Faro is a city that dates back centuries, with traces of numerous cultures and civilizations in its streets. Visiting the Old Town is like stepping back in time, while the Faro Marina offers a taste of contemporary local life. But throughout time, Faro’s natural beauty has remained.
At Formosamar, we offer Faro Boat Trips to Ria Formosa, helping people to access this extraordinary environment. While it’s one of the most prominent features of Faro, there is plenty more to explore. We’ve created this guide to the 10 best Faro sights and landmarks, including natural gems like Ria Formosa and historic attractions.
Keep reading to learn more about our suggestions, or feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our tours.
Arco da Vila
Located on Rua da Misericórdia, the Arco da Vila is the main entrance to Faro’s Old Town. This breathtaking archway is a national monument, dating back to the early 19th century. The arch was built on top of old medieval walls and designed by an Italian architect in a neo-classical style, however, there is still evidence of its original Moorish architecture. Arco da Vila is certainly one of the most beautiful and welcoming entrances you could find!
Arco do Repouso
The Arco do Repouso is another one of the entrances to Faro Old Town, but dates back to medieval times. Its name translates to “Gate of Rest”, with the tale being that Afonso III put his feet up here after retaking Faro from the Moors. While the bold and simple Arco do Repouso contrasts with the intricate details of Arco da Vila, it’s just as significant in Faro’s design and history.
To learn more about this city, read our Guide to Faro: Where to Stay, Eat, and Play.
Igreja de Santa Maria
The Igreja de Santa Maria, also simply known as Faro Cathedral, is located in the central square of Faro Old Town. It’s believed to have first been consecrated and built in the 13th century on the remains of a basilica and a mosque. Few changes have been made to the building except the interior, which contains exceptionally intricate gilded carvings and decorative tiles that are a sight to behold.
Igreja da Ordem Terceira de Nossa Senhora do Monte do Carmo
The Igreja do Carmo is another one of Faro’s stunning churches, dating back to the early 18th century. This piece of Baroque architecture has a perfectly symmetrical facade, in the style of D. João V. Its interiors also display awe-inspiring gilded carvings, although it’s known for one particular chapel that deserves an entry of its own…
Chapel of Bones
Perhaps one of the more macabre sights in Faro, the Capel dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, is built from thousands of bones inside the Igreja do Carmo. Built in 1816, the chapel is decorated with the skulls and bones of over 1,200 friars, serving as a reminder of people’s inevitable fate. There are only a few bone chapels in Portugal, including Evora’s famous chapel, making this Faro landmark a remarkable piece of history.
Faro Marina
The marina is central to life in Faro, as the launching point for Boat Tours to Ria Formosa or people sailing further out to sea. It’s also lined with restaurants, art, and attractions. Come here for a cruise or enjoy a stroll on the promenade. You can get a delicious ice cream and admire the artworks, including the intriguing mermaid statue. Make sure you also get a photo with the iconic “I Love Faro” sculpture!
For more insight into local history, you can visit the Faro Maritime Museum here which sheds light on the city’s maritime heritage. In the evening, pick your choice of restaurants and enjoy a delectable dinner while watching the sunset over the marina. If you’re looking for more ideas on what to do in the evening, check out our Ultimate Guide to Nightlife in Faro.
Jardim Manuel Bivar
Opposite Faro Marina is Jardim Manuel Bivar, a tranquil park at the heart of the city. With its beautifully maintained gardens, shady sitting areas, and picturesque bandstand, it’s the perfect place to take a breather and immerse yourself in the local scene. There are also markets held here frequently, allowing you to interact with local vendors and perhaps even purchase a souvenir.
Municipal Museum of Faro
Located inside a 16th-century convent, the Municipal Museum of Faro is home to a range of archeological treasures and artworks. It’s particularly known for its collection of Roman busts as well as a beautifully preserved Roman mosaic that was found in Faro’s train station. This museum provides an extensive perspective of Faro’s history and gives you the opportunity to walk through the halls of the stunning former convent.
Praia de Faro
You can’t come to Faro without exploring its beaches. Praia de Faro is the most popular in the city, with the beach stretching for five kilometers. Located next to Ria Formosa Nature Park, Praia de Faro is an extension of Faro’s beauty, with its golden sands and clear waters. Here, you can soak up the sun or enjoy some swimming, surfing, or standup paddleboarding. We offer a Faro shuttle service here so you can easily access the beach and enjoy a jaunt through Ria Formosa along the way!
Ria Formosa Nature Park
Without a doubt, the biggest attraction in Faro is the Ria Formosa Nature Park. Spanning over 17,000 hectares, Ria Formosa is home to a diversity of habitats and fauna and flora. It’s the most important wetland in southern Portugal and a jewel in the Algarve’s crown.
The best way to experience Ria Formosa is by boat, which is precisely why we offer a number of boat tours here! You can join us for a Ria Formosa Bird Watching Boat Tour to spot some wildlife or enjoy our picturesque Sunset Boat Trips in Faro. However you want to see Ria Formosa, we can take you there.
