Travel to Faro

Travel to Faro

Faro is a coastal city in southern Portugal that is the capital and transportation hub of the Algarve region. The city has a few Moorish and Roman ruins dating from the 13th century, but as it experienced a devastating earthquake in 1755, the majority of its attractive buildings date from the latter part of the 18th century. In addition to its architectural beauty, Faro boasts numerous restaurants and cafs, fine sandy beaches and it is the gateway to a golfers paradise, along the coast between Faro and Albufeira.

Transportation to Faro

Faro is serviced by many chartered and regularly scheduled international flights, with its airport being just a short drive from the centre. Additionally, it is possible to travel to Faro by train or coach from many European cities. Driving is feasible from as far away as the UK, particularly using a combination of ferries and some of the excellent motorways in France and Spain.

What to see

Although Faro is the largest city in the Algarve, it is not overrun with tourists, as many visitors stay in villas or resorts around the Algarve region. There are many attractions to see in Faro, particularly the historic buildings of the old walled city (Cidade Velha), which include religious sites and museums. There is also a colourful local market that is open every day.

Daytrips

The closest beach is about four miles from the centre. It is a long sandy spit reached by a bridge, which is not far from Faros airport. In the western Algarve, in the direction of Sagres, Lagos has retained much of its Algarvean charm, as has Sagres itself. To the east, there is a series of ilhas, which are soft sand islets, just offshore, continuing most of the way to the border with Spain. In this area, there are two of the prettiest towns in the Algarve Tavira and Ohao fine examples of a mix of Portuguese and North African architecture and low-key charm. Boat service to the ihlas is scheduled regularly from both towns.

For some exceptional golfing, youll want to drive to Vale do Lobo or Vilamoura, which offer undoubtedly some of the best and most exclusive courses in the region.

Inland, there is a Moorish castle in Silves that is well worth a detour. If you like, you can also drive past Portimo into the scenic Monchique hills and to the spa town of Caldas de Monchique.

Activities and leisure

The regional cuisine is enticing and part of your visit to Faro should include at least a taste of the seafood specialties and desserts made from almonds and local figs. The shopping is also excellent, with two streets featuring the many colourful and enticing local handicrafts and locally-produced goods including leather, crystal and clothing. There is lively nightlife in Faro as well, with DJs and local bands performing in many of the bars, as long as youre ready to start around midnight.

Safety issues

Other than a poor road safety record, there are no particular safety issues for visitors to Faro and the Algarve. In fact, Portugal is known to be one of the safest countries in Europe to visit. Tourists are advised to take normal precautions, leaving valuables in a safe at their hotel, villa or resort and keeping doors and cars locked.