Faro is located in the Algarve region on the south coast of Portugal. Consequently it is popular for tourism as it is the administrative centre for the Algarve with fantastic facilities and accommodation for everyone. The mild winters and hot summers attract visitors to the historic town with stunning architecture and beautiful beaches. Originally called Ossónoba, and a trading port for the Moorish settlers since the 8th century, the remaining older buildings were constructed after large earthquakes in 1755 and 1532, although some Roman and Arabic ruins can still be seen.
Faro airport is located only 4km away from Faro and is a modern and well equipped building. In both departures and arrivals there are a variety of cafés, tourist information points and shops. Car hire is readily available at the airport with a number of companies offering vehicle rental. If you would prefer not to drive yourself it is easy to book an airport transfer to Faro, which is much cheaper than a private taxi. The shuttle bus stops at all the main resorts near Faro. Alternatively there is an airport bus to Faro city centre, where it is possible to catch trains or buses to Lisbon and other towns in the Algarve region. Car parking is available at Faro airport if you wish to leave your car there.
There are many things to do in Faro, ranging from exploring the beautiful buildings of the town such as the city ramparts, the Episcopal Palace and Nossa Senhora do Carmo, also known as the golden church. There are also several museums such as the Algarve regional museum and the maritime museum. For nature lovers, Faro is near the Ria Formosa lagoon nature reserve, providing a haven for migratory birds, and there are many opportunities to wander along the coast exploring small villages and sand dunes. Many tourists just love soaking up the Algarve sun on the beach and they`ll be spoilt for choice with several beaches and nearby islands just over seven kilometres away from Faro. Another popular activity is golf, with several courses in the area. Nearby towns and villages worth a visit include Estói, with interesting roman ruins and Almancil.
Shopping in Faro includes the Forum Algarve which is an open air shopping centre, between Faro and the airport, with the shops staying open until eleven p.m. in the busy summer months. Faro municipal market is open daily, selling a selection of almost everything. When eating out in Faro, be sure to try one of the traditional Portugese dishes many which contain fresh seafood, such as mussels, shrimps, crabs and clams. Evening entertainment is available at one of Faro`s many nightclubs, cafés or bars.
Accommodation in Faro ranges from many hotels and guesthouses to self catering apartments so there will inevitably be somewhere appropriate to stay that suits your needs, whether looking for cheap holidays to Faro or an expensive weekend break. |
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