Tucked behind ancient stone walls and steeped in centuries of history, Faro’s Old Town — known locally as Cidade Velha — offers a step back in time and a beautiful contrast to the buzzing marina just minutes away and the modern beach resorts elsewhere on the coast. With cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and orange-tree-lined squares, this is one of the Algarve’s most charming and overlooked corners.
At Formosamar, we’re lucky to call Faro home. Our Faro boat tours to Ria Formosa and outdoor adventures begin just steps from the Old Town, so we always encourage visitors to experience both sides of our city — the historical and the natural. Combined with a boat trip through the Ria Formosa and renting a bike to explore the coastline, wandering through the Old Town is the perfect way to round out your Faro experience.
Scroll down to get started on our local tips and insights about visiting the Old Town in Faro. If you have some questions for us at any point, please just get in touch for the answers you need.
Where is Faro’s Old Town?
Faro’s Old Town is located just south of the city centre, right next to the marina and a short drive (around 10 minutes) from Faro Airport. It’s an easy walk from the main shopping streets and just minutes from Formosamar’s base by the water. If you want to learn more about our city’s airport before you arrive, be sure to read our Guide to Faro Airport when you have finished here.
The Old Town is enclosed within the remnants of defensive medieval walls, originally built during Roman rule and later adapted and reinforced by the Moors and Portuguese. Three main gateways provide access: the impressive Arco da Vila, the picturesque Arco do Repouso, and the more inconspicuous Porta Nova. Inside the walls, the atmosphere shifts — there’s a calmness, a slower pace, and a deep sense of history that invites exploration.
A Quick History of the Old Town in Faro
Faro has been a centre of civilisation since Roman times, and all those years ago it was known as Ossonoba. The Moors arrived in the 8th century, leaving behind a strong architectural and cultural imprint. You can still see their influence today in the arched doorways, winding alleys, and layout of the Old Town.
The city was reconquered by Christian forces in the 13th century, and over the next few hundred years, Faro grew as an important trading port. Despite suffering heavy damage during the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, the Old Town managed to retain much of its original charm, with a fascinating blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Baroque architecture surviving to this day.
What to See in Faro’s Old Town
As you might imagine from a place with so much history and culture, there’s plenty to discover within the compact walls of Cidade Velha. Here are just some of the highlights:
- Arco da Vila: This neoclassical gateway, commissioned by Bishop Francisco Gomes in the early 19th century, is one of Faro’s most iconic landmarks. Don’t miss the stork nests perched on top!
- Faro Cathedral (Sé): Located in Largo da Sé square, the cathedral dates back to the 13th century and features a mix of architectural styles. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views over Ria Formosa and the city.
- Largo da Sé: The heart of the Old Town, this peaceful square is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. Surrounded by noble buildings and orange trees, it’s home to the Bishop’s Palace, which didn’t open to the public until 2019!
- Museu Municipal de Faro: Housed in a 16th-century convent, this museum showcases Roman mosaics, religious art, and local artefacts. It’s a quiet, reflective space with a beautiful cloister.
- Arco do Repouso: A more modest but equally charming Old Town gateway, it is said to be where King Afonso III rested during the Christian reconquest.
Add even more unmissable highlights to your itinerary with our picks for 10 top-rated tourist attractions in Faro, Portugal!
Wander the Old Town Streets
Some of the best experiences in Faro’s Old Town come when you put the map away and simply stroll. The narrow lanes curve unexpectedly, revealing hidden courtyards, quirky art galleries, and sun-drenched terraces. The scent of citrus trees and the distant chime of church bells only add to the sensory charm.
Keep an eye out for azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), wrought-iron balconies, and local artisans selling handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, and textiles. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this is Faro at its most authentic.
If you prefer the idea of a longer, more challenging walk, our Guide to Hiking in Ria Formosa and Faro has all the information you need!
Best Cafés and Restaurants in the Old Town
Faro’s Old Town isn’t just about history — it’s also a fantastic place to pause for a much-needed drink or meal during and after your exploring. The guides on our tours are always happy to provide their personal favorites, but here are a few recommendations to get you started:
- SuperPinto Take Away – Located on Rua Filipe Alistao, this cosy local spot offers traditional hearty dishes at great prices.
- O Alminhas – Situated on Rua do Alportel, O Alminhas serves delicious Portuguese food that is perfect following a morning or afternoon of exploring.
- Café Aliança – One of the oldest cafés in Faro, located centrally on Rua Dom Francisco Gomes. A great place for coffee and pastel de nata with a side of history.
- Columbus Bar – For something a little different, head to Columbus for expertly crafted cocktails (and a wide-ranging menu) in a stylish setting just steps from the Old Town gates.
Pair an Old Town Experience with an Outdoor Adventure
At Formosamar, we believe Faro is best experienced by land and sea. After exploring the Old Town, why not discover the natural beauty that surrounds it? We offer guided boat tours of Ria Formosa from Faro, where you can spot a huge range of bird species, explore deserted islands, and learn about this vital wetland’s unique ecosystem.
Prefer to go at your own pace? We’ve got everything you need! On land, explore on two wheels with our bike hire and e-bike rentals in Faro. If you want to get out on the water and immerse yourself in the wonders of Ria Formosa Natural Park, look no further than our stand-up paddleboard rental in Faro or our kayak rental in the Algarve.
With Formosamar, it’s easy to plan a day that blends culture, nature, and relaxation.
Practical Tips for Visiting Faro’s Old Town
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon are ideal for walking the Old Town — temperatures are cooler, and the light is perfect for photography.
- What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are a must — the cobbled streets can be uneven. In summer, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
Time Needed: We recommend spending at least two to three hours exploring the Old Town. Add time if you plan to visit museums or stop for lunch.
Book Your Ria Formosa Boat Trips and Faro Outdoor Activities!
We hope you’re now ready to visit the Old Town in Faro, Portugal! Along with our Faro boat tours to Ria Formosa, exploring Cidade Velha is one of the best ways to get to know our part of the Algarve. Browse our range of excursions, as well as our outdoor activities in Faro, and let Formosamar help you discover the best our city and its stunning surroundings have to offer.
Do you have any questions for our team? Please don’t hesitate to contact us!
