By Fiona Hiliard
Discover another side to the Algarve with Faro Airport car hire. Explore historic buildings and bustling markets that you never knew existed, then make a break for the seaside and uncover hidden coves and secluded strands. With Faro car hire, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a holiday experience that is completely unique.
Faro Airport Mini Guide:
Faro Airport is located 4km to the west of Faro. The airport offers a range of several restaurants, bars and shops as well as Internet access, ATMS, a post office and a bank.
Things To See/Do in Faro:
First-time visitors to Faro are often surprised to find a modern, lively city, brimming with shopping precincts, lively restaurants and bars. Faro is much more than a mere gateway to the Algarve, boasting restaurants, bars and a buzzing nightlife. The majority of sightseeing opportunities are to be found in the Old Town known as (Cidade Velha). The town is entered through a ornate 18th century gate and is enclosed by the remains of medieval walls. By far the most popular site in Faro is somewhat macabre. The Igreja do Carmo features the bones of 1200 monks whose bodies were removed from a nearby cemetery. Less dramatic perhaps, but just as worthwhile is the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The pretty village of Estoi is also well worth a look. Sun seekers will find a beach just a few miles away, close to the international airport.
Faro's major shopping area is to be found in the heart of town, along the Rua Santo Antonio and the Rua Francisco Gomes. There is also a bustling produce market on the largo do Mercado which is open every day for visitors and locals. In Faro, it's well worth your while stocking up on local handicrafts, basketware, embroidered goods, local wines and traditional clothing. Ceramic decorated tiles and traditional lacework are other popular buys.
Eating Out in Faro:
Visitors to Faro will find a huge variety of restaurants and food stores lining the Rua de Santo Antonio. While in town, treat yourself to the local cakes and desserts, and sweet delicacies bursting with figs and almonds. For sea views, book a table at Ginasio Clube Naval, a wonderful little eatery overlooking the harbour. Meanwhile, Adega Dois Irmaos is the city's oldest seafood restaurant where guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to fish and shellfish. If you're holidaying on a budget, check out A Tasca on the Rua del Alportel. For special occasions, check out the menu at Carmane on the beach.
Day Trips/Events in Faro
As capital of the Algarve, you'll find plenty going on in Faro all year round. Events worth pencilling into your diary include April 25th's Revolution Day, July/Augusts Festa da Ria Formosa in the Largo da Sé and and September's Festas do Concelho, a two extravaganza of sports eventsm concerts and exhibitions.
Faro is an excellent base from which to explore the Algarve. Easy Faro car hire day-trips include Serra de Monchique, Lagos, Silves, Alte, Tavira and Sagres.
Fiona writes for Argus Car Hire and Car Hire Portugal
Source:www.isnare.com |
