5 Things Not to Miss in Old Town Faro, Portugal

Faro Marina

The historic town of Faro is generally overlooked by tourists. Faro is the capital of the Algarve region with an airport and a working port. If time permits, I would suggest a well-deserved trip to the town of Faro. This town is a stark contrast to the resort towns in Algarve. It would give an insight into southern Portugal's lifestyle. 

Coreto De Faro

Faro Marina: This charming small town is perfect to spend a day. The people are friendly and laid back. It is easier and cheaper to park the car and explore the town on foot. There are numerous shops and restaurants on the beautiful mosaic streets. Take a break and have ice cream or shop for souvenirs.

Arco da Vila

Free Walking Tour: A free walking tour of the old town starts from the park opposite to Arco da Vila twice a day. This tour is a good opportunity to learn about the town from locals. If walking is not for you, there is a segway tour starting from the park. A small trolley goes around the old town stopping at all the major attractions. This would be a good choice for families.

Arco da Vila is a famous landmark in the old town. This is a neo-classical archway leading to old town Farro. The archway opens up to narrow cobblestone roads with the beautiful old buildings. When I think back, I will cherish the fond memories of walking through these cobblestone streets in Faro.

Old Town

Tram - Orange Trees as a Backdrop

Faro Cathedral: A little walk through these cute streets will take you to the old town center. The museum is next to the cathedral and charges a nominal entry fee. The cathedral has undergone multiple renovations after withstanding earthquakes and attacks by English troops. The beautiful interiors compensate for the bland exteriors. The Museum's back garden has beautiful trees and a bone chapel.

Faro Cathedral

Cathedral Museum Yard

Igreja do Carmo / Capela dos Ossos: Igreja do Carmo is a small 18th-century church with golden ornate interiors. What made this church famous is the bone chapel next to it. Capela dos Ossos (bone chapel) is made out of human bones. I was not very keen on photographing this chapel but it has a rich history. As bizarre as they are, bone chapels are quite common in Portugal. It appeared to be a common practice to exhume monk's bodies from the graveyard and build bone chapels during the mid 18th century.

Faro Municipal Market: Enough about bones. Let us talk about the real reason we all travel. Food. Just 700m away from the Bone chapel is the Faro municipal market. I always love a quick to visit the local market. The shops are mainly fresh fish, butchers, fruit and vegetable market, baked goods, and cafes. Grab a bite at the cafe. 
If you have more time, there are many other places to visit.