Things to do in Faro
Discover the best attractions and experiences Faro has to offer
Historic Monuments
Faro's old quarters are filled with stone arches, cathedrals and fortifications that reveal centuries of maritime history.
Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro)
A medieval church with a dramatic Gothic nave and a bell tower offering views over the city.
Igreja do Carmo and its Chapel of Bones
Iconic Baroque church famous for its skeletal Chapel of Bones and ornate interior.
Arco da Vila
Historic gate that once guarded the old town, a perfect photo spot and starting point for a stroll.
Forte de S. Pedro
A coastal 17th-century fort guarding the harbor with sea views and history.
Museums
Learn about Faro's past through local archaeology, Roman heritage and regional art.
Museu Municipal de Faro
The city’s main museum, housed in a former convent, with artifacts spanning prehistory to the present.
Ruínas de Milreu (Milreu Roman Villa)
Well-preserved Roman villa ruins in Estoi, with mosaics and a small on-site museum.
Estoi Palace (Palácio de Estoi)
Elegant 19th-century palace and gardens just outside Faro, now a pousada with striking tilework.
Religious Monuments
Faro's churches display regional Baroque art and tranquil cloisters.
Igreja de S. Pedro (Church of St. Peter)
Historic church in Faro's old town with traditional azulejos and a peaceful interior.
Igreja do Carmo
The towering Carmo Church is known for its ornate façade and the bone chapel.
National & Theme Parks
Step into nature along the Algarve's tidal wetlands and barrier islands.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
A vast wetland reserve famed for its birdlife, canals and island beaches.
Ilha da Culatra
A small island with colorful fishing villages and sandy shores reachable by boat.
Ilha da Armona (Armona Island)
Long, sandy barrier island popular for relaxed beach days and nature walks.
Neighborhoods
Explore the city’s districts to feel Faro's local rhythm and seafront vibe.
Cidade Velha (Old Town)
Historic core of Faro with cobbled streets, plazas and waterfront views.
Marina de Faro
Harborfront district with boats, promenades and seafood cafés.
Gambelas
University-adjacent neighborhood with a lively student vibe and coastal paths.
Free Things to Do
Many of Faro's best experiences come at no cost, from scenic walks to city views.
Walk the Old Town walls and Arco da Vila
Stroll along ancient ramparts and pass through the historic gateway.
Stroll along the Ria Formosa boardwalk
Enjoy salty air, birds and water views along a coastal path.
Sunset at the Faro Marina promenade
Catch a sunset over the boats with cafés and good vibes.
Gastronomy
The Algarve’s seafood and sun-drenched flavors shine in Faro’s local eateries.
Cataplana de marisco
A sizzling seafood stew cooked in a copper kettle with regional ingredients.
Sardinhas assadas
Grilled sardines served with potatoes, peppers and olive oil.
Frango piri-piri
Charred chicken brushed with spicy peri-peri sauce, a fiery staple.
Nightlife
Evenings in Faro mix bars, live performances and waterfront vibes.
Teatro Lethes (live performances)
A historic venue offering plays, music and cultural evenings.
Casas da Cultura / Casa da Cultura (cultural events)
Local arts center hosting concerts, exhibitions and workshops.
Evening drinks around Praça Dom Afonso III and Largo da Sé
Relaxed squares with outdoor cafés and street scenes.
Entertainment
Cultural spaces and performances add a festive note to Faro's scene.
Municipal theatre evenings
Seasonal concerts, theatre and dance events in the city’s venues.
Casual shows at the city’s cultural centers
Rotating exhibitions and performances by local artists.
Sports
The Algarve is a golfer’s paradise and a water sports hub.
Golf at Quinta do Lago
World-class course routing through lakes and pines.
Golf at Vale do Lobo
Iconic courses with dramatic sea views and luxury amenities.
Stand-up paddleboarding on the Ria Formosa
Paddle along calm waters and observe birdlife.
Off the Track
Escape the crowds with nature and unique coastal experiences.
Boat trip through Ria Formosa
Explore lagoons, channels and bird habitats on a guided boat ride.
Ilha Deserta day trip
Unspoiled beach island ideal for a quiet sun and sand day.
Ilha do Farol and lighthouse visit
Fringed by dunes, the island's lighthouse offers coastal views.
Bike along coastal trails
Ride between beaches and natural reserves for sea breezes.