Faro Airport Transfers (FAO)

Faro International Airport (FAO) is the primary gateway to the stunning Algarve region and southern Spain. While the airport is modern and efficient, the surge of seasonal travelers can make securing a taxi or navigating public transport a challenge.

This guide from TravelThru provides a complete overview of Faro Airport. We will walk you through the terminal layout and help you find the most effortless transportation to Lagos, Albufeira, Vilamoura, and even across the border to Seville.

FAO Airport Overview

Faro Airport features a single, large terminal building that has undergone significant expansion to handle over 9 million passengers annually.

• Arrivals & Departures: Both are located on the ground floor, making navigation relatively straightforward compared to larger European hubs.
   
• International Hub: Serving as the main entry point for sun-seekers, the airport has a few nice touches like duty-free shopping, places to grab local crafts, and a variety of cafes.
   
• Seamless Entry: EU and non-EU arrival flows are clearly marked, but during peak summer months, passport control lines can be long.
   

Porto Airport Parking
 

• P1 & P2 Parking: Located directly in front of the terminal for short-term stays and drop-offs.
   
• P3 Low Cost: Situated further away, intended for long-term parking, requiring a short walk or shuttle.
   

By booking a private transfer, you skip the high costs of Faro airport parking and the hassle of finding your car in the large outdoor lots under the Algarve sun.
 

Faro Airport Lounge Options

Located in the departures area after security. CIP lounge offers a quiet environment with snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating, ideal for relaxing before your flight home.

Hotels Near Faro Airport

• Hotel 3K Faro Aeroporto: A convenient 3-star option located just 700 meters from the terminal.
   
• Pousada Palácio de Estoi: For those seeking luxury, this stunning rococo palace is a 15-minute drive away and offers a quintessential Portuguese experience.

Transportation Options From/To Faro Airport

Travelthru Airport Transfer Services in Faro

Choosing our Faro airport transfers means you skip the stress of navigating a new city or waiting in long taxi lines. You step off your flight and walk directly to a professional driver who handles your luggage and leads you to a private, climate-controlled vehicle.

When you book with TravelThru, you gain the peace of mind that comes with fixed pricing and real-time flight monitoring. If your arrival experiences a delay, you can relax knowing your ride waits for you at no extra cost. Families also benefit from the safety of pre-booked child seats, ensuring a secure journey for everyone.

Whether you travel from Faro airport to Lagos or a nearby resort, you enjoy a quiet, direct trip instead of a crowded public bus.

Other Options for Traveling to/from FAO Airport

• Aerobus (Circuit 16): Connects the airport to Faro city center and the main bus/train station. It is the cheapest option, but it does not go directly to the resorts.
   
• Airport Taxi Transfers: Official taxis are available at the stand. Prices are metered and can increase significantly with luggage surcharges or weekend/night rates.
   
• Ride-Hailing (Uber/Bolt): Available at Faro, but drivers must pick up in a specific "Kiss & Fly" zone, which can be crowded and confusing to find.

Things to Do in Faro 

If you have a few hours before your flight or want to explore the local area upon arrival, Faro offers a sophisticated blend of history and nature just minutes from the terminal:

• Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha): Wander through the Arco da Vila archway, and you'll find charming cobblestone streets, the stunning historic Se Cathedral, and lovely, quiet squares dotted with sweet-smelling orange trees.
   
• Ria Formosa Natural Park: A stunning labyrinth of lagoons and islands. Take a private boat tour from the marina to spot flamingos or visit the pristine beaches of Ilha Deserta.
   
• Capela dos Ossos (Bone Chapel): Located in the Carmo Church, this 19th-century chapel lined with monk skeletons is one of the Algarve’s most hauntingly beautiful historical sites.
   
• Forum Algarve: An open-air shopping mall near the airport featuring high-end international brands, a large food court, and a cinema, perfect for last-minute essentials.

How to Get Around Faro and Beyond

TravelThru's Chauffeur Service in Faro

Experience the Algarve with the ultimate flexibility of a dedicated private chauffeur. Beyond a simple airport transfer, our hourly chauffeur service is designed for those who value their time and comfort, whether you’re navigating a packed schedule of business meetings or hopping between the elite golf courses of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. Your professional driver handles the logistics and luggage, leaving you free to focus on the journey.

Tailor your itinerary to include the region’s most iconic sights, from the dramatic cliffs of Sagres to the luxury boutiques of Vilamoura Marina, all without the stress of local traffic. With a premium vehicle at your disposal, you enjoy a seamless, climate-controlled environment and the freedom to change your plans on a whim.

Other Transportation Options in Faro

• Public Bus (Vamus & Próximo): The Aerobus (Route 56) provides direct service to Albufeira, Portimão, and Lagos; however, it operates infrequently, only a few times per day. For the Faro city center, Route 16 departs every 30–50 minutes. Most buses require a connection in the city for further travel.

• Regional Train: To use the rail network, you must first take a 15-minute taxi or bus to the Faro Train Station. From there, regional trains connect to eastern and western Algarve towns like Tavira or Lagos. Note that services are infrequent in the evenings.
   
• Airport Taxis: Available 24/7 at the arrivals rank. Fares are metered, but expect surcharges for luggage, 8-seater vehicles, and travel during nights or weekends.