Faro - When to Go

Faro is the capital of the sun-kissed Algarve, and it benefits from being at the heart of a region that enjoys more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in Europe. The best time to visit Faro depends on the type of holiday you are looking for, as well as your budget. The climate is pleasant the whole year round, and, while temperatures soar at the height of summer (from late June through the end of August), things never get too cold during the winter (December to February). Sun seekers can count on getting their fix almost all year round, although it won’t be warm enough for swimming and sunbathing between late November and the beginning of March.

Budget Breaks

Budget travelers planning a trip to Faro will find that the best deals on flights and accommodations are available outside of high summer. As the main point of entry for international visitors to the Algarve, the tourist hordes begin to descend on the city in June, and the place is bustling with people during the European and North American school summer holidays, from early July through the end of September. While temperatures are at their highest at this time of year, so too are the prices, and you’ll need to do a fair bit of forward planning if you want to find any real bargains.

Tourist High Season

When deciding when to go to Faro, travelers should be aware that during the high season they can expect to find a lively nightlife scene, busy beaches and long queues for many museums, galleries and attractions. While the budget airlines lay on extra flights to Faro at this time of year, accommodation options can be scarce. Late spring and early autumn are perhaps the most pleasant times to visit Faro, with warm, sunny weather and a good deal more elbow room on the beach.

Festivals in Faro

Faro has a lively calendar of festivals and events, and there is plenty going on here at any time of the year. Each spring (dates vary, but usually between May and June) there is a major music festival event in Faro, which attracts some big names in classical music and opera. Easter is a lively occasion, with parades, music and dancing. The city’s annual motorbike festival, held each July, sees bikers flocking to Faro for music, drinking, dancing and more. While visitors are unlikely to experience a white Christmas in Faro, the city’s sparkling decorations and cheery atmosphere make this a pleasant place to spend the festive season. New Year celebrations are lively too, but again, book in advance if you want to be sure of a bed for the night.