Travel and Accommodations in Algarve, Portugal

Discover Algarve's Wonders

Fabulous beaches, award-winning golf courses and charming towns speckle the Algarve region making this destination an ideal location for outdoor sports and cultural indulgences. You can swim or dive in the Atlantic, play golf on a lush course or horseback ride among its natural landscapes. And when traveling in one of Algarve’s attractive towns, you can visit old Moorish monuments, eat at a fabulous seafood restaurant or simply stroll among the beauty of Portugal’s southern region.

Current Weather

85.24 °F - Clear Min/Max: 85.24 °F / 85.24 °FFeels: 90.36 °F Humidity: 62%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Faro’s old town is not, in fact, that old — it was burned down by English troops in 1596, later rebuilt, and then destroyed by the earthquake of 1755. Still, it remains a beautiful and pedestrian-friendly place. Next to the citadel’s ring-wall is the small harbour where the newer and livelier part of the city stretches northeast. The gardens next to the harbour, Jardim Manuel Bivar, are a good point to start exploring. At the end of the gardens is the city’s main shopping area — a small network of pedestrian streets with all kinds of shops, cafes and restaurants. North of the shopping you will find some of Faro’s famous churches, such as Igreja do Carmo. On the west side, you will come across the hilly Avenida 5 de Outubro. At the end of the avenue, you will be rewarded with a broad vista of Faro, the wetlands of Ria Formosa, and the sea.

Useful information

Population:

The City: 41,000 Faro Municipality: 69,000

Currency:

1 Euro = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

112

Opening Hours:

Shops are normally open from 9am to 7pm on weekdays, and some may close for the weekend.

Do & See

Algarve Stadium

The Estádio Algarve was built for the 2004 European football championship, but that does not make it a football fanatics-only attraction. Here, you can see different sporting events year-round, so make sure to check if there is anything of interest during your visit.

Boat Trips in the Algarve

Cruise the Ria Formosa waterways in the lovely and tranquil blue boats available to rent. It is a great way to see the area and to indulge in a bit of birdwatching. You also have the option of stopping at one of the beautiful beaches for a picnic, or just some sunbathing.

Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

The full name of this church is a mouthful — the Church of the Third Order of Our Lady of Monte do Carmo. It is the most popular of Faro's churches, not so much for its fantastically elaborate, gold-leaf laden, Baroque interior, but for its bone chapel, entirely decorated with monks' skeletons.

Faro Cathedral

Rebuilt throughout the ages, the Faro Cathedral, also known as the Santa Maria Cathedral, is now a mixture of Renaissance and Baroque religious buildings. Its interior is equally rich, featuring a large organ from the 18th-century with Chinoiserie details.

Golf

Spectacular backdrops make for a memorable round of golf in the Algarve. Boasting an impressive number of golf courses — almost 40 — there is something for players of every skill level and taste.

Ilha Deserta (Barreta Island)

At Deserta Island, also known as Ilha da Barretta, you have the rare opportunity to spend a day on an uninhabited island. Enjoy peaceful white-sand beaches with crystal blue water. Arrive either by boat or water taxi and do not forget to bring water. As there is only one restaurant on the island, it is also a good idea to bring a snack.

Kayaking

For many, kayaking is one of the highlights of their trip to Faro. Admire the flocks of beautiful flamingos and the stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean as you tread gentle waves. There are numerous places where you can rent kayaks along the coast.

Lagos Zoo

Lagos Zoo is an extensive interactive zoo with animal species from all around the globe. It also features a recreation of the South African Boulders beach, with its own penguin population.

Dining

2 Irmãos

Dois Irmãos has a long history as one of Faro’s best and most popular fish restaurants. Established in 1925, this Faro gastronomic landmark serves traditional local cuisine prepared using modern methods, with a focus on seafood dishes, as well as a few tasty meat dishes.

À do Pinto

À do Pinto is all about locally caught, fresh seafood. Try the Algarve Cataplana — a savoury and generous seafood dish — as well as their octopus. Pair it with a cold beer and you will have an unforgettable dining experience.

Adega Nova

Adega Nova is a family-friendly restaurant with a traditional Portuguese menu. It is a popular restaurant among tourists, and it's known for its generous portions for affordable prices. Do not miss a taste of one of the many wines from their own massive wine cellar.

Centenário

Centenário serves a varied menu consisting of traditional Algarve cuisine, which includes a mix of fresh seafood and meat dishes. One of Centenário's biggest selling points is, however, the regular fado performances. The restaurant also has a pleasant terrace, an aquarium, and a cozy fireplace.

Hamburgueria da Baixa

If you are craving a tasty hamburger while in Faro, this is the place to go. Baixa Hamburgueria Faro prepares everything on the spot using fresh and tasty ingredients; Cod and shrimp burgers are also served. This joint has two branches in downtown Faro.

