The 7 Best Historical Sites in Faro

Faro, the capital of Portugal’s stunning Algarve region, is a cultural and historic hub that effortlessly combines bustling nightlife and beachside livelihoods with intriguing historic buildings and hidden gems. But, while you may associate Faro with its beaches and glorious weather, it’s the city’s beautiful Old Town district that tells the best stories of the past, with buildings that are both stunning to look at and rife with centuries of events that occurred within their walls. 

If you’re looking for new and exciting things to do in Faro aside from sunbathing or drinking cocktails, why not consider taking a walking tour of Faro’s Old Town, or visit and of course take pictures of its most historic buildings? Not only will you likely learn something new, but you’ll be able to appreciate Faro for everything it has to offer. 

Explore Faro’s hidden past and architectural masterpieces 

7. Roman Ruins of Milreu

Although not technically in the city of Faro, the Milreu ruins are around a 10-15 minute drive from the city– but, we couldn’t not include them in this list. The Roman Milreu ruins speak for themselves in terms of history, as the ruins are still intact several thousand years after they were built. The intriguing remains of what was thought to have once been a villa still feature part of a mosaic floor, giving an idea of what was once housed inside. If you’re a history fanatic, there’s no better place to explore and photograph. The Romans were known for their remarkable feats of architecture, and this is definitely showcased in these ruins. 

6. Jardim Manuel Bivar

Located mere steps from Faro’s Old Town district, the Jardim Manuel is known for being a tranquil and visually stunning place to sit, relax and absorb your surroundings. The perfect place for a stroll, Jardim Manuel is best recognised by its signature red gazebo structure. Thought to date back to the 18th century, the Jardim has since had structures and buildings built around it, adding to its significance in Faro’s long history and culture. A favourite among both locals and tourists, Jardim Manuel serves as a welcome break from the bustling city streets and tourist-heavy Old Town. 

5. Faro Cathedral (Igreja de Santa Maria)

One of the most visually stunning buildings in Faro, this Roman Catholic cathedral has a history dating back to around the 14th century, making it a perfect contender for one of the best historical places in Faro. The interior is ornate and elaborate and is both religiously and historically significant. If you want to visit the cathedral, the entry fee is around €3,50. Head up to the bell tower, and enjoy panoramic views over the city and its surrounding Ria Formosa lagoon. 

4. Arco do Repouso

Serving as one of the entrances to Faro’s Old Town district, Arco de Repouso tells quite the historical story. The archway is thought to be named after King Afonso III, who is said to have rested under the archway during the Christian take-over of Faro in the 13th century– since the 8th century, the city and much of the rest of Portugal, as well as Spain, had been under Muslim rule. Tourists might initially view the archway as a simple piece of architecture, but locals will likely know about its lengthy and important past, as it serves as the perfect symbol of Portugal’s millennia of history. 

3. Chapel of Bones

This macabre yet hauntingly beautiful and interesting chapel displays the skulls of monks and is said to contain over a thousand bones and skulls that make up the structure of the site. One of the more curious sites in the city, the chapel has a history dating back to the 17th century and is often visited by both tourists and locals. Somewhat of a hidden gem for newer tourists, if you want a rather too realistic insight into mortality and important Portuguese history, then pay this site a visit. 

2. Estoi Palace

A magnificent hotel in Estoi, which is located in the Faro municipality, the Estoi Palace is home to some truly stunning artwork which is found on the edge of the staircases, representing the finest neoclassical and baroque architectural styles. The hotel’s gardens and grounds are open to the public, which means if you fancy a nice sightseeing tour then this is the perfect place to do so. However, if you want to enter the palace it costs around €3. The Estoi Palace is one of the best historic sites in Faro, as it is said to have been built around the 1800s.

1. Arco da Vila

Another entrance to the Old Town, this grand building, like its Arco de Repouso neighbour, hosts a plethora of historic stories. It has since become a cultural centre and symbol in the city, and also features a terrace that is perfect in the hotter weather and easy to access. The Arco da Vila was commissioned and built in the early 1800s, after a devastating earthquake and tsunami damaged part of the city in 1755. We’ve put this at the top spot simply because of its significance and what it represents in Faro’s history, and of course because of how visually appealing it is too.