Flying into Faro Airport? Here are the best beach resorts to flock to for fun in the Algarve sun.

1. Faro

12 minute drive from Faro Airport

See our villas in Faro

The capital of the Algarve, Faro is a gorgeous city close to Faro airport. Top marks for originality, there... Enjoy white sandy beaches, walks around the marina and a sociable drinking culture perfect for mingling with the locals. 

2. Olhăo

17 minute drive from Faro Airport

Olhăo is a seaside town, notable for being the largest fishing port in the Algarve region. Take in the salty sea air scented by the catch of the day. It's hard to escape the fishiness, but wander around town and you'll soon realise that this simply adds to Olhao's rich culture. 

 

3. Estoi

18 minute drive from Faro Airport

Nestled at the foot of Serra do Caldeirão, Estoi is a coastal town near it all. It's less than 20 minutes from Faro Airport and chocka with historic sites. Bump visiting the Ruins of Milreu to the top of your to-do list. There's also Estoi Palace, which is an elite residence worth snooping around. 

 

4. Almancil

20 minute drive from Faro Airport

Almancil sums up a traditional Algarve town. Picture whitewashed buildings, up-market seafood restaurants and great golf courses for the golfers in your group to take a swing at.

 

5. Loulé

25 minute drive from Faro Airport

Loulé is loaded with old architectural treasures. Speaking of old, make sure you tie your visit in for The Carnival of Loulé which has taken place here for over 100 years. This street party is the most famous carnival in the Algarve held annually every February or March.  

 

6. Vilamoura

31 minute drive from Faro Airport

Vilamoura is a popular Algarve holiday destination. It's home to a state-of-the-art marina and some seriously stunning golden beaches. Plus, if golf is a must then you'll have 6 golf courses to choose from in Vilamoura alone.  

 

 

7. Olhos de Água

33 minute drive from Faro Airport

Olhos de Agua is a peaceful fishing town with a beautiful sandy cove as its prize asset. Fishermen moor their boats on the sands giving beach breaks here an authentic yet desirably low-key feel. 

 

8. Albufeira

39 minute drive from Faro Airport

Albufeira is ranked as one of the most popular Portuguese holidays. With great beaches, delicious cuisine and a buzzing nightlife scene to its name, there's little need to question why it lures in the crowds. 

 

9. Tavira

40 minute drive from Faro Airport

Tavira sits in the heart of the Algarve. Its whitewashed cobbled squares and blissed-out beaches will give you all those holiday feels.  There are also salt mud flats nearby which are a haven for migratory birds and bird watchers, alike.

 

10. Carvoeiro

51 minute drive from Faro Airport

Carvoeiro is the furthest from Faro airport, yet still less than an hour away in the car. Renowned for its beaches and proximity to the Slide & Splash waterpark, expect to be wowed by the family-friendly sights and activities available in Carvoeiro. 

 

Resort near Faro airport	Journey time by car
Faro	12 minutes
Olhăo	17 minutes
Estoi	18 minutes
Almancil	20 minutes
Loulé	25 minutes
Vilamoura	31 minutes
Olhos de Água	33 minutes
Albufeira	39 minutes
Tavira	40 minutes
Carvoeiro	51 minutes