Beach vibes year-round: Experience stunning Faro with these local tips

Finnair will operate two weekly flights direct from Helsinki to Faro from October 2024. Who wouldn’t want to head to the southern coast of Portugal, to sense Faro's stunning beaches and authentic Portuguese culture?

You can get the best tips for your trip from our Cabin Crew Member Rodolfo Praça. Rodolfo has lived in Finland since 2020 and worked as a cabin crew member since 2007, at Finnair since 2023.

"Faro is a great place to visit because it is conveniently located in the middle of the Algarve region. In this area you will find the best beaches and authentic southern Portuguese cuisine," Rodolfo sums up.

For beach lovers, the best time for sunbathing in Faro is from March to October. However, Rodolfo points out that Faro is an excellent city break destination all year round.

"Even during the winter months, Faro has pleasant weather. It’s mostly sunny and the temperatures easily rise to 15°C. "

With Rodolfo's tips, you can get the most out of the city and the beautiful Algarve region.

The best of Faro City

Old Town

With about 61,000 inhabitants, the centre of Faro is compact. Travel back in time and admire the authentic local atmosphere in the old town.

"It's worth heading inside the city walls, to the old town. Walk under the magnificent Arco da vila: The gate was built after the earthquake of 1755. On the old town side, you will find magnificent Algarvean houses, the city museum and a medieval church. Of course, there are also many nice bars and restaurants in the area," Rodolfo hints.

From the main square of the old town, Largo da Sé, you will find the Faro Cathedral, which has been in operation since the 1300s. Climb to the church tower and admire the beautiful view. The orange trees in the square bloom at their most spectacular in March-April and you can spot storks nesting on the rooftops of the area.

The Capela dos Ossos - Bone Chapel

One of Faro's most extraordinary and perhaps creepy sights is the Bone Chapel.

"The Bone Chapel is a must-see in the city centre. When you step inside, you’ll understand the meaning of the name: the walls are decorated with bones and skulls of 1245 monks," Rodolfo describes.

The Bone Chapel is in the church of Igreja do Carmo, about ten minutes' walk from the port. You will find a chapel at the back of the church.

Stunning beaches as far as the eye can see

The Algarve region is known for its stunning beaches and Faro’s main beach, Praia de Faro, is close to the airport.

"There are plenty of activities and you can rent a SUP board for the day," Rodolfo hints.

The area of the Ria Formosa covers the sandy beaches, as far as the eye can see! On the sand dunes, distinctive islands and promontory form a natural shelter from the sea to the coast of the lagoon.

"Walk to Barrinha beach at the end of the beach area, and at low tide you can walk to the nearby island. The colour of the water is insanely beautiful!", Rodolfo enthuses.

On Faro beach you will also find numerous good restaurants.

Rodolfo recommends trying the delicious Arroz de Lingueirão: rice dish including razor clams, peppers, tomatoes and fresh herbs.

"If you want Arroz de Lingueirão, you should head to a restaurant called Mar e sol on the beach," Rodolfo hints.

Excursion to an island – Ilha do Farol

A day on a paradise island, doesn't that sound good? Nothing beats a beach day on Ilha do Farol.

“I would recommend a trip to Ilha do Farol. Within a convenient ferry ride, endless, magnificent beaches await you," Rodolfo enthuses.

The island is by no means isolated, and you can find small cafés, beach patrol and other basic facilities there.

Hiking in the national park

Just a short drive from the centre of Faro, you'll find the more rugged side of the Ria Formosa, the National Park.

"The national park is magnificent, and on the Ludo hiking trail, you can experience nature and birds. If you walk all the way to the end of the trail, you will arrive at Quinta do Lago. It is one of Portugal's finest regions with stunning villas and golf courses. The hiking trail can also be easily cycled," Rodolfo hints.

The Ludo hiking trail is well marked and easy to walk. Along the seven-kilometre-long route, you may be lucky enough to spot flamingos!

For golf enthusiasts, Rodolfo also recommends the Vilamoura area, half an hour's drive from the centre of Faro.

Day trip destinations from Faro

If you want to see the magnificent Algarve better, rent a car and head to Rodolfo's favourite destinations in the region.

History and the southwestern tip of Europe: Lagos and Sagres

Head west of Faro and within an hour's drive you'll find Lagos, the oldest city in the Algarve. Lagos charms with its adventure stories: after all, the city was the site of Portugal's historical expeditions.

Drive along the beautiful coast towards Lagos and admire Fortress of Sagres. Then continue north towards the coast of Vicentina, along the way you will find the most beautiful beaches in the country," Rodolfo recommends.

The cape of St. Vincent (Capo de Sao Vincente) in Sagres is the most southwestern tip of continental Europe. It is a must-see with its windy coastline, fortress and lighthouse.

Paradisiacal beaches for surfers

Portugal is one of the best surfing destinations in Europe. Rodolfo knows where you can find the best waves.

"If surfing is your thing, the waves and magnificent cliffs of Praia da Arrifana are your destination. Praia de Odeceixe is often listed as the most beautiful beach in the country."

Arrifana is considered one of the surest surfing beaches in the Algarve: waves are available even on calm days. There are also surfing lessons. The cliffs also offer great views for those who do not dare to make waves.

Praia de Odeceixe beach in the Costa Vicentina National Park is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped beach. The beach offers also calmer lagoons and natural pools suitable for even the youngest members of the family.

Fun things to do with children

The Algarve region's stunning beaches are sure to entertain even the youngest members of the family. Rodolfo has also some solid tips for water parks in the area.

“Aquashow is the nearest water park to Faro, only about 15 kilometres away. In Estômbar, you will find the popular Slide&Splash Water Park.”

In Sand City Sandcastle Park, near Lagoa, you can admire sand artwork by various artists. There are more than 120 works on display in the park.

Restaurants popular with locals

A restaurant bustling with locals instead of tourists is often a good sign. Rodolfo has some recommendations to help you get a feel for the local vibe. The favourite dishes of the locals are grilled fish and a wide variety of seafood.

Sítio dos Presuntos

"This is my all-time favourite restaurant in Faro. It's located right next to the airport, so why not start your trip with a tasty meal. Local delicacies from around the country are served, including suckling pig, rice-based dishes such as Cabidela Rice and Arroz de Pato, Portuguese stew and mussels. The restaurant is reasonably priced."

Restaurant O Chalavar

"You can find this restaurant in the city centre and they serve the best grilled fish in the area"

Terrace with view: LAB

"At the end of a great day, I would head to LAB's terrace in the old town to admire the sunset. From this rooftop terrace you can see the whole city, the national park and the airport as planes land over the terrace." 
 

Finnair will operate two weekly flights direct from Helsinki to Faro from October 2024.