May, June, and September are the sweet spot: warm days around 24-28C, sea warm enough to swim, and far fewer crowds than the July-August peak, when the Algarve fills with European holidaymakers and prices climb. Summer is hot and dry (often 30C-plus) but delivers the calmest seas for island boat trips. Spring brings wildflowers and excellent birdwatching in the Ria Formosa, while winter stays mild (15-17C) and quiet, ideal for walking the Old Town, though some boat operators run reduced schedules. If you can, time a visit for the Feira de Santa Iria in late October, Faro's big traditional fair.

Faro Airport (FAO) sits about 7 km from the center, with direct flights across Europe; a taxi or Bolt/Uber into town runs roughly 12-18 euros and takes 10-15 minutes, or bus line 16 connects the airport to the center for a couple of euros. The compact center, Old Town, and marina are all easily walkable. For islands you take passenger ferries or tour boats from the harbor and from Olhão; for wider Algarve day trips, the train and regional buses are cheap and reliable, though a rental car gives the most freedom. Skip driving inside the Old Town, where lanes are narrow and largely pedestrian.