How to Spend THREE DAYS in Faro, Portugal: 3-Day Itinerary

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Ready for three unforgettable days in Faro? We’ve got the perfect plan!

Faro is one of the Algarve’s most underrated gems, blending a historic Old Town with lively plazas, a scenic marina, and easy access to the region’s dramatic coastline. With so many tours, day trips, and dining options at your fingertips, the real challenge is figuring out how to fit it all into just a few days. That’s where this itinerary comes in!

After spending time exploring Faro and its surroundings, we’ve crafted the perfect three-day plan to help you experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. From tuk-tuk rides and food tours to dolphin cruises and cliffside views, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time in this charming Algarve city!

Itinerary Overview

This itinerary is based in Faro, the capital of the Algarve and the main hub for tours and excursions. The city offers a charming Old Town, easy access to nearby coastal highlights, and plenty of dining options within walking distance of the center. While we suggest a few specific restaurants throughout this guide, you’ll also find many good choices close to most hotels, making it easy to eat well without straying far. 

Getting around is simple on foot in the Old Town, with taxis available for longer trips or when joining tours. Guided tours are especially worthwhile, as they take the stress out of logistics and help you uncover Faro’s history, culture, and hidden gems.

Follow this 3-day Faro itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Start the day with coffee and a pastel de nata at O Coreto, then discover Faro’s Old Town on a private tuk-tuk tour. Spend the late morning exploring at your own pace before joining a guided food tour of the city. End with rooftop drinks at Hotel Faro, dinner at My’oMeu, and a lantern-lit evening stroll through the Old Town.

Day 2: Begin with breakfast at Cozinha das Ilhas before setting off on a full-day guided tour of the Algarve coast. Return to Faro for a hearty steak dinner at Faaron Steakhouse, then finish the evening with local wine at Aperitivo and gelato at Fresh Mix.

Day 3: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Botequim da Baixa before heading out on a dolphin-spotting cruise through Ria Formosa. After a late lunch at Columbus by the marina, choose between a private birdwatching Segway tour in Ria Formosa or beach time at Praia de Faro, followed by an evening tapas tour. Wrap up your trip with a peaceful evening walk through Faro’s Old Town.

Day 1

Breakfast – O Coreto

Kick off your first morning in Faro with coffee and a pastel de nata at O Coreto, a traditional café set right on Jardim Manuel Bivar. It’s a classic local spot where you can watch the square come to life as commuters grab their espressos and neighbors stop to chat. The café opens at 8 am, so plan to arrive around 8:30 am —this gives you time to enjoy breakfast before your tour begins at 10 am.

The pastel de nata here is flaky with a creamy custard center, and pairing it with a galão (Portuguese latte) makes for the perfect start. Even better, O Coreto sits less than a minute’s walk from the morning tour meeting point, so you can linger without worry. It’s a relaxed, delicious introduction to Faro that sets the tone for the rest of the day!

Morning – Discover Faro in a private tuk tuk

Trying to get your bearings in a new city can feel a bit overwhelming—especially when the streets twist and turn the way they do in Faro’s Old Town. Instead of spending the morning with our noses in a map, we hopped on this private electric tuk-tuk tour, which (conveniently!) starts right next to where we’d just finished breakfast. Within minutes, we were cruising the cobblestones with a local guide leading the way.

The tour lasts about an hour, but it covers so much ground. We began in the Old Town, learning about the city’s early days and wandering through its historic corners. Our guide, Mauro, was fantastic—knowledgeable, easy to chat with, and happy to answer all of our random questions. And because it was just us, we could go at our own pace, which made it feel more like hanging out with a local than following a script. 

From there, we rolled past the Carmo Church, famous for its bone chapel, and got the backstory on one of Faro’s most unique (and slightly spooky) landmarks. Plus, the quiet hum of the electric tuk-tuk made the whole ride smooth and eco-friendly, which was a nice bonus.

By the end, we felt like we’d unlocked the city in record time. It was the perfect way to kick off our trip, giving us context without wearing us out. Honestly, we thought it was the best start to Faro, but don’t just take our word for it, read the glowing five-star reviews here that echo our experience!

Start your trip off the right way and book this private tuk-tuk tour here!

Late morning – Wander at your own pace

After the tuk-tuk tour, you’ll have a couple of hours to explore Faro on foot before the afternoon gets going. This is the perfect window to slow down, take in the city’s details, and maybe discover a corner or two that doesn’t show up on a map.

