If you are planning to drive a car in Faro, before you get behind the wheel, it's important to take note of some tips that will make your trip a much more pleasant and smooth experience. This coastal city and the surrounding area are perfect for exploring by road. From pristine beaches to charming villages and natural parks perfect for hiking, it can all be found here.
Documentation required to drive in Faro
If you have a driver's licence issued within the European Union, you can drive in Portugal without any problems. If your licence has expired, it is imperative that you renew it before going on your trip.
If your driver's licence is issued from outside the European Union, to drive legally on Portuguese roads you must first obtain an international driver's licence. In addition to this document, you will also need to carry your passport.
Rental agencies always deliver their cars in perfect condition, but before you start your trip, make sure that the vehicle has:
- Reflective vests.
- Warning triangle.
- Documentation.
Driving in Faro
You won't notice much difference between driving in Portugal and driving anywhere else in Europe. There is much less traffic here than in the areas of Porto and Lisbon. However, if you go in summer, you may encounter a little more traffic due to the presence of tourists.
Local drivers tend to be fast behind the wheel and somewhat impatient. Don't be surprised if you get beeped at for stopping 'too much' at a roundabout, and don't be offended by it, it's not worth arguing about. It is best to drive however you feel most comfortable.
What you will notice is that there are many roundabouts. In fact, this traffic logistics element is heavily present in all Portuguese cities, and Faro is no exception. Respect the right of way and use your indicators to signal your movements and everything will be fine.
It is always necessary to be cautious and attentive to everything, and here even more so. Local drivers have a tendency to overtake even in places that are narrow or have reduced visibility. You will notice this much more on rural roads. Don't be phased by this way of driving and respect the traffic signs.
The speed limit in this region of the Algarve is 50km/h in town, 90km/h on B-roads and 120km/h on motorways. What's more, there are many speed cameras so that no one overdoes it with the accelerator.
How to plan your route for driving in Faro
Faro is very well connected to the main tourist destinations in the region. The A22, also called Via do Infante, is the fastest way to get around.
It is an electronic toll road and there are no traditional booths. If you have rented a car, you won't have to worry about this, because it will be fitted with the corresponding electronic toll device (Via Verde) and the tolls will be charged directly to your card.
If you prefer to drive without additional fees, you can take the N125. This road runs parallel to the A22. However, it regularly has a lot of traffic and can be quite slow. In exchange, though, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes along the way and discover the towns and villages of the area.
To find the best route from one place to another you can use apps like Google Maps. However, keep in mind that there is always a risk of losing signal in rural areas. Therefore, it is advisable to download the maps, or even bring a paper map.
Practical advice
Your driving experience in Faro and surrounding area will be much more rewarding if you take these issues into account:
- Parking in Faro is complicated. The easiest alternative is to make use of underground and above-ground car parks near the historic centre. You can park for free in the residential areas on the outskirts, but you will have to walk about 15 minutes to reach the centre.
- Some beaches have restricted access to vehicles, especially in summer. You may be charged for parking, or you may not even be able to leave your car there at all.
- Try not to drive around Faro during rush hours, from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. and from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
- The emergency telephone number is 112.
- In rural areas, exercise extreme caution, as you may encounter animals or tractors on the roads.
Rent your car in Faro with OK Mobility and forget about rushing — embrace peace of mind.
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