Discover the 10 Best Things To Do in Faro, Portugal (Attractions & places to visit)

Faro, the capital of Portugal’s Algarve region, is much more than a gateway to the southern coast. With its historic Old Town, centuries-old churches, lively waterfront and easy access to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the city offers a rewarding mix of culture, nature and laid-back Algarve charm. Whether you have a few hours before your flight or are planning a longer stay, these are the best things to do in Faro with a selection of the best Algarve wine tours to do while visiting the region.

What are the 10 best things to do in Faro, Algarve?

Make your way to the Arco da Vila in Faro

Start your visit to Faro at the Arco da Vila, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a natural gateway into the historic center. Built in the early 19th century, this monumental arch incorporates an older Arab gateway that once formed part of the medieval city walls. Pass beneath the arch and you will immediately find yourself in the atmospheric streets of Faro’s Old Town.

Wander through Faro’s Old Town

Take your time exploring Cidade Velha, Faro’s historic Old Town, where whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets and quiet squares reveal the city’s layered past. Look out for traditional façades, colorful doors and small cafés as you wander towards Largo da Sé. This is one of the best places to simply slow down and enjoy Faro at street level, away from the busier resorts of the Algarve.

Stop by Faro’s Cathedral and climb its Bell Tower

Visit Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro) in Largo da Sé, a 13th-century landmark that has been shaped by centuries of renovations. Its interior brings together Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque influences, with richly decorated chapels, gilded woodwork and traditional Portuguese azulejos. Take a moment to explore the peaceful cloister and the cathedral museum before continuing your visit.

Finally, climb the Bell Tower: from the top, you can enjoy panoramic views over Faro’s Old Town, the marina and the Ria Formosa. It is one of the best vantage points in the city and a particularly beautiful spot to appreciate how closely Faro’s historic center is connected to its coastal landscape. It’s one of the best things to do for photography lovers or anyone who wants a unique perspective on Faro.

Journey Through Time​ at the Museu municipal de faro

A short walk from the cathedral, the Municipal Museum of Faro offers a fascinating introduction to the region’s long history. Housed in the former Convent of Our Lady of Assumption, its collections range from archaeological remains to works of art, with Roman artefacts providing a glimpse into Faro’s ancient past. It is a worthwhile stop for a deeper understanding of the city, with the historic building itself adding to the experience.

Explore the Chapel of Bones at Igreja do Carmo​

For something decidedly different, head to Igreja do Carmo and its famous Chapel of Bones (Capela do Ossos). Inside, human bones and skulls form part of the chapel’s stark decoration, creating an unusual and thought-provoking space dedicated to the transience of life. The contrast with the church’s elegant Baroque architecture makes this one of Faro’s most memorable and unexpected sights.

Take a boat trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park

Once you have explored Faro’s historic center, switch city streets for nature with a trip into the Ria Formosa Natural Park. This protected coastal landscape is a maze of lagoons, marshes, sandbanks and barrier islands, home to an impressive variety of birdlife. A boat trip is one of the best ways to experience the lagoon, whether you want to explore its waterways, visit one of the islands or simply enjoy the scenery from the water.

Relax at Praia de Faro

When it is time for some beach time, make your way to Praia de Faro, the long sandy beach located on Ilha de Faro. Unlike some of the Algarve’s more secluded beaches, this one is easily accessible from the city (10-minute drive from the city center), making it a convenient choice for a few hours by the Atlantic. Grab a spot on the sand, swim in the ocean or settle into one of the beach clubs or cafés for a relaxed taste of the Algarve.

Stroll through Jardim Manuel Bivar and Faro Marina

Back in the city, make your way towards Jardim Manuel Bivar and Faro Marina. This waterfront area is particularly pleasant in the late afternoon, when the pace of the city starts to slow down and boats fill the harbor. Take a stroll along the promenade, stop for a coffee or drink, and enjoy the views across the water before heading into Faro’s evening scene. In summer, the square comes alive with fairs, local events and a lively atmosphere.

Go Shopping in Faro

Faro may not be the Algarve’s main shopping destination, but its center offers a pleasant mix of local boutiques, Portuguese brands, independent shops and cafés. Browse along Rua de Santo António and the surrounding streets for fashion, accessories and souvenirs, or head to Forum Algarve if you prefer a larger shopping center with international brands. It is an easy way to mix a little retail therapy into a day of sightseeing.

Experience Faro’s Food and Nightlife Scene

End your day by discovering Faro’s food and nightlife scene, which has become increasingly appealing to travelers looking for more than a traditional beach holiday. Try Algarve specialties such as fresh fish and seafood, cataplana or local petiscos, ideally paired with a Portuguese or Algarve wine.

When evening comes, Faro has plenty of places to keep the night going. The streets around Rua Conselheiro Bivar and Baixa are a good place to start, with cocktail bars, pubs and late-night spots close to the marina. For a more atmospheric setting, wander into the Old Town, where some of the city’s bars host live music, DJ sets and occasional parties. Whether you are after a relaxed drink or want to stay out a little later, Faro’s nightlife is easy to explore on foot and has a distinctly local feel.

