Getting from Faro Airport to the Algarve
Faro Airport (FAO) is the Algarve’s main international gateway and the busiest airport in southern Portugal. Every year, millions of passengers arrive here before continuing to popular destinations such as Albufeira, Lagos, Portimão, Vilamoura, Tavira and Faro itself. Thanks to the airport’s compact size and excellent transport connections, reaching your accommodation is generally straightforward whether you prefer public transport, a private transfer or the flexibility of a hire car.
Unlike some European airports, there is no railway station at Faro Airport. Instead, passengers travel the short distance into Faro city before continuing by train to destinations across the Algarve or further north towards Lisbon. Regular buses, taxis and pre-booked transfers also provide direct connections to many of the region’s most popular resorts, allowing visitors to choose the option that best suits their budget and itinerary.
This guide explains the different ways of travelling from Faro Airport, helping you decide which transfer option is best for your holiday.
Faro Airport at a Glance
Located approximately 7 kilometres west of Faro city centre, Faro Airport serves as the principal airport for Portugal’s Algarve region. It welcomes flights from across Europe throughout the year, with particularly busy schedules during the summer holiday season when visitors arrive to enjoy the Algarve’s beaches, golf courses and coastal resorts.
The airport consists of a single passenger terminal, making it relatively easy to navigate. After collecting your luggage, you’ll find clearly signposted exits leading to the public bus stop, taxi rank, private transfer meeting points and the nearby car hire facilities. Most passengers can walk from baggage reclaim to the airport forecourt within just a few minutes.
Inside the terminal you’ll find cafés, restaurants, shops, cash machines, car hire desks, tourist information and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to prepare for the next stage of your journey before leaving the airport.
Whether you’re staying in Faro, Albufeira, Vilamoura, Lagos or another Algarve destination, Faro Airport offers a wide range of transport options suitable for every type of traveller.
Where is Faro Airport?
Faro Airport is situated on Portugal’s southern coast in the heart of the Algarve, placing it within easy reach of many of the region’s most popular holiday destinations. The airport lies just outside Faro itself, close to the Ria Formosa Natural Park and only a short distance from the A22 motorway, which runs across much of the Algarve from west to east.
Its central location makes Faro Airport an excellent starting point whether you’re heading west towards Albufeira, Portimão and Lagos, travelling east to Tavira and Monte Gordo, or simply staying in Faro city.
Because the airport is positioned close to both the road and rail networks, visitors have several transport options available. Although trains do not serve the airport directly, Faro railway station is only a short journey away by bus or taxi, providing onward connections across southern Portugal. Meanwhile, direct road access makes taxis, private transfers and hire cars particularly convenient for travellers heading to resorts throughout the Algarve.
Train from Faro Airport
Although Faro Airport does not have its own railway station, travelling by train is still an excellent option for visitors heading to many destinations across the Algarve. The first step is reaching Faro Railway Station, which is located in the city centre around 7 kilometres from the airport.
Most travellers reach the station by taking the airport bus or a short taxi journey. Once at Faro station, regular Regional trains operate along the Algarve Line, serving destinations including Olhão, Tavira, Albufeira-Ferreiras, Silves, Portimão and Lagos. Long-distance services also connect Faro with Lisbon, making rail an attractive option for visitors continuing beyond the Algarve.
Travelling by train is often one of the most comfortable ways to explore southern Portugal, particularly if you’re staying in towns with railway stations or planning to visit several destinations during your holiday. However, because an additional transfer into Faro city is required first, it may not always be the quickest choice for passengers travelling directly to beach resorts that are not located close to the railway network.
Bus from Faro Airport
For most visitors, the bus is the cheapest way to travel from Faro Airport into the city centre. The main public service is Próximo Route 16, operated by Próximo, which runs directly between Faro Airport, Montenegro, Faro Railway Station, Faro Bus Station and Praia de Faro. This makes it the easiest public transport option for passengers continuing their journey by train or long-distance coach.
