A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Faro for Resorts, Beaches, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Faro?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Faro? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a cultural, vibrant, and high energy vacation spot. Antalya is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Antalya travel costs.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Faro travel costs.

Antalya and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Faro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antalya than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antalya is more touristy than Faro and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Antalya different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Faro and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Faro?

Antalya is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antalya can be an interesting and educational experience. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Faro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Antalya. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Faro.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Faro is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Music?

Antalya is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Faro is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Antalya active and fun. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Faro is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Resorts?

Antalya and Faro offer a relatively similar set of fantastic luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Faro is a perfect choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's notable scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Antalya and Faro.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beach.

The beaches in Antalya are among the best in the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is great for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

Many visitors go to Antalya to see the historical old town. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Hiking?

Antalya is great for hiking. However, Faro is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Antalya for the hiking trails. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Faro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Faro?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Antalya. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Antalya or Faro More Beautiful?

Antalya is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Antalya is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful city with historic buildings and stunning beaches.

Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Families?

Antalya is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Couples?

Antalya is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Antalya is a great vacation spot if you're traveling as a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Antalya is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Faro is a good vacation spot to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Antalya or Faro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its public transit.

Public transit in Antalya is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Antalya or Faro a more walkable city?

Antalya and Faro are notable when it comes to walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

Faro is somewhat walkable. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Faro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Faro or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Faro?

In either Antalya or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Antalya has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antalya than Faro. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Faro. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Faro. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Faro if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Faro?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Faro, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Faro?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Faro?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Faro?

The cultural vacation spot of Antalya offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Faro. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Faro, we can see that Faro is more expensive. And not only is Antalya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antalya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antalya and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Faro would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Faro than you might in Antalya.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Faro Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Faro?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Faro, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Antalya or Faro?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Faro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Faro. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Faro in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Antalya is a little warmer than Faro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antalya in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Faro averages at about 25°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives more rain than Faro. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Faro. Many visitors come to Antalya in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 21°C (69°F), and Faro fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Faro. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Faro. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Faro receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Faro in the Winter?

Both Faro and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Antalya is cooler than Faro in the winter. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Faro fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Antalya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Antalya. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Faro. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Antalya during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

In the spring, Antalya is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antalya in April average around 16°C (62°F), and Faro averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the spring, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in April than Faro. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Faro and Antalya