Things to Do in Faro with Kids

The peculiarity of the Portuguese mentality is love and the ability to appreciate a good rest.

Recreation in Portugal is versatile and ideal for families.

Faro is a city and seaport in the south of Portugal, the center of the historic province Algarve. It is located on the picturesque shore of the Ria Formosa Bay near Santa Maria Cape. We’ve got a list of the top things to do in Faro with kids.

Remember, in order to travel around the city you should hire a car at Faro airport.

Faro is considered a wonderful place for a family holiday, with lots of family-friendly accommodation options and things to do.

Here is an overview:

• Things to do in Faro with Kids
• Watch the birds in Quinta do Lago
• Walk around the Old Town
• Visit the heart of the “sea gifts”
• Attend the famous Ria Formosa Nature Park
• Explore the caves at the coast
• Benagil Cave – A Natural Wonder
• Explore the sea caves by kayak
• 7 Hanging Valleys Trail – Breathtaking Panoramas
• Marinha Beach – Relaxation in paradise
• The Caves of Algar Seco – Hidden Jewels
• Cliff Jumping – A thrill awaits you
• Try traditional cuisine
• A few more kid-friendly activities in Faro
• Buggy Off-Road Adventure
• Drive a Go-Kart
• Set sail on the Pirate Ship

Wondering how to get to go Faro? Check out the various routes in Portugal on Bookaway. Bookaway offers private transfers, mini-vans and buses.

Things to do in Faro with Kids

So, what are the best activities to do with your family in Faro?

Watch the birds in Quinta do Lago

15 minutes’ drive from Faro is the most prestigious resort Quinta do Lago. Quinta do Lago is a nature reserve, it is forbidden there to build buildings higher than the trees. Here, among the beautiful pine forests and well-kept parks with lakes are elegant villas and first-class hotels.

Here live birds, which you cannot find anywhere else in the world, and its sunny for 360 days of the year. A 300-meter wooden platform leads exactly to the beach, where you can study the “small fry” of the marine world: mollusks, crabs and other cheerful living creatures.

Walk around the Old Town

The most real adventure in Faro will be an ordinary walk around the city on foot. The historical center, which is the Old Town, is a beautifully preserved corner of Portugal of the 18th century with cobbled streets and ancient buildings.

You can meet the unusual vehicles, the real wonders of automotive design – even pick-up with motorcycle rudder and front wheel! In the same place, you will see a lot of retro cars, for example, Renault 4s. You can get the Old Town passing through the Arco da Vila.

We recommend doing a walking tour of Faro (like this one) to explore all the hidden spots and learn about the history.

Visit the heart of the “sea gifts”

Quarteira, being a former small fishing village located near Vilamoura, in the last decade has turned into a wonderful resort. Quarteira is famous for its weekly fair, attracting visitors from all the districts, and the market by the ocean, where at any time there is fresh fish for sale.

The main attraction of Quarteira is an immense sandy beach stretching for three kilometers. Along the beach strip, there are souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. At the resort, you can visit the excellent oceanarium. Moreover, every night calls the most active holidaymakers to join in the popular disco in the Algarve.

Attend the famous Ria Formosa Nature Park

The park is a labyrinth of canals, islands, lagoons and sandy beaches that stretch for 60 km along the Algarve coast between the beaches of Garrão and Manta Rota. Not so long ago the park entered in the seven wonders of Portugal. The natural park is rich in various plants and wild animals.

On the coast of the ocean there are oysters, mussels and different types of fish. In addition, in the territory of Ria Formosa, sea salt is extracted. In the park, you can watch birds and dolphins, while sailing on a boat and admire the marine life through the beautifully clear water.

You can hop onto a catamaran here to explore the Fia Formosa Natural Park.

The canals of the Ria Formosa serve as the route for this cruise, which includes stops at the enchanting islands of Farol and Deserta.

Visit the impressive Santa Maria lighthouse in Farol and take time to explore the island and sample local specialties. On Deserta, you can admire the gently rolling dunes and enjoy a unique landscape. Look out for the diverse flora and fauna, including the chameleon.

Both islands offer numerous secluded beaches with unspoiled coastlines for swimming. On board, your guide will provide informative commentary on the history of these islands and the park as a whole.

Explore the caves at the coast

Experience the beautiful Algarve with your kids and discover amazing places and exciting experiences. One option is to hop onto a boat tour, starting in Faro, cruising to the Barrier Islands, Deserta and Culatra. But you can also explore the following highlights on your own.

Benagil Cave – A Natural Wonder

Your trip starts at the impressive Benagil Cave, a natural wonder that must be seen. Benagil Cave is an extremely popular attraction on the southern coast of the Algarve in Portugal.

