About the Faro → London route
Faro to London Gatwick is one of those quietly key routes — not glamorous, not particularly long at just under two hours, but genuinely well-used by a loyal mix of travelers. It's a short-haul run covering roughly 1,688 kilometers, operated by carriers including easyJet and Vueling, which tells you something about the passenger profile: this isn't a business corridor dressed in suits. It's sun-seekers heading home, Portuguese families visiting London relatives, and British expats who've swapped grey skies for the Algarve. The flight time of around one hour and fifty-nine minutes means you board with a coffee and land before you've finished thinking about whether you needed that second pastéis de nata.
Why travel from Faro to London?
London pulls travelers from Faro for reasons that run deeper than tourism. The Portuguese community in London — particularly concentrated around Stockwell, sometimes called "Little Portugal" — draws families back for weddings, christenings, and the kind of long Sunday lunches that can't easily be replicated over a video call. Beyond that, London genuinely delivers things the Algarve can't: world-class museums that are free to enter, West End theatre, the sheer density of international food in neighborhoods like Borough Market or Brixton. Business travelers from Faro's growing tech and tourism sectors have real reasons to be in London regularly. And for younger Portuguese travelers, London represents career opportunity and cultural momentum — a city that still pulls people in despite everything it's been through politically in recent years.
Quick stats
- Distance: 1,688 km
- Estimated flight time: 1h 59m
- Operating airlines: BA, LS, U2, W9
- Direct route: yes
Practical tips for FAO → LGW
Gatwick's South Terminal, where most flights on this route arrive, is efficient but can feel relentless during summer peak hours — give yourself time at baggage reclaim. The Gatwick Express into London Victoria runs every 15 minutes and takes around 30 minutes, which is genuinely the fastest option if you're heading central. If you're flying easyJet or another low-cost carrier, check your cabin bag dimensions carefully before you leave Faro — the fines for oversized bags at the gate are real and avoidable. September and October tend to offer lower fares and London at its most agreeable: still warm enough to walk Southwark without a coat, far fewer crowds than August.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the flight from Faro to London Gatwick take?
The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes for the 1,688 km distance. This is a relatively short European flight, making it ideal for a quick getaway between Portugal and the UK.
Which airlines operate the Faro to London Gatwick route?
Four airlines serve this route: British Airways (BA), Lauda (LS), easyJet (U2), and Wizz Air (W9). This variety of carriers offers flexibility in scheduling and pricing options.
What is the best time of year to fly from Faro to London?
Late April through May and September through October offer the best balance of pleasant weather in both destinations and moderate fares, avoiding the peak summer season and winter holiday surges. These shoulder seasons provide comfortable temperatures in Faro (20-25°C) and London (15-20°C) with fewer crowds.
Do I need a visa to travel from Portugal to the United Kingdom?
EU/EEA citizens need a valid passport but no visa for UK visits up to 6 months; UK citizens need a passport for Portugal but no visa for stays under 90 days. Non-EU citizens should check current visa requirements based on their nationality, as rules vary by country.
What should I know about luggage and jet lag on this route?
Luggage allowances vary by airline—budget carriers like easyJet and Wizz Air typically include only a small cabin bag, so verify your booking; checked baggage usually incurs a fee. Jet lag is minimal since both cities are in the same timezone (GMT/WET), so you'll adjust quickly to London's routine.