Let’s talk about Faro—the laid-back, sun-drenched gateway to Portugal’s Algarve region. If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers freedom over schedules, street food over overpriced tourist menus, and wandering over rigid itineraries, then congratulations—you’re in the right place.
Landing in Faro in June is like stepping into a warm embrace of perfectly blue skies, salty ocean breezes, and cobblestone streets that have seen centuries of history. Your well-rated, affordable hotel is near the city center, which is a win-win: close to everything but still quiet enough to sleep off that extra glass of vinho verde.
Step One: Just Start Walking
Faro isn’t the kind of place where you immediately need a plan. The Old Town (Cidade Velha) is a maze of ancient walls, charming squares, and whitewashed buildings covered in azulejos (those gorgeous Portuguese tiles). Wander through Arco da Vila, the city’s grand entrance, and soon enough, you’ll be lost in the best way possible—stumbling upon tiny cafes, street musicians, and locals who somehow make even the simplest task, like hanging laundry, look poetic.
Must-see gems while wandering:
- Sé de Faro (Faro Cathedral) – Climb up for killer panoramic views of the city and the Ria Formosa lagoon.
- Museu Municipal de Faro – A former convent turned museum, showcasing Portugal’s history (plus, it’s cool inside, a lifesaver in June!).
- Ria Formosa Natural Park – If birds and tranquil waters are your vibe, this protected lagoon system is a must.
Eating Like a Local (Without Selling Your Kidneys for a Meal)
Here’s a fun fact: Faro doesn’t believe in bad food. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a tiny tasca or sitting down for a long, lazy seafood dinner, you’re in for a treat.
Must-try eats:
- Oyster heaven – Faro is famous for fresh oysters. Try them at À Do Pinto or Marisqueira Faro e Benfica.
- Cataplana de marisco – A traditional seafood stew cooked in a special copper pot. Go to Adega Nova or Restaurante 2 Irmãos for the best.
- Bifana – Portugal’s answer to the best sandwich you’ll ever eat. Grab one from Snack-Bar Maktostas—it's cheap, juicy, and might just change your life.
- Pastel de nata – Because no trip to Portugal is complete without these little custard-filled bites of happiness. You’ll find them everywhere, but the ones from Padaria Lisboa are a chef’s kiss.
The Nightlife: From Chill Bars to Wild Taverns
Faro’s nightlife isn’t about flashy clubs and VIP sections—it’s laid-back, fun, and slightly chaotic in the best way.
Start your night with a sunset drink at O Castelo, a bar with insane views of the Ria Formosa. From there, wander into Columbus Bar for expertly crafted cocktails or The Woods if you want something a little livelier. But if you're looking for true Faro-after-dark energy, find Rua do Prior, a narrow street packed with bars where you can drink, dance, and make questionable decisions with strangers who feel like old friends by the end of the night.
Why You Absolutely Should Rent a Car
Look, Faro is great—but the Algarve is MAGIC. Renting a car here is as essential as sunscreen (which, by the way, you will need—June is gloriously sunny).
Where to go with your shiny rental car:
- Praia da Marinha – One of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Cliffs, turquoise water, hidden caves—you’ll cry from happiness.
- Benagil Cave – If you don’t visit this iconic sea cave, did you even go to the Algarve?
- Tavira – A charming town with Roman bridges, rooftop restaurants, and an easygoing vibe that makes you want to stay forever.
- Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente – This is the "end of the world", where the cliffs are dramatic, the ocean is wild, and the wind makes you feel like a very dramatic movie character.
Budget Breakdown: What’s the Damage?
Good news: Portugal is still very affordable compared to the rest of Western Europe. Here’s what you can expect to spend in Faro, excluding your flight and accommodation:
Daily budget (approximate):
- Food & drinks: CAD $30-$50 (cheap eats + one decent meal + a couple of drinks)
- Attractions: CAD $10-$15 (museums, cathedral entry, etc.)
- Local transport: CAD $5-$10 (if you’re not renting a car)
- Car rental: CAD $30-$50 per day (split with a friend, and it’s even cheaper!)
So, realistically, you’re looking at around CAD $50-$75 per day, which is ridiculously good for a trip this memorable.
Final Thoughts: Just Go.
Faro isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s about getting lost in the Old Town, discovering hole-in-the-wall restaurants, watching the sunset over the lagoon, and driving along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
The best part? You don’t need a rigid itinerary—just a sense of adventure, an appetite for good food, and maybe a car to chase the horizon. So pack light, book that bargain flight, and prepare for one of the best trips of your life.
Faro is waiting. Are you ready?