From the land, it is hard to imagine that there is a stunning cave complex hidden in the middle of the rugged cliffs. It’s only when you look out to sea that it becomes clear that two prominent outcrops on the beach provide direct access to the cave.

The cave is located near the town of Benagil and the beach of the same name, Praia de Benagil. However, it can only be reached by boat, not by foot. Therefore, there are few possibilities to visit the cave.

Not only is it possible to visit the Benagil Cave from the beach of Praia de Benagil, but there are also boat trips to this tourist attraction from many of the surrounding towns and beaches, including the town Benagil itself. But a longer boat trip is definitely worthwhile, as there are countless navigable caves and impressive rock formations all along the coast.

The nearest beach is only around 150 meters away, but it’s not a good idea to swim to the cave. The Atlantic is quite chilly even in high season. There can be strong currents here as well and the tides and waves change quickly. You should also remember that the weather can change quickly. There have been cases of tourists getting stuck in a cave. Something you don’t want to do.

Parking at Praia de Benagil is not very well regulated. There are only a few parking spaces at the side of the road. The road goes steeply down to the beach and just as steeply up the other side. Due to the large number of tourists, there is also a lot of traffic and pedestrians on the road.

To avoid the complicated parking situation and to see more of the beautiful Algarve coast, a longer boat trip is a very interesting alternative.

Then you also have a guide who will show you the way and give you interesting information about the area.

Explore the sea caves by kayak

Leaving Lagos aboard a motor catamaran, you will have the opportunity to admire the unforgettable golden beaches of D.Ana, Camilo and Ponta da Piedade, for which this area is famous.

During the trip, an expert guide will explain everything you need to know about equipment, safety and navigation rules. Once you reach Ponta da Piedade, you can get into your kayak and follow your guide. He will guide you through the beautiful caves and small beaches of this famous and ancient area.

After your tour you will have plenty of time to relax or swim. Once back on board, you can sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views as you return to the city.

Price: €40
Duration: 2 hours

What to bring: A sweater or windbreaker, sunscreen, swimsuit, hat or cap, towel and a good mood.

Book your experience directly with the tour operator here

7 Hanging Valleys Trail – Breathtaking Panoramas

Next, explore the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail, where the beauty of nature unfolds before your eyes. Take a leisurely stroll along the trail and enjoy the breathtaking views and majestic cliffs that will leave you speechless.

A hike along the southern rocky coast of the Algarve is a must. So you might consider this as an own excursion, if you like to go hiking. Otherwise this recommended tour includes it, too.

The reddish-brown and sometimes bizarre rock formations, caves, grottos and hidden bays are so beautiful that they should not be missed. The stretch between Praia da Marinha and Praia Vale de Centianes is particularly impressive. Although the actual stretch is not very long, it takes an incredible amount of time to marvel and admire.

Along the way, it feels like going from one breathtaking view to the next. Just when you think you’ve found your personal dream beach, the next highlight is waiting for you.

Marinha Beach – Relaxation in paradise

After this adventurous hiking experience, head to Marinha Beach, a paradisiacal spot on the Algarve coast. Praia da Marinha is a legendary beach near Lagoa, known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Here you can just relax, sunbathe and dip your feet in the clear blue water. Feel the soft golden sand under your toes and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this place.

Everywhere you look in advertisements for the Algarve you will see pictures of Praia da Marinha. But in reality the beach surpasses even its pictures.

Once you arrive, be sure to enjoy the breathtaking view of the beach. Surrounded by steep cliffs, it has a magical atmosphere. From these cliffs you can experience a sight that you will remember for a long time.

It is just the right moment to recharge your batteries for the rest of your trip.

The Caves of Algar Seco – Hidden Jewels

Your adventure now takes us to the fascinating caves of Algar Seco, known for their unique beauty.

Algar Seco is a stunning collection of tunnels, passages and caves carved into the yellow limestone cliffs of the Algarve coast in Carvoeiro. It would be a mistake to miss this place in southern Portugal.

You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the cliffs and caves, which are littered with fossils. Particularly impressive is the Boneca Cave, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and will leave you in awe. You’ll also have the chance to swim in a natural rock pool and enjoy a drink at the Boneca Bar.

There is a long staircase leading down to the cliffs. Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers can’t reach them. However, there is enough space at the top to park a stroller.

You don’t have to join a tour to see Algar Seco from the sea. However, if you want to, I recommend a boat tour, as it includes also some of the other most important highlights along the Algarve coast.

