Portugal’s Faro District is a perfect blend of charm, beauty, and history. However, the Faro District can get hot in the summer and cool in the winter. The best times to visit are the spring and fall. If cool temperatures aren’t a concern, consider staying in the winter when there are no crowds. Regardless of the season, below are the Top 3 Spots to See in Portugal’s Faro District.
Ilha Deserta
A ferry or water taxi from Tavira is required to access Ilha Deserta. Either way, it’s going to take approximately 15 minutes. After exiting the ferry, go to the left for the beach that faces the Atlantic Ocean. Go to the right for the smaller beach that faces the Ria Formosa.
The Ria Formosa lagoon is a system of five barrier islands connected to the sea through six inlets. The water here is calmer and warmer, but the natural appeal is the wildlife, including 200 species of birds and chameleons. It’s a well-known spot for birdwatching.
One seafood restaurant on Ilha Deserta is expensive but worth the price thanks to the setting and high-quality food.
Palacio de Estoi
Palacio de Estoi is a castle that was turned into a hotel. The palace construction began in 1840 and wasn’t completed until 1906 where its features include beautiful paintings, marble statues, and immaculate French-inspired gardens. More modern additions include a restaurant and bar. The palace was named a Portuguese National Monument in 1977 but is now a palace hotel.
Palace de Estoi is just outside Faro but still considered to be in Faro by many. One plus is that it’s less windy than in Faro. It can be challenging to find the palace. Be sure to ask locals as signs are intended for cars, not pedestrians. The entrance to the palace is in the back.
Carmo Church
Construction for Camo Church began in 1719 and continued through the 19th Century. Features in the church include two large angels holding up the altar, gold-plated walls, Portuguese tiles, and twin bell towers. However, the real draw is the bone chapel in the back, made up of 1,000 bones of monks on walls and ceilings. The bone chapel is seen as highly thought-provoking by those who visit.