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Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, does not receive as much attention as it should. Most people who land in the airport are simply passing through on their way to various coastal resorts where sun and sea await. Indeed, many people arrange a transfer from Faro to Albufeira or one of the other nearby resorts as soon as the plane touches down. However, this is an interesting town with a fascinating history, and it really should not be dismissed so easily. Here are some of the major historic attractions that you can discover in a day or two exploring, which will make your time well worth it. 1. Faro Cathedral Faro Cathedral is a fascinating building that has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries. You could say that it tells the story of the town's history in one building. Before the cathedral was built, a Roman forum occupied the spot, which was later turned into a mosque followed by the cathedral. Make sure you head to the top of the tower to admire the beautiful views of the town itself and beyond to the Ria Formosa Natural Park. While in the Old Town, you should also consider visiting the Bishop’s Palace, which dates back to the 18th century, and the Town Hall to develop a greater understanding of Faro’s past. 2. Igreja do Carmo The Igreja do Carmo is known as the Carmelite Church in English, and this Baroque building is famous far and wide for the Capela dos Ossos that is located inside (this translates as "the Chapel of Bones"). This is an attraction not for the squeamish, for inside you will find the chapel covered in the bones of the dead. It dates back to 1816 when it was built by the Carmelite monks, and it makes for a unique attraction to visit when you spend some time in the town before travelling from Faro to Albufeira or elsewhere. 3. Municipal Museum The Municipal Museum was used as a convent in the 16th century, but now houses an interesting collection of artefacts that bring the story of the town's history to life. Attractions in the museum include a Roman mosaic floor spanning 30 feet, as well as paintings, lamps and even a collection of statues dating back to Roman times. 4. Estoi Estoi lies outside the town but it is easy to reach; if you arrange a transfer from Faro to Albufeira (or another resort) you will be able to make a trip here for a morning or afternoon. It consists of an impressive Roman ruin dating back nearly 2,000 years, and you will be able to encounter mosaics, baths, a mausoleum and a range of other fascinating remains. Don’t Miss the History If you're planning on heading to one of the coastal resorts of the Algarve, don’t miss out on exploring Faro first. Before you arrange your transfer from Faro to Albufeira, or one of the other resorts in the area, check out the above historic attractions and discover more of this beautiful town, to make your holiday in the Algarve even more rewarding. Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a transfer from Faro to Albufeira, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.
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