Faro

Faro is the capital of Portugal's sunny Algarve region. Located at the southern tip of the country, it's often overlooked as tourists rush to nearby beach resorts, but Faro itself is worth exploring.

The city's historic old town, surrounded by ancient walls, features cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. The 13th-century cathedral (Sé) offers amazing views from its tower. Faro's bone chapel (Capela dos Ossos) at the Carmo Church is a bit creepy but fascinating - its walls are decorated with the bones of over 1,000 monks.

The Ria Formosa natural park surrounds Faro - it's a stunning lagoon system stretching along the coast with islands, wetlands, and diverse wildlife. It's considered one of Portugal's seven natural wonders.

Faro has a more authentic Portuguese feel compared to some tourist-heavy spots nearby. With around 65,000 residents, it maintains a relaxed pace of life. The city enjoys over 300 sunny days per year, making it a great year-round destination. Its university brings a youthful energy to the city, with students filling the cafes and bars in the evening.

The food scene focuses on fresh seafood, with clams, octopus, and sardines as local specialties. Don't miss trying a cataplana, a traditional seafood stew cooked in a copper pot.