The port city of Faro is more than a gateway to the popular tourist resorts of the Algarve. Faro is an enticing destination for a city break in its own right. Located on the southern tip of Portugal, Faro has more than 300 days of sunshine and in summer the city is flooded with tourists travelling to the area to soak up the sun. The best time to visit Faro is spring and fall when the beaches are less crowded, the climate is at its mildest. With plenty of cheap Faro flights, your holidays can be real bargains.
Here are five top reasons to make Faro your next vacation destination.
Festive season
Faro hosts a range of festive events during the year. At the annual Festa da Ria Formosa (Seafood Festival), visitors can taste an enormous amount of dishes, including grilled skewers of fish and shrimp. Another famous event is the annual FolkFaro festival, which features a lively and colorful celebration of folklore and the traditions of different nations. It includes open-air performances, gala show in theater, international parades and dances workshops and children and elderly programs.
Old town
Enter the 9th century medieval walled Ciudade Velha (Old Town) through a neoclassical arch known as the Arco da Vila and you’ll find yourself walking along the winding cobbled streets. The narrow pedestrian streets are packed with shops that sell souvenirs, fashion and traditional embroidery. The magnificent old architecture is a trademark of Faro, but you’ll also come across trendy cafés and bars.
Se Cathedral
A must see attraction is the 13th century charming Se Cathedral, which has been rebuilt several times. The €3 entrance fee includes access to the cathedral, the bell tower, its museum and the two display in the courtyard. Look out for the ornate decorations that cover the interior and altars. Climb to the top of the bell tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, the coastline and islets of Ria Formosa. The museum shows a collection of Holy relics, including ancient books and magnificent jewelry.
Reserva Natural da Ria Formosa
For those who want to do some hiking, the national park Reserva Natural da Ria Formosa offers a variety of landscapes and unique coastal lagoon. In this protected area, you can witness different habitats such as fresh water lagoon, barrier-islands, tidal flats, islets and dunes. There’s also an impressive diversity of flora and fauna and endangered species of birds.
Lively nightlife
Faro is home to the University of Algarve that has a growing student population. As a university city, Faro has a lively nightlife. If you want a taste of the local nightlife, you should head to Rua Conselheiro Bivar, Rua Infante Dom Henrique and, in particular, Rua do Prior, where some of the best known clubs and bars are found in Rua do Prior. With a huge variety of music catering for every taste, there’s no need to spend the night in your hotel. Given that the club and bars cater for students, the prices are fairly reasonable.
Faro is one of the most underrated cities in Europe, but it has a great deal to offer. Besides its pleasant climates and beautiful stretches of golden sand, Faro has a cultural-rich heritage, colorful festa season, beautiful nature reserve and lively nightlife.