Vila Adentro Old Town
Step back in time in Faro's Vila Adentro, a historic walled city with Roman roots, charming alleys, and vibrant rooftop dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, romantic ambiance
Vila Adentro Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, romantic ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Faro's Vila Adentro, a historic walled city with Roman roots, charming alleys, and vibrant rooftop dining.
"The place and interiors are BEAUTIFUL! On the other hand, the service - unfortunately, completely ignorant."
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring Vila Adentro!
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
Popular rooftop restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arco da Vila
Entrance to Vila Adentro
Step through this historic archway, a gateway to Faro's ancient walled city, feeling the weight of centuries.
Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro)
Largo da Sé
Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Rooftop Restaurants
Various locations within Vila Adentro
Savor traditional Portuguese dishes with breathtaking views over the old town and beyond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old Town Charm
Rooftop Views & Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring Vila Adentro!
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
Popular rooftop restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture the Rooftop Views
Many TikToks and Reels showcase stunning rooftop vistas. Don't miss the chance to capture yours! +1
🧐 Look for Local Eateries
A sign of good food is when locals are dining there. Seek out these authentic spots for a true taste of Faro.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring Vila Adentro!
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
Popular rooftop restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture the Rooftop Views
Many TikToks and Reels showcase stunning rooftop vistas. Don't miss the chance to capture yours! +1
🧐 Look for Local Eateries
A sign of good food is when locals are dining there. Seek out these authentic spots for a true taste of Faro.
🐦 Spot the Storks
Keep an eye out for storks nesting on rooftops and church towers – a unique sight in Faro!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vila Adentro is praised for its beautiful historic setting, charming cobblestone streets, and the unique sight of storks nesting on rooftops. Many visitors enjoy the rooftop dining experiences with lovely views and appreciate the friendly service at some establishments. However, a few reviewers noted inconsistent food quality and service, with some main dishes being disappointing for the price.
"Enjoyed a lovely meal here, service was really good and our waitress super friendly, sorry I didn’t capture your name, but thank you! Owner/manager came and checked on us a few times too which was appreciated and showed attention to high level of service! We shared Tuna pate to start which was superb with fresh bread & the speciality sausage dish - very tasty. We then had the lobster and shrimp rice! Wow it’s a massive meal! Super tasty 🙏 thank you 🙏"
Claire Beeson
"I don't understand why this restaurant has such a relatively low rating. We were immediately attracted to this place by the fact that a lot of locals were coming in for lunch, and decided to give it a try. Just the vintage interior and traditional fittings themselves are astonishing. The service was swift, friendly and professional. We were also happy with their meal selection. The food was well prepared, enjoyable to behold and very tasty. Dessert offering is vast and equally good. Overall, we were pleasantly surprised by all aspects and can highly recommend this place."
Andrej Michal
"This restuarant was lovely. Gorgeous location in the centre of the old town. Food was reasonably priced and fresh fish was delicious. Everyone was very friendly."
Emily Urquhart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vila Adentro is the historic walled city of Faro. If you're arriving by plane at Faro Airport (FAO), you can take a taxi or an airport bus (line 16) to the city center, which is a short walk from the old town entrance. If you're arriving by train or bus, the station is also within walking distance.
Yes, Vila Adentro is a pedestrian-friendly area. The streets are mostly cobblestoned and can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Access for vehicles into the core of Vila Adentro is restricted. It's best to park your car in designated parking areas outside the old town walls and explore on foot.
Vila Adentro is very walkable. For exploring further afield, consider local buses or ferries to nearby islands and beaches. The Ria Formosa National Park is also accessible.
Yes, guided walking tours are available and can offer great historical insights. Many tours focus on the old town and its significant landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Vila Adentro itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and squares.
While wandering the streets is free, specific attractions like the Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro) may have a small entrance fee, especially if you wish to climb the tower.
Vila Adentro is always accessible as it's the historic city center. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions within it will have their own operating hours.
Visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer a more peaceful experience. Evenings are also lovely as the town lights up.
Yes, Vila Adentro occasionally hosts events like the Festival F, for which tickets can be purchased in advance.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arco da Vila, the Cathedral tower for panoramic views, charming cobblestone alleys, and rooftop terraces are all fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the storks! +1
Absolutely! Many restaurants and bars in Vila Adentro offer rooftop seating with stunning views, perfect for photography. +1
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful light. Evenings are also magical with the city lights.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and wider shots. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions in restaurants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for dishes like Cataplana (seafood stew), fresh grilled fish, and traditional pastries like Pastel de Nata. Many restaurants offer authentic regional cuisine. 
Yes, Vila Adentro is known for its restaurants with rooftop terraces offering great views and dining experiences. +1
Reviews mention restaurants with good service and tasty food, though some note inconsistency. Look for places with a vintage interior or where locals dine.
Some reviews indicate a plus for vegetarian dishes, though taste can vary. It's worth inquiring about vegetarian options when dining.
Prices can vary. Some reviewers found the food reasonably priced, especially fresh fish, while others felt main dishes were disappointing for the price.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for restaurants that are welcoming to children and perhaps offer outdoor seating where kids can have a bit more space. The novelty of spotting storks nesting on rooftops can also be a fun activity for younger visitors. Pack snacks and water, as exploring the charming, winding streets can take time.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider joining a walking tour to gain historical insights and potentially meet other travelers. Enjoying a meal on a rooftop terrace offers a chance to savor the local cuisine and soak in the ambiance without feeling out of place. The safety of the old town also contributes to a comfortable solo experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the unique sight of storks nesting on rooftops. Evenings offer a magical ambiance with the old town illuminated, perfect for atmospheric shots. Rooftop restaurants also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the city's charm from above.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Walls of Vila Adentro
Despite enduring the devastating earthquake of 1755, which reshaped much of Lisbon, the walls of Vila Adentro have remarkably survived. Walking through the Arco da Vila, the historic gateway, feels like stepping back in time. The very stones beneath your feet have witnessed centuries of change, from Moorish rule to Portuguese sovereignty.
Exploring Vila Adentro is an immersive historical experience. The narrow, winding streets, the ancient architecture, and the imposing walls all contribute to an atmosphere that is both captivating and educational. It’s a place where history isn't just read about; it's felt.
Culinary Delights: Rooftops and Traditional Flavors
Visitors often praise the traditional Portuguese cuisine available. Dishes like the seafood cataplana, fresh grilled fish, and flavorful regional specialties are frequently highlighted. The opportunity to enjoy these authentic flavors while overlooking the historic city is a major draw for many travelers.
+1While many reviews are positive, some diners have noted inconsistencies in food quality and service. It's advisable to research specific restaurants and consider booking in advance, especially for popular rooftop venues, to ensure a satisfying meal. Look for places that seem popular with locals for a more authentic experience.
The Iconic Storks of Faro
Spotting these storks is a delightful part of exploring the old town. Their large nests perched atop ancient structures add a touch of wild beauty to the urban landscape. It's a reminder of the natural world coexisting harmoniously with the historical architecture.
Keep your eyes peeled as you wander through Vila Adentro; you're likely to see these impressive birds soaring overhead or perched regally on their nests. It's a small detail that adds significant character to the Faro experience and is often mentioned by visitors as a delightful surprise.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit