The cosmopolitan city of Faro is the main gateway to the Algarve. It's adorned with unspoilt beaches, Moorish architecture, and of course, the renown Ria Formosa Nature Reserve.
History buffs will love discovering Faro’s past at the Old Town. Take a stroll down the winding cobbled streets and you’ll uncover impressive landmark buildings, quaint museums, and roman passages, as well as astonishing architecture. But none is more incredible than Arco da Vila whose neo-classical archway frame the main entrance into the Old Town.
For more culture, pay a visit to Museu Municipal, which houses a striking collection of important artefacts from the medieval period and a gallery packed with religious artworks from the 20th century. Or Igreja de Nossa Senhora wows with its gold-guild interiors and iconic bone chapel. It's decorated with real human skulls and bones of over 1000 monks — definitely an Insta-worthy pic for your feed!
Finish the night by treating your taste buds to a feast of authentic Algarve seafood cuisine at one of the many adorable eateries in the Old Town. You’ve got everything from your classy rooftop terraces and buzzing bars, to your more refined restaurants — take your pick!
Fancy a spot of shopping? Forum Algarve is your go-to — the open-air space has over 100 shops to splash the cash. But, it's not all about the shops, there are 20 restaurants and five cinemas, meaning you can make a day of it all.
If there's one thing not to be missed, it's Ria Formosa. It's one of the Seven Wonders of Nature in Portugal, with its immense canals and barrier islands that stretch along the lush Algarve coast. Bird watching is a favourite among nature lovers, with unique species migrating between Europe and Africa. Keep an eye out for Oystercatchers, Avocets, Dunlins, and the Little Stint.
So, what are you waiting for? With so much to see and do, it’s time to start planning your Faro holiday!