Le Marquis Restaurant

This fine-dining restaurant might be a bit hard to find, but it is well worth searching for. Here you will be able to enjoy delicious cuisine and top service in a cosy and rustic atmosphere. The menu changes on a regular basis and guests tend to come back for many visits.

Marisqueira Gimbras

Despite its simple decoration, the food and the service make Marisqueira Gimbras a memorable restaurant. The menu includes local savory seafood cuisine and wines at affordable prices.

Restaurante Casa Velha

This fine-dining restaurant is located in the Quinta do Lago golf resort and complex, right by a beautiful lake. The finest chefs in charge have developed a wonderful menu inspired by French flavours, including an extensive wine list that perfectly matches the menu.

Cafés

Alcachofra Cafe

This vegan cafe is the only of its kind in Faro. Its organic, entirely-vegan menu will delight anyone, even those who are not vegan. Don't miss out on their wonderful vegan cakes and desserts.

Demo Padaria Urbana

This lovely bakery located in the heart of Faro serves freshly-prepared sandwiches and desserts. Perfect for a mid-afternoon snack right before a trip to the beach, this cosy place also serves vegan and vegetarian options.

Maktostas

For a quick snack and a refreshing drink, head over to Maktostas. Take a seat on their terrace, enjoy the sun and order one of their huge and delicious toasts with the filling of your choice, and get recharged for the rest of your stay in Faro.

O Coreto

O Coreto is a great place to go to for an afternoon snack or a light meal. They specialize in home-made pizzas and pasta dishes, which taste even better when paired with the right wine and the lovely view over the marina. Be sure to try one of their desserts as well.

O Seu Café

Located on a pleasant square just outside the city centre, O Seu Café is a very modest café mostly visited by locals. Light lunches, snacks, and cold beers are served here for very reasonable prices. As any good Portuguese café, short and delicious espresso coffee is served as well.

Pastelaria Centeio

Pastelaria Centeio has a typically Portuguese warm and friendly atmosphere. Selling a wide offer of sandwiches, homemade cakes, pastries, and coffee, it is just the perfect place for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Bars & Nightlife

24 Bar Faro

24 Bar Faro is a small bar located on a narrow cobblestone street in Faro. It holds live music events, happy hours, and even karaoke. The atmosphere is warm and genuine, the drink menu is extensive — it's a venue that will suit any taste.

7imeio Winebar

Located in Olhão, just 15 minutes east of Faro, you'll find 7imeio . The bar has its focus on good wine, but they also make delicious cocktails. You can also find an array of tapas to go with the wine or your chosen drink, allowing you to snack and drink the night away.

Âncora Bar

This modest, nautical-inspired bar is perfect for those who seek a night filled with drinks and friendly conversations. Stop by and have a great night, courtesy of the incredibly nice staff.

Aperitivo Bar

Aperitivo Bar is a favourite after-work destination among locals. Its wide selection of international beers and tapas-style dishes are the perfect excuse to sit down and have a relaxing evening. Take advantage of their happy hour (6pm–8pm), when you can eat as much as you want and only pay for the drinks.

Columbus

Columbus is a laid-back bar with a relaxing view over the marina. It is all about expertly-prepared cocktails, offering one of the most carefully created drinks menus in Faro.

Havana Club

If you are looking for a quiet place to go for a drink with your loved ones, then Havana Club is where you'll want to head. This tiny Cuban-inspired bar will serve you Caribbean cocktails that perfectly suit Faro's warm summer nights. Music shows are also occasionally held here.

Libertos Club (Albufeira)

If you come here early, the open-air bar offers a more relaxing venue to sit and sip a cocktail to the sound of live acoustic music. Later on, the music gets louder and the stylish place turns into a popular nightclub with DJs playing the latest tunes.

O Castelo

Take a seat at the lovely terrace of O Castelo and enjoy the beautiful views of the Ria Formosa lagoon with a glass of sangria. They host all sorts of live performances, such as flamenco, fado, and local cover bands, making O Castelo one of the best places in Faro for music-lovers.

Shopping

Algarve Shopping Centre

Just outside Albufeira you find Algarve Shopping Centre. It is the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon or just to stay out of the sun and heat for a while. You can find several different shops, both from chains like Zara and C&A but also some small local boutiques. If you get hungry there is a food court, and if you feel like catching a movie there is also a cinema.

António Manuel

Antonio Manuel is a trendy fashion shop that has been around since 1957. They sell high-end luxury brands and the latest styles for both men and women. It's the right place for those seeking name brand apparel.

Forum Algarve

Forum Algarve is one of the town's premier shopping centres, featuring all sorts of fashion stores and restaurants. It is also home to one of the biggest cinema places in the Algarve.