The bus stop is located immediately outside the arrivals terminal, just a short walk from the exit doors. Route 16 operates every day, generally from around 5:00 am until midnight, with departures approximately every 30 to 60 minutes, although frequencies vary depending on the time of day and season. The journey to Faro city centre, including both the railway station and bus station, usually takes 20 to 25 minutes.
A single ticket costs approximately €2.85 and can be purchased directly from the driver. Contactless payment is accepted on the service, making it easy for visitors arriving without local currency. For regular users, digital tickets and passes can also be purchased through the PICK app, the official mobile app for the Próximo network. The app also provides live bus tracking, journey planning and service updates, making it useful if you intend to use buses during your stay in Faro.
If your final destination is elsewhere in the Algarve, such as Albufeira, Portimão, Lagos or Tavira, you’ll normally need to travel into Faro first before changing to a regional bus or train. During the summer, there is also a limited Aerobus (Route 56) linking Faro Airport with destinations including Albufeira, Lagoa, Portimão and Lagos, although departures are relatively infrequent compared with Route 16.
The bus offers excellent value for travellers heading into Faro itself or connecting with onward public transport. However, if you’re travelling with large suitcases, arriving late at night or staying in one of the Algarve’s beach resorts, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer will usually be the more convenient option.
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Terravision Airport Shuttle
If you’re travelling directly to one of the Algarve’s most popular resorts, Terravision offers an alternative to the public bus network. Rather than travelling into Faro city centre and changing to another service, Terravision operates shared door-to-door airport shuttles from Faro Airport to a number of major tourist destinations, including Albufeira, Vilamoura and Quarteira. Seasonal services are also offered to selected resorts across the Algarve.
Unlike a scheduled public bus, Terravision’s service is organised around passengers’ flight details. During the booking process you’ll be asked for your flight number, arrival time, hotel and telephone number. On arrival at Faro Airport you’ll be met at the designated meeting point inside the arrivals terminal before joining a shared shuttle serving hotels and tourist accommodation in your chosen destination.
Journey times depend on your destination. Transfers to Vilamoura typically take around 35 minutes, while Albufeira takes approximately 45 minutes. Because the service is shared, the vehicle may make several hotel stops before reaching your accommodation, although you’ll be dropped much closer to your hotel than if you travelled by public transport.
Prices are competitive, with fares starting from around €10 to €11 each way, depending on the destination. Children under two travel free, luggage is included and bookings can usually be amended before travel. One of the biggest advantages is that flight delays are monitored, so if your flight arrives late, the shuttle will normally be adjusted accordingly.
For visitors staying at one of the larger Algarve resorts, Terravision provides an excellent middle ground between the low cost of public transport and the convenience of a private transfer. It removes the need to change buses in Faro while remaining significantly cheaper than booking a private vehicle.
Plan Your Airport Transfer with Terravision
Getting from the airport to the city centre is often one of the first challenges of any trip. Terravision provides direct airport coach services connecting major airports with city centres across Europe.
It is ideal for budget-conscious travellers, city breaks, and visitors looking for a straightforward alternative to taxis. With fixed fares, dedicated airport routes, and online booking, you can arrange your transfer before you travel.
Taxi from Faro Airport
Taking a taxi from Faro Airport is one of the quickest and most convenient transfer options, particularly for visitors travelling with heavy luggage, young children or arriving late in the evening. The official taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal, meaning you can usually begin your journey within a few minutes of leaving the airport.
A taxi to Faro city centre normally takes 10 to 15 minutes, while journeys to resorts such as Vilamoura, Albufeira, Portimão and Lagos naturally take longer depending on the distance. During the summer season, waiting times at the taxi rank can occasionally increase due to the large number of arriving flights, but taxis remain readily available throughout most of the day.
Fares are metered, with the final price depending on both the distance travelled and the time of day. Additional charges may apply for luggage or journeys during late-night hours, so it is always sensible to confirm the approximate fare before setting off, especially if you’re travelling a considerable distance across the Algarve.
