Faro, the capital of the Algarve, is far more than a mere starting point for beach and golfing holidays. This charming Portuguese city will delight heritage aficionados with its medieval old town with its maze-like lanes, foodies with its picturesque marina and outdoorsy types with its natural beauty. The best places to stay in Faro include chic boutique boltholes as well as charming rural hideaways, perfect for making the most of the region's 300 annual days of sunshine.
Amble through the winding streets of the old town for a sense of Faro’s fascinating history. Admire whitewashed Iberian and Moorish edifices on little lanes, pop in to the ornate Faro Cathedral and Carmo Church, or pick a perch at a shaded café for a mid-morning coffee. The Museo Municipal de Faro has some excellent exhibits, and comes highly recommended. Come August, the summer folklore festival brings lively colour to the centre of the city, and is great fun for travellers of all ages.
Venture further afield to the lagoons and coves of the Parque Natural da Rio Formosa, kick back on the pristine beaches of the Ilha de Faro and zip across to the picturesque Ilha Deserta by ferry. Hiking and cycling trails criss-cross the region, and there are brilliant small eateries for long lazy lunches after mornings of activity. Many of the best places to stay in Faro also offer fantastic regional cuisine — you’ll certainly eat and drink well in the Algarve!
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Faro
This smart hotel is located close to the coast in downtown Faro, overlooking the marina and the old town. The bright guestrooms are simple yet elegant, bringing the seaside in through a nautical palette. Head to the hotel beach club for laid-back drinks on the seafront terrace.
Faro (Algarve)
The first 5-star luxury hotel in Faro. Paulo Lobo’s design fuses teak wood and local limestone, offering a sleek, contemporary decor spiced with traditional Portuguese elements. Diverse dining from Italian fare to local delights, alongside a comprehensive spa and striking rooftop pool. A chic stay.
Faro
A chic B&B offering a perfectly central location in historic Faro. Housing just two rooms both of which have a clean modern feel with whitewashed walls, crisp white linen and potted plants. A large walled garden features a lovely pool. An adult-only space perfect for a romantic break for two.
