.

Explore Jardim Manuel Bívar, just a brief walk from the Marina

Located just inland, Jardim Manuel Bívar is a neat, palm-lined garden ideal for a shaded break, featuring benches that offer views of the marina's activity. From this garden, you can also appreciate the graceful neoclassical façade of the City Hall building, along with the historic Lethes Theater, one of the oldest theaters in southern Portugal. Since its opening in 1845, it continues to host performances and cultural events in a historically rich setting.

Be amazed by nature at the Ria Formosa

Escape the urban hustle and venture to the Ria Formosa, a protected Natural Park spanning 60 kilometers along the Algarve coastline, encompassing over 18,000 hectares of serene canals, sandbanks, and salt marshes. As one of Faro’s premier attractions, the park is more accessible from here than anywhere else in the Algarve. It serves as a refuge for flamingos, spoonbills, and other migratory birds, as well as endangered species like the elusive chameleon. Recognized for its outstanding natural beauty, it has been designated one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those seeking sustainable activities. 

Recognized for its outstanding natural beauty, it has been designated one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.

The park is just a 20-minute drive from the city, but you can also reach this natural haven by boat. Departing from Faro’s port, boats glide into the Ria Formosa to explore its chain of islands: Ilha Deserta, a blissfully untamed stretch of sand; Ilha do Farol, featuring a picturesque lighthouse, golden beaches, and colorful doors; and Ilha da Culatra, a year-round fishing community with a relaxed, salt-infused atmosphere. To fully appreciate the park’s ecological charm, consider joining a guided eco-boat tour, which often includes stops for swimming or strolling on Deserta and Farol. For a more luxurious experience, a sunset catamaran cruise provides a romantic, wind-swept conclusion to the day.

Ria Formosa

The beach is one of the must-visit spots in Faro

Faro’s shoreline is quite the opposite of the Algarve’s busier resorts. Faro Beach, reached by a narrow causeway, is the locals’ choice for a quick dip or a lazy afternoon at a beach café, toes buried in warm sand. Need a break from all the stuff to do in Faro? For the feeling of a castaway escape, take a ferry to Barrinha Beach. This wild stretch of golden sand stretches far into the horizon, framed by dunes and the roar of the Atlantic. Here, even in summer, it’s easy to find a patch of sand entirely your own. Of course, out in the Ria Formosa, the barrier islands promise something even more secluded. Whether you arrive by ferry or stroll from the city, Faro’s beaches offer a calming break from the rush of city life

Faro Beach

Make sure to experience these activities in Faro during your next city break

If you are staying in Faro, it serves as an ideal base for discovering the rest of the Algarve. Less than an hour to the east is Tavira, a picturesque town with tiled façades. Spend a day immersing yourself in local life as you wander through the tranquil gardens and cobbled streets leading to the banks of the Gilão River. Nearby, Olhão captivates with its Moorish-inspired Cubist architecture, a lively fish market, and seafood restaurants where the catch is measured in hours, not days. This makes for a perfect day trip from Faro for food enthusiasts! 

To the west, Albufeira presents the Algarve in vivid colors.

To the west, Albufeira presents the Algarve in vivid colors. Imagine sunlit golden beaches, bustling bars, and an entertainment calendar full of events. However, for those seeking more untamed landscapes, the road southwest leads to Cabo de São Vicente. Here, cliffs dramatically descend into the roaring Atlantic at what was once thought to be the world's edge. This spot still feels thrillingly isolated and should be on your list of things to do in Faro and its surroundings. 

Olhão, Portugal