Things to see in Faro

If you always dream of visiting Portugal, then you are not alone – this is a very popular and beautiful destination. Don’t ignore the capital, because most tourists arrive there and travel directly out of the city to seaside resorts. Here are the best things to do in Faro:

1. Praia de Faro

Don’t rush to the resort but stay and explore the capital. Right behind the airport, you can follow the direct path to Praia de Faro, a vast expanse of soft sand dotted with beach bars and casual cafes for you to immediately immerse yourself in Portuguese life and get out of travel mode.

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2. Cidade Velha

The old city is a must-visit area that offers a variety of architectural styles to enjoy, along with the famous storks who nest along the rooftops. There are a variety of ancient cafes and bars to choose from, from which to watch the world go by or visit O Castelo, with its packed calendar of cultural events and live music. Travel to Faro with Irish Airports at https://irelandwestairport.com

3. Sé de Faro

This is an iconic cathedral that rose from the site of an ancient Roman temple and once functioned as a Moorish mosque. This place is now a dazzling example of a Roman Gothic style, with stunning views of Faro and impressive Baroque organs.

4. Faro City Museum

Before you even go inside, you will be amazed because the architecture itself is a sight that is worth seeing. Featuring mosaics from the 3rd century and statues of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, there is much to see to keep you hooked. The museum tells the story of Faro from birth until today as well as seeing some works of art from Carlos Porfirio.

5. Churches in Faro

Faro is the perfect place to see the beautiful churches in the clean white ceramic buildings that you would expect in this region. Make sure you add the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo to your itinerary. It’s a splendid twin towered building with a gold-plated décor decorated in a Brazilian style. For those who aren’t squeamish, the Capela dos Ossos is nearby and is constructed from the bones and skulls of over a thousand monks!

6. Olhao fish market

The building that provides the home for the Olhao fish market was designed by Gustav Eiffel! (Yes, the same who designed the Eiffel Tower). Located by the beach, this is the ideal place to sample some of the region’s best fresh fish.

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7. Ria Formosa

Described as one of the most beautiful places in the entire Algarve, this is a natural park and a haven for wildlife. This area consists of salt pans, barrier islands and lagoons, making it the perfect destination for biking, hiking, kayaking, or taking part in guided tours. Go see the birds and see many other protected species that thrive here.

8. The Palácio de Estoi

Visiting Faro isn’t complete without visiting the parks that were designed in the 19^th century by the aristocrat, Fernando de Carvalhal. Inside the gardens, you’ll discover secret caves, tranquil fountains and areas of beauty bedecked in blue porcelain tiles. Palacio is now a luxury hotel, but you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the view and coffee on the balcony of the restaurant which offers incredible views.