A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Faro for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Faro can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Faro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Faro are popular destinations, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thiva (Thebes) is very popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Faro attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Faro is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its historical sights and rich culture. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also well known for The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Faro know how to have a good time. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is very popular for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a resort town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a resort town with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a resort town with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Shopping is a popular activity in both Faro and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Faro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

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

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a resort town with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Faro is a resort town with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Faro.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Faro a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Faro

Thiva (Thebes) and Faro both are nice when exploring on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable place. Some areas are more walkable than others.

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


For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Faro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Faro or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-5 days is enough time in Faro.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Faro than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Faro 2-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

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

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. It's also a relaxing resort destination. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

The authentic city of Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the resort town of Faro. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Faro or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Faro is €133. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Faro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Faro 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Faro 150
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Faro

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Faro? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Faro


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Faro 9.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Faro

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

  • ) Transfers airport Faro X Sevilla: $91
  • Aiport Transfer from FARO to TAVIRA or CABANAS: $72
  • Airport Transfer to Albufeira: $62
  • Airport Transfer to Armação da Pera: $81
  • Airport Transfer to Burgau: $143
  • Airport Transfer to Cadiz: $669
  • Airport Transfer to Carvoeiro: $87
  • Airport Transfer to Evora: $414
  • Airport Transfer to Gale: $67
  • Airport Transfer to Huelva: $155
  • Airport Transfer to Isla Antilla: $129
  • Airport Transfer to Lagos: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Prices for flights to both Faro and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Faro 36

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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Faro 9.41

Tours and Activities in Faro

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

  • Camera Obscura - Tavira Eye - Admission Ticket: $5.45
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Lagos Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Tavira Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Faro 3.13

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: $19
  • Visit to a Family Brewery in Loulé with Tasting: $27
  • Algarve Traditional Food and Wine Tasting: $48


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Faro, we can see that Faro is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

Faro has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Faro in the Summer?

Both Faro and Thiva (Thebes) during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Faro because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Faro fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets more rain in July than Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Faro 25°C (78°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Faro. The autumn months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Faro in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Faro fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Faro receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Faro 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Faro in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Faro. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is cooler than Faro. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Faro averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets less sunshine than Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Faro 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Faro in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Faro fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Faro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less sunshine than Faro during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Faro. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Faro 17°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Faro and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Faro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 17°C (62°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)