Beautiful view of Cidade Velha
All attractions

Cidade Velha

Faro, Portugal
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Beautiful view of Cidade Velha

The sun-soaked cobblestones, the whisper of the Atlantic in the air, and the heady scent of brewing coffee—welcome to Cidade Velha. Here, where history seeps from every alley and corner, you feel as if you've stepped back in time to when pirates and explorers ruled these waters. The oldest European settlement in the tropics, this town offers a tapestry of cultural narratives that bind the modern explorer to centuries past.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact Information

Location
Address
Praça do Afonso III 15, Faro, Portugal

Planning your visit

Visiting Cidade Velha is like opening a book into the past. To get the most from your visit, aim for the cooler, dry months from November to June. The town is just a short drive from Praia on Santiago Island—you can hop on a bus or rent a car, providing a scenic route along the coast. Although it's a popular site, mornings tend to be quieter. Accessibility isn’t ideal in places—the rugged terrain can be challenging.

  • Best time to visit: Dry season (November - June)
  • How to get there: Bus or rental car from Praia
  • Accessibility: Challenging terrain, may not suit everyone
  • Average visit duration: 2 to 3 hours

Must see stuff

Don't miss the haunting ruins of the São Filipe fortress. Its mossy stones tell tales of 16th-century battles and breathtaking views over the azure ocean. Wander down to the town square, where the age-old Pelourinho (pillory) stands as a stark reminder of colonial-era justice. Be sure to explore the seaside church of Nossa Senhora do Rosario, one of the oldest still standing in the tropics.

  • Key sights: São Filipe fortress, Pelourinho, Nossa Senhora do Rosario church
  • Unique experiences: Guided historical tours, sounds of local music on weekends
  • Photo-worthy locations: Ocean views from the fortress, old-world charm of the town square
  • Cultural insights: Learn about colonial history through local guides or museum visits

Tips for your visit

To fully absorb the atmosphere of Cidade Velha, come early—before the buses arrive. Pack light but don't forget essentials—water, a camera for those unmissable shots, and comfortable walking shoes. Respect the cultural heritage sites by following local guidelines. For comfort and to ensure you don't miss out, bring a hat and sunscreen for protection against the often relentless sun.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Early morning
  • What to bring: Water, camera, walking shoes, hat, sunscreen
  • Local etiquette: Respect signs and guidelines around heritage sites
  • Safety tip: Stay hydrated and protected from the sun