Portugal: Faro – Gateway to Algarve – VIDEO

All trains from Lisbon and long-distance buses both from Portugal and the neighboring south of Spain travel to Faro. Above all, you will find an international airport that serves the entire region and with one transfer you can also come from Prague, often cheaper than to Lisbon.
Before visiting the Algarve I read in several places that there is nothing interesting to see in Faro and I prefer to go elsewhere immediately. Luckily I didn't listen and stayed for a few days. Sure, beaches, parties, cliffs and nature you will definitely find better elsewhere, but thanks to the rich history and culture, but I enjoyed Faro anyway.

The cathedral of St. Mary, the square in front of it and the surrounding historic street. The Lapidarium and the Museum of Archeology are also worth visiting.

The first proven settlement was founded by the ancient Phoenicians in the 4th century BC. Subsequently, in Faro the domination of the Romans, Byzantium, Visigoths and Moorish Empire. Throughout the city was one of the most important centers not only of the Algarve region, but the entire southern part of the Iberian Peninsula.

Since Portugal's independence, Portugal has developed further since the 12th century. And from the time between the 12th and 19th centuries you will find the most interesting sights. In addition to the cathedral, there are several other churches, historic walls, town hall and palaces.

Also unique are the local wetlands, which lie between the town of Faro and its beaches. They mix fresh water with salt and live many species of waterfowl. You can take a boat trip to the wetlands, and a seasonal water taxi to the main beach.

Faro also serves as a base for short trips, such as the nearby town of Olhão. Other parts of the Algarve can be easily reached by public transport.

GPS: 37°01'07.7"N 7°55'52.7"W

Text, photos and video: Matouš Vinš