A Faro Itinerary That Has It All! 2-Day Detailed Guide + Map

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If you’re trying to figure out how to spend two days in Faro, here’s the honest truth: Faro works best when you don’t rush it.

I’ve spent a lot of time in the Algarve, and every time someone tells me they were “meh” about Faro, it’s usually because they tried to squeeze it into a few rushed hours.

While some people may say you can see most of the highlights in a day trip from Lisbon, I recommend investing 2 days here in Faro.

This 2-day Faro itinerary is paced on purpose. It gives you time to enjoy the Old Town, get out into the Ria Formosa, and actually relax at Praia de Faro instead of ticking boxes.

A tranquil street in Faro's old town, showcasing a stone archway leading to historic, colorful buildings and a cobblestone street reflecting the soft light.

An ornate blue and white ceramic tile mural depicting historical scenes, set on a stone bench with Faro's ancient city wall in the background and a clear blue sky overhead.

Day 1 in the Heart of Faro

Morning

Coffee & Breakfast at Baixa Caffee

R. de Santo Antonio 54, 8000-283 Faro

Start your 2 days in Faro by getting a quick breakfast and cappuccino here at Baixa. And yes, they have planet-based milks if you are wondering.

You can also get a delicious pastel d nata or an egg and cheese omelet. They are closed on Sundays though, which is disappointing.

Entrance to Baixa Café in Faro, with its modern gray storefront and decorative window design featuring circles of multiple colors; outdoor seating available on a mosaic-tiled sidewalk, a sign quoting 'People who love to eat are always the best people.

After breakfast, I recommend you head straight to the old town to have a look around. The history of Faro is quite impressive, reflecting a blend of Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences that have shaped the city over centuries.

As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter well-preserved medieval architecture.

This includes the Arco da Vila, an archway that serves as the entrance to the old town, dating back to the 18th century but built on the site of a medieval gate.

Don’t miss the Sé de Faro, the cathedral that stands as a testament to Gothic and Renaissance design.

Inside, you’ll find azulejos (traditional ceramic tiles) and intricate gold-leaf woodwork that tell stories of Faro’s rich religious heritage.

Arched stone gateway known as 'Arco da Vila' in Faro, with intricate brickwork ceiling and a historical plaque on the peeling plaster wall; cobblestone pavement adds to the historical ambiance.

The imposing architecture of a church in Faro, featuring a tall bell tower with green rooftop accents, a Gothic arched entrance, and a contrast of white walls against the blue sky.

For a deeper dive into local history, the Municipal Museum of Faro (closed Monday’s), housed in a 16th-century convent, offers artifacts and exhibits that trace the city’s development from prehistoric times through to the modern day. Entrance is €2.

After you can have a coffee at Vila-Adentro, relax in the oldest part of the city, where you can soak in the atmosphere of ancient Faro.

Lunch at Á do Pinto

Travessa Rebelo da Silva 13, R. de Santo Antonio 26, 8000-483 Faro

If you’re after the best traditional Portuguese food, you’ve got to check out A do Pinto! Try their famous burned cheese with thyme, or dive into some crispy fried squid, Algarvian style.

They also serve up amazing fried prawns with a hint of orange and razor clams with garlic and coriander that are to die for.

And if seafood rice is your thing, their version is a must-try. Trust me, A do Pinto is the spot for an authentic taste of Portugal.

A glass of white wine on a wooden table beside a textured ceramic plate, with cutlery on a napkin reading 'A do Pinto,' suggesting an inviting dining experience.

Now, let’s take a look at that itinerary! Subscribe and recieve the FREE GOOGLE MAP of the locations from this post!

Afternoon

Head to the Capela dos Ossos (Bone Chapel), located next to the Igreja do Carmo. This eerily beautiful chapel is lined with the bones and skulls of over 1,000 monks, serving as a memento more.

It’s a unique and thought-provoking sight that contrasts with the usual sunny disposition of the Algarve.

The striking façade of Carmo Church in Faro, displaying intricate Baroque architectural details with contrasting yellow trim around windows and ornate stone carvings, set against a cloudy sky.

Interior detail of the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) in Faro, walls adorned with a geometric pattern of human skulls and bones, creating a haunting yet historical atmosphere.

Or, if you are a museum person, you can head over to the Municipal Museum of Faro for a dive into the maritime history of Faro.

Afterward, walk towards the Marina to enjoy the sea breeze and the view of Ria Formosa.

Later, take a boat tour of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Discover the unique ecosystems, birdwatch, and visit the picturesque islands nearby. You will find the boats leave from this spot I linked for you.

The Solar Boat Tours have several departure times depending on what you are looking for. Prices range as well starting at €20.

Book a Faro Islands Catamaran Boat Tour

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Evening

Dinner at Restaurante Ria Formosa

Praça D Francisco Gomes Nº2, 4º Andar, Praça Dom Francisco Gomes 2, 8000-168 Faro

If you are looking for a fancier dining experience head to Restaurante Ria Formosa, located in Hotel Faro. It’s a rooftop restaurant, so you will get great views of the marina and sunset if you are lucky. I recommend you make reservations.

For a more casual evening, start at my favorite Wine bar in Faro, Bago Wine Bar, and get a glass of wine and tapas.

Bunch of wine bottles on a shelf in Faro — Bago Wine Bar

A gourmet plate in the foreground with lentils and vibrant orange sauce topped with crispy onions, accompanied by a glass of white wine and an out-of-focus dish in the background, presenting a cozy dining atmosphere. — Lentils at Se7e Pedras Wine Bar

Then for your main dinner, check out Se7e Pedras Wine Bar & Restaurant. They have everything from meat and fish as well as vegan and vegetarian options!