The most southerly city in Portugal and the capital of the beautiful Algarve region, historical Faro sits right next to a beautiful lagoon, the 'Rio Formosa Lagoon.' At just over 4 miles from the city centre, it is a haven for wild life and bid especially and a designated nature reserve which attracts many visitors. Also an ancient seafaring city, Faro has lovely buildings, friendly people and great food.
Faro has a mild sunny climate all year round. Even in winter temperatures of between 8-17°C make it a good winter sun option. Beach lovers flock to the Algarve between late April to October, when it can get very crowded and summer temperatures range from 27° to 35°C. Try a visit in mid-July for the Faro International Motorcycle Rally, or the 7th September is Faro's "birthday" when the city was officially given the status of "city" and celebrates with 2 weeks of music, parties and exhibitions.
Generally, the cost of living is lower in Faro than in the United Kingdom. Food is mostly cheaper. Also, Portugal, like a lot of European countries has great open air markets, where fresh, local produce can be bought, which is often cheaper than food in supermarkets. This is especially useful if self catering, and it's also fun to sample some of the local delicacies. There is some wonderful seafood cooking to try. Eating out in Faro also tends to be cheaper, standards are high and the restaurants are welcoming and lively.
Because Faro attracts so many families, and water sports and wild life lovers, car hire is very popular. It is strongly recommended that cars are booked well in advance during peak travel times. Very often, visitors also pick up and hire cars at the airport, so allow extra time where needed. Bus routes from the airport into Faro city centre, are the 14 and 16, and these are operated by the bus company 'EVA'. The fare is EUR 2.50 appx. one way and the journey takes about 15 minutes. Taxis cost around EUR16 into Faro city centre. There is a price increase after 9pm up until 6am and at weekends, and a surcharge for luggage. Also note that anywhere other than at the airport, taxis are usually reserved by phone and only sometimes can be hailed. Accommodation wise, budget hostels start at around EUR 12 per night in shared rooms. Hotel prices in peak season start at about EUR 40 per person/night. In the peak season it's also strongly advised to book accommodation several weeks or even months in advance. Local transport is good, with an extensive bus network within Faro and the Algarve. Single journey zone 1, about 1 euro; 2 zones, 1.70 euros; all zones, around 2 euros. Day passes around 5.59 euros.
| Flight duration | min. 03:15 |
|---|---|
| Return flight duration | min. 03:20 |
| Distance | 2116 km |
| Flights per week | 3 |
| Departure airport | Airport Glasgow (GLA) |
| Arrival airport | Airport Faro (FAO) |
| Destination country | Flights to Portugal |
| Departure airport - Destination country | Glasgow - Portugal |