How to get to The Algarve
Monday, 16th November 2009
By Air
Virtually all tourists will arrive by air at Faro airport. This is a very busy airport, and is not far off working at full capacity. As a result, a large expansion is underway which will provide a third terminal building and a second runway. Flying time from the UK is around two and a half hours. There are several daily domestic flights from Lisbon and Oporto to Faro.
There is always a considerable number of taxis waiting at the airport to take visitors to any part of The Algarve. The fare will usually be agreed in advance, and obviously depends on the distance travelled. While there are public buses from the Airport into Faro town there are no direct services tfrom the airport to the various resorts. There are, however, lots of shuttle buses available which go from the airport to the main resorts and towns. These can be hired on a private or shared basis.
To give some idea of the distances involved, the following is a guide to the approximate distances from Faro airport:
Albufeirta 25 miles, Alvor 40 miles, Carvoeiro 30 miles, Lagoa 33 miles, Lagos 50 miles, Loule 11 miles, Montegordo 30 miles, Olhao 5 miles, Portimao 40 miles, Praia da Luz 55 miles,Praia da Rocha 40 miles, Quartaria 14 miles, Sagres 70 miles, Silves 39 miles, Silves 18 miles, Vale de Lobo 14 miles, Vilamoura 18 miles
There are several firms offering airport pickups and transfers, who will also provide a return service. These need to be pre-booked. Car Hire is also readily available, and can be booked in advance. For those wishing to explore The Algarve, car hire is the best way to get around.
By Car
It is easy to drive to the Algarve from Spain or Lisbon.
By Train
There are fast trains from Lisbon to Faro.
By Bus
There are regular bus services from Seville in Spain, and Lisbon.
By Ferry
Visitors can also arrive at Vila Real de Santo Antonio by ferry from Ayamonte, Alcoutinm and Sanluca in Spain.
