3 days in Faro itinerary: old town and hidden gems

If you’re taking the time to spend 3 days in Faro, then this travel itinerary will give you some inspiration on what to do and see.

Located in the popular Portuguese region of the Algarve, for many new visitors to southern Portugal, Faro is the main hub for entering the region.

3 days in Faro

With many places to see in the Algarve, Faro can be considered a launchpad destination for visitors due to its nearby airport, but the whitewashed buildings and red-tiled roofs offer much more than meets the eye.

How many days to spend in Faro?

I recommend a total of 3 days to be able to see everything suggested below, which includes enough time to explore the city and some day trips into the region.

With sustainable travel ideology in mind, the itinerary covered the below factors in enough time to relax on some of the best beaches in Portugal whilst also visiting some of the best historical cities nearby, too.

Best time to visit Faro?

Known primarily as a summer break destination, Faro has its best and hottest weather during the summer months. However, there are also good alternative times to visit, which we’ll explore below.

Summer, which runs from June until September, is the hottest time to visit Faro. Average daily temperatures range from 72 to 76°F, with highs of 83°F and evening lows of 64 °F. On average, July and August are the hottest months of the year.

This season also marks the least amount of rain, with between 0-0.5 inches falling throughout each. July is the driest of the year, sometimes with no rainfall at all.

The shoulder months of April, May, and October are also great times to visit. Not only is the weather still warm, but with that, the majority of the boutique hotel prices are less expensive than usual, as they are outside the touristy season.

Average temperatures range from 63-67 °F, with highs of up to 73 °F and lows of 55 °F. Rainfall can range from 0.5-1.5 inches in these months.

Lastly, winter runs from November until February. Average temperatures range from 55-60 °F, with highs of 67 °F and lows of 47 °F.

January is usually the coldest month to visit Faro. Rainfall is at its highest this time of year, with between 2–3 inches falling throughout each month. With 3.2 inches, November is the wettest month of the year.

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Faro itinerary (3 days)

If you’re travelling to the Algarve from Lisbon, get ready to relax, as we’ll cover my 3-day itinerary, which I feel gives the best experience of Faro.

Whilst it covers mostly everything, it’s also flexible, meaning there will be a few hours free here and there.

Day 1 in Faro

Arriving for the first day in Faro, today will be about exploring the best sights of the town. Check out Faro Boutique Hotel or even Demo House for a convenient stay.

After dropping luggage off at the accommodation, head straight to Cidade Velha for some breakfast (or early lunch). To save you time, just head to Chelsea Coffee and Brunch because it’s the best place for both.

This area is full of mediaeval streets and impressive architecture. After a stroll, head to the Arco da Vila, which is located in the old district.

It marks the entrance of the old quarters and is also close to the giant Moorish walls that engulf the old town.

After, take a bus to the north of Faro, where you can explore the Igreja do Carmo church.

With a chapel made from bones and skulls of the former monk inhabitants, you can spend some time at this stunning church and really take in its unique architectural style.

After, go out for an evening meal at one of the restaurants (Se7e Pedras is popular), and then the night is yours to enjoy as you please.

Day 2 in Faro

Wake up early and leave early to catch the bus to Lagos.

Around 2.5 hours from Faro, this beautiful coastal town is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Algarve.

Upon arrival, head straight to Batata Beach to enjoy the midday sun, and also for a chance to surf if you like.

After lounging for a few hours, be sure to grab some lunch at the close-by Mar Restaurante e Bar for some well-presented and tasty food.

The next stop is the Fort of Ponta da Badeira.

Built in the 17th century, this waterfront fort was vital for fending off potential attacks from nearby Spain and pirates.

While less likely today, instead you can enjoy great coastal views from the fort. Whenever you’re ready, you can then take the bus back to Faro.

Day 3 in Faro

On the last day, you have two options.

If you want culture, then head on a bus to nearby Loule.

Visiting Loule you can explore its brilliant market (best on Saturdays if possible to head then), as well as the impressive Moorish fortress with its unique architecture and imposing towers.

The other option is to spend the day lounging on the beach of Ilha Deserta, which stretches for about 7 kilometres and is known for its unspoiled nature.

This stunning island is close to Faro and offers a more remote experience with stunning views. After, it’s time to head back to the accommodation and grab your luggage.

Day trips from Faro

Like with many cities and towns in Portugal, providing you have the time you can look to do a day trip.

1. Lagos

This historical town is located around 2.5 hours on the bus from Faro.

There are plenty of interesting sights to see here, including Saint Antonio Church. The Lagos Marina as well as the Fort of Ponta da Badeira. You can also take a boat cruise to Ponta da Piedade.

It’s also home to a former slave market, which is good to explore too. Lagos has some great beaches to relax on, such as Batata and Pinhão (arguably more attractive than those in Faro).

2. Loule

Only 10 miles from Faro, it’s easy to reach this small town.

Whilst less known about, Loule is a great place to learn about Portuguese history and explore its markets.

It’s home to a Moorish castle and has many winding mediaeval streets which are perfect for snapping photos. You can do a rock salt mine tour to learn all the history and appreciate the ancient rock formations.

There’s also an authentic market which is great for souvenir shopping and is best explored on a Saturday morning.

Things to do in Faro

With a long list of things to do in Faro, let’s start by taking a look at the most popular landmarks that you wouldn’t want to miss during your stay:

1. Arco da Vila

This beautiful archway marks the entrance into the Cidade Velha, which is the historical part of Faro.

With a typical neoclassical architectural style, this early 19th-century gateway is surrounded by Moorish walls that engulf the old city.

This interesting clash of styles makes for some superb photos.

2. Igreja do Carmo

Located in the north of Faro, this stunning church is one of the best to visit in the Algarve region.

Whilst its baroque style and twin bell towers are pretty, it’s most known for its small chapel that was built out of the skulls and bones of the monks that once lived here.

Whilst pretty eerie, it’s definitely a unique attraction and a must-visit when in Faro. You can stay in one of the groovy hotels just minutes away.

3. Beaches in Faro

The Algarve is well known for its picture-perfect beaches, and Faro itself has many great options to choose from.

Praia da Ilha de Faro and Praia da Garrao are the top city-beach options, with both being easy to get to with many amenities nearby.

Faro travel tips