Things to Do in Faro with Kids

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

Leisure activities in Portugal are varied and ideal for families.

Faro is a city and port in the south of Portugal, the center of the historic province of Algarve. It is located on the picturesque coast of the Ria Formosa Bay near Cape Santa Maria. We have put together a list of the best things to do in Faro with children.

Don’t forget that you should rent a car at Faro airport to explore the city.

Faro is considered a wonderful place for a family vacation, with plenty of family-friendly accommodation 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”
• Explore the caves on the coast
• Attend the famous Ria Formosa Nature Park
• 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
• Faro: Dolphin and wildlife watching

Things to do in Faro with Kids

What are the best activities you can do with your family in Faro and the surrounding area?

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, a former small fishing village near Vilamoura, has developed into a wonderful vacation resort over the last ten years. Quarteira is famous for its weekly market, which attracts visitors from all districts, and for the market by the sea, where fresh fish is always on sale.

The main attraction of Quarteira is a huge sandy beach that stretches for three kilometers. There are souvenir stores, cafés and restaurants along the beach strip. You can also visit the excellent oceanarium in the resort. In addition, the most active holidaymakers are invited to the popular Algarve disco every evening.

You can board a catamaran in Faro and explore the Ria Formosa Nature Park.

The canals of the Ria Formosa serve as the route for this boat trip, which also takes you to the enchanting islands of Farol and Deserta. During the trip, you will learn a lot about the history of the islands and the nature park.

Visit the impressive Santa Maria lighthouse on Farol and take time to explore the island and sample local specialties. On Deserta, you can admire the gently rolling dunes and enjoy the island’s beautiful landscape. Look out for the diverse flora and fauna, including the chameleon, which has its habitat here.

Both islands offer many long, secluded beaches with untouched stretches of coastline for swimming. This is because they are only accessible by boat.

Explore the caves on the coast

Experience the beautiful Algarve with your children and discover great places and exciting activities. As previously mentioned, there is the option of a boat tour that starts in Faro and takes you to the islands of Barrio, Deserta and Culatra.

However, a boat tour along the cliffs of the Algarve is a special experience. You can explore the following highlights on your own, but you can also book them in Faro or in other towns along the coast and on the internet.

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.

Benagil Cave – A Natural Wonder

One particularly impressive tour takes you to the Benagil Cave, a natural wonder that must be seen. The Benagil Cave is one of the most popular attractions on the south coast of the Algarve.

From the land, it is hard to imagine that a breathtaking cave complex is hidden amidst the steep cliffs. Only when looking from the sea does it become clear that two striking rocky outcrops on the beach prevent 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 and not on foot. There are therefore only a few opportunities to visit the cave.

It is possible to reach the Benagil cave by boat from Praia de Benagil beach. Boat trips to this tourist attraction are also offered from other surrounding towns and beaches. A longer boat trip is definitely worthwhile, as there are numerous accessible caves and impressive rock formations along the coast.

Although the nearest beach to the cave is only about 150 meters away, it is not a good idea to swim to the cave. Not only is the Atlantic quite cool, even in high season, but there are also strong currents that are difficult to gauge and the tides and waves change quickly. Sudden changes in the weather, such as thunderstorms, can also be dangerous. There have been cases of tourists getting stuck in a cave and only getting back to the beach with help. So you shouldn’t risk it under any circumstances.

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

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

You will also have a guide who will accompany you and provide interesting information about the caves, their formation and the Algarve coast.

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

The activities listed above were mainly child-friendly family excursions. The great mountain bike and motocross routes near Almancil, which you can ride yourself or experience racing events there, should also be mentioned.

But there are also activities that particularly appeal to children and young people.

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

Faro: Dolphin and wildlife watching

Embark on a fantastic adventure in the Algarve where you can meet a variety of marine animals, from dolphins to whales and more!

From Faro, you’ll sail through the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park towards the Atlantic Ocean. On the way to the coast, you will have a breathtaking view of the barrier islands (Deserta and Culatra) and the marshland.

When you reach the open ocean, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins, whales and porpoises. The whale-watching season lasts from February to May, while dolphins can be spotted all year round. Look up to spot gannets and shearwaters, and don’t forget to scan the waters for sunfish, blue sharks, hammerhead sharks and even sea turtles. A dynamic duo of marine biologists will help you spot as many species as possible and teach you interesting facts about marine life and the environment.

If you spot a pod of dolphins, take 30 minutes to observe them in their natural habitat. You can ask your knowledgeable guides questions about dolphins and other sea creatures and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of marine biology and conservation. After your dolphin encounter, you’ll head back to Ria Formosa with a new awareness of the incredible underwater world of the Algarve.

Price: €60
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.