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CIAL Centro de Linguas
Faro, Portugal

Rua General Humberto Delgado, 5 - 8000-355 Faro - see on map
Pay less than booking at the school
What we like about the school
  • The school building is next to the municipal market, in the heart of the city centre, and walking distance from all major points of interest.
  • Cultural and social activities are included in the course price.
  • Small class sizes
  • Excellent rating of student apartments
    4.6
What we dislike about the school
  • Nationality mix could be more balanced. 45% of students are from Germany
  • Cancellation fees if visa is rejected.

Location: CIAL Centro de Linguas Faro is located in the capital city of Portugal's Algarve region, Faro. The historic city of Faro offers students much to see and do, with CIAL Faro not far from the action. The school is housed in the heart of the city centre, a stone's throw from the central market, the waterfront and many of the city's attractions. Such attractions within walking distance of the school include the Municipal Museum of Faro, the Algarve Life Sciences Centre, the Arco da Vila, the Faro Marina and much more.

Course selection: CIAL Faro offers a wide range of Portuguese courses, with something suitable for students of all levels. In addition to General Portuguese, available over several schedules and intensities, the school also provides combination programmes of Portuguese with specific subjects and activities such as professional internships, volunteering and surfing. Teacher Training programmes are also available at various times throughout the year. One-to-one or two-to-one tuition is also readily available for students that require Portuguese for specific purposes.

Getting around: The school is very central to the city and offers many amenities, shops, eateries, restaurants and attractions within walking distance. The golden beaches and hiking trails surrounding Faro are often main attractions of the area. Many such sites can be reached via bus but having access to private transport would make seeing the coastal sites easier.

Portuguese Courses

Show details of all courses
Typical content of a language course
General Language
Standard Course 20 lessons/weekPopular Portuguese course
20 lessons per week | 8 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€299€285 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 16 20 24
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 299 285 598 569 897 853 1,196 1,137 1,614 1,534 2,152 2,045 2,690 2,556 3,228 3,067 3,824 3,633 4,780 4,541 5,736 5,450
Price in US$ 335 669 1,004 1,338 1,806 2,408 3,010 3,611 4,278 5,348 6,417
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Starting dates
For all levels except of absolute beginners:
Every Monday

CIAL's teaching approach can be described as eclectic, as it combines various approaches and methodologies in structured lessons with clear aims. All skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing - develop naturally with gradual learning of grammar, lexical and phonetic concepts through practice.

These classes have a maximum of 12 students, meaning you can get all the extra assistance you might need throughout the programme.

Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Possible course durations
1-24 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 8 / Average: 7
Lesson duration
50 min
Student reviews about "Standard Course 20 lessons/week" at CIAL Centro de Linguas
Juliane 5.0
"Due to my good placement test results, I was immediately placed in the B2 course. I asked to be downgraded, was then placed in B1, and even that was still too difficult for me, as my active Portuguese and grammar skills were no longer present. They were always worried that I might get bored if it was too easy. The last few days I was in an easier course and felt very comfortable! Now I've passed the B1 test, but it was only really fun after that, when the material was easier. And to talk to people, you need the basics."
Chantal 4.0
"The participants in the first week brought more liveliness to the course. The second week was challenging for me due to the very high level of the only other participant."
Inmaculada 5.0
"Overall very good as I was assigned to a higher level and was able to learn new things."
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/weekRecommended Portuguese courseMost Popular Portuguese course
In high demand!
25 lessons per week | 8 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€390€371 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 16 20 24
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 390 371 780 741 1,170 1,112 1,560 1,482 2,106 2,001 2,808 2,668 3,510 3,335 4,212 4,002 4,992 4,743 6,240 5,928 7,488 7,114
Price in US$ 437 873 1,309 1,746 2,356 3,142 3,927 4,712 5,585 6,981 8,377
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Starting dates
For all levels except of absolute beginners:
Every Monday

Standard Course in the morning followed by 2 afternoon lessons per day, with different
topics. These topics will range from conversation, vocabulary drills, grammar practice, presentations, role playing etc.

