There’s so much more to the Algarve’s capital city than its airport. Next time you find yourself in the arrivals hall, don’t bolt straight for the EN125-10 to the bland, cardboard cut-out resorts and make a beeline for the city.
Those who head down the road less travelled to Faro are pleasantly surprised by the city’s rich history, shopping streets, café culture, not to mention beaches which are never more than a few minutes’ drive away.
The historic centre of the city is compact enough to be explored by foot, so park the car, pack your camera and follow signs for Cidade Velha, the oldest part of the city, which is located on the eastern side of Faro marina.
The most scenic route for your stroll begins at the Arco da Vila arch which is located next to the Algarve tourist information office at the end of the Manuel Bivar gardens. From here, wander down the narrow, cobbled street Rua do Municipio and onto the leafy Largo de Sé. Immediately you’ll be struck by the imposing presence of the cathedral. It’s what’s inside the cathedral though that is most impressive. Its history can be traced back to the 13th/14th centuries. If its walls could speak they’d have some dramatic tales to tell: for example in 1596 the cathedral was ransacked by the Earl of Essex’s men. In 1755 it was damaged by an earthquake, and two original chapels and a doorway survived these disasters.
Once inside, gilded carvings, traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles and priceless paintings captivate. Even more remarkable is the fact that much of this décor was added in the 17th century.
Still eager to explore? Take a hike up the steps of the tower and enjoy a stunning, panoramic view of the city. Leave your vertigo behind and photograph the terracotta roofs and the 17th century Episcopal Palace which Faro’s current bishop still calls home.
Next door you’ll spy the Episcopal Seminary. Construction began while Francisco Gomes de Avelar was bishop of Faro. Locals also remember the bishop for his efforts to restore the city of Faro after the 1775 earthquake. It is for this reason that his statue takes pride of place in one corner of the Largo de Sé.
After all that walking and camera clicking you’ll want to chill out at the beach. Fortunately, the city runs a convenient ferry service from Porta Nova pier to the Ilha beaches. The gentle journey through the Ria Formosa takes just 30 minutes.
Back on dry land, shopaholics can get their fix of clothing and souvenirs on the streets extending from the Manuel Bivar gardens. For a wider range of shops, hop in your Faro car rental and check out Forum Algarve shopping mall. It’s located on the main road (E125) close to the airport.
Faro’s young student population ensures that the city’s nightlife stays vibrant. Rua do Prior is Faro’s party central. This whole area, including the narrow alleyways just off the Rua Conselheiro Bivar and Rua Infante Dom Henrique keeps revellers amused all night. Night owls should remember that just like Lisbon and Porto, bars and clubs don’t get going until the early hours of the morning.
Oh, and in case you’re wondering, the perfect hangover cures can be found at the beach restaurants located on Ilha de Faro as well as in the many city centre street cafés.
Faro is well worth the effort. Next time you’re jetting into the Algarve give it a try – you won’t be disappointed.
Fiona Hilliard is a travel writer/blogger from Dublin, Ireland. When not taking a whistle-stop tour of Faro, she can be found dishing out Faro travel advice on Argus Car Hire’s Glove Box blog.
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