With everything close by, you can easily fit in a mix of history, culture, and a little shopping without feeling rushed. And no need to grab lunch just yet—we’ve got a food tour lined up at 1 pm that will more than cover it!

Here are a few ideas for your free time:

• Museu Municipal de Faro – Tucked inside a 16th-century convent, this little museum is easy to wander through and has everything from Roman mosaics to religious art, and even a quiet courtyard if you need a break. It’s open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am – 6pm, weekends from 10:30 am –5pm, and closed on Mondays. Entry is only about €2.
• Climb the Sé Cathedral bell tower – It’s a short climb to the top, and the payoff is big—panoramic views over Faro’s red rooftops and all the way out to the Ria Formosa lagoon. It’s one of those views that makes you stop and linger a little longer than planned.
• Arco da Vila – This is one of Faro’s most iconic gateways into the Old Town, with Moorish roots and even a tiny chapel tucked inside. It’s a quick stop but worth snapping a photo, and since you’ll see it again on the food tour, it’s fun to pass by again and notice something new.
• Shopping on Rua de Santo António – Faro’s main pedestrian street is lined with tiled façades, little boutiques, and plenty of cafés. It’s great for a casual browse, and even better if you’re in the mood to sit down with a coffee and do a bit of people-watching.

Afternoon – Taste your way through Faro

By early afternoon, it’s time to swap sightseeing for eating, and there’s no better way to do it than with this small-group food tour through Faro!

We joined the 1–4 pm tour and spent three hours sampling 10 different tastings paired with local drinks. It’s the perfect mix of food and culture: you get to indulge while also exploring Faro’s landmarks. The meeting point is easy to reach on foot from most places downtown, so you don’t need to worry about transportation—just show up hungry!

Our guide, George, was friendly and knowledgeable, introducing us to traditional flavors while also sharing tailored tips on where to eat afterwards. As we wandered, Faro itself became part of the experience, with stops like the Arco da Vila, Sé Cathedral, Episcopal Palace, and even the Arc of Repouso, where we learned its medieval backstory while tasting our way through town.

The food alone would’ve been enough to make this tour a highlight, but pairing it with Faro’s history and George’s storytelling made it unforgettable. Just a heads up—this tour can have limited availability throughout the year, so it’s best to plan well in advance. And don’t worry if you can’t secure a spot—there are plenty of excellent restaurants nearby where you can still sample the region’s flavors on your own.

Snag your spot on this food tour here and taste your way through Faro!

Late afternoon – Enjoy rooftop views at Hotel Faro’s Cosmopolitan Rooftop Bar

After finishing the food tour, you’ll have a few hours to slow down and let all those tastings settle before dinner at 7 pm. One of our favorite ways to spend this time was heading up to the Cosmopolitan Rooftop Bar at Hotel Faro, just a two-minute walk from where the tour ends.

Overlooking the marina and stretching out toward the Ria Formosa, it’s the kind of spot where you can sink into a chair, sip a coffee or an aperitif, and watch the light start to change as the afternoon fades.

Of course, if you’d rather put your feet up for a bit, this is also a great time to head back to your own hotel for a rest. But if you’re still in the mood to be out, the rooftop bar has just the right balance of buzz and relaxation, with panoramic views that make it hard to leave once you’ve settled in. Whether you’re winding down with a glass of red or fueling back up with coffee, it’s an easygoing pause before the evening picks back up.

Dinner – My’oMeu

By the time dinner rolls around, make your way to My’oMeu, just a six-minute walk from Hotel Faro. This spot is often listed among the best restaurants in town, and after eating here, it’s easy to see why. The menu takes classic Portuguese dishes and gives them a modern twist, pairing familiar flavors with creative presentation. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to order a few plates to share just to try more of what’s on offer.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff here have a reputation for being both friendly and passionate about their food. Ask for a recommendation on local drinks—they’ve got a great selection, and the pairings really bring the dishes to life.

The restaurant is open from 7-10 pm, but it’s a popular spot, so making reservations at My’oMeu online here is highly recommended if you want to guarantee a table. After a full day of sightseeing, snacking, and soaking up Faro’s charm, this makes for a perfect dinner to start winding down your first night in the city.

Evening – Wander Faro by night

After dinner at My’oMeu, don’t call it a night just yet—Faro has a calm, inviting atmosphere once the sun goes down. The Old Town is especially charming after dark, with lantern-lit streets, tucked-away alleys, and quiet little squares that feel made for a slow evening stroll. Walking through at night gives you a whole new perspective on the same places you saw earlier in the day.