For many visitors staying in Faro itself, a taxi offers an excellent balance between speed and convenience, while those travelling to more distant resorts may wish to compare taxi fares with pre-booked private transfers.
Private Airport Transfers
If you prefer the reassurance of having your transport arranged before you arrive, a private airport transfer is often the most stress-free option. Your driver will normally meet you inside the arrivals hall, assist with your luggage and take you directly to your accommodation without the need to queue for a taxi or navigate public transport.
Private transfers are particularly popular with families, larger groups and visitors staying in resorts some distance from Faro Airport. Travelling directly to destinations such as Albufeira, Vilamoura, Portimão, Lagos or Tavira is often quicker and more comfortable than changing between buses or trains, especially after a long flight.
Another advantage is that the price is usually agreed in advance, meaning you know exactly what you’ll pay before travelling. This removes any uncertainty over metered fares and can provide excellent value for groups sharing the cost of the vehicle.
Although private transfers generally cost more than public transport, many travellers appreciate the convenience of being collected at the terminal and driven directly to the entrance of their hotel, apartment or holiday villa.
Book Your Airport Transfer in Advance
Arriving in a new destination can be stressful, especially after a long flight. Welcome Pickups lets you pre-book a private airport transfer, so your driver is ready and waiting when you land.
It is ideal for first-time visitors, late-night arrivals, and travellers who want a smooth, reliable start to their trip. Instead of searching for taxis or navigating public transport, you can head straight to your accommodation.
Hiring a Car at Faro Airport
For visitors planning to explore several parts of the Algarve, hiring a car at Faro Airport offers the greatest flexibility. The region’s excellent road network makes it easy to travel between coastal resorts, traditional villages, beaches and inland attractions, allowing you to explore at your own pace without relying on public transport.
Most of the major international and local car hire companies operate from Faro Airport, with rental desks located either inside the terminal or within a short walk of the arrivals area. Collecting your vehicle immediately after landing allows you to begin your holiday without needing additional transfers into Faro city.
Driving is particularly useful if you’re staying in smaller resorts or rural accommodation where public transport services are less frequent. It also makes it much easier to visit attractions such as the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the dramatic cliffs around Lagos, the hilltop town of Silves or some of the Algarve’s quieter beaches that are difficult to reach by bus or train.
While parking is generally straightforward throughout much of the Algarve, the busiest resorts can become congested during the height of summer. Even so, for visitors planning a multi-centre holiday or wanting complete freedom to explore, a hire car remains one of the most practical ways to discover southern Portugal.
Reaching Albufeira from Faro Airport
Located around 45 kilometres west of Faro Airport, Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s most popular holiday destinations, attracting visitors with its sandy beaches, lively marina and vibrant Old Town. Several transfer options are available, allowing travellers to choose between speed, convenience and cost.
The quickest option is a taxi or private transfer, with the journey typically taking 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Private transfers are particularly popular with families and groups, offering door-to-door service without the need to navigate public transport after a flight.
Travelling by Terravision airport shuttle is another convenient option. The shared transfer service operates directly from Faro Airport to Albufeira, with passengers dropped close to their hotel or accommodation. Journey times are generally around 45 minutes, although they may be slightly longer if other passengers are being dropped off first.
Public transport is the most economical choice, although it requires a change in Faro. Begin by taking Próximo Route 16 from the airport to Faro Bus Station. From there, frequent regional coaches operated by VAMUS Algarve run throughout the day to Albufeira Bus Terminal, with the onward journey taking approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel to Faro Railway Station before boarding a Regional or InterRegional train to Albufeira-Ferreiras. The train journey takes around 35 to 40 minutes, although it’s worth noting that the railway station is located around 6 kilometres outside Albufeira, so you’ll normally need to continue by local bus or taxi to reach the town centre.
For visitors staying in central Albufeira or nearby resorts, a pre-booked transfer usually provides the best balance of convenience and value, while budget-conscious travellers will find the combination of airport bus and regional coach the cheapest option.
