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!

The Best Places to Stay in Faro

For an Intimate B&B

• Casa Apollo Guesthouse has just two rooms, each with white-on-white interiors, crisp linens and lush potted plants. The large walled garden features a refreshing pool, and hearty breakfasts are served each morning. An adult-only hideaway with an appealingly tranquil feel.

For a Luxury Hotel

• 3HB, designed by Paulo Lobo, is a masterpiece of teak and local limestone. Sleek, contemporary spaces are very indulgent, with nods to traditional Portuguese style and a minimalist feel. Dining options include excellent Portugese and Italian fare, plus there is a superb rooftop pool and soothing spa. Faro's first five-star hotel.
• Hotel Faro & Beach Club, overlooking the marina and the old town, has modern guest rooms with white, light blue and grey tones. The beach club is the heart of this lively hotel, perfect for swims and seafront sundowners. Contemporary chic for the whole family.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Faro Airport and take a bus or taxi to your hotel from there. Alternatively, most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• The Algarve is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 23°C between June and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays, or in spring and autumn, when the weather is also slightly cooler.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Olhao.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Algarve.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.