Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Faro?

Should you spend 1 or 2 weeks in Faro?

Many visitors spend two to five days in Faro during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The resort town offers the chance to grab some drinks at a bar, explore the underwater world, lounge on the beach, and browse around the old town.

Faro is the capital of the Algarve region in Portugal. The city has many historic landmarks and an old town that's filled with cobblestone streets. Art and architecture lovers, and those who enjoy culture, will appreciate a visit to this colorful city.

Do you have one or two weeks to visit Faro? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.


Is one week enough time in Faro?

One week is more than enough time to enjoy the beach and other activities in Faro. You can move at your own pace and relax at your hotel and on the beach. You could also use Faro as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region worth doing.

How to spend a week in Faro

Don't miss the Arco da Vila during your trip to Faro, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

The public transit in Faro is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the resort town quite easily and affordably. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

The surrounding waters are great for scuba diving and snorkeing, so spend some time in the water to see nature up close. 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.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • From Faro: 7 Valleys Hiking, Benagil Cave, & Snorkeling Tour ($58)
  • 4 hour Kayak & Snorkeling Tour in Ria Formosa Natural park ($87)

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

The beautiful beaches await you in Faro, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. 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.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • From Faro: Benagil, Marinha Beach, 7 Hanging Valleys, Algar Seco ($58)
  • Ria Formosa & Ilhas: Sunset Boat Trip ($35)
  • Boat Tour of 2 Ria Formosa Islands: Culatra and Armona ($35)

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the 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.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Faro Family Adventure Tour to learn History and Hidden Gems ($127)
  • A Timeless Private Walking Tour Experience in Tavira ($214)

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

Shopping in Faro is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. 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.

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

After you've explored most of Faro, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Scenic Algarve Day Trip from Faro to Vila Real de Santo António ($178)

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

Another fun day at the beach awaits, so spend more time relaxing and swimming. After all, a beach vacation usually calls for plenty of time to have fun on the sand and in the waves.

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

Is 2 weeks enough time in Faro?

Two weeks provides ample opportunity in Faro to enjoy the nightlife scene, scuba diving and snorkeling, the beaches, and the historic old town. Then you can use the city as a convenient base for venturing into nearby destinations where you'll discover exciting day trip options. We have some suggestions below for your trip. Enjoy the area for its activities, too.

Faro, Portugal Faro, Portugal

How to spend 2 weeks in Faro

With 2 weeks in Faro, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the resort town has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time relaxing on the beach. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this resort town looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.


A few trip suggestions:

  • Scenic Algarve Day Trip from Faro to Vila Real de Santo António ($178)

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Faro, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.

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