Getting to Vilamoura
Situated approximately 25 kilometres west of Faro Airport, Vilamoura is renowned for its luxury marina, championship golf courses and beautiful beaches. Thanks to its location, it is one of the quickest Algarve resorts to reach from the airport.
A taxi or private airport transfer normally takes 25 to 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for visitors wanting to begin their holiday without delays. Most transfer companies provide direct hotel drop-offs, removing the need to change buses or carry luggage through the resort.
Terravision also operates shared airport shuttle services to Vilamoura, offering a convenient alternative to private transfers. Journey times are typically around 35 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of hotel stops along the route.
Travelling by public transport involves changing in Faro. After taking Route 16 into Faro city centre, passengers can board a VAMUS Algarve coach towards Vilamoura. Although this is the least expensive option, the overall journey usually takes around one hour or more, depending on waiting times between services.
There is no railway station in Vilamoura. The nearest station is Loulé, approximately 6 kilometres away, meaning rail passengers must complete the final part of their journey by taxi or local bus. For this reason, trains are generally less convenient than coaches or direct road transfers when travelling to Vilamoura.
For most visitors, particularly those staying near the marina or beachfront hotels, Terravision, a private transfer or a taxi offers the simplest way to reach Vilamoura directly from Faro Airport.
How to Reach Portimão
Located approximately 70 kilometres west of Faro Airport, Portimão is one of the Algarve’s largest towns and an excellent base for exploring the western coastline. Known for Praia da Rocha, its bustling marina and riverside promenade, it attracts visitors throughout the year.
A taxi or private airport transfer offers the quickest journey, with most trips taking around 50 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. This is often the preferred option for families or anyone travelling with several suitcases, as you’ll be dropped directly at your hotel or apartment.
Travellers can also use the Terravision airport shuttle, which serves Portimão during the tourist season. Journey times are generally around one hour, although this may vary depending on the number of passengers and hotel stops along the route.
Public transport requires a connection in Faro. After travelling from the airport to Faro Bus Station on Próximo Route 16, regular VAMUS Algarve coaches operate to Portimão throughout the day. The coach journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a popular option for budget-conscious travellers.
Rail passengers should first travel to Faro Railway Station, where Regional trains operate frequently to Portimão Station. The rail journey usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering a comfortable alternative to travelling by road. As the railway station is close to the town centre, many hotels can be reached on foot or with a short taxi ride.
For most visitors, private transfers offer the best combination of speed and convenience, while the train provides an excellent low-cost option for those staying close to the town centre.
Visiting Lagos from Faro Airport
Situated on the western edge of the Algarve, Lagos is around 90 kilometres from Faro Airport and is one of Portugal’s best-known coastal destinations. Famous for its spectacular cliffs, golden beaches, historic centre and boat trips to Ponta da Piedade, it attracts visitors from around the world.
A taxi or private transfer normally takes between 60 and 75 minutes, providing the quickest and most direct route to the resort. Although this is one of the longer transfers from Faro Airport, it is often the easiest option after a long flight.
During the main holiday season, Terravision also operates shared shuttle services to Lagos. These provide a convenient alternative for visitors who want direct transport without the higher cost of a private transfer, although journey times can vary depending on the number of scheduled hotel stops.
Travelling by public transport involves changing in Faro. After taking Route 16 into the city centre, passengers can continue by VAMUS Algarve coach to Lagos. The coach journey usually takes around 2 hours, depending on the service selected.
Another excellent option is travelling by train. After reaching Faro Railway Station, Regional trains operate across the Algarve to Lagos Railway Station. The journey typically takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, offering a comfortable and scenic trip across southern Portugal. The railway station is conveniently located within walking distance of the marina and historic town centre, making it an attractive choice for many visitors.
If you’re travelling light and staying near the centre of Lagos, the train offers one of the best value transfer options. However, for those staying in surrounding resorts or carrying lots of luggage, a direct transfer is often the more practical solution.
Travelling onwards to Tavira
Located around 40 kilometres east of Faro Airport, Tavira is one of the Algarve’s most attractive historic towns. Known for its Roman bridge, traditional whitewashed buildings and easy access to the beaches of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it offers a quieter alternative to many of the Algarve’s larger resorts.
