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Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in Portugal, is a charming city famous for its historic walled Old Town, its beautiful marina, and its proximity to the stunning natural lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The city’s historic heart, Cidade Velha, is a tranquil area of cobbled streets and medieval walls, home to the beautiful Sé Catedral.
You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the marina, take a boat trip through the protected wetlands of the Ria Formosa to see the barrier islands, or explore the bustling commercial centre. Faro is a convenient and relaxed city that serves as a gateway to the entire Algarve coast.
The best hotels in Faro are concentrated in the central area, offering a choice between the historic charm of the Old Town and the convenience of the modern centre.
The Downtown (Baixa) area is the best location for first-time visitors. Staying here places you close to the main shopping streets, restaurants, the marina, and the central train and bus stations. This area offers a wide variety of hotels, from budget-friendly options to modern city stays, ensuring maximum convenience.
For a quiet, atmospheric, and historical base, the Cidade Velha (Old Town) is highly recommended. Hotels here offer charming guesthouses and boutique accommodation nestled within the ancient city walls, providing a peaceful retreat.
For those who want beach access, the area near Praia de Faro (Faro Beach), located on a barrier island and accessible by bus or ferry, offers a more traditional beach resort feel with hotels and holiday rentals.
Faro is served by Faro Airport (FAO), which is very close to the city centre, with a quick and easy bus service into the main terminal. The central area is highly walkable, and local transport is efficient for reaching the beach and nearby towns.
To secure a competitive hotel rate in Faro, you must aim to book outside of the high summer season, when prices surge across the entire Algarve region due to the school holidays.
For significant savings, consider travelling during the shoulder season, particularly April, May, or October. A unique tip for saving money is to plan your visit for a Monday night, which is consistently one of the cheapest days of the week to stay in Faro. Additionally, look for hotels located in the slightly quieter Montenegro area, close to the airport, which often offer better value while remaining a short, convenient bus ride from the city centre.