Travel around Faro with Bobby
Day 1Discovering the Old Town’s Hidden Gems
Upon my arrival in Faro, I was instantly charmed by its peaceful, welcoming ambiance that seemed to set the perfect tone for my trip. My journey began in the Old Town, or Cidade Velha, a fascinating area encircled by medieval walls that exude historical charm. Passing through the Arco da Vila, the main entrance to the city, felt like entering another era. Wandering along the narrow cobblestone streets, I found my way to Sé de Faro, the city’s impressive cathedral. Climbing to the top of its tower, I was rewarded with a sweeping view over Faro’s rooftops and the vast Ria Formosa lagoon – a sight that left me in awe.
As lunchtime rolled around, I made my way to O Gimbras, a cozy local restaurant that came highly recommended. I decided to try cataplana de marisco, a traditional Portuguese seafood stew. The flavors were as vibrant as the setting itself, made even more special by the view overlooking the tranquil lagoon. It was the perfect spot to pause, savor the local cuisine, and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
With my appetite satisfied, I set off to explore the Museu Municipal, situated within a beautifully preserved 16th-century convent. The museum’s exhibits offered a captivating glimpse into Faro’s history, from its early beginnings to more recent cultural developments. As the evening drew near, I made my way to Hotel Faro & Beach Club, a charming boutique hotel conveniently located by the marina. My room had a warm, inviting ambiance that felt like a retreat after a day filled with exploration.
Faro’s Old Town is a must-see, especially for history buffs. Take your time exploring the narrow streets and don’t skip the tower at the cathedral for an unbeatable view.
Day 2A Boat Ride Through the Ria Formosa
On my second day in Faro, I set out to experience the region’s natural beauty, which I had heard so much about. My first destination was the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a true gem of the Algarve. I joined a boat tour departing from Faro’s marina, ready to explore this unique stretch of protected wetlands. The lagoon was a sight to behold—its vibrant ecosystems supported everything from flamingos and herons to other fascinating wildlife. The boat made stops at Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol, where I took leisurely strolls along the untouched beaches, admiring the serene beauty and even enjoying a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
For lunch, I found a small, charming café on Ilha do Farol where I couldn’t resist ordering freshly grilled sardines. It was a simple meal but packed with flavor, capturing the essence of Faro’s coastal cuisine. The sardines were perfectly seasoned, and combined with the ocean breeze and scenic views, it felt like an authentic taste of the Algarve. I savored each bite, soaking in the relaxed island atmosphere before our boat headed back to the mainland.
Later that evening, I decided to wind down by exploring Faro’s nightlife. After a fulfilling day of adventure, I found myself at Columbus Cocktail & Wine Bar near the marina. The bar offered a welcoming ambiance, with a crowd that seemed to enjoy the laid-back yet lively vibe. As I sipped on a cocktail crafted to perfection, I watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it an ideal spot to unwind and reflect on the natural wonders I had experienced throughout the day.
Lunch on Ilha do Farol was simple but satisfying. The grilled sardines were fresh and flavorful, served with a side of salad and bread. While the meal was basic compared to the culinary experience in the city, the island setting made it all the more special. It's a no-frills kind of place, but it gets the job done after a morning of exploring.
Food
Returning to Hotel Faro & Beach Club felt like a homecoming after a day of adventures. The rooftop bar, especially at sunset, was a perfect place to unwind with a drink in hand. The staff was consistently friendly, and I loved the comfortable bed and clean, modern room. Another restful night in an excellent location.
Accomodation
The Ria Formosa boat tour was hands down the best experience of the trip. Cruising through the lagoon, spotting flamingos, and stopping at Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol were highlights. Swimming in the crystal-clear water on a deserted beach felt like pure paradise. This activity is an absolute must for nature lovers visiting Faro.
Activity
The Ria Formosa boat tour is an absolute highlight, especially if you love nature. Make sure to bring your swimsuit for a dip on the islands—it’s worth it!