The fastest way to reach Tavira is by taxi or private airport transfer, with the journey usually taking 35 to 40 minutes via the A22 motorway. This is the most convenient option if you’re travelling with luggage or arriving late in the evening.
Unlike some of the western Algarve resorts, Terravision does not currently operate shuttle services to Tavira, so visitors relying on shared transfers will normally need to use public transport or arrange a private vehicle.
Travelling by train is a popular alternative. After taking Próximo Route 16 from the airport to Faro Railway Station, regular Regional trains continue east to Tavira Station. The rail journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and the station is conveniently located within walking distance of the historic centre.
Travellers can also use the VAMUS Algarve coach network. After reaching Faro Bus Station, regular services operate to Tavira throughout the day, with the journey typically taking around one hour, depending on the service selected.
For visitors staying in the town centre, the train is often the best combination of comfort and value, while private transfers remain the easiest option for those staying in surrounding resorts or carrying several suitcases.
Transfers to Carvoeiro
Although Carvoeiro is one of the Algarve’s best-known holiday destinations, it does not have its own railway station. Located approximately 65 kilometres west of Faro Airport, the resort is famous for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque beach and relaxed atmosphere.
A taxi or private airport transfer is the most convenient way to reach Carvoeiro, with the journey normally taking around 50 to 60 minutes. Because the resort is relatively compact, most visitors can be dropped directly outside their hotel, apartment or villa.
There is currently no direct Terravision shuttle service to Carvoeiro, although some transfer companies offer shared shuttle services that include the resort as part of a wider Algarve route.
Public transport requires a combination of services. Begin by taking Route 16 from the airport to Faro Bus Station, then board a VAMUS Algarve coach towards Lagoa or Portimão before completing the final part of the journey by local bus or taxi. Depending on connections, the total journey can take between 2 and 3 hours.
Rail passengers should travel from Faro Railway Station to Estômbar-Lagoa Station, the nearest railway station to Carvoeiro. From there, you’ll need to continue by taxi or local bus for the final few kilometres into the resort.
Although public transport is possible, Carvoeiro is one of the destinations where a private transfer or hire car offers a significant advantage, particularly if you’re carrying luggage or staying outside the town centre.
Heading to Alvor
Situated just west of Portimão, Alvor is approximately 75 kilometres from Faro Airport. The former fishing village is now one of the Algarve’s most popular family resorts, known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalks and relaxed atmosphere.
A taxi or private airport transfer normally takes around one hour, providing a direct journey from the airport to your accommodation. This remains the most popular option, particularly for families and visitors staying in hotels around the beach.
There is no direct train or Terravision service to Alvor. Visitors travelling by public transport should first travel into Faro before continuing by coach or train towards Portimão, then complete the final 5-kilometre journey to Alvor by local bus or taxi.
Regional trains from Faro Railway Station reach Portimão in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, while coaches from Faro Bus Station take around 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Portimão, local buses operate regularly to Alvor throughout the day.
For most visitors, particularly those staying for a week’s holiday, a pre-booked transfer offers the simplest and quickest way to reach Alvor, while public transport remains a practical option for travellers looking to minimise costs.
Getting to Quarteira
Located approximately 23 kilometres west of Faro Airport, Quarteira is one of the closest beach resorts to the airport. With its long sandy beach, traditional fishing harbour and lively promenade, it remains a popular choice for visitors looking for a relaxing Algarve holiday while staying within easy reach of Faro.
The quickest way to reach Quarteira is by taxi or private airport transfer, with the journey usually taking 25 to 30 minutes. This is often the most convenient option, particularly for families or travellers carrying luggage, as you’ll be dropped directly at your accommodation.
Visitors can also use the Terravision airport shuttle, which serves Quarteira as part of its Algarve transfer network. Shared shuttles generally take around 35 minutes, although journey times depend on the number of passengers and hotel stops along the route.
