Faro: Old Town, History and Ria Formosa

Faro combines the history of its old town with nature experiences on the water. The Arco da Vila leads into Vila-Adentro, the old town, while boat trips from Faro offer opportunities to observe wildlife in the channels of the Ria Formosa. This lets you shape your stay around two special aspects of the destination: historic buildings and the landscape of the nature park.

Vila-Adentro and Faro’s Architectural History

The Arco da Vila leads into Faro’s old town, known as “Vila-Adentro”. The Arco contains an Arab gate dating from the 11th century. Those interested in architectural history will find here a direct connection to the historic city and a landmark whose period of origin is clearly established. The gate is part of the Arco da Vila, not an attraction separate from it.

Faro Cathedral also tells the story of a change of eras: it was built in 1251, after the Christian reconquest, on the site of a former mosque. Its location makes it possible to trace this historical sequence. A visit to the cathedral is recommended to take 45 to 90 minutes. The bell tower offers panoramic views over Faro and the Ria Formosa, making a visit a combination of architectural history and views of the city and nature park.

Convent, Museum and Igreja do Carmo

The Museu Municipal de Faro is housed in the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. The convent includes a two-level Renaissance cloister. This also gives the museum visit an architectural dimension: the cloister is a distinctive feature of the building that houses the museum.

Another striking feature of the cityscape is the Igreja do Carmo. Its impressive façade and two bell towers shape Faro’s appearance. The last bell tower was completed in 1807. This date adds a specific historical reference to the impression made by the building, while the façade and towers continue to form the church’s distinctive silhouette.

Theatre History at Teatro Lethes

Teatro Lethes is located in the former Colégio de Santiago Maior and opened as a theatre in 1845. Its history therefore extends beyond its use as a theatre to that of the former building. On 11 September 1898, Faro’s first screening of an animatograph took place there—another clearly dated chapter in local cultural history. Performances created by ACTA are also presented at Teatro Lethes.

The different periods in its history make Teatro Lethes a place where architectural and performance history can be considered together: the former Colégio, its opening as a theatre and the early screening of moving images. If you are interested in Faro’s cultural side, the venue offers more than a single historical date.

Ria Formosa and Activities on the Water

Faro is also part of the Ria Formosa, which is protected as a nature park. It was granted protected status on 9 December 1987 under Decree-Law No. 373/87. Faro is a departure point for maritime tourism activities in the Ria Formosa. Boat trips from Faro through the channels offer opportunities to spot European shags, diving ducks, stilts, wading birds and crested larks. Observing different groups of birds makes these trips a nature experience on the water.

Formosamar runs boat trips as well as ecotourism and adventure activities in the Ria Formosa Nature Park and along the Algarve coast. The operator also offers guided kayak tours departing from Faro. This gives you a choice of different water-based activities: boat trips with opportunities for birdwatching and guided kayak tours. Check the current tour options when making specific plans.

The Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve is dedicated to science communication and welcomes visitors of all ages. Check the latest visitor information before making specific plans to visit.

Getting There

Faro International Airport is approximately four kilometres from the city centre. This approximate distance provides a brief point of reference for planning your journey. Together with the historic sights and maritime activities, it makes for a stay that can focus on both the city’s history and nature experiences in the Ria Formosa.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Estoi, Faro, Santa Bárbara De Nexe, Conceicao, Vila Do Bispo, Portimão, Monchique, Lagoa.

Go to the main travel overview: Faro.