If you’d rather take it easy, head toward the Marina, just a short walk away. The water reflects the city lights, and with plenty of benches along the promenade, it’s a peaceful spot to sit, people-watch, and watch the boats gently swaying. It’s not a loud or hectic nightlife scene—just a laid-back way to end your first full day in Faro, soaking in the city’s quieter side before turning in for the night.

Day 2

Breakfast – Cozinha das Ilhas

Day two starts with breakfast at Cozinha das Ilhas, a cozy little café where you can ease into the morning with a pastry and coffee, without the rush. Best of all, it’s only about a one-minute walk from your tour meeting point, so you won’t have to stress about getting across town. Arriving around 8 or 8:30 am gives you just the right amount of time to enjoy breakfast before the day really gets going.

The café is closed on Wednesdays, but on any other day it makes for a convenient and tasty start. It’s relaxed, friendly, and perfectly placed for travelers who want a no-fuss morning meal before heading off to explore more of Faro.

Full day – Set off for the Algarve’s iconic coastline on a full-day tour

Seeing the Algarve’s top sights on your own can be stressful, with car rentals, crowded parking, and winding roads eating up more time than the views. That’s why we joined this full-day tour, with transport taken care of, so all we had to do was relax and enjoy the ride. 

We recommend booking the 9:30 am departure, which runs about 8 hours and wraps up around 5:30 pm, giving you a whole day without feeling rushed.

The first stop was Praia da Marinha, often named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From the clifftop viewpoint, we looked out over turquoise waters, towering limestone arches, and the heart-shaped rock formation that’s become a postcard symbol of the Algarve. 

Next was the legendary Benagil Cave, where we admired its sheer size and dramatic open roof from above. Swimming inside wasn’t possible when we were there, but the clifftop view was unforgettable on its own.

We also had free time in Carvoeiro, a postcard-perfect fishing village where whitewashed houses spill toward the beach. A short stroll along the boardwalk gave us more panoramic views, and at Algar Seco we wandered through natural rock tunnels and blowholes, even spotting a few daredevils leaping into the sea.

The mix of dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and jaw-dropping viewpoints made this one of the most memorable days of our trip. It’s no wonder this tour has earned such rave remarks—scroll through HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why it’s the Algarve’s must-do tour!

Book your spot early and get ready to experience the Algarve at its best!

Dinner – Faaron Steakhouse

After a long day exploring the Algarve coast, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty meal, and Faaron Steakhouse delivers just that. Only about a five-minute walk from the tour’s endpoint, this spot is open from 10 am–11 pm every day except Sunday, when they open at 6 pm, and is renowned for its perfectly cooked steaks, generous portions, and cozy atmosphere. 

The menu focuses on high-quality cuts of beef served with all the classic sides, but there are also lighter options and a decent drink list if you’re in the mood to pair your meal. If it feels a little early to eat, don’t worry—you can easily fill the time with a relaxed stroll around the marina or take a seat in one of Faro’s public plazas nearby. 

Once you’re ready, head inside Faaron for a laid-back yet satisfying dinner. After a day of sightseeing, this is the kind of place where you can unwind, dig in, and recharge before the evening continues. It’s a popular spot, so making a reservation in advance online here is definitely a good idea to secure your table.

Evening – Drinks and gelato in the Old Town

After dinner, keep the night going with a relaxed drink in Faro’s Old Town. One of our favorite stops was Aperitivo, a cozy bar where you can sample Algarve vintages or sip on something a little more creative. The atmosphere is laid-back and stylish, making it an easy place to linger over a drink while you recap the day.

To end on a sweet note, head over to Restaurante Fresh Mix for gelato. This local favorite is known for its creamy texture and inventive flavors—perfect for a light dessert after a hearty meal. Between the drinks and gelato, it’s a simple but memorable way to wind down your second day in Faro!

Related Read: If you’re also planning a stop in Lisbon, our 3-day Lisbon itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Portugal’s gorgeous capital!

Day 3

Breakfast – Botequim da Baixa

By day three, a little lie-in feels well deserved. Luckily, Botequim da Baixa doesn’t require an early start—you can arrive anytime up to 10 am and still have plenty of time for breakfast before the morning tour. Opening at 8 am (closed Sundays), this cozy café is tucked into Faro’s historic center and has the kind of welcoming, lived-in feel that makes it popular with locals. The staff are friendly, the pace is relaxed, and it’s the perfect spot to ease into your final day in the city.

