A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Faro or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Barcelona, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a popular, busy, and active resort town. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Faro and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona. Although Faro and Barcelona are both popular with visitors, Barcelona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Barcelona is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro is known for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Barcelona is more touristy than Faro and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia. Faro is popular for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Faro different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

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 Faro or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for nightlife and partying.

Barcelona is a world class party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Faro has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Faro is not a live music destination.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Faro is not a live music destination.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for Resorts?

Faro is renowned for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Faro is a world class resort vacation destination. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro is a resort town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Both Faro and Barcelona have good beaches worth visiting.

Faro has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

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 the Shopping Better in Faro or Barcelona?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Faro or Barcelona Better for Families?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Barcelona offers lots of family activities. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

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 Faro or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Faro and Barcelona are both good to visit as a couple.

Faro is a nice destination for couples. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Faro or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Faro is a good resort town 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 Faro or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Faro is not popular with students.

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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

Is Faro or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Faro is a resort town with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable resort town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Faro?

How long in Faro or Barcelona?

Both Faro and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Faro. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona 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 Barcelona.

One day in Faro or Barcelona?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Faro. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Faro or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the active destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Barcelona?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the busy resort town of Faro. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

Barcelona is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Faro or Barcelona?

Faro is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a high energy city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Faro and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Faro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Faro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Faro 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Faro.

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

Which is Bigger, Faro or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Barcelona, 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 Faro or Barcelona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Faro or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Faro during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Faro is a little warmer than Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Faro. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Barcelona. Many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Faro is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Faro in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Faro or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Faro as well as Barcelona. Many visitors come to Faro in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Faro is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 12°C (54°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Faro for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Faro is a little warmer than Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Faro