Faro Pratical Information is the best place to begin planning for a trip to Faro, Portugal. It is a great idea to get yourself acquainted with essential, basic information about your travel destination before leaving home.

Location 

Faro is the capital city of the Algarve region in southern Portugal. Portugal is a country bordered by Spain to the east and north, and is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and south.

Population 

The city of Faro has a little over 42,000 inhabitants, while the entire metro area of Faro is a little over 58,000.

Language 

The official language of Faro, as well as all of Portugal is Portuguese. Spanish is also widely spoken in Faro due to Portugal's close proximity to Spain, and it is also common to find many locals speaking English due to the busy tourism industry in Faro.

Currency 

The official currency of Faro, as well as all of Portugal is the euro. The euro is the official currency of the European Union and 16 of the countries within the EU are now using the euro. The euro coins used are the 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1 euro, and 2 euro. The euro paper banknotes currently being used are the 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euro notes. If you are traveling within Europe, and the country is currently using the euro there is no need to exchange currency if you plan to visit Portugal. If you are traveling to Faro from outside the EU it is advisable to exchange a small amount of your currency to euro before arriving in Portugal. The best way to exchange currency after arrival in Faro is at a major bank, hotel, or any bureau de change. Major credit cards, travelers checks, and euro cheques are widely accepted throughout Faro, but it is always advisable to carry a small of cash on you at all times for incidentals. Most major banks are open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Time Zone 

Faro's time is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Electricity 

The electrical current used in Faro is 220 volts, AC. The most common outlet plug is the European continental round 2-pin plug. Make sure to check your voltage on your electronics before leaving home, as you may need to bring a voltage/plug adapter.

Climate 

Faro's climate is warm and mild. During the winter months the weather can get quite cool, but it never gets extremely cold, and during the summer months the climate can get hot at times, but the heat is never severe heat.