Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in southern Portugal, is a vibrant destination full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Although it is known as the gateway to some of the best beaches in the country, Faro offers much more than just sun and sand. From its picturesque old town to its stunning natural landscapes, Faro is a place that perfectly combines tradition with modern charm. For tourists using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, Faro presents accessible options, with an increasing focus on adapting its attractions and services to be more inclusive.
Faro has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Originally known as Ossonoba, the city was an important trading port during Roman occupation. Later, the Visigoths and Moors left their mark on the city, which was finally reconquered by Christians in 1249. Faro has been the capital of the Algarve since 1756, after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake destroyed much of the region.
An interesting anecdote about Faro is related to the British occupation in 1596, when the Earl of Essex raided the city and stole a library of rare books. These books ended up in the Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford, where they can still be found today.
One of the most important places to visit in Faro is its old town, known as Cidade Velha. This area is surrounded by ancient Roman and Moorish walls, and it is a perfect place to stroll and discover the city's history. For wheelchair tourists, access to Cidade Velha has improved in recent years. Many streets are paved with cobblestones, which can be a bit challenging, but ramps have been implemented in the most important areas, facilitating access.
Faro Cathedral, also known as the Sé, is one of the main attractions in Cidade Velha. Built in the 13th century on the remains of a mosque, this cathedral blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. The cathedral square, called Largo da Sé, is wheelchair accessible, and although the entrance to the cathedral presents some challenges due to its steps, the exterior and the square are well worth a visit.
Near the cathedral, you can visit the Faro Municipal Museum, located in a former 16th-century convent. This museum houses Roman and Moorish archaeological artifacts. The museum has implemented accessibility improvements, including ramps and elevators, making it an interesting and accessible visit.
For nature lovers, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is a must-see. This park, stretching along 60 km of coastline, is a maze of lagoons, islands, and marshes that are home to a great diversity of wildlife and flora. Migratory birds, such as flamingos, are a common sight in Ria Formosa. Wheelchair access in the park is available in several areas, including specific routes that have been adapted to facilitate mobility. Some local companies also offer accessible boat tours through Ria Formosa, allowing tourists to explore the park from the water and enjoy the tranquility of this natural space.
The islands of Faro
The Algarve is famous for its islands and golden sandy beaches. While some of the islands near Faro, such as Deserta Island and Faro Island, may have limited access due to terrain, Culatra Island is a more accessible option. The island can be reached by boat, and although some areas may be difficult to navigate in a wheelchair, many boats are equipped for passengers with reduced mobility.
Faro Island, connected by a bridge from the mainland, is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a day at the beach. Some areas of the beach have walkways that facilitate access for wheelchair users.
Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)
One of the most unique, and for some, unsettling attractions in Faro is the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), located within the Church of Carmen complex. The walls of this small chapel are lined with the bones and skulls of monks, a common practice in some parts of Europe to remind people of the brevity of life. Although access to the chapel can be a challenge for wheelchair users due to the stairs, the Church of Carmen itself is more accessible and offers a fascinating insight into Baroque architecture.
On the other hand, Faro offers a good variety of accessible accommodations for wheelchair or mobility scooter users. From luxury hotels to more budget-friendly hostels, many establishments in the city have adapted their facilities to meet the needs of travelers with reduced mobility. It is important to confirm with the hotel whether they have adapted rooms before booking, and some hotels also offer accessible showers and other specialized services for people with disabilities.
Finally, the cuisine of the Algarve is a delight for the senses, with a strong influence from the sea and local fresh produce. Restaurants in Faro offer a wide variety of traditional dishes, such as cataplana de marisco (a seafood stew), bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with potatoes and egg), and a wide range of fresh fish and seafood. Many restaurants in Faro are wheelchair accessible, with step-free entrances or ramps. However, as with any destination, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm the accessibility of the place.
Final tips
Faro is a friendly and accessible city that is increasingly adapting to welcome tourists with reduced mobility. While some historical areas may present challenges, most of the main attractions have worked to make them more accessible.
When planning your visit, be sure to check the accessibility options available at each attraction and accommodation, and do not hesitate to take advantage of the accessible transport services offered by the city.
With its rich history, charming old town, and beautiful beaches, Faro is an ideal destination for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable stay in this gem of the Algarve!
