3-Day Itinerary in Faro, Algarve, Portugal

Day 1: Discovering Faro’s Historic Charm Morning: Start your Faro adventure in the Old Town (Cidade Velha). Walk through the Arco da Vila, the neoclassical gateway into the walled city. Take your time wandering the cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings, orange trees, and hidden cafés. Stop by the Faro Cathedral in Largo da Sé—climb the bell tower for panoramic views over the city and Ria Formosa lagoon. Afternoon: Visit the Municipal Museum (Museu Municipal) housed in a 16th-century convent, showcasing Roman artifacts and religious art. Then head to Carmo Church (Igreja do Carmo) to see the haunting yet fascinating Chapel of Bones, decorated with thousands of human skulls. Evening: Have dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant like Tertúlia Algarvia, and try local dishes such as cataplana (seafood stew) or grilled sardines. Enjoy a relaxed stroll through the marina afterward. ⸻ Day 2: Nature and Island Escapes Morning to Afternoon: Take a boat tour from the harbor into the Ria Formosa Natural Park—a protected coastal lagoon famous for its biodiversity. Book an island-hopping excursion that includes Ilha Deserta (peaceful and untouched) and Ilha do Farol (with its iconic lighthouse and laid-back beach cafés). Spend your day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood by the sea. Evening: Return to Faro and head to Columbus Bar, one of the best cocktail spots in town, or dine at Faz Gostos—a Michelin-recommended restaurant that blends Portuguese tradition with modern flair. ⸻ Day 3: Local Life and Slow Exploration Morning: Start with a coffee and pastry (try a pastel de nata!) at Café Aliança, one of the oldest cafés in Portugal. Then explore Mercado Municipal de Faro, the local market where you can sample cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, and regional delicacies. Afternoon: Visit Palácio de Estoi just a short drive away (or take a bus). This pink Rococo-style palace features beautiful gardens, tile work, and views over the Algarve countryside. Alternatively, if you’re more into nature, spend the afternoon walking one of the trails in Parque Natural da Ria Formosa for some birdwatching. Evening: Wrap up your trip with a sunset meal on a rooftop terrace—O Castelo is a popular spot inside the old city walls with fantastic views. Toast your last night with a glass of vinho verde. #faro #portugal #trip