Day 3Cork Forests, Artisan Craft, and Last Goodbyes
On my last day in Faro, I decided to immerse myself in the city’s rich cultural tapestry, starting with a visit to Carmo Church. Known for its famous Chapel of Bones, this historic site offered an experience that was both fascinating and slightly eerie. The chapel, adorned with human bones and skulls, was a powerful reminder of Faro’s long, complex history. Despite the eerie feeling, I appreciated the chance to witness such a unique cultural landmark. From there, I strolled along Rua de Santo António, one of Faro’s main shopping streets. Here, I picked up a few local souvenirs and admired the handmade crafts, each piece adding a touch of Faro’s character and charm to my collection.
For lunch, I chose A Venda, a quaint and welcoming restaurant specializing in traditional Portuguese dishes. The atmosphere inside felt cozy and authentic, a perfect match for the meal I had in mind. I ordered bacalhau à brás, a comforting dish made with salted cod, onions, and finely shredded potatoes. The rich flavors and warm ambiance made it a memorable meal that truly embodied the essence of Faro’s local cuisine. It felt like I was savoring a piece of Portugal with every bite, surrounded by locals and travelers alike.
In the afternoon, I took a quick bus ride to Praia de Faro, a beautiful beach just 20 minutes from the city center. The golden sands and clear waters made it the ideal spot to unwind, sunbathe, and take in the refreshing ocean breeze. I appreciated the ease of reaching the beach without needing a car, making it a convenient getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. As evening approached, I knew I had to experience Faro’s nightlife one last time, so I made my way to Prestige Dance Club. With its energetic blend of international hits and lively Portuguese tunes, the club had a contagious atmosphere. Surrounded by the cheerful crowd on the dance floor, I couldn’t think of a better way to end my journey in Faro.
Lunch at A Venda was an authentic taste of Faro’s culinary heritage. The bacalhau à brás was wonderfully prepared, with the perfect balance of flavors between the salted cod, onions, and potatoes. The cozy, laid-back vibe of the restaurant made the meal even more enjoyable. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to try local Portuguese cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment.
Food
Once again, Hotel Faro & Beach Club didn’t disappoint. Waking up with a view of the marina and then spending the evening at the rooftop bar made each day feel luxurious. The staff was always accommodating, and the overall experience was consistently top-notch. I highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Faro.
Accomodation
Visiting the Carmo Church and its eerie Chapel of Bones was a fascinating cultural experience. While the chapel may not be for the faint-hearted, it’s undeniably intriguing. The trip to Praia de Faro later in the day was a perfect contrast, offering relaxation and a break from sightseeing. The beach was easy to access, clean, and offered plenty of space to unwind, making it a great end to the trip.
Activity
Faro is a perfect balance of culture, food, and fun. Don’t miss Praia de Faro for a quick beach escape, and end your day with some dancing at Prestige—it’s the best way to say goodbye to this vibrant city.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Faro surprised me in the best way possible with its mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture. From the charming Old Town to the stunning Ria Formosa lagoon, the city offers a little something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're into exploring cultural landmarks, enjoying local cuisine, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Faro manages to strike the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Here's how I’d rate Faro across several important categories.
Lunch at O Gimbras was a delightful introduction to Faro’s culinary scene. The cataplana de marisco, packed with fresh seafood, was perfectly seasoned and cooked. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the setting overlooking the Ria Formosa added to the experience. A little pricier than some spots, but well worth it for the quality and ambiance.
Food
Staying at Hotel Faro & Beach Club was a fantastic choice, especially for its location. The rooms were spacious, modern, and well-equipped, with a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the marina. The service was impeccable, and the proximity to both the Old Town and the marina made it easy to explore. Overall, a superb stay with all the amenities you could ask for.
Accomodation
Wandering through Faro’s Old Town was like stepping into a history book. The cobblestone streets and the Sé de Faro Cathedral were definite highlights. Climbing the tower for views of the Ria Formosa was unforgettable, providing the perfect mix of history and breathtaking scenery. A great start to the trip that made me appreciate Faro’s charm right away.
Activity