Here is the information about the main tourist offices in Faro, Portugal, including the one at the airport:
Faro Tourist Office (Posto de Turismo de Faro)
- Address: Rua da Misericórdia, 8-12, 8000-269 Faro
- Phone: +351 289 803 604
- Email: turismo.faro@turismodoalgarve.pt
- Website: www.visitalgarve.pt
- Services: General tourist information, city maps, guides, and attraction recommendations. They offer details on local events and activity bookings.
- Accessibility: Accessible for people with reduced mobility, with ramps and access to all main areas. It also has accessible restrooms.
Região de Turismo do Algarve
- Address: Av. 5 de Outubro, 18, 8000 Faro
- Phone: +351 289 800 400
- Email: geral@turismodoalgarve.pt
- Website: www.visitalgarve.pt
- Services: This office offers more regional information about the Algarve, with recommendations on routes, attractions, and accommodations throughout the region.
- Accessibility: Also wheelchair accessible and equipped with adapted restrooms.
Faro Airport Tourist Office
- Address: Faro International Airport, 8001-701 Faro
- Phone: +351 289 800 617
- Email: faro.airport@ana.pt
- Website: www.faroairportinfo.com
- Services: Provides information on the city, vehicle rentals, excursions, and maps for newcomers. It is ideal for those seeking guidance upon landing.
- Accessibility: Faro Airport offers a specialized service called MyWay, which assists passengers with reduced mobility from their arrival at the airport until they board the plane or leave the terminal. There are also accessible restrooms and elevators.
These offices provide a wide range of services for tourists, including information on events, activities, and local transportation, ensuring that all visitors, including those with reduced mobility, can fully enjoy their stay in Faro.
Tourist Card
In Faro, you can take advantage of the Vamus Algarve tourist transport card, which offers unlimited travel on buses throughout the Algarve region, including connections to Faro Airport and other major cities like Lagos, Albufeira, and Portimão. This card is ideal for comfortably moving around the region without worrying about purchasing individual tickets.
Details of the Vamus Algarve card:
- Duration: Available for 3 days (€35) or 7 days (€45), with unlimited use during that time from the first activation.
- Attractions: In addition to bus journeys, it connects you with various tourist activities, including hop-on hop-off bus routes, allowing you to explore the cliffs and other stunning landscapes of the Algarve.
- Public transport: The card includes transportation on the Aerobus (bus connecting Faro Airport to the city center and nearby towns).
Accessibility:
The Vamus Algarve buses are modernized, and many of them are accessible for people with reduced mobility, including wheelchair and scooter access. However, it is recommended to check specific routes in advance to ensure that the vehicles used on that route meet accessibility needs.
Where to purchase:
You can buy the card at any of the Algarve tourist offices, including in Faro and the airport. You can also check schedules and routes on the Vamus Algarve website.
In summary, the Vamus Algarve card is an economical and convenient option for exploring the Algarve in an accessible way, and it is especially useful if you plan to visit several cities in a short period.
Airport:
The Faro International Airport (FAO), located in the Algarve region, is committed to ensuring accessibility for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility. Below are the main features and services designed to make traveling through the airport comfortable and barrier-free:
- Accessible Entrances:
The airport is fully adapted for wheelchair users. The main entrances have ramps and automatic doors for easy and smooth entry. Additionally, the airport offers accessible elevators that connect the different levels, ensuring that passengers can move around the facility with ease. - MyWay Service:
One of the airport’s standout services is the MyWay program, offering comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities. This free service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance and provides help from arrival at the airport until boarding, or from landing to exiting the terminal. The MyWay team consists of trained professionals who use mechanical equipment like wheelchairs and mobile platforms to ensure passengers can move safely and comfortably around the airport. - Accessible Help Points:
The airport has clearly marked MyWay assistance points equipped with special phones so passengers can request help whenever needed. From these points, a MyWay team member will assist with luggage, check-in, security control, and boarding. - Accessible Waiting Areas:
The airport offers several waiting areas that have been adapted for people with reduced mobility. The seating areas are spacious and designed for easy wheelchair access. Additionally, VIP lounge services are accessible for people with disabilities. - Accessible Restrooms:
Throughout Faro Airport, you'll find accessible restrooms for wheelchair users. These restrooms are located both in the public area (before security control) and in the boarding area. They are designed with enough space and support bars to facilitate use. - Adapted Parking:
The airport has a reserved parking area for people with disabilities, located near the main entrances of the terminal building. These parking spaces are clearly marked and designed for direct access to the airport, with ramps and accessible routes. If you use the long-stay parking or ValetXpress, additional assistance can also be requested. - Permission for Guide Dogs:
Faro Airport allows guide dogs inside the terminal, providing more independence and comfort to people with visual impairments. It’s important to notify the airline in advance if traveling with a guide dog to ensure the animal is accepted onboard. - Additional Information:
The airport also has accessible information screens and customer service points equipped to assist passengers with reduced mobility. If additional help is needed, airport staff are trained to meet the special needs of passengers at all times.
