Private Faro Cultural & Scenic Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your private tour begins with an English-speaking driver who will take you on a two-hour journey through Faro’s most iconic landmarks. Discover the rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty of the Algarve’s capital in a short yet immersive experience.
Fully Customizable & Private – Adjust your itinerary and extend your ride if needed.
Hotel pickup and dropoff from a professional English-speaking driver.
Start at Arco da Vila, a neoclassical gateway leading to Faro’s Old Town, then visit Sé de Faro (Faro Cathedral) for breathtaking city views. Stroll along Marina de Faro, a charming waterfront spot lined with cafés. For a unique stop, explore The Bone Chapel, an eerie yet fascinating chapel lined with monks’ bones. Finally, take in the beauty of Ludo Trail in Ria Formosa Natural Park, home to flamingos and stunning landscapes.
Your driver will then return you to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Faro.
Available options
Private Faro Cultural & Scenic Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Fuel and Tolls
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Water
WiFi on board
All taxes and handling charges
Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Arco da Vila is a neoclassical gateway to Faro’s Old Town, built over a Moorish arch. It features a statue of Saint Thomas Aquinas and often hosts stork nests on its rooftop.
2
A must-visit in the Old Town, offering panoramic views from the tower and a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
3
Marina de Faro is a scenic waterfront area lined with cafés and boats, offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the city.
4
The Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos) is a small but striking chapel inside Igreja do Carmo, decorated with the skulls and bones of over 1,000 monks, serving as a haunting yet fascinating reminder of life’s fragility.
5
Ludo Trail is a scenic path through Ria Formosa Natural Park, offering stunning lagoon views and a chance to spot flamingos, herons, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
What's not included
Meals and beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Sé de Faro (Faro Cathedral)
The Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos)
Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
DA
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-4 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
For 5-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
Important notes
Please show this to your driver.
About Faro
Faro is the sunniest city in Portugal and the capital of the Algarve region. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and vibrant markets, Faro offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning coastline and picturesque villages of the Algarve.
Top Attractions
Old Town (Cidade Velha)
The Old Town of Faro is a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and architectural heritage.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Ria Formosa Natural Park
Ria Formosa is a stunning coastal lagoon and a protected natural park. It's home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers beautiful landscapes and water activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, boat tours cost around €15-20
Faro Cathedral (Catedral de Faro)
The Faro Cathedral is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and a significant historical landmark. It offers stunning views of the city and the Ria Formosa.
Historical
1 hour
Free entry, donations welcome
Arco da Vila
The Arco da Vila is a historic archway that leads to the Old Town. It's a symbol of Faro and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Historical
15-30 minutes
Free
Faro Marina
The Faro Marina is a vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, and watch the boats come and go.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free to explore, prices vary for dining and drinks
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cataplana de Marisco
A traditional Portuguese seafood dish cooked in a copper pot called a cataplana. It's filled with a variety of fresh seafood, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Main Course
Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free
Bacalhau à Brás
A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, onions, potatoes, and eggs. It's a flavorful and hearty meal.
Main Course
Contains fish, can be made gluten-free
Piri-Piri Chicken
Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy piri-piri sauce. It's a popular dish in the Algarve region.
Main Course
Contains chicken, can be made gluten-free
Pastel de Nata
A traditional Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry crust. It's a sweet and creamy treat.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free
Popular Activities
Boat tours
Surfing
Hiking
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Dining by the water
Sightseeing
Visiting historic sites
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Faro for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the coastline and water sports.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Faro is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Faro Airport • 4 km from city center
By train
Faro Station
By bus
Faro Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in Faro is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Cidade Velha)
Marina
Farol
Day trips
Tavira
50 km from Faro • Full day
Tavira is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning beaches. It's a great day trip from Faro for those looking to explore more of the Algarve.
Lagos
100 km from Faro • Full day
Lagos is a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and adventure activities. It's a great day trip for those looking to combine relaxation and excitement.
Monchique
80 km from Faro • Full day
Monchique is a picturesque mountain town known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and scenic views. It's a great day trip for those looking to escape the coast and enjoy the countryside.
Festivals
Faro International Film Festival • June
Feast of São João • June 23-24
Faro Wine Festival • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Old Town early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce, traditional products, and unique souvenirs.
- Try the local seafood dishes, particularly those made with fresh fish and shellfish.
- Rent a bike or take a boat tour to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park and its stunning landscapes.
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