Cliff Jumping – A thrill awaits you

Your tour ends with an adrenaline rush at the Algar Seco Cliff Jump.

Thanks to the impressive rock formations and the fact that there are few rocks underwater for jumpers to encounter, Algar Seco has become an extremely popular place to jump. Steps have been carved into the rocks to make the climb up after the jump much easier.

Get ready for an exhilarating jump into the crystal clear waters.

If you decide to book the tour, you will return to Faro leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Algarve tour, which you and your kids won’t forget so soon.

Boat Tour Price: €42
Duration: 4 hours
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• A pair of sunglasses
• Sun Hat
• Bathing suit
• Face mask or protective cover

Try traditional cuisine

Faro is considered the capital of South-Portuguese cuisine. The restaurants in the port serve fish dishes and traditional grilled meats under a piquant sauce, of course, with Portuguese port wine as an aperitif. All this definitely will not leave you indifferent.

A few more kid-friendly activities in Faro

Faro is an ideal place for family recreation and seeing with wildlife – they’re all part of the best things to do in Faro.

Buggy Off-Road Adventure

Experience a truly unique way to explore the Algarve on this guided off-road tour where you’ll be riding in an exhilarating buggy.

Discover hidden gems such as Paderne Castle and be amazed by the breathtaking scenery that regular vehicles can’t access. Let your expert guide show you the best routes for an unforgettable trip.

Embark on your exciting adventure from our headquarters in Albufeira and immerse yourself in thrilling rides on roads and dirt tracks exclusive to off-road vehicles. Capture stunning 360 degree views at Paderne Castle and take some incredible photos.

Indulge in the excitement of this off-road expedition, knowing that your safety is paramount. With a professional guide and instructor by your side, enjoy a low-speed ride filled with adrenaline-pumping moments.

The buggy tour includes an expert guide, a safety briefing, and the option to change drivers. The buggies provide to seat two people and come equipped with helmets, fuel and water.

For this adventure, remember to bring your driver’s license. All drivers must be at least 18 years old, while passengers should be at least 7 years old. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, which can get dusty.

Remember to bring your car driver’s license (category B) and make sure it is an original document with no photos or copies. Learner or provisional licenses are not accepted. A security deposit of €150 per vehicle can be paid in cash or by credit card.

Finally, keep in mind that this sightseeing experience moves at a leisurely pace, allowing you plenty of time to take in all the sights along the way.

Drive a Go-Kart

Spend an exciting day at Karting Almancil, a unique go-kart park in the beautiful Algarve, open all year round. Experience the thrill of three different go-kart tracks, suitable for people of all ages and experience levels.

Climb into one of our exciting go-karts and race around the three varied tracks. Our main track is the most impressive with a length of 760 meters – it is an exact replica of the former Formula 1 track of Jacarepaguá in Brazil.

At Karting Almancil you will find different types of tracks adapted to children between 3 and 6 years old (KARTING MINI F1), children between 6 and 12 years old (KARTING JUNIOR), as well as adults with our KARTING 200 CC, ideal for beginners, or the KARTING 390 CC for experienced drivers.

In addition, the park offers a play area especially for children, as well as a snack bar. And as a special highlight, they even have a small petting zoo – so no boredom is guaranteed!

Junior course – price: €13
The junior course is a 10-minute circuit and is suitable for children between the ages of 7 and 12.

Main Circuit 390cc Course – price: €25
The Main Circuit 390cc course is suitable for riders over the age of 12 and is designed for more experienced riders.

Duration: 10 minutes
Opening hours: 11:00 – 18:00
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before

Set sail on the Pirate Ship

Hoist the pirate flag, cast off and let’s go! On board the magnificent pirate ship Leãozinho (“Little Lion”), you will explore the most sought-after locations along the Algarve coast and find out why these hidden treasures have been the home of brave pirates for generations.

As you set sail, you will be able to admire fascinating rock formations from the historic ship. If you feel like it, the kids can quench their thirst in the pirate bar on board and the parents can enjoy a sip from the old rum barrel.

The wind blows strongly in the sails and from your comfortable seat you have a fantastic view of the most beautiful beaches and breathtaking cliffs along this coast. You even have the opportunity to sail out into the Atlantic, past the gentle sandy beaches of San Rafael, Castelo and Praia da Gale.

Of course, no pirate adventure would be complete without crossing the plank – but don’t worry! You’ll love it when you find yourself in the refreshingly clear waters below! A dip in the cool waters is the perfect refreshment before you hoist the sails and head back to Albufeira Marina.

Price: €24
Duration: 2 hours
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before

Check out a few more of the following kid-friendly activities in the Algarve, listed on GetYourGuide.