Centrally located in the Algarve, Faro has been its capital since 1756 but first became important as a port and administrative centre in Roman times, when it was known as Ossonoba. Having suffered its fair share of disasters, including being sacked and burned by the Elizabethan Earl of Essex and the catastrophic earthquake of 1755, Faro is a thriving city and home of the main airport in the Algarve. Although simply regarded as a terminus by many tourists, Faro is worth a visit to at least explore the old city (located in the south of the city by the harbour). Partly encircled by walls, you enter via the ancient Arco da Vila from the harbour side and wend your way to the Largo da Sé, the main square containing many historic buildings including, of course, the cathedral.

Faro Sé

You can visit the cathedral for a fee or just admire the pair of storks roosting in its bell-tower and there are several museums to be toured, if so desired, including the maritime museum to the north of the harbour. At the edge of the harbour is the Manuel Bivar garden where there is often free entertainment laid on.