Faro Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Faro
This budget-friendly itinerary for Faro balances engaging free activities with worthwhile paid experiences, ensuring a memorable weekend for families with children aged 3-12. We've included indoor options for potential bad weather and focused on attractions that provide both fun and educational value, along with practical family considerations like accessibility and meal options.
Friday Evening - Festive Family Fun
Friday, January 2Xmas Carousel Fun
Kick off your weekend with the enchanting Forum Algarve Xmas Experience!
Kids will love the Parisian-style carousel, and there's also an ice rink for more wintery fun. It's a festive atmosphere to immerse the family in the magic of the season.
Perfect for younger children who enjoy carousels. The Ice Rink is also an option for older kids. There are restrooms and stroller access throughout the shopping center. Duration is flexible, around 1-2 hours. Good alternative for a chilly evening.
Forum Algarve has ample free parking. It's easily accessible by car or local bus services from central Faro.
Family Dinner Treat
Enjoy an early family-friendly dinner at one of the many restaurants located within Forum Algarve.
Options range from international cuisine to local Portuguese dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. The 'Happy Meals' or specific children's menus usually offer good value and kid-approved options.
Restaurants at Forum Algarve are accustomed to families, offering high chairs and child-friendly facilities. This is a convenient option after the carousel fun, keeping early bedtimes in mind.
Still within Forum Algarve, so no additional transportation needed from the previous activity.
Saturday - Science & Old Town Adventure
Saturday, January 3Science Centre Fun
Dive into a world of discovery at the Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve.
This interactive science museum offers engaging exhibits on marine life (including a touch tank with local animals and seahorses from the Ria Formosa), physics, geology, and meteorology. Kids can experience simulated earthquakes, see a live tornado, and learn about the local ecosystem.
This museum is highly interactive and perfect for children aged 4-12, keeping them engaged for 2-3 hours. It features two aquariums, a 3D printer, and hands-on modules. The entire facility is wheelchair accessible and has restrooms. A fantastic indoor option for any weather.
Located near the marina, walking distance from Faro city center. Public parking garages are available nearby, though they may have a fee. Stroller-friendly access.
Riverside Picnic & Play
After a morning of science, enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch by the Faro Marina or in a nearby park.
You can grab fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious pastries from a local bakery or supermarket. The marina area provides open space and lovely views for kids to stretch their legs.
The area around Jardim Manuel Bívar is great for picnics, with benches and open grassy areas. Public restrooms are available. Kids can watch the boats and enjoy the fresh air. It's a budget-friendly lunch option.
The marina is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from the Science Centre.
Old Town Exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring Faro's charming Old Town.
Walk through the historic Arco da Vila, wander the cobbled streets, and admire the traditional architecture. Children might enjoy trying to spot oranges on the many trees or simply running around the pedestrianized areas. Visit the Municipal Museum of Faro, which displays local artifacts and Roman mosaics.
The Old Town is safe for kids to explore. The Municipal Museum of Faro is generally interesting for a quick visit; kids enter free. Bathrooms are available in cafes or the museum. The 'Love Faro' sign near the marina is also a fun, free photo opportunity.
The Old Town is a short walk from the marina and most central Faro locations. Streets are mostly pedestrianized, but some cobblestones might be challenging for strollers.
Indoor Play Fun
For some active indoor fun, especially if the weather turns, head to Tribo dos Reguilas.
This indoor playground features bouncy castles, mazes, slides, ball pools, a baby-park, trampolines, and more, catering to children aged 2 to 12.
A great energy burner for kids, allowing parents to relax while children play safely. Restrooms and snack options usually available. Plan for 1.5-2 hours of play.
Depends on the exact address, usually accessible by car with parking available in surrounding areas.
Sunday - Nature & Local Flavors
Sunday, January 4Gipsy Market Visit
Experience a local tradition at the Montenegro Gipsy Market.
This monthly market is held on the first Sunday of the month, offering a vibrant atmosphere for browsing and finding unique items, from clothing to household goods. It's a great way to observe local life and culture.
A lively, free activity for families. Kids might enjoy the sights and sounds, and you might find some affordable souvenirs or snacks. Restrooms may be limited to nearby cafes. Stroller access can be challenging in crowded areas.
Accessible by car (parking might be street parking) or local bus from central Faro to the Montenegro area.
Ria Formosa Boat Trip
Embark on a family-friendly boat tour through the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of Portugal's 'Seven Natural Wonders'.
These tours explore lagoons, channels, and islands like Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the unique ecosystem. Some tours also offer dolphin watching in the open ocean.
Most boat tours are suitable for all ages. Look for shorter tours (2-3 hours) that visit a couple of islands to keep children engaged. Many boats are comfortable and safe. Bring snacks, water, and sun protection. Restrooms are usually available on larger boats or on the islands visited. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for family-friendly options.
Tours depart from Faro Marina, easily accessible on foot from the city center. Parking available in nearby paid garages.
Seaside Stroll & Gelato
Conclude your weekend with a relaxed stroll along the Faro waterfront or the nearby Praia de Faro (Faro Beach) accessible by a short ferry ride. Enjoy the sea breeze and treat the family to some delicious Portuguese gelato. It’s a peaceful way to wind down before heading home.
The waterfront offers pleasant walking paths, and the beach is ideal for a gentle stroll, shell collecting, or just playing in the sand (weather permitting). Ferries to Praia de Faro are frequent and a fun mini-adventure for kids. Gelato shops are plentiful near the marina. Restrooms are available at the ferry terminal and along the beach.
Walk to the waterfront. The ferry to Praia de Faro takes about 20 minutes from the Porta Nova pier. Alternatively, Praia de Faro is also accessible by car (approximately 15-20 min drive) with parking available.
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