The Algarve is one of Europe's most popular family holiday destinations, and the transport services around Faro airport reflect that. Here is what to know when arriving with kids.
Car seats are required by law
Portuguese law requires children under 12 or under 135 cm to use an appropriate child restraint. This applies to taxis and transfer vehicles. Taxis at the rank do not carry car seats. If you take a taxi with a small child, you are technically in breach of the law and, more importantly, your child is not properly secured.
Pre-booked transfer services routinely provide infant, child, and booster seats when requested at the time of booking. This is the main practical reason families choose transfers over taxis.
At the airport
Faro is a single-terminal airport. The walk from the gate to baggage claim to the exit is short and manageable with children. There are bathrooms in the arrivals area with basic changing facilities. The terminal has a small cafe if you need to feed children before heading out. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Baggage trolleys are available and free. The distance from the terminal to the taxi rank or transfer pickup is short, under 50 meters.
Vehicle size matters
A family of four with two large suitcases, a stroller, and a car seat will not fit comfortably in a standard sedan taxi. You either need to take two taxis or pre-book a minivan. Transfer services offer a range of vehicle sizes, and you can specify exactly what you need.
For larger families or those traveling with grandparents, minivans seating 6-8 passengers are available through transfer services. These also have more luggage space.
The drive to your resort
Most Algarve resorts are 20-60 minutes from the airport along the A22 motorway. The roads are good and the drive is straightforward. Children often fall asleep in the car after a flight, so a smooth, direct transfer helps everyone.
If you are heading to a villa rather than a hotel, having a driver who knows the specific address is valuable. Many villas are in residential areas with limited signage, and navigating with tired children in the back is not ideal.
Stroller and equipment
If you are bringing a stroller, confirm that your transfer vehicle has enough boot space. Most sedans can handle a folding stroller plus two bags, but it gets tight with more. Beach equipment like bodyboards is another consideration for the return journey.
Practical advice
Book a transfer with the right vehicle size and request car seats during booking. Bring snacks and water for the children. The drive is short, but after a flight and immigration queue, children may be hungry. If your resort provides a car seat or the option of hiring one locally, you may still want one for the airport transfer itself.