Faro, Algarve And All Its Charms

Faro is undoubtedly a perfect summer holiday location. With the whole of the Algarve at your fingertips, driving down the coast is easy, or setting base in Faro is also a good bet, as there are still plenty of beach spots, as well as lots to see whilst you're there. Faro is the capital of the Algarve and all flights to the area stop at Faro. The first top points of Faro would be, things are comfortably affordable. Taxis into the main area of Faro from the airport are around 10-15 euros. The average meal is around 11-13 euros but you can get much cheaper if you're just wanting snacks and light bites and public transport is also very good indeed.

What To Do

If you're coming here for the sun only, then you are definitely in the right place. With highs of around 30 degrees in the summer, it is a brilliant place to soak up some vitamin D and get a lovely tan. However, there is so much more to Faro than it's long beaches. Faro Old Town was by far my favourite part of the city. A little reminiscent of Prague in parts, and Plaka (Athens) in other parts. With little treasures found and pretty hanging flowers and trees, it's a lovely place to explore on foot and there is a stunning Cathedral and plenty of taverns to stop for a little drink break. There are also art galleries and museums, although they are small, but a nice break from the heat.

Finding quaint and pretty streets is never too difficult when you're in Europe. It's a guarantee that you'll find some spots that really resonate with you and you just have to get out the camera and start snapping!

Faro Old Town

Faro Old Town

Faro Old Town

Faro Old Town

Faro Old Town

Places To Eat

It's hard to pick a specific place because there are so many taverns and bars that I wanted to try and didn't have time to. There are so many places to eat, and many different styles, too. Of course there is also a McDonalds in case you need a quick burger and fries fix, and there are a few little shops nearby the main marina that you can buy snacks in. During the summer, eating full meals can be a little heavy, but keep up your fluids and always keep a bottle of water on you at all times. This little Mexican bar was a particular favourite for traditional nachos and any kind of Tequila you could want! This little bar was called Guaka. So artsy and perfect for a pit stop.

Guaka Restaurant

Guaka Restaurant

Trips

There are plenty of trips and activities to do in The Algarve. From jet-skiing to boat trips, there is plenty to do. There are lots of sales reps on the streets offering leaflets, some reps wait at airport arrivals, as there are some water parks nearby that are popular with tourists. Hotel Faro offer trips to residents, such as a boat tour of the nearby islands and free shuttle bus to the nearby Praia de Faro.

Praia de Faro is situated about ten minutes south of the airport. With long beaches and many beach clubs and houses, you will not go hungry or thirsty. Plenty of places to buy beach towels and supplies and a definite spot to check out. The airport shuttle bus makes a stop here then into Faro centre. You can pick up affordable train tickets to neighbouring cities, as Faro is reasonably small and if you are wanting to sight-see, then I highly suggest taking a few trips out of the city to get the most out of the Algarve.

Faro

Faro

Flights to and from Faro can be picked up at a relatively affordable price. The budget airlines such as Jet2, RyanAir, Monarch airlines and Easyjet have regular flights from the UK to here. The peak of the season is July but that is also when it is at its hottest, in Portugal. Opting for an autumn getaway here would mean you get some lovely heat, but without the sun too strong and a little less tourism. The beaches are a great place to relax here, but you can be easily deceived by the strength of the sun by the sea breeze.

Have you been to Faro?  What are your favourite places to visit whilst you have a relaxing break in the Algarve?

Click below to read about my hotel review of Hotel Faro.