Faro, located in southern Portugal, is the capital of the Algarve region of the country, and its biggest city. It is also the southernmost city in Portugal and a popular destination for national and international tourists. It is served by Faro International Airport, which is just a 10-minute drive away from the city.
Because of its prime location in Portugal, and easy access by plane, Faro is the perfect place to spend 48 hours in – and in this article, we will discuss numerous factors, including where to stay, what to do, and where to go for something to eat and drink.
How to spend 2 days in Faro
Where to stay in Faro
Luxury: Looking to spend big? Try the W Residences in the Algarve for a luxury experience like no other.
Mid-range: If you’re looking to stay in a nice hotel without breaking the bank, then the Palacete da Baixa is the perfect hotel for this.
Budget: If you’re on the search for accommodation on the cheaper side, try the Ibis Faro Algarve Hotel. Cheap in price but by no means quality
Boutique: For those in search of something slightly smaller but full of hidden luxuries, then a boutique hotel such as Pousada Palácio de Estoi is the way to go.
Where to eat in Faro
Seafood is central to Faro's restaurant scene, thanks to its fishing harbour. A typical Portuguese favourite is bacalhau, a form of dried cod which is used to flavour numerous Portuguese dishes. You can also expect a unique twist on Portuguese cuisine influenced by its Arabic history.
At Tertulia Algarvia, try cataplana. It's a signature Algarvian fish stew, cooked in a distinctive round metal pot that echoes the region's Arabic heritage.
Stop by A Venda for authentically Portuguese food, a rustic interior, and a charming vibe. Similar to Spanish tapas, petiscos are Portuguese small plates meant to be shared, and A Venda is a top spot.
To try the famous Francesinha sandwich, head to Xic. It can be as simple or as filled as you want it, with layers of chorizo, steak, ham, and more.
Stop by Pastelaria Padaria Centeio to try a pastel de nata, a delicious Portuguese custard tart known for its creamy filling and flaky crust.
Where to get your culture fix in Faro
Learn about Faro’s natural history at the Algarve Life Sciences Centre. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and information, and also get up close and personal with several species of spider!
Another must-visit in Faro is the Old Town, which is like stepping back straight into the 19th century. The winding, cobbled streets and traditional Portuguese whitewashed houses make this one of the best-hidden gems in all of Faro.
For something out of the ordinary, for just €5 (£4.21) you can hop on the ferry to Ilha do Farol – a small island just off the coast of Faro. You can visit one of the best beaches in the Algarve, complete with clear water and white sands, but there are also a few good hikes on the island for those keen to get their steps in.
Of course, Faro is home to numerous museums, too: the Municipal Museum of Faro offers a fantastic insight into the history of Faro, including numerous archaeological finds from the Middle Ages and the Roman Empire.
Where to drink in Faro
One of the most popular rooftop bars in Faro is Rooftop Eva – this place is lively, with regular DJ and live music sets and stunning sunset views. If you’re a sunset chaser, also check out LAB Sunset Bar. The clue’s in the name!
For a more laid-back drinking experience, you have to check out Bago Wine Bar.
O Castelo offers another unique drinking experience in Faro – sit back and relax with a freshly made sangria, and soak up the last rays of the afternoon sun. On Monday nights, O Castelo hosts a traditional Portuguese music night, which is a good way of experiencing local culture and customs while in the setting of a beautiful bar. There's a DJ on weekends, too.
Best beaches in Faro
There are several wonderful beaches in Faro, all with distinct characteristics that make them appeal to various tourists and visitors. Here are some of the best.
Faro Este: This beach is in a prime location for those who are looking to spend a day looking at Faro’s historical sites because the beach borders them. The waters make for an inviting swim to cool off in the late afternoon, and help you to work up an appetite before you head back into town for something to eat.
Praia da Quinta do Lago: For those thrillseekers looking to get on the back of a jet ski or try out parasailing, then this is the beach for you. More suited to watersports enthusiasts, Praia da Quinta do Lago beach is also ideal for those who like the adventure of reaching the beach, because the most suitable way to do so is on foot. You can still set up your towel on the sand and enjoy a good book, here though, if thrillseeking is something you leave to your other half.
Ancao Beach: Arguably the best family-friendly beach in Faro, Ancao Beach offers a range of different activities suitable for those of all ages. While some of the beaches are exclusively for guests of the beachside resorts, there is still plenty of room for the general public, too – even if you’re not staying in one of the hotels there. You can take advantage of the natural windy conditions and opt for a windsurfing lesson, or simply sit back and top up your tan under the wonderful Mediterranean sun.
Ilha Deserta: Located on a small island just off the mainland, Ilha Deserta offers a relaxing, quiet beach away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. This is perfect for those who want a lazy afternoon beachside, or simply just a bit of peace and quiet to rest and recharge ready for a night of fun and partying ahead.
Cabo de Santa Maria: We have saved the best until last here. You will notice the sand glistening, not just from the sea and the sun, but because it is packed with unique seashells, making this an incredibly pretty beach to pass the time on. There is also the famous wooden arch on the beach (which marks the southernmost point of Faro), and many visitors like to pose for a quick snap under the arch – making it one of the best spots for that Instagram-perfect photoshoot in Faro.
Day 1: Shopping and exploring the Old Town
- The best way to kick off your first day in Faro is to treat yourself to some shopping. Visiting somewhere such as Forum Algarve to get your shopping fix is a great way to do so. You can expect to find international brands and stores, but we recommend sticking to the Portuguese shops and local independent retailers.
- Pesticos (Portuguese small plates) are perfect for lunch. Se7e Pedras and A Venda are two great spots serving delicious pesticos.
- After lunch, make your way into the Old Town and explore the wonderful hidden gems of this well-preserved piece of Portuguese history. From the Arco da Vila to traditional market-style open shops, there’s plenty to see and do in the Old Town.
- For dinner, head to Tertulia Algarvia to try out some traditional Portuguese fare such as Algarve fish stew.
- Make your way over to a beachside bar and watch the sun go down over the Atlantic Ocean while sipping on a freshly-poured sangria. Cheers to that!
Day 2: Museums, parks and cultural attractions
- Taking a visit to the Municipal Museum of Faro is a good way to spend your morning, immersing yourself in the history and archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula. Alternatively, you could pay a visit to Igreja de Santa Maria, and climb its iconic bell tower to see breathtaking views of the city.
- In the afternoon, why not take a short trip out of the city to Ria Formosa Nature Park, for some of the most beautiful views in Portugal? You can expect to see some of the local wildlife, too, including the Eurasian spoonbill, Mediterranean chameleon, seahorses and more.
- And to round off your 48 hours in Faro, we would definitely recommend a Portuguese Wine Tasting and Tapas Guided Tour, where you can experience some of the most wonderful wines in the country.
Get ready to plan your trip to Faro
