The Algarve has more annual sunshine than anywhere else in Europe, and Faro benefits accordingly. June through September is high season — warm enough for beach days, but crowded and expensive. Late spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) offer warm weather, manageable crowds, and better prices; these are arguably the best months. Winter is mild by northern European standards and the city is quieter and cheaper, though the ocean is too cold for swimming between late November and early March.
Events worth timing a trip around: Carnival in February, with parades and floats. The Algarve International Music Festival at the Teatro Lethes runs from late April to early June. Festival F brings Portuguese pop, fado and rock acts to the old town over three nights in late August or early September. The Feira de Santa Iria is the city's traditional fair in late October, with food stalls, music and a small funfair. The Ria Formosa Festival in August and the Sardine Festival the same month are both food-and-music affairs centered on the harbour.