A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Imperia for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Faro or Imperia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Imperia, 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 active, popular, and busy resort town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Faro or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Faro than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Faro is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Imperia is more popular for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Faro is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its historical sights and rich culture. Also, Faro is famous for The Arco da Vila. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Faro different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Imperia 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 Imperia?

Faro
Imperia

Imperia is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Faro
Imperia

Imperia is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

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 Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Faro
Imperia

Faro is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Faro or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Faro
Imperia

Faro is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Faro is a great choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Faro or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro
Imperia

Faro is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Faro has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Faro
Imperia

Faro is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Faro is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Faro
Imperia

Faro is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Faro offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Imperia?

Faro
Imperia

If you're looking to go shopping, Faro and Imperia both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Faro. 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.

Imperia offers some nice shopping areas. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Faro or Imperia Better for Families?

Faro
Imperia

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

Imperia offers lots of family activities. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

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 Imperia Better for Couples?

Faro
Imperia

Faro and Imperia are both notable 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.

Imperia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Faro or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Faro
Imperia

For backpackers, both Faro and Imperia are notable places to visit.

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

Imperia is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Faro
Imperia

Faro and Imperia both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Is Faro or Imperia a more walkable city?

Faro
Imperia

Faro and Imperia are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Imperia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.


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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Faro?

How long in Faro or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Faro or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Faro than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Faro than Imperia 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 Faro.


  • How many days in Faro or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Faro 2-5 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Faro or Imperia?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Imperia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Faro or Imperia?

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.

Imperia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

Five days in Faro or Imperia?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Imperia. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Faro or Imperia?

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.

The authentic town of Imperia offers nightlife and food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Faro?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Faro is €133, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Faro and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Faro 75
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Faro 150
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Faro and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Faro or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Faro


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Faro Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Faro 9.52
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Faro

Also for Faro, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lisbon Oriente Station: Transfer to/from Faro City Center: $5.32
  • Transfer Olhos de Água - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $14
  • Faro Airport: Private transfer to Vilamoura & Quarteira: $19
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer to Quarteira & Vilamoura: $19
  • Faro Airport Private Transfer - Albufeira (Arrival): $27
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Faro Airport to Algarve Hotels: $29
  • Transfer from Faro airport to Almancil: $29
  • Private Car or Van Transfer Faro Airport FAO to Albufeira Area: $35
  • Private Transfer from Olhao to Faro (FAO) Airport: $36
  • Private Transfer from Faro (FAO) Airport to Olhao: $36
  • Private Transfer from Loulé to Faro (FAO) Airport: $37
  • Private Transfer from Faro (FAO) Airport to Vilamoura: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Faro or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Faro change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Faro 36
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Faro

For Faro, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Most Delicious Private Food Tour of 6 or 10 Tastings: $83
  • 3 Hours Classic Food Tour in Faro: $97
  • Authentic Portuguese Cooking Experience in Algarve: $162

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Faro 9.41
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Faro

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Faro.

  • Camera Obscura - Tavira Eye - Admission Ticket: $5.43
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.68
  • Lagos Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.69
  • Tavira Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $7.87
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.87
  • Algarve Life Sciences Center Museum Family Ticket: $13
  • Cork Factory Tour & Cork Shop: $18
  • Ria Formosa Sunset Boat Tour: $21
  • Eco Boat Tour in the Ria Formosa Lagoon from Faro: $22
  • 1 or 2 Hour Speed Boat Tour - Ria Formosa: $26
  • 2 Hours Boat Tour in Ria Formosa: $27
  • Tavira Route Boat Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Faro 3.13
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Faro

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Faro:

  • Wine tastings, with Tour option - Authentic Algarve Flavours by Quinta da Tôr: $18
  • Visit to a Family Brewery in Loulé with Tasting: $27
  • Algarve Traditional Food and Wine Tasting: $48


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Faro and Imperia, we can see that Faro is more expensive. And not only is Imperia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Imperia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Imperia 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 Imperia.

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


Which is Bigger, Faro or Imperia?

Faro has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Faro during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Faro in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Faro is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 25°C (78°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Faro. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Faro 25°C (78°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Faro or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Imperia. Most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Faro is around the same temperature as Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives less rain than Imperia. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Faro 20°C (68°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Faro or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Faro as well as Imperia. The winter months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In the winter, Faro is a little warmer than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Faro in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in January than Imperia. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Faro 12°C (54°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Faro or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty.

In April, Faro is generally a little warmer than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 17°C (62°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Imperia. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Faro 17°C (62°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Faro

Faro Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 15°C (58°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)