Welcome, fellow travelers, to the beautiful Algarve region of Portugal!
As we enter the month of March, Faro is bursting with life and activities that are sure to make your trip an unforgettable one.
From its stunning beaches and charming cobblestone streets to its rich history and delicious seafood cuisine, Faro is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling Algarve looking for a perfect balance between relaxation and exploration.
In this blog post, I will share my personal experiences and recommendations on the top things to do in Faro in March – so get ready for some sun-kissed adventures in this gorgeous coastal city!
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Pssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Algarve? Have a look at my other posts:
- Airbnbs in Algarve, Portugal
- Things to Do in Portimao, Portugal
- Hiking in Algarve: Best Algarve Hikes
Table of Contents
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Overview: Top 5 Things to do in Faro
- Explore the Old Town
- Visit Ria Formosa Natural Park
- Go on a food tour
- Rent a motorboat
- Go on a bike tour
1. Explore Faro Old Town
If you want to see a blast from the past, exploring the Old Town should be at the top of your list of things to do in Faro.
Imagine traveling back to the 18th century as you walk on cobbled pedestrian streets and squares surrounded by medieval walls.
It is home to the cathedral, rebuilt in baroque and Renaissance styles, and offers magnificent views over most of Faro.
And since the city is a top tourist attraction and one of the best places in Algarve, you can also find numerous markets here.
I enjoyed walking around and making stops at some of these markets, where I could buy souvenirs and trinkets for my friends back home.
You can haggle with the sellers, but these are great pieces, so buy them.
Explore the old city of Faro on a train
2. Visit Faro Cathedral
I have mentioned the Faro Cathedral as part of the Old Town, completed in 1251.
The English raid in 1596 destroyed the original cathedral, except for the two chapels and the tower gate.
Thus, the cathedral was rebuilt in Renaissance and Baroque styles–a fascinating sight!
Not to be missed is its interior, characterized by gilded wood carvings, marble inlay, and fascinating tilework.
Aside from being a place for religious services, this cathedral receives guests who want to see its small museum of sacred arts, featuring altarpieces, statues, paintings, chalices, and vestments.
I recommend standing on the terrace by the bell tower so you can take in the breathtaking views of the city.
Book the best tours around Faro
3. Discover Ria Formosa Natural Park
Visiting the Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of the best things to do in Algarve.
This natural park houses a lagoon that stretches up to 60 kilometers to Tavira, which is why it’s among the things to do in Tavira.
Because of its picturesque white sandy beaches, it’s considered among the best beaches in Algarve.
Moreover, it provides a protected habitat for a fantastic array of wildlife, making it a perfect place to enjoy birdwatching.
While there, I took one of the scenic boat tours in the area, and I strongly recommend you do it, too!
Check tours to Ria Formosa here
4. Relax at Faro Island Beach
This is not your average beach.
Though called an island, the Faro Island beach is not officially an island but is a piece of land connected to the mainland by a narrow road.
I was impressed to see a stretch of what people call ‘barrier islands’, dotted with restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
Though usually crowded during the summer, you can walk farther to the side with fewer people.
But before doing that, stop by one or two of the bars and restaurants here for food and drinks.
The Wax Restobar, located on the beach, offers fantastic sunset views.
Restaurante Ze Maria is another great choice, still on the beach, for delicious seafood and drinks.
Not too keen on hiking in Algarve trails? The Faro Island Beach has plenty of exciting activities like kite surfing and jet skiing! I did both and enjoyed it a lot!
Book the best boat tours in Algarve
5. Visit Faro’s cinemas
Are you planning a trip to Faro this March? Make sure to add a visit to the cinemas of Algarve to your itinerary!
There’s no better way to relax after a busy day of sightseeing than by settling into a comfortable seat with popcorn and a great film.
Plus, you’ll experience the Portuguese cinema scene and discover some local gems.
Whether it’s the latest Hollywood blockbuster or an independent art film, you will surely find something that suits your taste.
So why not make the most of your stay in Faro and treat yourself to a night at the movies?
6. Celebrate São Brás de Alportel Carnival
Another one of the exciting and fun things to do in Faro, Portugal, in March is join the celebration of the São Brás de Alportel Carnival.
What better way to feel like a local than to join their traditional celebrations?
The carnival is one of the biggest parties, featuring live music, artistic floats, and a dancing procession in various colors and designs on the street!
I was truly enchanted by the talent and beauty in this part of the Algarve.
So, if you’re looking for exciting things to do in Sagres, do it here and feel festive!
Book the best vacation rentals in Faro
7. Indulge in local Seafood Specialties
Among the best things to do in Faro in March and year-round is indulge in their local seafood specialties.
Many people looking for the best things to do in Portimao are heading to this Algarve capital.
I tried their piri-piri chicken, and boy, it was delicious! (although it’s not a seafood dish)
I couldn’t get enough of their Cataplana dishes made from their cooking equipment.
Plus, they had sumptuous fried sardines that still make me think of them today! – Book the best food tours in Faro
8. Savor Traditional Portuguese Sweets
Even while enjoying the best things to do in Lagos or wondering about the best places in Algarve, I still savor the best traditional Portuguese sweets!
So, I talked to several locals, who all had the same suggestion—the Pastel de Nata.
They’re also famously known as egg tarts, with a crunchy and flaky crust topped with a sweet and lightly creamy custard.
Pair it off with some black coffee, and your afternoon is complete!
Try their rice pudding, Arroz Doce and Rabanadas, or Portuguese French toast!
