Faro can be explored through two distinct experiences: the city’s architectural history and the maritime nature of the Ria Formosa. The Arco da Vila leads into Faro’s old town, known as Vila-Adentro. The Arco da Vila contains an Arab gate dating from the 11th century. The arch and gate give Vila-Adentro a distinctive architectural landmark.

Architectural history and cultural memories

Faro Cathedral was built in 1251, after the Christian reconquest, on the site of an earlier mosque. Different phases of the city’s history come together here. A visit to the cathedral is recommended to take 45 to 90 minutes. Its bell tower offers panoramic views over Faro and the Ria Formosa, connecting a historic building with views across the city and the natural area.

The Museu Municipal de Faro is housed in the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. The convent’s Renaissance cloister has two levels. The Igreja do Carmo shapes the cityscape with its imposing façade and two bell towers; the last bell tower was completed in 1807. Both places showcase distinct architectural details: the layout of a cloister and a striking church façade with towers.

The Teatro Lethes also brings together architectural and cultural history. It is housed in the former Colégio de Santiago Maior and opened as a theatre in 1845. The first screening of an animatograph in Faro took place there on 11 September 1898. The Teatro Lethes also presents productions created by ACTA. The Jewish Cemetery of Faro recalls another facet of the city’s history: it is the only surviving testament to the prosperous Jewish community that settled in Faro in the early 19th century.

Faro and the Ria Formosa

Faro is part of the Ria Formosa, which is protected as a nature park. It was granted this protected status on 9 December 1987 under Decree-Law No. 373/87. Faro is also a starting point for maritime tourism activities in the Ria Formosa. On boat trips through the channels from Faro, you can spot great cormorants, diving ducks, black-winged stilts, wading birds and crested larks.

Formosamar organises boat excursions as well as ecotourism and adventure activities in the Ria Formosa Nature Park and along the Algarve coast. The company also offers guided kayak tours departing from Faro. The distinction between these activities can help with your planning: possible birdwatching is part of the experience on boat trips through the channels, while the kayak tours offer a different guided activity from Faro.

Plan your arrival and stay

Faro International Airport is about 4 kilometres from Faro city centre. This approximate distance gives you an initial sense of the airport’s location. If you’re looking for accommodation in Faro, consider whether the city’s architectural and cultural history or maritime activities in the Ria Formosa will take up more of your time.

Discover more destinations: Estoi, Faro, Santa Bárbara De Nexe, Conceicao, São Brás De Alportel, Tavira, Carvoeiro, Lagos.

Back to the main travel overview: Faro.