Cheap Flights to Faro

What are the best things to do in Faro?

Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha is the historic centre of Faro. People have lived in this part of Portugal for centuries, but the city truly began to thrive during the Roman Empire. Today, elements of this Roman influence can be seen scattered throughout central Faro alongside examples of Moorish architecture. While holidaying on cheap flights to Faro, spend some time wandering the winding cobblestone streets of Cidade Velha. There are several notable landmarks to visit as well as dozens of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas

These local icons are side-by-side churches. All that stands between them is a one-metre wide house that was built as a way to separate the monks of one church from the nuns of the other. The two churches are designed in the Baroque style, and the side of the Igreja dos Carmelitas is covered with gorgeous blue and white tiles. Head inside while visiting the city on flights to Faro to explore the ornately designed chapels.

Ilha da Culatra

If you only do one thing between your return flights to Faro, make sure you explore the Algarve coastline. Ilha da Culatra is one of several islands located near Faro. Many visitors consider the island’s beach to be one of the most beautiful in the Algarve. The island is also home to a quaint fishing village and Farol Lighthouse. The island doesn’t receive as many tourists as the city, making it a great place to witness authentic local life. For an unforgettable experience, plan a day trip to Ilha da Culatra when you book cheap flights to Faro.

What’s on in Faro?

Carnival

Carnival is one of the most popular events to take place on the Algarve each year. If you’re hoping to attend, book your airfare to Faro in February or March. Dates are based on the lunar calendar, so change from year to year. During Carnival, a week of vibrant festivities takes place around Faro. There are parades, street parties, people wearing fancy dress, and the main event on Mardi Gras. If you book return flights to Faro during Carnival, you can expect a lively atmosphere all around the region. Some of the main events take place in Faro, but you can also experience Carnival in towns all throughout the Algarve.

Algarve Festival of International Music

If you’re a fan of classical music, book your cheap flights to Faro for the Algarve Festival of International Music. The event spans two months, from late March and late May, and features 14 different performances. Book tickets to Faro for the festival to attend performances from some of the world’s top talents in classical music. Internationally-known classical music is performed as well as the traditional Portuguese genre of fado. Try to catch at least one fado performance between your return flights to Faro to take in this incredible artform - and an integral part of Portugal’s cultural identity.

Ria Formosa Festival

Attending the Ria Formosa Festival after your flights to Faro is one of the best ways to experience the local cuisine. The annual event takes place over 11 days and showcases the food of the Algarve, with a special focus on seafood. Local fishermen set up booths to showcase their catches and sell delicious seafood dishes. If seafood isn’t your thing, you can also try other Algarve specialties such as frango da guia (spicy chicken) and doce fino sweets. Live music also helps to keep the festival atmosphere lively. If you’d like to attend the festival, book tickets to Faro between late July and early August.

What is the best way to get around Faro?

When you book airfare to Faro, there are plenty of transportation options to help you explore. From Faro Airport (FAO), catch a bus directly to Faro Bus Station in the city centre. The bus departs regularly throughout the day and arrives into the city in about 20 minutes. Rental cars can also be picked up from Faro Airport (FAO). If you’d like to explore the Algarve by car, reserve a rental car through Webjet to pick up after your flights to Faro arrive.

Central Faro is very walkable, and you can get just about anywhere in 20 minutes or less. Two bus routes also travel through Faro, offering service between the city centre and the Praia de Faro beach. Single-ride tickets can be purchased directly on the bus for €2.35 ($4 NZD). If you’re hoping to explore more of the Algarve after your flights to Faro, you can catch public transport between Faro and other towns in the region. Trains and buses travel the length of the Algarve to tourist hotspots, such as Lagos and Tavira.