Order a strong espresso to wake up properly, then pair it with something sweet like a pastel de nata or one of their buttery, fresh-baked croissants. The mix of simple pastries and good coffee is exactly what you need to set yourself up for another day of exploring. It’s nothing fancy—just classic Portuguese café culture.

Late morning/Early afternoon – Head out to sea in search of dolphins

Faro isn’t just the gateway to the Algarve, it’s also one of the best places to discover the region’s rich marine life. The Atlantic is only a short cruise away, making this dolphin cruise an easy and unforgettable adventure. 

To keep the pace relaxed, we went with the 11:30 am start option, which gave us a bit more time to enjoy breakfast and the slower rhythm of Faro mornings. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, wrapping up around 2 pm—just in time for lunch.

We set out from Faro, gliding first through the calm waters of the Ria Formosa Natural Park before heading into the open Atlantic. With marine biologists on board, every sighting came with fascinating insights about the species and the ecosystem they depend on. 

Out on the water, we spotted pods of playful bottlenose and common dolphins surfing the waves, seabirds like gannets and shearwaters skimming the surface, and even caught a glimpse of an ocean sunfish gliding below. On lucky days, orcas or even whales might appear, but the thrill of scanning the horizon is part of the magic.

The small group size kept the vibe relaxed and personal—we could ask questions easily, and the crew’s enthusiasm was infectious. By the time we returned to Faro, we felt like we’d not only seen incredible wildlife but also gained a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of the ocean. 

For an unforgettable morning on the water, book this dolphin cruise here!

Lunch – Columbus

By the time your dolphin cruise wraps up, you’ll probably be ready for a late lunch, and Columbus is the perfect spot. Just a seven-minute walk from the marina where the tour ends, this Faro favorite is as well-known for its stylish setting as it is for its menu. Overlooking the water, it’s the kind of place where you can sit back, linger, and let the afternoon slow down.

The menu leans toward fresh seafood and light Mediterranean dishes, making it ideal after a morning on the ocean. Pair a grilled fish or seafood salad with a crisp Portuguese white, or opt for something simple and refreshing if you’re still full from breakfast. The service is friendly, the atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, and the marina views are right there in front of you. Expect to finish up around 3:30 pm, which feels just right for a leisurely, unhurried lunch after your adventure on the water.

Afternoon – Your choice!

As we move into the final afternoon of the trip, you’ve got two different ways to spend your time depending on what you’re in the mood for. If you’d like to get out into nature and experience Faro’s wetlands from a fresh perspective, a private Segway birdwatching tour in Ria Formosa is a unique option. Or, if a slower pace is calling, you can soak up some sun at Praia de Faro before diving into an evening of wine and tapas. The choice is yours!

Option 1: Travel to Ria Formosa Natural Park for a birdwatching segway tour

For something active yet peaceful, this private Segway birdwatching tour takes you through the quiet landscapes of Ria Formosa Natural Park, just outside Faro. It’s one of the Algarve’s most important ecosystems, and gliding past its marshes, tidal flats, and lagoons on a Segway lets you cover plenty of ground without breaking a sweat. 

With binoculars in hand, you’ll be on the lookout for flamingos, the rare purple swamphen, and countless other migratory birds. Gliding quietly along the paths meant we could get surprisingly close without disturbing them, which made every sighting feel even more special.

Our guide, Nelson, was fantastic—super patient in helping us get the hang of the Segway and quick to point out species we’d have otherwise missed. His knowledge of the area made the ride as educational as it was fun. The small group size (or private option if you prefer) kept things relaxed and personal, so there was always time to stop, watch, and ask questions.

The tour doesn’t have a fixed start time, so you can arrange it in the afternoon to fit your schedule. Expect about 1.5 hours on the Segway, or a bit longer if you opt for hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a refreshing way to connect with Faro’s natural side while still keeping the afternoon light and flexible. Just check out the stellar five-star reviews here and you’ll see why this one stands out as one of the best in Faro!

Reserve your spot here and experience Ria Formosa in a whole new way!

Option 2: Relax on the beach before a wine and tapas tour in the evening

For a slower-paced finale, option two combines a little beach time with this food and wine experience to close out the day!