Intermarché

When you think of shopping, maybe grocery shopping isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But you find a good selection of brands, fresh fruits and vegetables, live seafood, newly butchered meat and local wines at the Intermarché in Carvoeiro. This international chain has several outlets across the Algarve coast.

Jah Shaka Surf Shop (Lagos)

If you like surfing and the lifestyle that comes with it, you will love Jah Shaka Surf Shop in Lagos. Here you find all the major surf brands such as Quicksilver, Roxy, Analog and Ripcurl. They have everything from boards and equipment to clothes and accessories.

Mercado Municipal

This is Faro’s largest fresh produce market. Located in a gorgeous modern building, the market is open until late and is the perfect place to have direct contact with the local food culture. It is recommended to go in the early morning when the food stock is the highest.

Outdoor Markets

Outdoor markets occur weekly across the towns and villages of Algarve. They are great for strolling through the produce stands and watching the locals shop for fresh fruit and fish directly from the farmers and fishermen. For flea markets and auctions, weekends present the best opportunity to browse for deals.

Porches Pottery

The town of Porches has a long history of pottery production. All items are unique and made by local artists and artisans, including hand-painted dishes, jars, carafes, and tea-sets, among many others. It is a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir for your loved ones back home.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The Algarve region is famous for having the best weather in Portugal, with long summers and short, mild winters. Beach season goes from spring to autumn and attracts the biggest crowds; visiting in winter often means that you will find more affordable accommodations and a quieter atmosphere.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Portugal, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Faro International Airport (FAO)

Faro’s international airport is located six kilometres to the west of the city, right by the sea. Buses 14 and 16 depart regularly to the centre of Faro, and the trip takes approximately 20 minutes. You can buy the ticket directly from the driver, but remember that it is good to have some small change or the exact amount of money. A taxi ride takes just under fifteen minutes.

Public Transport

Faro’s train station connects the city with the rest of the region and the country. There is also a well-developed bus network, EVA, convenient for small trips within the region. In the city centre, it is best to walk, but if you would rather take the local bus, the courier name is Próximo. You can use your phone to buy tickets and plan trips on Próximo with the PICK app.

Taxi

For longer trips, it is better to negotiate the price in advance as the driver has the right to various surcharges for returning empty if the taxi meter is used. Tips are not obligatory but appreciated, even if small. The cars are either beige, green or black, and the best way to find one is to go to one of the taxi ranks or pre-book. One of the main taxi companies in town is Faro Taxi.

Electricity

220 V/50Hz with a Type F electrical plug with two round pins, same as in many countries in Continental Europe.

Pharmacy

Generally, pharmacies in Portugal are open on weekdays from 9am to 7pm; some pharmacies close for lunch. On Saturdays, pharmacies close around 1pm. Each district will have a 24-hour pharmacy (farmácia, with a green cross) according to a schedule posted in the windows of all closed pharmacies. Penha pharmacy is the best reviewed pharmacy in town, though it's not the most central one. It's also always open.

Phone

Country code: +351 Area code: (0)289

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit the Algarve?

The best time to visit the Algarve is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the region is less crowded. Summer months are popular but can be very busy and hot, while winter offers milder temperatures and fewer tourists.

What are the must-see attractions in the Algarve?

The Algarve is famous for its stunning coastline, with must-see attractions including the Benagil Cave, Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, and the historic town of Tavira. The Ria Formosa Natural Park is also a highlight, offering beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.

How can I get around the Algarve?

The Algarve is best explored by car, allowing you to easily access its beaches, towns, and countryside. Public transportation options include buses and trains, which connect major towns like Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

What local dishes should I try in the Algarve?

In the Algarve, try local specialties such as cataplana de marisco, a seafood stew, and grilled sardines. Don't miss out on the region's pastries like Dom Rodrigo and Morgado. The Algarve is also known for its fresh fish and seafood, often simply grilled with olive oil and herbs.

How many days should I spend in the Algarve?

A stay of 4 to 7 days is ideal to explore the Algarve's beaches, towns, and attractions at a relaxed pace. This allows time for day trips to places like Sagres or the Monchique Mountains, as well as leisure time on the beautiful beaches.

What are some recommended day trips from the Algarve?

Recommended day trips from the Algarve include visiting the historic town of Silves with its Moorish castle, exploring the dramatic cliffs and beaches of Sagres, or taking a boat tour to see the Benagil Cave. The Monchique Mountains offer a scenic escape with hiking opportunities.

Where is the best place to stay in the Algarve?

Popular places to stay in the Algarve include Albufeira for its lively atmosphere, Lagos for its historic charm and beautiful beaches, and Vilamoura for a more upscale experience. Faro, the region's capital, is also a convenient base with good transport links.

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