These sweets will surely end your question about what to do in Portugal in March.
Book the best food tours in the Algarve
9. Explore Tavira
Going to Tavira is a brilliant idea if you want to explore outside Faro.
If you want to know, it’s considered the most romantic town in Algarve.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Tavira.
You’ll see the Gilao River winding through it and some homes with traditional architecture and pyramid-shaped rooftops.
Interestingly, it also has a ruined castle, dozens of churches, and a Roman bridge.
If you want to enjoy coffee outside your home, the plaza and some riverside cafes offer the best options.
No wonder it’s a popular place for a large expat community from Brazil, the UK, Canada, the US, and Europe.
Buy the ultimate Like a Local guide to the Algarve
10. Visit Lagos
Lagos is on the Western Algarve coastline, famous for its pristine beaches, rich maritime culture, and unique character.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Lagos. I highly recommend walking in the historic quarter, where you can see the ancient city walls and the Forte da Bandeira.
Then, see the Ponta da Piedade, limestone cliff formations with hidden caves and balanced stacks.
And if you’re looking for a quick dip at the beach, go for the Praia de Dona Ana Beach, famous for its turquoise waters.
You may also opt to go on other day trips from Lagos to explore the best of what the Algarve offers!
11. Visit the Chapel of Bones in Faro
The name may not be the best, but it holds incredible stories and history.
The Chapel of Bones is where some 1,250 skeletons are resting, offering the chapel a ghoulish decoration of bones and skulls.
These skeletons were exhumed from the overcrowded cemeteries of Faro in 1816, which belonged to the Carmelite monks in the Carmo church. The church is a must on any Faro tour.
12. Enjoy a Fado Music Performance
Are you a music lover?
You won’t go wrong with the Fado Music Performance, one of the top things to do in Albufeira and the Algarve region.
It is where people gather and listen to a tradition of singing a mournful yet heartfelt song among Portuguese people.
Fado, which means fate, is translated into music and accompanied by classical and Portuguese guitars.
With themes like regret, fate, and passion, this performing art returns to the ancient songs of enslaved Africans and is attributed to the homesick sailors of the 14th and 15th centuries.
So, be one with the Portuguese and experience this fantastic traditional art.
Book the best hotels in Algarve
13. Take a Guided Walking Tour
Embark on an adventure to discover Faro’s hidden gems on a guided walking tour!
There are plenty of things to do in this charming city this March, but don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience.
Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll be taken through Faro’s winding streets and historic landmarks, while learning about the city’s rich culture and fascinating history.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun activity, a guided walking tour in Faro is the perfect way to explore the city from a unique perspective.
Be prepared to uncover hidden corners and fascinating stories you wouldn’t find alone!
Book a night Segway tour of Faro
14. Participate in a Cooking Class
I love cooking, and there’s no better way to explore a new city than by joining a local cooking class!
That, of course, was one of the highlights of my trip to Faro.
Whether staying in one of the best hotels in Albufeira or a cozy guest house, you can’t miss learning about Algarvian cuisine!
I was pleasantly surprised to find various options, including farm-to-table, vineyard cooking, cooking classes, and lunch-at-the-farm options.
The chef was excellent, and everyone in our group had fun and enjoyed our delicious recipes.
The best part about the class was that most of our ingredients were in my hometown.
Book the best cooking tour in Algarve
15. Explore the Archaeological Museum of Faro
There is so much history in Faro!
Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Faro, or the Museu Municipal, was a great choice with all its exhibits and artifacts.
Collections from the prehistoric, Medieval, and Moorish periods revealed much about the city’s history, including 20th-century paintings by Carlos Porfirio and some religious artworks.
Anyone here will see the statue of Afonso III, Portugal’s king in the 13th century, standing at the museum’s entrance.
Travel tips to visit Faro in March
March Weather
Generally speaking, any time of the year is a good time to visit Faro.
However, if you want to enjoy the beach, March offers the perfect temperature, averaging 19ºC.
However, it’s important to note that it can be chilly at night, with temperatures dropping to 13ºC.
So, make sure to bring warmer clothes along with your swimwear.
Packing Essentials
Make sure to include these packing essentials when coming to Faro:
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.
- A day bag with your passport, cards, and wallet.
- An international charging adapter for your devices, as the plugs or outlets in Faro may differ from those of your country.
- A portable travel safe where you can hide your valuable stuff while exploring the city.
- Use a power bank to charge your devices on the go.
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from Portugal’s mostly scorching sun.
- A travel towel for lounging on the beach or sunbathing.
Local Transportation Tips
Experiencing the things to do in Faro in March shouldn’t be a problem, thanks to the city’s good network of buses and trains.
Buses from the Faro airport are available and go to the various destinations in Algarve.
But if you want more freedom, you can rent a car in Faro to explore the city anytime.
Plus, you can place your stuff in the car and take it anywhere.
Just lock it and park the car in a safe area to avoid theft.
It is best to book a car-for-rent online to ensure there is one available when you arrive.
However, note that Portugal drives on the right side of the road. Make sure to wear your seatbelts and carry a valid driver’s license.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Faro in March
There are many sights to see and things to do in Faro in March.
All you need is planning, especially if you are thinking of where to stay in Algarve.
Try their food, see the museums and historic old town, and enjoy its traditional music performance to complete your excursion.
Though it is often ignored as a tourist destination, it is truly worth exploring Faro, especially in March.
So, is Faro an excellent place to visit?
It surely is!
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
