Destination guide

An alluring city on Portugal's Algarve coast

As the capital district of southern Portugal's Algarve region, the city of Faro mixes rich history and dynamic landscape. As you walk through the neoclassical Arco da Vila archway into Faro's old town, you'll be greeted with cobbled streets, a lively atmosphere, and quirky sites that have to be seen to be believed (bone chapel, anyone?). Take a look at Faro District vacation rentals in the summer for prime beach weather, but don't rule out the off seasons, either—the Algarve has plenty to offer all year long.

Things to do

Faro's finest—from beaches to bone chapels

The Arco da Vila's welcoming archway is a sight worth noting in itself, with its neoclassical design incorporating the remains of an original Moorish wall. Nearby, you'll find the 13th-century Faro Cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral and National Monument of Portugal. Got a taste for the macabre? Then head to the Igreja do Carmo, an 18th-century Catholic church with a small chapel built out of the bones and skulls of monks. For a more traditional experience, The Municipal Museum is always worth a visit. Housed in a 16th-century convent, the museum features prehistoric and medieval artifacts, as well as religious art.

Activities

A liferaft of authenticity in a sea of resort towns

The Faro District feels more authentically Portuguese than its resort-focused neighbors. Along with its proximity to some of Europe's prettiest beaches, there's also a buzzing marina, attractive parks and plazas, and a historic old town with cobbled lanes and outdoor dining. If you'd rather spend your day on the beach, you can still explore Faro at night—the city's known for its nightlife and theatre scene. Outdoor lovers should head to the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, and take a boat ride to the sandy islands of Ilha de Faro and Ilha da Barreta.

Weather

A beloved summer spot that's just as fab in winter

The beaches of the Algarve make this a beloved summertime destination. Summer starts early and ends late in southern Portugal, but be prepared for high prices and large crowds from May through September. December through March are crisp but bright, and you'll find lower prices on Faro District vacation rentals in winter. The region is also known for its golf courses, many of which are open throughout the year. Consider the cooler months of April and October, when you'll find the days are still bright and sunny, and you can dine al fresco.

Natural features

Running up that hill—scenic Faro, from hillsides to the sea

Faro District is divided into 2 areas: the Atlantic coastline, which is part of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, and the barrocal, featuring rolling hills and lush valleys. Parque Natural is one of Portugal's natural wonders, and with a beach close to downtown, it's a definite must-see. The sandy beaches of Faro offer crystal blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and sandy shorelines, separating the Ria Formosa river and the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout the park, the river also leads to lagoons, sandy dunes, and small islands, and welcomes a wide array of aquatic migratory birds.

Where to stay around Faro District, PT?

Our 2019 property listings offer a large selection of 14,414 vacation rentals near Faro District. From 4,519 villa rentals to 2,248 house rentals, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable stay with your family and friends. The best places to stay near Faro District for a holiday or a weekend are on Vrbo.

What are the most popular destinations to visit in Faro District?

There are many lovely places to stay for a holiday trip or just for a weekend in Faro District. From Vrbo travelers, the top most popular destinations to visit are:

  • Albufeira: 8,151 vacation rentals
  • Lagos: 3,897 vacation rentals
  • Faro: 4,247 vacation rentals
  • Vilamoura: 1,329 vacation rentals
  • Carvoeiro: 5,181 vacation rentals

And Vrbo offers you the chance to discover many other popular destinations in Faro District! Please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available in other popular destinations.

What are the main cities to discover in Faro District?

Whether you're traveling with family or friends, here are the cities with the largest selection of vacation rentals for a holiday trip or just for a weekend in Faro District:

  • Albufeira: 8,151 rentals
  • Lagos: 3,897 rentals
  • Faro: 4,247 rentals
  • Carvoeiro: 5,181 rentals
  • Alvor: 4,454 rentals

For other cities, please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available.

Near which points of interest can I spend my holidays in Faro District?

Vrbo offers a large selection of rentals near lovely places in Faro District. From Vrbo travelers, the top most popular points of interest to stay for a holiday trip or just for a weekend are:

  • Albufeira Old Town Square: 9,823 rentals
  • Algarve Casino: 8,407 rentals
  • Algarve Shopping Mall: 11,250 rentals
  • Balaia Golf Village: 9,349 rentals
  • Vilamoura Marina: 2,951 rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Faro District listed on Vrbo where you can find your place to stay. Just write your wanted destination in our search bar and have a look at our selection.

Explore destinations around Faro District

Albufeira
8,151 vacation rentals
Lagos
3,897 vacation rentals
Faro
4,247 vacation rentals
Carvoeiro
5,181 vacation rentals
Alvor
4,454 vacation rentals
Portimão
4,726 vacation rentals
Luz
3,384 vacation rentals
Quarteira
6,768 vacation rentals
Sagres
1,019 vacation rentals
Cabanas de Tavira
1,426 vacation rentals
Armação de Pêra
5,794 vacation rentals
Olhão
838 vacation rentals
Olhos de Água
6,693 vacation rentals
Ferragudo
4,123 vacation rentals
Aljezur
1,700 vacation rentals
Vila Real de Santo António
1,305 vacation rentals
Monte Gordo
814 vacation rentals
Loulé
5,856 vacation rentals
Silves
3,055 vacation rentals
Odeceixe
357 vacation rentals