Hotels in Faro

Faro Introduction

Travellers who view Faro as simply a place to land before heading to their resort are missing out. A much-underrated city with a traditional Portuguese feel, the Algarve's capital boasts an attractive marina, a marvellously preserved historic centre encircled by ancient walls, and a happening nightlife and theatre scene. For those intent on finding their perfect spot on the sand, ferries from Porta Nova pier transport passengers through calm waters to the sun-drenched ilha beaches.

Hotels in Faro

A decent selection of cheap hotels in Faro makes the city a good choice for anyone on the hunt for a bargain break – and just because you've saved a little cash on your accommodation doesn't mean you'll need to go without a pool, or essentials such as on-site dining and WiFi. For those looking for a little more splendour, there's a handful of 4-star options and luxury hotels in Faro, too, including some at the nearby Faro Island. For couples and families, aparthotels and private apartments offer the perfect base, with many of the amenities of home close at hand.

Where to stay

Hotels within 200 metres or so of Jardim Manuel Bivar place and Faro Marina are often the best option, particularly if you're holidaying in Faro for the first time and are yet to find your feet. These properties offer easy access to many of the city's main tourist sites as well as an array of public transport services should you be inspired to explore a little further afield. As a general rule, hotels closer to the marina come in at a higher price, while those that sit further into the city, including guesthouses and B&Bs, are more budget-friendly.

Things to see

Faro is an inspiring place to get a culture fix and there are few better places to start than the Old City, the so-called Cidade Velha. Located on the eastern side of the marina and within easy walk of most Faro hotels, this guidebook favourite counts the 13th-century Faro Cathedral and the 17th-century Episcopal Palace, home to the Bishop of Faro, among its many highlights. To the east of the city, the Ria Formosa Natural Park, elected one of Portugal's 7 Natural Wonders, offers both a change of pace and a change of scenery. The diverse landscape here, featuring everything from freshwater lagoons to fragrant pine forests, is a delight to explore, thanks in part to the pale pink flamingos found wading through the shallows. Before heading back to your hotel, dinner and drinks in one of the traditional restaurants near Manuel Bivar Garden is a lovely way to round off your day.

How to get to Faro

Getting to Faro couldn't be easier thanks to an abundance of direct flights from several UK departure points to the city's own airport. Given the airport is so close to hotels in Faro, there's little need to pre-book private transfers; airport taxis typically take 10 minutes or less to whisk you to your chosen accommodation. Once you've settled in, you'll find the main tourist parts of the city are easy to explore on foot, with several tour companies offering private transportation should you fancy visiting a few of the hotspots along the coast.