Maybel NonatoFaro, a charming coastal town in Portugal’s southern region, holds a special place in my heart. This sun-drenched town, with its whitewashed buildings inspired by Iberian and Moorish architecture, was my first European home during my Erasmus Mundus Master studies. While Faro may not have the immediate “wow factor” of some other popular European cities, its unique charm and captivating atmosphere quickly won me over. Here are 12 reasons why you should fall in love with Faro and add it to your travel itinerary:
Also read: 10 Best Airbnbs in Faro, Portugal to Book in 2024
Aerial view of Faro, Portugal
Also read: Quinta da Regaleira: Portugal’s Palace of Mysticism
1. Bucketful of sunshine
Faro has a perfect weather. It is always loaded with sunshine. No wonder it is a very popular destination among sun-seeking tourists from the UK and Scandinavian countries. Even during late October or early November, you can still find some people walking around the city wearing shorts and a shirt. You can even still wear a bikini if you plan to go to the beach. Talk about awesome!
2. Accessible sandy beaches
The city is surrounded by idyllic island beaches and the stunning Ria Formosa nature reserve, perfect for exploring by boat. Just a 20-minute bus ride from the city centre, Praia de Faro offers a tranquil escape from the crowds, even during the peak summer season.
Praia de Faro
Praia de Faro might not be that stunning compared to the other beaches in the Algarve region but it is a perfect place to flaunt your sexy bikini bodies or chocolate abs. If you don’t have one, there are still other activities to do like:
- swimming/surfing/kayaking/beach volleyball
- chilling out with friends while getting drunk with beer or wine
- strolling around
- reading a book
- meditation/yoga
- tanning; or better yet,
- burying a frenemy (LOL)
Also read: Portugal’s Algarve Coast Will Not Cost You a Fortune
ChIR students hanging out at Praia de Faro
My German Erasmus friend gave me his legal consent to bury him.
Unfortunately, he was still alive afterwards.
3. Jam-packed town
Faro is more than just a holiday getaway beach town because the small city is packed with historical, archaeological, and architectural sites to fill your fancy.
Arco da Vila leads to Faro’s Old Town
Museu Municipal de Faro
Biblioteca Municipal de Faro
However, it is strictly not advisable to wear stilettos when wandering around Faro because of its cobbled streets. But if you are channelling the inner catwalk model within then feel free to do so. No one will ever stop you!
4. Artsy fartsy graffiti walls
The streets of Faro are adorned with vibrant and expressive graffiti art, creating a visually stunning backdrop for dramatic photo shoots or sentimental Instagram posts. These artistic murals add a touch of modern culture to the historic town, providing endless opportunities for creative expression and unique photo opportunities.
© Tantan Ebare
5. Peacock interaction
Unknown to tourists, there are peacocks roaming freely around Jardim da Alameda. You can feed them and even get a selfie with the peacock (if the bird likes you).
6. Seafood haven
Southern Portugal is surrounded by the sea making it a sweet haven for fish and seafood lovers out there. Compared to other European countries, the cost of seafood in Faro is very cheap.
Cataplana de Marisco (mixed seafood)
On the other hand, the carnivores should not worry because meat is also very popular in Faro. Various chicken, pork, beef, turkey, duck, lamb, and rabbit dishes can be found at very affordable prices. Unfortunately, there’s no peacock delicacy. Why oh why?!
7. Day-drunk
You can get day drunk all night in Faro with low-cost alcohol drinks. Beer starts at 50 cents while Portuguese wine costs at least EUR 1. #TeamAlcoholFTW
Saude!
8. Elite living
Faro is an incredibly affordable city, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers. A single person can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on just €500 per month, with ample funds remaining for food, accommodation, and other expenses.
9. Salsa nights
Thou shall dance salsa when in Faro. Hence, put your salsa heels on and party all night long!
Image credit: Bar Patrimonio
10. Warm and friendly citizens
Portuguese people are generally genuinely friendly even to strangers. Moreover, they can speak English especially the young ones.
11. Hot Portuguese men
Need I say more???
Image credit: Bar Patrimonio
12. Magical sunset
Lastly, the sunset view in Faro is nothing short of magical. Words cannot fully capture the beauty of the sky ablaze with vibrant colors as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a sight that will leave you breathless and mesmerised.
Sunset view from Faro Marina
Also read: My Dream Europe Trip: 6 Countries & 7 cities in 12 days
Contributed by Corrupted Escapades
