Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A good bus network runs along the Algarve coast and to Loulé. From here, you can access
inland Algarve, although services become more limited. Two big bus companies,
Eva Trans-
portes
( 289 899 700;
www.eva-bus.com
)
and
Rede Expressos
( 707 223 344;
www.rede-expressos.pt
)
zip
frequently between the Algarve and elsewhere in Portugal. Smaller lines include
Renex
Consider buying Eva's
Passe Turístico
, available from major bus stations and good for
three days (€28.80) or seven days (€35.90) of unlimited bus travel on most main routes in
one direction with Eva Transportes, and on Frota Azul between Lagos and Loulé. Bus ser-
vice slows down considerably on weekends - particularly on Sunday.
CAR
Most main towns have reliable car-hire outlets.
TRAIN
Trains run along the coast between Faro and Vila Real de Santo António, and Faro and
Lagos, and from the main towns to Lisbon.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Faro
POP 50,000
The Algarve's capital has a more distinctly Portuguese feel than most resort towns. Many
visitors only pass through this underrated town - it makes an enjoyable stopover. It has an
attractive marina, well-maintained parks and plazas, and a historic old town full of pedes-
trian lanes and outdoor cafes. Its student population of 8000 ensures a happening nightlife,
and its theatre scene is strong. Marvellously preserved medieval quarters harbour curious
museums, churches and a bone chapel. The lagoons of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
and nearby beaches, including the islands of Ilha de Faro to the southwest and Ilha da Bar-
reta (aka Ilha Deserta) to the south, add to Faro's allure.
History
After the Phoenicians and Carthaginians, Faro boomed as the Roman port Ossonoba. Dur-
ing the Moorish occupation it became the cultured capital of an 11th-century principality.
Afonso III took the town in 1249 - making it the last major Portuguese town to be re-
captured from the Moors - and walled it.
