Introduction

Faro is the capital of the Algarve (province of Portugal). The city is a transport hub and a commercial center. In addition, Faro is an interesting city to visit as a tourist.

Population

Faro has about 42,000 inhabitants, which makes it the 22nd largest city in Portugal.

Location

Faro is located in the middle of the south coast of Portugal. This capital of the Algarve is situated in a delta of many dunes and beaches. To the north of Faro, there is a hilly area, which is also interesting to tourists. At less than 100 kilometers to the east of Faro is the Spanish border.

Economy

A large part of Faro's economy depends on transport. Faro is a real transport hub, due to its excellent facilities and location. Faro can be reached by boat, lorry/car, train and airplane. In addition, many companies are located in this coastal city. It is a real commercial center of the Algarve.

Another pillar of Faro's economy is tourism. Every year, many tourists come to the Portuguese Algarve, many of whom travel via Faro, and many of whom also spend their vacation in Faro.

Airports

Throughout the year, there are flights from Faro Airport to Lisbon. These flights take place a few times a day. In the peak season, July to September, there are also direct flights from Faro to Porto (although there is no direct flight the other way round). Air Portugalia and TAP Air Portugal are the two airline companies that use Faro Airport. In the peak season, there are also many flights to and from many European destinations.

Public transport

From Faro, there is a good train connection to, among other places, Lisbon. There is also a good road connection between these two cities. Even by boat, you can reach many other cities from Faro. From the airport many buses drive to and from the city several times a day. Bus Eva is the city bus company in Faro, which, among other things, offers day tickets.

Traffic and Parking

Because of its size, driving in Faro is not very difficult, although here too the Portuguese more adventurous driving style will need some getting used to. However, this will not be too much of a problem. With regard to parking, you are unlikely to encounter much trouble, although during the peak season it may be harder to find a (somewhat affordable) parking space. It may be wise to leave your car just outside the city center, and proceed on foot.

Hotels

In Faro, the prices and availability of hotels depend on the season. In July and August the prices are the highest, and availability the lowest. In January, February, etc. the situation is reversed. This means that during the peak season, we recommend booking in advance.

External Sources

For more information about Faro, we recommend Google, and the following sources:

• Wikipedia, Faro
• Câmara Municipal de Faro
(Portuguese)