Things to do in Faro District

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Faro District

Types of activities

Where to stay

Faro District travel guide

Santo Antonio Church which includes a city and a sunset

Lagos featuring a fountain and a square or plaza

Albufeira Old Town Square showing a sunset and a city

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Top places to visit

1. Albufeira Old Town Square

Albufeira Old Town Square (Jardim Público de Albufeira) is the beating heart of the atmospheric Albufeira Old Town. This tree-shaded public space offers superb dining, entertainment, people-watching and shopping experiences. Visit Albufeira Old Town Square at any time of the day to witness a true essence of this ancient fishing village.

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2. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.

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Falesia Beach which includes general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sunset

3. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.

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Vilamoura Marina showing a bay or harbour

4. Marina de Lagos

The Lagos Marina is a harbor full of speedboats and yachts. The marina, which is flanked by swaying palm trees spread across elegant wooden docks, has many lively bars and cafés. Relax with hot or cold drinks and snacks in a coffee shop and enjoy the picturesque views and serene atmosphere.

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5. Sao Rafael Beach

São Rafael Beach (Praia de São Rafael) is close enough to Albufeira for a daytrip yet far enough away that it escapes the bustle of the city. São Rafael Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, some of which have been eroded over centuries into curious shapes. The beach sits in a sheltered bay and boasts safe, crystal-clear water and powdery sand that runs gently between your toes.

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Sao Rafael Beach featuring general coastal views, rocky coastline and a beach

6. Faro Island Beach

Faro Island Beach is one of the area’s most picturesque and popular sandy stretches. Cafés, restaurants and watersports operators sit along the strand, which lines 3 miles (5 kilometers) of a narrow sand bar. Enjoy the unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Formosa River on the other.

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Faro Island Beach showing a beach and general coastal views

What to do in Faro District

Popular places to visit

Albufeira Old Town Square

Framed by bars, galleries and shops, this leafy plaza is a great starting point for exploring the treasures of Albufeira’s historic center.

Falesia Beach

Pine groves crown the scorched red-orange cliffs edging this long and wide beach, complete with comfortable amenities, watersports options and lifeguard patrols.

Vilamoura Marina

Take a boat trip to see dolphins and go parasailing with a tour operator near this marina, which is bordered by the town’s main strip of restaurants and nightclubs.

Praia da Luz

Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Praia da Luz, a popular beach in Lagos. Stroll along the seaside or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Marina de Lagos

Admire the exclusive yachts in the harbor, enjoy sangria at a bar in view of the water and visit the wax museum.

Beautiful pastel coloured buildings in front of the marina.

Albufeira Marina

Explore the waterfront of Albufeira Marina and enjoy other activities such as golfing in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.

Sao Rafael Beach

Explore tidal pools and take part in adventure sports or just sit back, enjoy the warm sunshine and admire the wonderful scenery.

Rocha Beach

Backed by golden-red cliffs and met by the white-flecked waves of the Atlantic, this spectacular beach is one of the Algarve’s most popular.

Oura Beach

Water sports, stunning scenery and walks to quiet coves await at this beach located to the east of Albufeira’s Old Town.

Areas of Faro District

Falesia Beach which includes rocky coastline, a sandy beach and general coastal views

Vilamoura

Yachts, golf, up-scale accommodation and restaurants: This purpose-built Algarve resort is a stylish retreat with a scenic waterfront.

Fisherman\'s Beach which includes a coastal town and a sandy beach

Albufeira Old Town

4.5/5(76 area reviews)

Albufeira Old Town is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, abundant dining options and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Albufeira Old Town Square or Peneco Beach while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Rocha Beach featuring general coastal views and a beach

Praia da Rocha

Travellers to Praia da Rocha praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Três Castelos Beach and Algarve Casino.

Faro Cathedral featuring heritage elements

Faro City Centre

Faro City Centre is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Faro Marina and A Companhia de Teatro do Algarve while in the area.

Vale do Lobo

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Vale do Lobo. A stop by Vale do Lobo Beach or Garrao Beach might round out your trip.

Quinta do Lago

Beaches, golf courses and restaurants are some highlights of Quinta do Lago. Make a stop by Quinta do Lago Golf or Quinta do Lago Beach while you're exploring.