Car Rental Faro - Exploring Faro

There are numerous worthwhile destinations in every direction from Faro, all accessible by car. Quality beaches stretch the entire length of the Algarvian coastline, with picturesque fishing villages and towns scattered in between.

The town of Tavira, also known as the ‘cidade das igrejinhas’ (little churches town), boasts a very rich historical past which can be seen in its buildings and in the street planning of the town centre. The area also features the spectacular Tavira Island and the fabulous Ria Formosa Nature Park.

To the west of Faro, Portimão is a pretty city with excellent shopping and fine dining. One of the best streets to shop along is Rua do Comércio, a pedestrian mall which begins from the old market square near the parish church in the highest part of town. The two-kilometre stretch of Praia da Rocha beach to the south of town is typically famous for its weird rock formations.

Along a good road 16kms northwest of Faro is the vibrant market town of Loulé, set in almond-covered foothills. It is an ancient town, but only remnants of its once Roman, and later Moorish castle walls, remain. The castle walls are in the central area that is best known among visitors for its craftsmen, old world charm and vibrant nightlife.

Albufeira is the undisputed capital of the beach resorts and it’s easy to see why. Enormous pock-marked sandstone cliffs stand over the long golden sweep of Praia dos Barcos beach, which offers every type of water sport. There are a few aqua parks and a combined zoo/marine park just outside the resort for family entertainment.

The interesting village of Paderne, with its ruined castle perched on an isolated hill, is a short drive from Albufeira; while at Ponte Grande there are impressive caverns with large arches, and the underwater caverns of Grutas do Xorino.