Regardless of the season, the Algarve region and its beautiful capital city are worth visiting. Here are, therefore, 5 sites not to miss in Faro – our advice for the next trip you plan there.

1. The Cathedral of Faro, or the Se, is the symbol of Faro. It was erected on the site of a Moorish mosque and consecrated at the end of the 13th century. It combines Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance features and was restored in the 17th century. The interior is striking because of the panels covered with azulejos, the chapel and the wood carvings. Another highlight is the 18th century impressive organ. The bell tower is an excellent spot to take panoramic pictures.

2. No visit to Faro would ever be complete without a stroll around the Old Town center, around the wonderfully picturesque winding roads, the romantic balcony houses, the boutiques and the Municipal Museum.

3. Faro Island is accessibly by car – for instance, with Faro car rental – but the drive is worth the pain. The Faro Beach is sunlit and beautiful, a stretch of white sand surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the ocean. It is popular for canoeists, kite surfers, windsurfers and swimmers. Some very picturesque fishermen’s huts can be visited here as well, for the atmosphere.

4. The Arco da Vila is another symbolic monument in Faro. Designed by an Italian architect named Francisco Xavier Fabri at the beginning of the 19th century in the neo-classical style, the arch features a statue of Faro patron saint, Thomas of Aquinas.

5. The Ria Formosa Natural Park covers 60 long kilometers of pristine land, with forests, coastline, channels and idyllic lagoons. The ecosystem is protected by law and it is home to flamingos, spoonbills and singing birds.

If you want a Faro tour, do know it is easy to book one in advance.