Faro: City Sightseeing Tourist Train

Travelers heading to Faro often seek a quick, easy way to get a feel for the city’s key sights without too much hassle. The Faro City Sightseeing Tourist Train offers just that — a 45-minute, low-cost ride through some of the most notable landmarks and scenic spots in the Algarve’s capital. This experience promises a relaxed way to get oriented, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more laid-back exploration.

What we find appealing about this tour are three aspects: the affordable price of just $4.73 per person, its convenient schedule with multiple departures throughout the day, and the audio commentary that aims to enrich your understanding of Faro’s historic sites. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues with noise levels and the quality of the explanations. If you’re someone who values hearing every detail clearly, this might be a consideration.

This kind of tour tends to suit visitors who are looking for a brief overview of Faro’s highlights, are curious about the city’s main sights, or need an accessible, hassle-free option. It’s perfect for those who want a quick orientation on their first day or for travelers with limited mobility seeking a comfortable ride. Let’s explore what exactly this tour offers and whether it works for your travel style.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point makes it an accessible way to see Faro.
• Quick 45-minute duration suits a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Audio commentary available in multiple languages enhances the experience.
• Passes through key landmarks like Old City, Ria Formosa, and local churches.
• Noted for noisy street conditions that can hinder hearing the commentary.
• Accessible for wheelchairs and offers multiple daily departures.
• Limited depth—more of an overview than an in-depth tour.
• Reviews point to ventilation issues and variable audio quality.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Faro City Sightseeing Tourist Train

Starting at the central Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, the tour is designed to be straightforward. With departures scheduled at regular intervals—10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00—you can plan your day easily around it.

The Journey and Stops

Once onboard, the train begins its circuit through Faro’s highlights. Expect to pass through the Old City, where medieval walls and narrow streets echo centuries of history. You’ll cruise past the Zona Comercial da Baixa, the lively shopping district, offering a glimpse into everyday Faro life.

One of the standout features of this ride is the chance to marvel at the Ria Formosa lagoon. While the train can’t stop there, passing by the waterways provides terrific views of the natural beauty that defines Faro’s landscape. The tour also covers important religious and cultural sites, including Igreja da Misericórdia, Sé de Faro (Faro Cathedral), Igreja do Carmo, and Igreja São Pedro.

The Experience

The train itself is designed to be a family-friendly, accessible way to cover ground without tiring out. However, reviews indicate that the audio commentary can be difficult to hear, mostly because the train is noisy on the streets, and there’s no ventilation system, making it quite warm in the summer months. One traveler from Canada mentioned, “No ventilation on the train,” which could be a concern during hotter days.

The commentary is provided in several languages—English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish—aimed at accommodating international visitors. Still, some reviewers felt the explanations were not very engaging or clear, especially amid street noise.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly budget-friendly, making it an easy addition to your Faro itinerary.
• Provides a quick overview suitable for first-time visitors.
• Offers an accessible option for those with mobility issues.
• Picturesque views of Faro’s cityscape and lagoon from the comfort of a train.

Cons:

• The noise levels can make it hard to hear the commentary clearly.
• The limited duration means it’s more a taste of Faro than a comprehensive tour.
• No air conditioning or ventilation, which can lead to discomfort in warmer weather.
• Some participants felt the explanations lacked depth and engagement.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, the train begins its circuit, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Faro’s historic core. The Old City walls and narrow streets are the first sights, offering an immediate sense of the town’s medieval roots. This is a prime spot for photography, especially if you’re keen on capturing authentic Portuguese charm.

Next, the train moves toward the Zona Comercial da Baixa, where you can observe locals shopping and enjoy the lively street atmosphere. While the train doesn’t stop here, it’s a good chance to see the vibrant side of Faro.

One of the key highlights is the pass by the Ria Formosa lagoon, a vast and stunning waterway that plays a crucial role in Faro’s ecosystem. Passengers often enjoy the scenic views of salt flats, birdlife, and the expansive waterways, making it a peaceful visual break from the city’s urban sights.

The route then takes you past some of Faro’s religious landmarks, including Igreja da Misericórdia, a beautiful example of local church architecture, and the Sé de Faro, the city’s cathedral with its imposing structure and commanding views over the city.

Finally, the tour covers the theater district—including the historic Teatro Lethes—and ventures into the new town, offering a contrast to the old city’s charm. As the train approaches the end of the 45-minute journey, you’ll pass through the Carmo Church, known for its ornate Baroque interior.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

While some appreciated the ease of access and the overall view, multiple comments highlight issues with the audio. A traveler from Ireland noted, “Wouldn’t recommend this tour if you want to actually hear what the speakers are saying… the train is noisy on the streets.” Others found the explanations unremarkable, describing the tour as “a cheap way to kill 45 minutes and see the city for your bearings.”

Nevertheless, a visitor from the United States mentioned that the value for money is good considering the price, especially if you’re just looking for an introduction rather than an in-depth exploration.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At roughly $4.73 per person, this tour is very budget-friendly, especially given the short duration and the convenience.
• Duration: 45 minutes—ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing day or as a quick overview.
• Departure Times: Multiple options throughout the day make it flexible, but check availability ahead of time.
• Meeting Point: Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, very central and easy to find.
• Accessibility: The train is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility concerns.
• Languages: Audio commentary is offered in four languages—English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish.
• Weather: Be prepared for the heat during summer since the train is open-air with no ventilation. Bring water and sun protection.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This sightseeing train works best for those seeking a cost-effective, quick introduction to Faro. It’s suitable for families, older travelers, or anyone with limited time who wants to see the city’s main sights from a comfortable seat. If you’re passionate about detailed historical explanations or immersive experiences, you might find this tour a bit superficial. However, if you’re after a gentle, scenic overview with easy access, this could be a good choice.

Final Thoughts

The Faro City Sightseeing Tourist Train offers an affordable and convenient way to get a snapshot of the city’s prime spots. While the noisy streets and limited commentary quality are worth considering, the views of Faro’s old town, religious sites, and the nearby lagoon are genuinely worth a quick glimpse.

This experience is best suited for travelers who need a simple, no-fuss introduction or are looking for an easy way to orient themselves before exploring further on foot or by other means. Keep in mind the potential discomfort in hot weather and the noise levels, and you’ll likely find this tour a practical, if somewhat basic, addition to your Faro visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the ride.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick overview of Faro’s main sights.

What languages is the audio commentary available in?
The commentary is available in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, a central location in Faro.

Are the departures at specific times?
Yes, the departures are at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00, but availability should be checked in advance.

Is there ventilation or air conditioning on the train?
No, the train is open-air, which can lead to discomfort during hot days due to lack of ventilation.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour worth its price?
Given its affordability, it offers decent value for a quick city overview, especially if you’re short on time or budget-conscious.

In the end, the Faro City Sightseeing Tourist Train is a practical, budget-friendly option for those wanting a brief, scenic introduction to Faro’s highlights. While not perfect in terms of comfort or depth, it’s a good way to get your bearings and enjoy some lovely views without breaking the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here: