Engel & Völkers Licence Partner Algarve > Blog > Faro – Capital of Algarve

Faro – Capital of Algarve

Faro is the largest city in the Algarve and the gateway to southern Portugal. Lying on the coast, overlooking the shallow lagoons of the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park, this is a destination with cultural wealth and a stunning location.

The municipality comprises 4 parishes: Conceição and Estoi, Santa Bárbara de Nexe, Montenegro and United Parishes of Sé and São Pedro, having around 65.000 inhabitants distributed by 210 km2 and being around 30% of that area part of the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve, a natural habitat for the most diverse and colourful birdlife.

The Romans called it Ossonoba, and was one of the most important urban centres in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. The greatest historical monuments date from the 16th and 17th centuries and are clustered together within the walls of the Old Town.


Best things to explore in Faro:

  1. Faro Cathedral
  2. Arco da Vila
  3. Cidade Velha
  4. Igreja do Carmo
  5. Faro Municipal Museum
  6. Muralhas de Faro
  7. Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão
  8. Palácio de Estoi
  9. Milreu Roman Remains
  10. Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve
  11. Ilha de Faro
  12. Ria Formosa Cruise
  13. Island Beachs (Ilha deserta, Ilha da Culatra, Ilha do Farol)


Excellent destination for your holidays, to reside for a few months, a year or permanently. Algarve is a paradise and is waiting for you. Find out more and discover the properties we have selected for you at Engel & Völkers!

Contact us now
Engel & Völkers
Licence Partner Algarve
  • .
    . Algarve
    Portugal
  • Phone 00000

We know the true value of your property

Do you know how much your property is currently worth? No matter if you just want to inform yourself about the current market-price, or if you wish to sell your property for the best price: our experienced marketing experts are happy to assist you with a free and non-binding valuation.