14 Days in Faro, Portugal: Ultimate Itinerary & Tips

Discover the charming Algarve capital, explore hidden beaches, savor fresh seafood, and soak up the sun. This detailed itinerary will guide you through the best of Faro in 14 days, offering tips and recommendations for an unforgettable trip.

Day 1 in Faro: Delve into Faro's Rich History and Culture

Uncover Faro's Past at the Municipal Museum

Step back in time and explore the history and culture of Faro through archaeological and historical exhibits, including the captivating Mosaic of Oceanus.

Journey Through Maritime History at the Maritime Museum

Discover the fascinating maritime history of Portugal through ship models and other intriguing exhibits.

Witness the Unique Capela dos Ossos

Be captivated by the extraordinary Capela dos Ossos, a chapel adorned with the bones and skulls of over 1,200 Carmelite monks, creating a truly unique and thought-provoking experience.

Ascend Faro Cathedral's Tower for Panoramic Views

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Faro and the surrounding countryside from the cathedral's bell tower.

Day 2 in Faro: Embrace the Natural Beauty of the Ria Formosa

Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park

Embark on a journey through the diverse habitats of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, including salt marshes, sand dunes, and lagoons, by boat or on foot.

Relax on the Pristine Beaches of Ilha da Barreta

Escape to the tranquility of Ilha da Barreta, an uninhabited island accessible only by boat, and bask on its pristine beaches.

Catch a Wave with a Surfing Lesson

Learn to ride the waves in Faro's waters with a surfing lesson, including equipment and expert instruction.

Find Tranquility in the Manuel Bivar Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through the well-manicured gardens of Jardim Manuel Bivar and admire the beautiful Moorish architecture.

Day 3 in Faro: Discover the Enchanting Surroundings of Faro

Explore the Charming Fishing Town of Olhão

Venture to the charming fishing town of Olhão, known for its bustling seafood markets and its proximity to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Uncover Roman History at the Ruins of Milreu

Step back in time and explore the ruins of this ancient Roman village, including bathing pools and a thermal spa.

Shop for Unique Treasures on Rua de Santo Antonio

Wander the vibrant Rua de Santo Antonio, browsing quirky souvenir shops and boutiques for unique treasures.

Day 4 in Faro: Experience the Algarve's Coastal Charm

Explore the Beaches and Nightlife of Lagos

Embark on a day trip to Lagos, a coastal gem renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Enjoy a Scenic Sunset Safari

Experience a scenic drive through the Algarve countryside, ending with a traditional Portuguese dinner as the sun sets over the horizon.

Day 5 in Faro: Delve into the Natural Wonders of the Algarve

Discover the Algarve Life Sciences Center

Explore the natural history of the region through exhibits, an aquarium, and a science center.

References

Transportation in Faro

To get around Faro, Portugal, you have several options. The city has a public transportation system that includes buses and a train station, but it's not as extensive as in larger cities like Lisbon. You can use the buses to get around the city, and there are also taxis and ride-hailing services available. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car at the airport or in the city center. Additionally, you can walk or bike around the city, as it's relatively small and easy to navigate on foot. It's worth noting that the city is also connected to other nearby towns and cities by bus and train, making it a good base for exploring the Algarve region.

Dos in Faro

Learn some Portuguese basics & have Google Translate handy. This will help you navigate and communicate with locals during your trip.
Be prepared to walk uphill a LOT. Faro and other Portuguese cities can be quite hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some exercise.
Try Vinho Verde , a popular Portuguese wine that's perfect for hot summer days.
Research regional specialties before you go. This will help you try authentic local dishes and avoid touristy restaurants.
Consider ordering Petiscos to sample a variety of flavors. Petiscos are small plates of food that are similar to tapas.
Be aware of late meal times. In Portugal, lunch is typically served between 12:30-3:30 pm, and dinner is served between 7:30-10:30 pm.
Be aware of tourist trap restaurants. Look for restaurants that are popular with locals, and avoid places with picture menus or aggressive waiters.

Don'ts in Faro

Don't order Port wine with your meal. Port wine is typically served as a dessert wine, so it's best to order it separately.
Don't expect continual service in restaurants. Service can be slower in Portugal, so be patient and enjoy your meal.