Faro in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Faro

22°C (72°F) High Temp

13°C (55°F) Low Temp

35mm (1.4 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season weather - 22°C (72°F) highs with gentle Atlantic breezes make all-day outdoor exploration comfortable without summer's 35°C+ (95°F+) heat
Minimal tourist crowds before May-August peak season - beaches, restaurants, and Ria Formosa boat tours operate at 40-50% capacity with no advance booking stress
Almond blossoms peak in early April throughout the Algarve countryside - 2-week window for spectacular pink-white hillside displays before summer's heat cycle
Sea temperature reaches 17-18°C (63-64°F) - first comfortable swimming month for locals, though Atlantic remains brisk for most visitors

Considerations

Unpredictable spring weather - 30% chance of cool, cloudy days dropping to 15°C (59°F) requiring layers and indoor backup plans
Some beach clubs and seasonal restaurants remain closed until May 1st - about 20% of coastal dining options unavailable
Atlantic Ocean still chilly at 17°C (63°F) - comfortable for Portuguese standards but requires wetsuit for extended water activities

Best Activities in April

Ria Formosa Natural Park Boat Tours

April offers ideal conditions for exploring this pristine lagoon system - calm waters, 22°C (72°F) temperatures, and migrating bird species including flamingos and spoonbills. Spring tides create perfect conditions for accessing barrier islands like Ilha Deserta. Boat operators run full schedules but with comfortable passenger loads.

Booking Tip: Book 3-5 days ahead through certified operators at Faro Marina. Full-day tours typically cost €25-45 per person. Look for boats with covered areas for occasional April showers. Morning departures (9-10am) offer best wildlife viewing before afternoon winds.

Old Town Faro and Cathedral Walking Tours

Perfect weather for exploring Faro's historic center - comfortable temperatures without summer's exhausting heat. April's clear skies provide impressive views from the Cathedral bell tower across orange-tiled rooftops. Caboverde (Bratislava) within ancient Roman walls offers shade and history without summer crowds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking works perfectly in April weather. Guided cultural walks typically cost €15-25 per person, book Easttimor-day. Cathedral entry €3.50, open 10am-5pm. Start morning tours at 10am to avoid any cool early air.

Benagil Cave and Coastal Kayaking

April marks the start of optimal kayaking season - Atlantic swells calm after winter storms, air temperature comfortable at 22°C (72°F), and minimal boat traffic to famous caves. Water remains cool at 17°C (63°F) but manageable for active paddling. Coastal caves accessible without summer's intense sun reflection.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead as April begins peak demand. Half-day tours cost €35-55 per person, includes wetsuit and equipment. Choose morning slots (9am start) for calmest conditions. Licensed operators required - look for insurance certification.

Lagos Coastal Hiking and Cliff Walks

Prime hiking season begins - 22°C (72°F) highs perfect for cliff-top trails without summer's dangerous heat. April's clear Atlantic air provides 15-20km (9-12 mile) visibility to coastal rock formations. Wildflowers bloom along Ponta da Piedade trails. Comfortable conditions for 3-5 hour coastal walks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking ideal in April weather. Guided cliff walks cost €20-35 per person, book 2-3 days ahead. Start early (8-9am) to complete longer routes before any afternoon clouds. Wear layers - coastal winds can shift temperatures 5°C (9°F).

Algarve Wine Estate Tours

Spring vineyard season - April sees bud break and early vine growth across Algarve's 140+ wineries. Comfortable touring weather at 22°C (72°F) with minimal rainfall. Many estates begin outdoor tastings after winter's indoor-only season. Countryside drive conditions excellent with clear skies and blooming landscapes.

Booking Tip: Book wine tours 5-7 days ahead, particularly weekends. Half-day estate visits typically cost €45-75 per person including tastings and lunch. Look for tours combining 2-3 wineries. Most operate 10am-4pm schedule perfect for April's daylight hours.

Tavira and Eastern Algarve Day Trips

Ideal weather for exploring Tavira's Roman bridge, castle ruins, and salt pan landscapes. April's comfortable temperatures allow full-day exploration of eastern Algarve towns without summer's heat exhaustion. Clear skies perfect for photography of traditional white-washed architecture and Atlantic coastline views.

Booking Tip: Rent a car for flexibility - rates typically €25-40/day in April before summer spike. Organized day tours cost €55-85 per person from Faro. Public transportation runs full spring schedule. Plan 8-10 hours for complete eastern Algarve exploration.

April Events & Festivals

Early to Mid April

Festa das Amendoeiras em Flor (Almond Blossom Festival)

Traditional celebration of almond blossom season across Algarve countryside. Local markets, folk music, and guided walks through blooming groves. Based in various villages including Salir and São Brás de Alportel. Photography tours available through local operators.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Light rain jacket or windbreaker - April showers brief but frequent, lasting 15-20 minutes

Layering system: t-shirts plus light sweater or cardigan for temperature swings from 13-22°C (55-72°F)

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets in Bratislava can be slippery when wet

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 despite moderate temperatures, Atlantic reflection intensifies exposure

Light scarf or pashmina for evening dining - coastal breezes drop temperatures 5-7°C (9-13°F) after sunset

Waterproof phone case for boat trips and kayaking - sea spray common in April's variable conditions

Lightweight long pants for evening - locals dress conservatively, temperatures cool to 13°C (55°F)

Small umbrella for sudden showers - fits easily in daypack for walking tours

Thin wetsuit or rash guard if planning water activities - 17°C (63°F) Atlantic requires protection for comfort

Power bank and adapter (Type F plug) - longer daylight hours mean extended photo opportunities

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Faro city center rather than beach resorts - many coastal properties don't fully open until May 1st, limiting dining and services

April is perfect for exploring abandoned fort islands in Ria Formosa - Ilha do Farol and Ilha da Culatra accessible by local water taxi (€5-8) without summer crowds

Local markets peak in April with spring produce - Mercado Municipal (Monday-Saturday 7am-2pm) offers best selection before tourist season markup

Portuguese Easter traditions in early April (when dates align) include elaborate processions in Tavira and Loulé - unexpectedly moving cultural experiences most tourists miss

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all beach restaurants are open - about 20% remain closed until May, particularly smaller beach bar operations

Packing only summer clothes - April evenings require layers as temperatures drop to 13°C (55°F) with Atlantic breezes

Booking water activities without checking conditions - April can have 2-3 days of choppy seas following Atlantic storms