Summary:
- Adapted access: Ramps, elevators, and automatic doors.
- MyWay Service: Personalized assistance with advance booking.
- Help Points: Clearly marked assistance stations.
- Accessible waiting rooms and lounges.
- Adapted restrooms throughout the airport.
- Accessible parking with reserved spots near the entrance.
- Guide dogs permitted inside the terminal.
These services make Faro International Airport an accessible location for all travelers, ensuring that people with reduced mobility can enjoy a seamless travel experience.
Getting from the Airport to the City Center
Here’s how to get from Faro International Airport to the city center for a person with reduced mobility:
- Public Bus (Line 16 - Próximo)
- Accessibility: Line 16 buses are accessible for wheelchair users. They have ramps and reserved spaces for wheelchairs.
- Route: Connects the airport with Faro city center and Praia de Faro.
- Duration: Approximately 20 minutes to the center.
- Price: A ticket costs €2.25 per trip and can be purchased directly from the driver.
- Schedule: From 05:00 to 23:20, with departures every 30 minutes.
- Stops: The bus can be boarded right outside the arrivals terminal and also stops at the departures terminal.
- Website: www.en.aeroportodefaro.com/buses
- Adapted Taxis:
Taxis in Faro offer specific services for people with reduced mobility. These taxis are equipped with ramps and adequate space for wheelchairs or electric scooters.
Recommended Companies:
- Faro Airport Transfers Algarve
- Phone: +351 289 800 617
- Email: info@faroairporttransfersalgarve.com
- Features: Vehicles with ramps, drivers trained to assist people with reduced mobility.
- City Airport Taxis
- Phone: +351 308 805 945
- Email: info@city-airport-taxis.com
- Features: Adapted taxis available by prior reservation, 24/7 service.
- Website: www.en.aeroportodefaro.com/taxis
- Price: A taxi ride from the airport to Faro city center costs between €10 and €15, depending on the time of day and day of the week. Taxis are available 24 hours.
All these methods ensure that people with reduced mobility can easily travel between the airport and Faro city center with good accessibility and comfort.
Transportation Within the City
Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, has a variety of accessible transportation options for people using wheelchairs or who have mobility issues. Below are the available options, with details on accessibility, schedules, and prices.
- Public Buses - Próximo
The city of Faro is well connected through the Próximo bus service. Most buses are equipped with ramps and space for wheelchairs, making them accessible for people with reduced mobility.- Key lines:
- Line 16: Connects Faro Airport with the city center and Praia de Faro.
- Line 14: Connects various points within Faro city and is a great option for moving around the center.
- Schedules:
- Line 16 operates from 05:00 to 23:20, with a frequency of 30 minutes.
- Line 14 operates from 06:00 to 22:00, with frequencies ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.
- Prices: A single ticket costs €2.25 and can be purchased directly on the bus.
- Adapted Taxis
For quicker or more personalized trips, adapted taxis are an excellent option. In Faro, several companies offer taxis equipped with ramps and suitable spaces for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Recommended Companies:
- Faro Airport Transfers Algarve
- Phone: +351 289 800 617
- Email: info@faroairporttransfersalgarve.com
- Features: Adapted vehicles with ramps, drivers trained to assist people with reduced mobility.
- City Airport Taxis
- Phone: +351 308 805 945
- Email: info@city-airport-taxis.com
- Features: Adapted taxis available 24 hours, with prior reservation to guarantee an accessible vehicle.
- Price: A taxi ride within the city costs between €10 and €15, depending on the time of day and distance.