Start with a trip to Praia de Faro, the closest and most accessible beach to the city, where you can unwind for an hour or so. Just a short car, bus, or ferry ride away (about 30 minutes by boat), it’s a wide sandy stretch lined with cafés and calm waters—great for grabbing a drink at a beach bar, strolling the shoreline, or simply relaxing before heading back into town.

From there, the pace shifts back to foodie mode with a small-group wine and tapas tour that begins at 6 pm. Over three hours, you’ll visit three handpicked restaurants around Faro, sampling more than eight different Portuguese tapas paired with local wines. 

Each stop highlights a different side of Faro’s culinary scene, from traditional family recipes to modern spins on Algarve flavors. Along the way, your guide shares insight into the city’s culture and history, making this as much about Faro’s soul as its food.

The meeting point is at the main entrance of the Mercado Municipal of Faro, where your guide will give a short intro before leading the way. By the end of the night, you’ll have tasted your way through Faro, glass by glass and bite by bite—a fitting way to wrap up your final evening!

Book this wine and tapas tour here and toast to your last night in Faro!

Evening – Enjoy a gentle evening stroll through Faro Old Town

After dinner, wind down your final night in Faro with a quiet walk through the Old Town. The cobbled streets feel even more atmospheric in the evening, with lanterns glowing against the whitewashed walls and the pace of the city slowing to a gentle hum. Passing through the Arco da Vila, you’ll step back into the heart of Faro’s history before following the path along the city walls.

It’s not about covering ground quickly, but about soaking in the charm of the old streets one last time. Pause in a quiet square, admire the architecture that you may have rushed past earlier, and let the rhythm of the city sink in. It’s a simple way to close out your trip—unhurried, reflective, and very Faro!

Related Read: If you found this guide helpful, you’ll love our 3-day Albufeira itinerary! It’s a sun-soaked coastal town close to Faro that’s worth exploring!

Where to Stay in Faro

Faro makes an excellent base for exploring the Algarve, with plenty of hotels to suit every budget and style. Whether you’re after modern luxury, a stylish stay by the marina, or a budget-friendly option close to the Old Town, we’ve rounded up our top picks to match different travel needs.

Just keep in mind that hotels in Faro fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so if you see availability at one of these spots, it’s worth booking right away to lock in your stay!

Occidental Faro – $$$

If you want a modern stay in the heart of Faro, Occidental Faro is a great pick. Just a short walk from the train station, bus terminal, and Old Town, it offers bright, spacious rooms—some with balconies and views over the marina or Ria Formosa. Guests can relax in the rooftop pool, enjoy the on-site restaurant, or even take advantage of the hotel’s free summer shuttle to Praia de Faro.

Prices typically range from €120–€800 per night, depending on the season. Check current rates and book your stay on Booking.com.

AP Eva Senses – $$

If you’re looking for a stylish stay with all the amenities, AP Eva Senses is a top choice in downtown Faro. Just steps from the train station, marina, and Old Town, it features a rooftop pool and bar, fitness room, and spacious rooms—some with balconies overlooking the Ria Formosa. Guests can enjoy the panoramic Harune Restaurant or set off on boat trips right from the marina out front, making it a great base for both city exploring and coastal escapes.

Prices typically range from €100–€330 per night. See the latest prices and reserve your room on Booking.com.

Hotel Sol Algarve by Kavia – $

If you’re after a budget-friendly stay in Faro, Hotel Sol Algarve by Kavia is a solid choice. Just a 5-minute walk from the train station, marina, and Old Town, it offers simple, comfortable rooms—some with balconies—and a continental breakfast served in the courtyard. Guests also appreciate the 24-hour reception, private parking, and easy access to Ria Formosa boat trips.

Rooms typically range from €60–€150 per night depending on the season. Find up-to-date rates and secure your stay through Booking.com.

For more great options, see all of Faro’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this 3-day itinerary has you so excited for your trip to Faro! This little spot in Portugal stole our hearts with its charm, incredible scenery, and amazing food. I seriously couldn’t get enough of the cute Old Town and the nearby coast. It’s one of those hidden gems you’ll be SO glad you discovered – I know we are!

If Faro is only one of your stops, have a look through all our Portugal blogs here. From itineraries to the top things to do and where to stay, it will making planning a getaway here even easier. I’ve picked out a few blogs below that might help you out too!

16 Best Things to do in the Algarve, Portugal

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Madeira, Portugal: 5-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal: 4 Areas & Hotels