Public transport requires a change in Faro. After boarding Próximo Route 16 from the airport to Faro Bus Station, frequent VAMUS Algarve buses continue to Quarteira throughout the day. Depending on the connection, the overall journey normally takes between 60 and 75 minutes.
Although the Algarve railway passes nearby, Quarteira does not have its own railway station. The nearest station is Loulé, approximately 6 kilometres away, requiring a taxi or local bus for the final part of the journey. For this reason, the bus is generally the better public transport option.
Visiting Olhão
Just 15 kilometres east of Faro Airport, Olhão is one of the easiest destinations to reach after arriving in the Algarve. Famous for its traditional fishing port, waterfront markets and ferry connections to the islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it offers a more authentic Portuguese atmosphere than many of the larger beach resorts.
A taxi or private airport transfer normally takes 20 to 25 minutes, making it the fastest and most convenient option.
Public transport is also straightforward. After taking Route 16 into Faro city centre, passengers can continue from Faro Railway Station on a Regional train to Olhão, with the rail journey taking around 10 minutes. Including the transfer from the airport, the total journey usually takes around 40 to 50 minutes.
Regular VAMUS Algarve buses also connect Faro with Olhão from Faro Bus Station, providing another affordable option for visitors travelling without a car.
There is currently no Terravision shuttle service to Olhão, so travellers generally choose between public transport, taxis and private transfers.
Thanks to its proximity to the airport and excellent rail connection, Olhão is one of the easiest Algarve towns to reach using public transport.
Journeying to Monte Gordo
Situated close to the Spanish border, Monte Gordo lies approximately 60 kilometres east of Faro Airport. The resort is well known for its wide sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere and year-round sunshine, making it a popular destination for both beach holidays and winter breaks.
A taxi or private airport transfer usually takes around 45 to 55 minutes, providing the quickest and simplest journey from the airport.
Travelling by train is another excellent option. After reaching Faro Railway Station via Próximo Route 16, Regional trains continue along the Algarve Line to Monte Gordo Station. The train journey itself takes around one hour, and the station is conveniently located within walking distance of much of the resort.
Visitors can also travel by VAMUS Algarve coach after first reaching Faro Bus Station. Coach journey times are typically around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the service and number of intermediate stops.
There is currently no Terravision shuttle service to Monte Gordo, making the train one of the best public transport options for visitors staying in the resort.
Because Monte Gordo has both a railway station and a compact town centre, travelling by train offers an excellent balance of affordability, comfort and convenience, while private transfers remain the fastest option for those wanting direct transport from the airport.
Which Transfer Option is Best?
The best way to leave Faro Airport depends entirely on your destination, your budget and how much luggage you’re carrying. Fortunately, the airport offers a good range of transport options, from inexpensive public buses to direct private transfers serving resorts across the Algarve.
If you’re staying in Faro city centre, the Próximo Route 16 bus is usually the best value option. It provides a direct connection between the airport, Faro Railway Station and Faro Bus Station, making it ideal for visitors continuing their journey by train or coach. Taxis are considerably faster, but for many travellers the short journey doesn’t justify the additional cost.
Visitors travelling to Albufeira, Vilamoura, Portimão, Lagos and other popular resorts should consider how many changes are involved. While public transport is generally the cheapest option, it often requires travelling into Faro first before changing to another bus or train. This can significantly increase the overall journey time, particularly if connections are missed.
For families, groups or anyone travelling with several suitcases, a private airport transfer is often the most convenient solution. Being met inside the arrivals terminal and driven directly to your accommodation removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar public transport after a flight. If you’re travelling with three or four people, the cost per person is often surprisingly competitive.
Terravision’s shared airport shuttle offers an excellent compromise between cost and convenience for visitors staying in resorts it serves. Although journeys may take slightly longer than a private transfer because of multiple hotel stops, the service removes the need to change buses in Faro while remaining considerably cheaper than booking a private vehicle.
If you’re planning to explore several parts of the Algarve during your holiday, hiring a car gives you complete flexibility. Many of the region’s quieter beaches, inland villages and natural attractions are easier to reach by road than by public transport, making a hire car an excellent investment for longer stays.
