Faro

Faro is the Algarve’s largest and most important town. It is a bustling place with a good tourist infrastructure and some fascinating history and natural features. The excellent weather, affordable accommodation and friendly people make it an extremely popular destination.

The Old City, with its delightful narrow lanes, tiled walls and historic architecture is popular with tourists and locals alike. Many of the original structures were unfortunately damaged by both natural disasters and the Crusader invasions of the 18^th century. You can still see parts of the original Roman walls that surround the city and the Episcopal Palace and 700-year-old cathedral are still standing.

The city has a long and interesting maritime history and there is a small naval museum that borders on the Praade Dom Francisco Gomes. Another museum worth a visit is the archaeological museum, housed in a former convent that dates back to the 16^th century.

There are a large number of places throughout the region where visitors can experience wonderful alfresco dining, drink some local wine and simply enjoy the slower pace of life this area offers.

The coastline of the Algarve is spectacular and features secluded beaches, rolling hills and wonderful cliffs and mountains. The town of Lagos has a beautiful coastline and attracts many tourists each year. The town also boasts a good number of historic buildings and Baroque churches. Portimao has a very cosmopolitan air, with lovely beaches framed by cliffs and rocks as well as some historical monuments.

Sagres enjoys stunning natural beauty and is situated on the edge of mainland Europe’s western-most point. It was here that Prince Henry set up a school of navigation that eventually led to Portugal’s role in the discovery of many new countries and even continents.