Faro
Two days in Faro: the hidden gem of the Algarve
Faro is the capital of the Algarve, yet many tourists skip right past it. That is a shame, because in September you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere without the heavy crowds. Two days is enough to feel the essence of this city.
3 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 4 sources
Friday evening: arrival and the harbour
Make sure you have an internet connection immediately after arriving at the airport. If you rent a car, keep your fuel receipt safe. You might face one-way delivery fees if you return it to a different station.
Spend your first evening at the Marina de Faro. Staying in a hotel by the water gives you a beautiful view of the harbour at sunset. That is much better than heading straight into the busy terrace zone.
- Stay a night at the Marina de Faro for the sunset
- Keep your fuel receipt if you have a rental car
White alleys and quiet squares where you can truly breathe.Faro
Saturday: alleys and cuisine
Enter the old town through the Arco da Vila or Arco do Repouso. These city gates are impressive, and you can immediately sense that you have stepped into something ancient. Wander through the white alleys and look at the town hall and the Igreja do Carmo, a baroque church from 1719. In its garden stands the Bone Chapel: a chapel filled with the bones and skulls of monks.
Forget the island excursions today. Focus on what is close to you. Have a croissant for breakfast at Pastelaria Gardy. In the afternoon, learn how to make a cataplana: a traditional Portuguese dish. In the evening, have a cocktail at the Anchor Bar or dance at the Prestige Dance Club.
- Visit the Bone Chapel in the Igreja do Carmo
- Eat a croissant at Pastelaria Gardy
- Take a cataplana cooking class
Sunday morning: medieval walls
The city is small enough to see everything in a few hours. Walk along the medieval defensive walls and explore the three city gates. This is your moment to quietly take in what you have discovered.
Skip the day trips to Ilha da Culatra or Ilha Deserta. You will not have enough time for those. Instead, enjoy a slow morning before you depart.
- Walk along the medieval defensive walls
- Do not visit the chapel on Sunday: it is closed