There is no single transfer option that suits every traveller. Public transport offers the lowest prices, Terravision provides excellent value for many resort destinations, taxis and private transfers deliver the greatest convenience, while a hire car is the best choice for visitors planning to explore the Algarve independently. Choosing the option that best matches your itinerary will help you start your holiday in the most relaxed way possible.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Flying into Faro? Here are a few tips to make your arrival in the Algarve as smooth as possible.
- Know where you’re staying: Many Algarve resorts are a considerable distance from Faro Airport, so check whether your accommodation is near a railway station or bus stop before deciding on your transfer.
- Book transfers early in summer: July and August are the Algarve’s busiest months, so reserving airport transfers in advance can save both time and money.
- Use the train where it makes sense: Resorts such as Tavira, Portimão, Lagos and Olhão all have railway stations, making rail an affordable and comfortable option once you’ve reached Faro city centre.
- Compare all your options: Public buses are the cheapest, but shared shuttles, private transfers and taxis can work out surprisingly good value when the cost is shared between several travellers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Faro Airport from Faro city centre?
Faro Airport is located approximately 7 kilometres from Faro city centre. By taxi the journey usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, while the public bus takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Is there a train station at Faro Airport?
No. Faro Airport does not have its own railway station. If you wish to travel by train, you’ll first need to take a bus or taxi to Faro Railway Station, where Regional, InterRegional and long-distance trains operate to destinations across the Algarve and Portugal.
What is the cheapest way to get from Faro Airport to Faro?
The Próximo Route 16 bus is normally the cheapest option. It operates between the airport and Faro city centre, stopping at both the railway station and bus station before continuing to Praia de Faro.
Can I travel directly from Faro Airport to Albufeira?
Yes. You can take a private transfer, taxi or Terravision shared shuttle directly to Albufeira. Public transport is also possible, but you’ll normally need to change buses or trains in Faro.
Does Terravision operate from Faro Airport?
Yes. Terravision operates shared airport shuttle services from Faro Airport to several popular Algarve resorts, including Albufeira, Vilamoura, Quarteira, Portimão and Lagos. Services should be booked in advance.
Which Algarve resorts can I reach by train?
After travelling to Faro Railway Station, you can continue by train to destinations including Olhão, Tavira, Albufeira-Ferreiras, Silves, Portimão, Lagos and Monte Gordo. Some resorts require a short taxi or local bus journey from the railway station.
Should I hire a car at Faro Airport?
If you’re planning to explore several parts of the Algarve or stay in smaller coastal villages, a hire car offers the greatest flexibility. However, if you’re staying in one of the larger towns served by rail or coach, public transport and airport transfers are often more convenient.
What is the fastest transfer from Faro Airport?
For most destinations, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the fastest option. They provide direct, door-to-door transport without the need to change buses or trains.
Further Reading & Related Guides
Flying into Faro Airport is just the start of exploring southern Portugal. Once you’ve arrived, our Things to Do in Faro Guide highlights the city’s historic Old Town, marina, Ria Formosa Natural Park and other attractions worth visiting, while our Day Trips from Faro Guide covers some of the Algarve’s best beaches, towns and scenic excursions.
If you’re planning to continue your journey by rail, our Portugal Rail Pass Guide explains the country’s national rail pass and compares it with the Lisbon, Porto and Algarve tourist rail passes. Travellers looking to explore Portugal and beyond can also read our Interrail Portugal Guide, which explains how Interrail works within Portugal and the international rail connections to Spain.
Planning to visit other Portuguese cities? Our Lisbon Airport Transfers Guide and Porto Airport Transfers Guide explain the best ways to travel from each airport into the city and onwards to the surrounding region.
Finally, staying connected makes travelling much easier. Our Best eSIM Apps Guide compares the leading providers, helping you find reliable mobile data for booking transport, navigating the Algarve and keeping in touch throughout your trip.
Last Updated
29 June 2026
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