- Trains
Trains in Faro are operated by Comboios de Portugal (CP) and connect the city with other destinations within the Algarve. However, it’s important to note that not all trains are accessible for wheelchair users, as some older models do not have ramps or specific spaces.- Train station: Faro Station is located in the city center and offers assistance to passengers with reduced mobility if requested in advance.
- Algarve Line: This line connects Faro with cities like Lagos, Portimão, and Vila Real de Santo António.
- Prices: Tickets vary depending on the destination, but trips between nearby cities range from €4 to €7.
- Accessibility: While some trains have stairs, it is recommended to request assistance at the station to ensure barrier-free access.
- Urban and Regional Trains
In addition to intercity trains, Faro also has regional and urban trains. While these services can be useful for traveling to other parts of the Algarve, not all trains are accessible, so it’s advisable to contact Comboios de Portugal to confirm the accessibility of the specific train you want to use. - Adapted Vehicle Rentals
If you prefer more independence, several local companies offer adapted vehicles for people with reduced mobility. These vehicles come with ramps and space for wheelchairs, making them a good option if you want to explore the region at your own pace.
Faro is a city with accessible public transportation options, but it’s recommended to plan ahead if traveling by train or using specific taxis. Thanks to the city’s efforts to improve accessibility, visitors with reduced mobility can enjoy Faro and its surroundings without major difficulties.
Here is information on two accessible beaches in and around Faro, with details on their accessibility and adapted public transport:
1. Praia de Faro
Praia de Faro is the city's main beach and one of the most accessible for people with reduced mobility.
- Accessibility: The beach has ramps that allow wheelchair users to reach the sand. It also features wooden walkways that facilitate movement across the beach.
- Amphibious Chairs: During the summer season, Praia de Faro offers amphibious chairs that enable people with reduced mobility to safely enter the water.
- Assistance Personnel: There are lifeguards and trained staff to assist people with disabilities during their stay at the beach.
- Accessible Changing Rooms: The beach is equipped with accessible bathrooms and changing rooms for people with reduced mobility.
Adapted Public Transport:
- Bus: Próximo’s Line 16 connects Faro city center and the airport with Praia de Faro. These buses are accessible, equipped with ramps and reserved space for wheelchairs. A ticket costs €2.25, and the trip takes around 20 minutes.
- Taxi:
- Faro Airport Transfers Algarve (+351 289 800 617)
- City Airport Taxis (+351 308 805 945)
These companies offer adapted taxis for people with reduced mobility.
2. Ilha de Tavira
About 40 km from Faro, Ilha de Tavira is another accessible beach for people with reduced mobility, perfect if you wish to explore beyond the city.
- Accessibility: The beach has wooden walkways that make it easier to access the sand.
- Amphibious Chairs: Amphibious chairs are available during the high season, allowing people with reduced mobility to enjoy the sea.
- Accessible Changing Rooms: There are accessible bathrooms and showers along the beach, as well as adapted spaces for changing.
Adapted Public Transport:
- Accessible Ferry: Ilha de Tavira can be reached via an accessible ferry from Tavira’s port. Although there’s no direct train from Faro, you can take a train to Tavira and then the ferry.
- Regional Train: From Faro, you can take a Comboios de Portugal train to Tavira, costing around €4. While some trains have limited access, it is advisable to check accessibility in advance.
- Taxi: Adapted taxis in Faro can also take you to Tavira, where you can board the ferry to the island.
Both beaches are committed to accessibility, offering suitable facilities and services so that people with reduced mobility can enjoy the sea and sand without hassle.
Old Town Neighborhood (Cidade Velha)
The most touristy and visited neighborhood in Faro is undoubtedly the Old Town, or Cidade Velha, a place where the city's history and culture blend in a picturesque setting. Starting your tour of this neighborhood feels like traveling back in time, as its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and preserved walls transport you to an era when Faro was an important Roman trading port and later, a city under Moorish rule.
Begin your tour at Arco da Vila, a monumental gate that is part of the ancient walls that once protected the city. This gate is wheelchair accessible, allowing entry into the old town. As you pass through the arch, you enter a world of narrow streets and whitewashed facades leading to the heart of Cidade Velha. Here, every corner seems to tell a story, from Roman occupation to the Christian reconquest. The tour is peaceful, as many of the streets have been pedestrianized or have very little traffic, making wheelchair mobility easier.
