Need Help?
The Truth About Public Transport
from Faro Airport
Many guidebooks say it's "possible". They don't tell you about the 3 transfers, the 35°C heat, and the 2km walk with luggage.
The Big Misconception
Myth: "I can just take a train from the airport to my hotel."
Reality: There is NO train station at Faro Airport. The nearest station is in Faro City (6km away).
What a "Cheap" Trip Actually Looks Like
Bus to City
First, you must catch Bus #16 from Airport to Faro City Center.
- Wait: 20-30 min
- Crowded with luggage
Train / Coach
Transfer to Train or EVA Bus. Tickets must be bought at station.
- Travel: 1h - 1h30
- Stations often far from center
Taxi to Hotel
Bus/Train stations are rarely at the beach/hotels. You need a final taxi.
- Extra Cost: €10-€15
- Walking in heat?
Total Estimated Time
2h 45m
(vs 35 min via Transfer)
Issues by Destination
Albufeira
The train station (Ferreiras) is 7km inland from the beach/hotels. You WILL need a taxi (€10-€15) to get to your hotel. The bus terminal is closer but the journey from Faro is very slow (many stops).
Vilamoura
No train station at all. The nearest is miles away. Buses exist but drop you off on the main road, often far from the Marina hotels.
Lagos
The train is scenic but slow (almost 2 hours from Faro). Stations are central, but with luggage on cobblestones, it's a challenge.
Public Transport — Quick Answers
Is there a train station at Faro Airport?
No. The nearest train station is in Faro City, about 6 km from the airport. You must first take a bus or taxi to reach it.
How long does public transport take to Albufeira?
Around 2 hours 45 minutes including the bus to Faro City, the train or coach, and a final taxi to your hotel. A private transfer takes about 35 minutes door-to-door.
How much does public transport cost from Faro Airport?
Roughly €15 total per person across all transfers. For couples and families, a private transfer costs almost the same per person while saving over 2 hours.
Do buses run all night from Faro Airport?
No. Public buses and trains run on limited schedules, especially at night and on weekends. If you land late, public transport is often not an option.
Is public transport worth it from Faro Airport?
For solo backpackers with time and little luggage, it can save money. For couples and families, a fixed-price BC Travel private transfer is faster, easier, and comparable per person.
What Travellers Say About BC Travel
Real travellers, real transfers — rated 4.9/5 across 50,000+ trips to the Algarve.
"Absolutely brilliant service. We were delayed by 2 hours and the driver was still there smiling. The car seat for my 2-year-old was spotlessly clean. Highly recommend."
Sarah Jenkins
UK • June 2025
"Efficient and professional. The driver spoke excellent English and gave us great tips for restaurants in Albufeira. Much better than the Uber lottery."
Marc Dubbois
France • August 2025
"Booked a return transfer to Lagos. Driver was on time for the 4am pickup. The Mercedes van was highly comfortable. Will use again next year."
Liam O'Connor
Ireland • September 2025
Officially Licensed & Insured
Is it really worth the hassle?
For solo backpackers with plenty of time, public transport saves money (~€15 total). For couples and families, a private transfer costs almost the same per person and saves 2 hours.
4.9/550,000+ transfersRNAVT 5547