Is Faro Expensive?

Faro Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Faro is the capital of the Algarve region of Portugal, a popular tourist destination known for its sandy beaches and world-famous golf courses. Due to its international appeal, Faro may increase its prices to fit with peak travel seasons, so if you are travelling to Faro, it’s a good idea to have a budget in mind even if travelling in off-peak seasons.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Faro

How Much Do Things Cost in Faro

Where to Stay in Faro on a Budget

Despite its popularity with tourists, Faro is actually very affordable if you know the tips and tricks for finding the best deals. Faro has its fair share of cheap and affordable accommodation options, from hotels to hostels. Here’s where to stay in Faro if you have a strict budget, and the type of hotels you’ll find the best deals at:

Budget Hotels: A cheaper price doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality– most of the hotels in Faro are affordable and high quality. You can expect convenience and comfort when staying at a budget hotel, and the best options in Faro for affordable hotels include Best Western Dom Bernado, Adelaide Hotel, and Hotel Aeromar.

Boutique Hotels: Boutique Hotels are more intimate-style hotels that can feature modern or unique decor and services. Boutique hotels can be cheap, but can also be very expensive– it all depends on the location you’re searching in. For some affordable boutique-style hotels in Faro, try the Faro Boutique Hotel, Aqua Ria Boutique Hotel, or the Pure Formosa Concept Hotel.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Faro

Faro is dense with beaches, stunning architecture, lively and vibrant nightlife, and is close to the Algarve’s top golf courses. Play golf, visit Praia de Faro, bask in the sun, or enjoy some cheap alcohol during your trip. Certain areas in and around Faro are popular with tourists for their affordable prices. These include:

Old Town: The Old Town area of Faro is known for its architecture and attractions, and also features some excellent hotel and accommodation options that’ll leave you spoilt for choice. With an abundance of shops, restaurants, and bars too, Old Town is the perfect place to stroll through and enjoy the sights, or to use as a base for your Algarve adventures.

Faro Marina: Faro Marina might seem like a flashy place to stay, but the marina hosts numerous boutique hotels. You can also find affordable boating trips, including speedboat and catamaran tours that’ll allow you to live the high life.

Praia de Faro: The most popular beach in Faro, this tourist hub hosts some luxury beachfront hotels and guesthouses that won’t break the bank, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay that is steps away from the beach.

What to Expect from Staying in Faro and How to Book a Cheap Room

Faro hotels are convenient, comfortable, and high-quality, no matter their price. From luxury upscale hotels that give you an experience like no other, to affordable and reasonably priced hotels that offer a premium yet budget-friendly stay. You can expect the same basic amenities in most of the hotels in Faro, although some more luxury hotels may include spas and pools.

While you’ll likely have a great affordable and comfortable experience regardless of the location, there are things you can do and consider to increase your chances of finding the best accommodation to suit your budget and circumstances. These are:

• Book in Advance: Arguably one of the most important factors to consider when booking a hotel in Faro, booking in advance is a surefire way of receiving cheaper prices and room rates. Try to avoid travelling in peak tourist season, as this can hike up the prices quite considerably, and book around 90 days in advance of your trip to secure your ideal hotel room.
• Avoid Busy Tourist Areas: The whole district and city of Faro is usually popular with tourists, thanks to its beaches and golf courses, however, there are still quieter areas and times of year that will allow you to avoid a large influx of tourists or increased rates and prices. Try to travel in autumn or spring– the weather may not be as hot, but you’ll still have an excellent time guaranteed.

How to Get Around Faro Cheaply and Easily

Faro has numerous transport options, from taxis and buses to walking tours and boat tours. Some more remote locations may not be covered by public transport, however, which is why it may be a better idea to make your own way there–whether on foot or by hiring a car. Faro is a popular destination for car hire, with Faro Airport being a popular pickup spot, as well as the City Centre and Railway Station. You can also hire a vehicle with some of Europe’s most well-known car hire companies, such as Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise.

If you’d prefer to get a taxi, base fares are usually cheap and reasonable, with a trip from Faro Airport to Faro City costing approximately 10€-15€.

How to Eat Well in Faro Without Spending a Fortune

You’ll be surprised at how cheap dining out in the Algarve is, with alcohol prices starting at around 1.50€, and meals costing no more than approx. 25€-30€ per person. You can also find local and international cuisines for a cheap price in Faro, but there are tips and tricks to ensure that every meal you have can be enjoyed on a budget:

• Stick to markets: Markets like Faro Municipal Market are great options for finding local food and fresh produce options. If you are staying in a holiday rental and want to cook dinner, the market is the perfect place to find fresh and affordable produce. You can also try your hand at haggling, though be wary as some vendors may drive a hard bargain!
• Don’t overdo it on food dishes: While Faro may be cheaper than other areas in Portugal, and restaurant food prices can be very reasonable, it’s important not to get carried away as prices can start to stack up. One meal at a restaurant is more than affordable for individuals if you’re worried about your restaurant trip breaking the bank, however.
• Avoid big-name restaurants: You may find that areas that aren’t as tourist-heavy as some downtown and beachfront areas might have more affordable food options. Restaurants can sometimes catch tourists off guard, especially if you don’t know the area well or know what the usual average price is, however sticking to the outer suburbs of Faro may help you land better deals.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Faro

• Praia de Faro: Faro’s most popular beach is free to access and gives you picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean as you soak up the sun– you may struggle to find somewhere to sit though!
• Faro Municipal Museum: Costing around 2€-3€ per person, and maybe even cheaper for students or children, Faro Municipal Museum showcases historical and archeological exhibits that will fascinate tourists who want to learn more about the Algarve or Faro City.
• Barreta Island: With ferry return journeys running regularly and costing around 10€, there’s no excuse not to visit this beautiful island located just a short distance away from Faro.

The Best Places to Find Live Music, Shows and Events in Faro

Faro is extremely popular with locals and tourists, mainly for its beaches and nightlife. If you’re looking for the best places to enjoy a tipple and some tunes in Faro, look no further than cocktail bars like Columbus Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails while watching DJs spin the decks; Senses Bar where you can fully immerse yourself in music and alcohol, and Piper’s Irish Pub for the ultimate cultural and musical experience. RoofTop Eva* also hosts some large-scale dance and rave-style events and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

*Please note that RoofTop Eva is currently temporarily closed.

If you’re looking for larger-scale concerts or events, try the Estadio Algarve to watch sports, attend a music festival, or enjoy shows from local or international artists. You can also attend beach or boat parties in Faro and dance the day away as the sun goes down!

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Tourist Board Info For Faro