What are the best things to around Faro?

Faro is a great base for exploring the Algarve, especially if you have a few extra days. From charming historic towns and golden beaches to dramatic coastal landscapes and family-run wineries, some of the region’s most rewarding experiences are within easy reach of the city.

If you have a car, you can easily venture beyond Faro and discover a very different side of the Algarve. Here are some of our favorite day trips and experiences to add to your itinerary.

Visit the charming town of Tavira

Just east of Faro, Tavira is one of the Algarve’s most charming towns and an easy day trip from the capital. Wander through its cobbled streets, admire the whitewashed houses and historic churches, and cross the old Roman bridge over the Gilão River. Don’t miss the Tavira Castle and the lively municipal market, then take some time to enjoy the town’s relaxed atmosphere.
For more tips, discover our guide on the things to do in Tavira, Portugal.

Explore Loulé and its traditional Market

Around 20 minutes north of Faro, Loulé offers a glimpse into the more traditional side of the Algarve. Its historic center is home to a medieval castle, whitewashed streets and the distinctive red-and-white municipal market, where you can browse local produce, regional specialties and handicrafts. If you happen to visit on a Saturday, the weekly market adds even more local color to the town. Be sure to visit Loulé to have a complete Algarve experience.

Take a day trip to Silves

Head west to Silves, the former capital of the Algarve and one of the region’s most fascinating historic towns. Its imposing red sandstone castle dominates the old town, while the cathedral below recalls the city’s medieval past. Take time to wander through the old streets, visit the archaeological museum and stop for lunch before continuing your journey through the Algarve countryside. Don’t miss our guide crafted by our local team to visit Silves.

Silves is also part of the region’s wine country, making it a particularly interesting stop if you want to combine history, gastronomy and wine.

Discover the Algarve’s Wine Estates

The Algarve may be famous for its beaches and dramatic coastline, but there is another side of the region worth exploring: its growing wine scene. From family-run vineyards to historic estates, local wineries offer tastings, cellar tours and food-and-wine experiences that make a great addition to a trip around Faro. If you would like to explore beyond the region’s beaches, browse our selection of the best winery tours and wine tastings in Portugal and discover an experience to add to your Algarve itinerary.

Discover Quinta dos Sentidos

Set among orange groves and rolling hills, Quinta dos Sentidos is a boutique family-run estate where wine, olive oil, verjus and honey are produced on site. Just a short drive from Faro, the estate offers private tours and tastings hosted by the owners or resident oenologist, giving you the chance to explore the vineyards, winery and gardens while learning more about local wine and olive oil production. It is a lovely way to discover a more personal side of the Algarve’s food and wine culture.

Taste the Wines at Quinta dos Capinhas

In Porches, west of Faro, Quinta dos Capinhas offers a more intimate introduction to Algarve wine. This family-run estate combines vineyard views with wine tasting, making it a lovely stop for couples or friends looking to explore the region beyond its beaches.

Share a Meal at Morgado do Quintão

For something more immersive, head to Morgado do Quintão, a historic family estate surrounded by vineyards and Mediterranean landscapes. The estate combines wine, food, art and local heritage, with experiences centered around its farm-to-table approach. It is particularly appealing if you want your wine experience to be as much about the setting and cuisine as it is about tasting.

Visit Cabrita Wines in Silves

Located near Silves, Cabrita Wines is another family-run winery worth adding to your Algarve itinerary. The estate focuses on Portuguese grape varieties, including those traditionally associated with the Algarve, and offers visitors the chance to discover the region through its wines and winemaking traditions.

Take a Boat Trip to Benagil Cave

Further west, the Algar de Benagil is one of the Algarve’s most recognizable natural landmarks. The spectacular sea cave, famous for its circular opening in the roof, can be visited as part of a boat excursion from the surrounding coastline. Combine it with other coastal viewpoints and rock formations for a full day exploring the Algarve’s dramatic shoreline.

Keep in mind that access to the cave is subject to local maritime regulations and conditions, so choose a licensed, compliant boat or guided tour rather than attempting to reach the cave independently.

Explore Sagres and Saint-Vincent cap

For a longer road trip, head west to Sagres and Cape St. Vincent, where the Algarve coastline becomes wilder and more dramatic. Explore the historic Sagres Fortress, take in the sweeping Atlantic views from Cape St. Vincent and stop at the iconic lighthouse perched above the cliffs. The area is also a popular surfing destination, with beaches such as Praia do Beliche and Praia do Tonel attracting surfers thanks to their exposed Atlantic waves.

It is a longer trip from Faro, but a great option if you want to experience a different side of the Algarve. Between surfing, dramatic coastal scenery and wide-open beaches, the western tip has a distinctly adventurous feel that sets it apart from the resort towns further east.

Good to Know Before Visiting Faro