Course specific data
General course schedule
5 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Afternoon: 13:30 - 14:20
Possible course durations
1-24 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 8 / Average: 7
Lesson duration
50 min
Student reviews about "Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week" at CIAL Centro de Linguas
Hans 5.0
"Top course, very demanding but you learn a lot!!! 100% recommendation."
Norbert 4.0
"good choice"
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Easter & Christmas Course
20 lessons per week | 12 students (max)
Offer!from
€260€247 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 0 520 494 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Price in US$ 582
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Starting dates
2026: 30 Mar 2026, 21 Dec 2026

This course focuses on oral communication skills, with intensive practice.

Course dates coincide with holiday period.

  • Easter course: 30 March.
  • Christmas course: 21 Dec.
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Possible course durations
2 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 12 / Average: 10
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Combined 25 lessons/week
25 lessons per week | 8 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€499€475 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 16 20 24
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 499 475 998 949 1,497 1,423 1,996 1,897 2,814 2,674 3,752 3,565 4,690 4,456 5,628 5,347 7,024 6,673 8,780 8,341 10,536 10,010
Price in US$ 559 1,117 1,675 2,233 3,148 4,198 5,247 6,296 7,858 9,822 11,786
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Starting dates
For all levels except of absolute beginners:
Every Monday

Ideal for students who want to work on further improving their oral skills, reviewing work done in morning lessons, or who want to work in a specific professional field. This course is made up of 15 group lessons and 5 individual lessons per week.

Course specific data
General course schedule
5 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Afternoon: 13:30 - 14:20
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 8 / Average: 7
Lesson duration
50 min
Student reviews about "Combined 25 lessons/week" at CIAL Centro de Linguas
Frank 5.0
"It worked well."
Sara 5.0
"Excellent course. Really enjoyed the approach."
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Combined 30 lessons/week
30 lessons per week | 8 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€699€665 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 16 20 24
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 699 665 1,398 1,329 2,097 1,993 2,796 2,657 4,014 3,814 5,352 5,085 6,690 6,356 8,028 7,627 10,224 9,713 12,780 12,141 15,336 14,570
Price in US$ 782 1,564 2,346 3,128 4,491 5,987 7,484 8,981 11,437 14,297 17,156
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Starting dates
For all levels except of absolute beginners:
Every Monday

Ideal for students who want to work on further improving their oral skills, reviewing work done in morning lessons, or who want to work in a specific professional field. This course is made up of 15 group lessons and 10 individual lessons per week.

Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Afternoon: 13:30 - 15:10
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 8 / Average: 7
Lesson duration
50 min
Student reviews about "Combined 30 lessons/week" at CIAL Centro de Linguas
Frank 5.0
"Super package, small group in the morning + individual practice in the afternoon."
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Combined 35 lessons/week
35 lessons per week | 8 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€899€855 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 16 20 24
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 899 855 1,798 1,709 2,697 2,563 3,596 3,417 5,214 4,954 6,952 6,605 8,690 8,256 10,428 9,907 13,424 12,753 16,780 15,941 20,136 19,130
Price in US$ 1,006 2,012 3,017 4,023 5,833 7,777 9,721 11,666 15,017 18,771 22,525
Here you ALWAYS pay less. Guaranteed
See Availability
Starting dates
For all levels except of absolute beginners:
Every Monday

Ideal for students who want to work on further improving their oral skills, reviewing work done in morning lessons, or who want to work in a specific professional field. This course is made up of 15 group lessons and 15 individual lessons per week.

