8 day itinerary for Faro

Itinerary

Here's an ideal itinerary for 8 days in Faro that is family-friendly:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

• Arrive at Faro airport and check into your hotel or vacation rental.
• Spend the day relaxing and getting acclimated to your new surroundings. Take a stroll around the city center, grab some lunch at a local restaurant, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 2: Explore the Old Town

• Start your day with a visit to the Faro Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century.
• Walk through the charming streets of the old town, admiring the colorful buildings and historic architecture.
• Visit the Municipal Museum to learn more about the history of Faro and the Algarve region.
• End the day with a sunset boat tour of Ria Formosa Natural Park, where you can spot wildlife and take in stunning views of the coastline.

Day 3: Beach Day

• Head to Praia de Faro, one of the most popular beaches in the area.
• Spend the day lounging on the sand, swimming in the clear waters, and enjoying water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Grab lunch at one of the beachside restaurants and soak up the sun.

Day 4: Family Fun Day

• Visit Zoomarine, a marine park that offers dolphin shows, aquariums, and water rides.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or grab food from one of the many restaurants on site.
• End the day with a visit to the nearby Krazy World Zoo, where you can see animals like lemurs, meerkats, and wallabies.

Day 5: Cultural Excursion

• Take a day trip to Silves, a historic town known for its Moorish castle and Gothic cathedral.
• Explore the winding streets and alleys of the town, stopping at local shops and cafes along the way.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the town's history and see artifacts from the Roman and Moorish periods.

Day 6: Nature Walk

• Take a guided nature walk through Ria Formosa Natural Park, where you can spot birds, fish, and other wildlife.
• Learn about the unique ecosystem of the park and the efforts being made to preserve it.
• End the day with a sunset picnic on the beach.

Day 7: Foodie Day

• Take a food tour of Faro, sampling local specialties like grilled sardines, cataplana (a seafood stew), and pastel de nata (a custard tart).
• Visit the Mercado Municipal, a bustling market where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, and other local products.
• End the day with a cooking class, where you can learn how to make traditional Portuguese dishes.

Day 8: Departure

• Check out of your hotel or vacation rental and head to the airport for your flight home.
• If you have time before your flight, take a final stroll around the city center and grab some souvenirs to remember your trip.