What to do in Faro: Tourist guide, what to see and where to go

1. Documentation and visa

• Passport Number: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Portugal.
• Visa: Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada and many other countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. If you are from a country that requires a visa, please check with the Portuguese embassy or consulate.
• Travel insurance: Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events.

2. The best time to visit

• Spring (March to May)With mild temperatures and pleasant weather, spring is a great time to explore Faro without the crowds of summer.
• Summer (June to August):The high season, with temperatures of 25-30 °C, is ideal for enjoying the beaches, but it is when there are more tourists.
• Autumn (September to November): Temperatures remain pleasant and the city is less crowded, making it a great time to visit.
• Winter (December to February): Faro is much quieter in winter, with cooler temperatures of 10-15°C. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, this is a good time.

3 Health

• Health Insurance: It is advisable to have international medical insurance that covers medical emergencies, since not all tourists have access to the local health system without this insurance.
• Vaccines: No specific vaccinations are required to enter Portugal, but it is advisable to be up to date with standard vaccinations (tetanus, hepatitis A and B, etc.).
• Potable water: Tap water in Faro is safe to drink. If you have any doubts, you can opt for bottled water.
• Solar protection:In summer, the sun can be very strong, so it is essential to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself.

4. How to get around the city

• By walking: Faro has a compact old town and is perfect for exploring on foot. You can enjoy its cobbled streets, historic monuments and beautiful gardens by walking through its centre.
• Public transportationFaro has a bus network that connects the main areas of the city. Tickets are cheap and easy to use.
• Taxis and apps: Taxis are available, and you can also use apps like Uber or Bolt to get around the city.
• Bicycle Rental : Faro is a bike-friendly city, and you can rent one to explore more easily.

5. Main tourist attractions

• Old Town (Cidade Velha): Faro's old town, surrounded by medieval walls, is a picturesque place to stroll around. Visit the lighthouse cathedral and St. Peter's Church, famous for its ossuary decorated with human bones.
• Village Arch: An ancient arch that is part of the entrance to the city, from where you can see a beautiful landscape of the city and the river.
• Faro Island: A quiet island with golden sandy beaches, ideal for enjoying the sun and the sea.
• Faro Municipal Museum: Located in a former convent, this museum houses collections of art and historical objects from the region.
• Ria Formosa Natural Park: A wetland and protected area that is home to many species of birds, ideal for nature lovers.
• Lethes Theater: An ancient theatre where cultural performances such as concerts, theatre and dance are held.
• Faro Port: You can take a boat to explore the coast and nearby islands, a great way to see the natural beauty of the region.

6. Accommodation in the city

• Luxury hotels: The Estoi Palace Inn and Hotel Faro & Beach Club They are high-end options, with impressive views and comfortable facilities.
• boutique hotels: The Algarve Hostel and Hotel Eva They offer a more personalized experience, in excellent locations in the city center.
• Budget accommodations: The Hostel Casa d'Alagoa and Green Roof Hostel They are affordable options for those looking for comfortable accommodation without spending too much.
• APARTMENTS: If you prefer more independence, there are many apartments available in the city centre through platforms such as Airbnb.

7. Typical food and drink

• Codfish: Cod is one of the most traditional dishes in Portugal. In Faro, it is served in various preparations, such as codfish on the cob o bacalhau with cream.
• Duck Eggplants: A delicious dish of Bulhão Pato style clams, cooked with garlic, cilantro and olive oil.
• Seafood rice: A traditional Portuguese dish with rice, seafood and spices, very popular in the Algarve region.
• Caldeirada: A typical fish stew, with a mixture of seafood and potatoes.
• Cream cakes: A traditional Portuguese dessert consisting of a small cream cake, very popular and delicious.
• Port wine: If you haven't tried port wine, you can't miss it. It is one of Portugal's most famous products.
• Ginja: A typical cherry liqueur, consumed both as a digestive and as an aperitif.

8. Shopping

• Port wine: A bottle of Port wine or Algarve wine is an excellent souvenir of your visit.
• Portuguese tiles: Hand-painted tiles are a very popular traditional souvenir. You can find them in many souvenir shops in the centre of Faro.
• Ceramics: Hand-painted ceramic plates, cups and vases are typical of the region.
• Leather products: Leather goods such as bags, purses and shoes are a great shopping option in Faro.
• Linen and cotton clothing: Given the warm climate, linen clothing is very popular in the region, and it is easy to find high-quality garments at good prices.

9. Tips to optimize your visit

• Buy tickets in advance: If you plan to visit popular sites such as the Faro Municipal Museum or the Port Wine Cellars, purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
• Explore the old town on foot: Faro's historic center is small and very accessible, making it a perfect place to walk and explore.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Faro's streets are mostly cobbled, so it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Try the local food: Don't miss the traditional Algarve dishes, such as seafood rice or cod.
• Check the transport schedules: If you are travelling by bus or tram, check the transport schedules to better plan your day.

10. Holidays and special events

• Festa de Nossa Senhora da Saúde (August): A very important religious holiday in Faro, celebrated with processions, music and local events.
• Faro International Music Festival (July): An event that attracts international musicians and artists to offer concerts of classical music, jazz and more.
• Christmas markets (December): During the Christmas season, Faro is filled with Christmas markets, festive lights and events for the whole family.
• Feast of Saint John (June): A traditional festival celebrating Saint John, with street celebrations and music.

11. Typical souvenirs to take home

• Port wine: A bottle of this fortified wine makes an excellent souvenir to take home.
• Tiles and ceramics: Decorative tiles and hand-painted ceramics are very popular souvenirs.
• Leather products: Leather goods such as bags, wallets and shoes are perfect as souvenirs.
• Linen clothing: Linen garments are popular in Faro and perfect for the warm days of the Algarve.
• silver jewelry:Handmade jewelry pieces, especially those made of silver, are a popular purchase in the city.