Once inside the Old Town, one of the first places you'll encounter is the Faro Cathedral, also known as the Sé. This building dates back to the 13th century and was built on the remains of an old mosque. While interior access may be tricky due to a few steps, the square where it is located, Largo da Sé, is fully accessible and offers an impressive view of the cathedral, with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. From this square, you can also enjoy views of the nearby Episcopal Palace, another building of great historical importance.
Continuing along the cobbled streets, you'll reach the Faro Municipal Museum, located in the former Convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção. This is one of the most important museums in the city and houses a collection of Roman and Moorish archaeological artifacts that help you understand Faro's rich history. The best part is that the museum has been adapted to be accessible, with ramps and elevators making it easy to explore its exhibits. Here, you can appreciate Roman mosaics and artifacts from the Islamic occupation, all presented in a modern setting that respects the original structure of the convent.
As you continue your walk, don't miss the narrow streets that form the heart of the neighborhood, all full of charm and tranquility. While some streets are cobbled, the main ones have ramps installed on the edges and are level enough to facilitate wheelchair movement. One of the most notable streets is Rua do Município, which connects several key points of the tour.
If you head east, you'll reach the Roman Wall, one of the oldest structures in the city, which still stands as a testament to Faro's glorious past. Although not all sections of the wall are accessible due to its age, several parts have been restored and adapted to allow access for visitors with reduced mobility. In this area, you will also find the Manuel Bívar Garden, a peaceful place with accessible areas where you can stop to rest and enjoy views of Faro's marina.
From here, you can walk towards the Palácio de Belmarço, an impressive neo-Arabic-style building. While the interior is not open to the public, it is another example of the city's rich architectural heritage. The streets surrounding the palace are wide and accessible, making for a comfortable and smooth journey.
The neighborhood also offers various dining options. Many of the cafes and restaurants around Cidade Velha have adapted their entrances for people with reduced mobility, making it easy to enter and exit. In these establishments, you can enjoy typical Algarve cuisine, such as fresh fish or the traditional cataplana de mariscos, in an accessible and welcoming environment.
Finally, for those who want to take a break before leaving the old town, an ideal stop is the Mirador of Arco de Repouso, which offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Access to this viewpoint is equipped with ramps and wide spaces, allowing all visitors to enjoy the magnificent views.
The Old Town of Faro is a place where the past and present meet, offering a unique experience for those looking to explore its history or simply enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the Algarve. Most importantly, thanks to the efforts made to improve accessibility, it is a place that is ready to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of mobility limitations.
Here’s information about three accessible restaurants for people with reduced mobility in Faro:
1. Restaurante Faz Gostos
Restaurante Faz Gostos is a renowned spot in Faro, known for its blend of traditional Portuguese cuisine with modern touches. The signature dish is the confit cod with chickpea puree, a tribute to Algarve’s traditional cuisine.
In terms of accessibility, the restaurant has a wide, step-free entrance, making it easy for wheelchair users to enter. Additionally, it has fully adapted and accessible restrooms.
- Address: Rua do Castelo, 13, 8000-243 Faro, Portugal
- Phone: +351 289 878 422
- Email: info@fazgostos.com
- Website: www.fazgostos.com
2. Chefe Branco
Chefe Branco is a restaurant specializing in Portuguese homemade cuisine, with standout dishes like seafood rice, bursting with the fresh flavors of the Algarve. The restaurant prides itself on offering a welcoming and accessible environment for all customers.
The entrance is fully accessible, with gentle ramps and a spacious interior that allows for easy wheelchair maneuvering. Accessible restrooms are also available.
- Address: Largo de São Pedro, 20, 8000-142 Faro, Portugal
- Phone: +351 289 813 433
- Email: reservas@chefebranco.pt
- Website: www.chefebranco.pt
3. O Murta
O Murta is a family-owned restaurant offering an authentic culinary experience with dishes like oven-roasted lamb, a specialty of the Algarve. The restaurant is committed to accessibility and features a step-free entrance and a spacious interior.
Additionally, the restrooms are adapted for people with reduced mobility, and the staff is attentive and willing to provide extra assistance if needed.
- Address: Rua do Montepio, 24, 8000-202 Faro, Portugal
- Phone: +351 289 878 200
- Email: omurta@faro.pt
These restaurants provide a great blend of authentic Portuguese cuisine and a welcoming, accessible environment for visitors with mobility needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience in Faro.