Course specific data
General course schedule
7 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Afternoon: 13:30 - 16:20
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 8 / Average: 7
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Private
One-to-One Lessons
20 lessons per week | 1 student (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€800€760 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 800 760 1,600 1,520 2,400 2,280 3,200 3,040 4,000 3,800 4,800 4,560 5,600 5,320 6,400 6,080 7,200 6,840 8,000 7,600 9,600 9,120
Price in US$ 895 1,790 2,685 3,580 4,475 5,370 6,265 7,160 8,055 8,949 10,739
Here you ALWAYS pay less. Guaranteed
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Starting dates
Every Monday

Individual lessons can be used for Special Purposes such as: Banking, Business Portuguese, Computer Science, Hotel Industry, Insurance, Interpreting, Law, Medicine and Translation.

Also available for Brazilian and African Portuguese and professional areas.

Available options: 1-7 lessons per day. EUR 40 per lesson.

Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See Availability
Two-to-One Lessons
20 lessons per week | 2 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
€1,000€950 / week
More
FREE changes
FREE cancellation up to 14 days before the start of your course.
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12
Price at school (€) Our price (€) 1,000 950 2,000 1,900 3,000 2,850 4,000 3,800 5,000 4,750 6,000 5,700 7,000 6,650 8,000 7,600 9,000 8,550 10,000 9,500 12,000 11,400
Price in US$ 1,119 2,238 3,356 4,475 5,594 6,712 7,831 8,949 10,068 11,187 13,424
Here you ALWAYS pay less. Guaranteed
See Availability
Starting dates
Every Monday

Available options: 1-7 lessons per day. EUR 50 per lesson.

Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 9:00 - 12:40
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Language levels of course
Suitable for all levels: Beginner (A1) - Proficiency (C2)
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 2 / Average: 2
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See Availability

Our prices for CIAL Centro de Linguas include

  • INCLUDED Organized activities
  • INCLUDED Internet access and use of school computers
  • INCLUDED Wireless LAN zone at school
  • INCLUDED Free certificate of course attendance
  • INCLUDED Language level placement test at first day of classes
  • INCLUDED For adult courses: a minimum of one free organized leisure activity per week

Videos & Photos

  • CIAL Centro de Linguas - School Presentation1/3
  • CIAL Centro de Linguas - General School Video2/3
  • CIAL Centro de Linguas - Student Interviews3/3
  • Balcony of school
    Balcony of school1/13
  • CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro
    CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro2/13
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  • Computer room at CIAL
    Computer room at CIAL4/13
  • 5/13
  • Classroom at the school
    Classroom at the school6/13
  • 7/13
  • 8/13
  • 9/13
  • Learning together
    Learning together 10/13
  • 11/13
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Student opinions about CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro

4.4
Overall school rating of
CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro
116 authentic ratings from students who booked with us
School
Location of the school
4.7 
Facilities
4.0 
Social activities
3.6 
Organisation
4.3 
Course
Quality of teaching
4.4 
Value for money
4.2 
Accommodation
Homestay
4.4 
Shared Flat (apartment)
4.6 
Overall school rating by student age group
Students < 18 years (0 ratings)
0.0 
Students 18-30 years (11 ratings)
4.4 
Students 31-49 years (31 ratings)
4.5 
Students 50+ years (62 ratings)
4.3 
Verified reviews only, uncensored. All student opinions from students who booked a course at the school with LanguageCourse.net.
67 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Good atmosphere, friendly and committed people, central location of the school.”
“Depending on the teacher, it goes much too fast and is methodologically confusing. I need more repetition of what I have just learned.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Due to my good placement test results, I was immediately placed in the B2 course. I asked to be downgraded, was then placed in B1, and even that was still too difficult for me, as my active Portuguese and grammar skills were no longer present. They were always worried that I might get bored if it was too easy. The last few days I was in an easier course and felt very comfortable! Now I've passed the B1 test, but it was only really fun after that, when the material was easier. And to talk to people, you need the basics.Other comments: It is a solid school with friendly, committed employees and honorary staff! They respond individually to different needs and levels.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 4 weeks
Review date: 15. Dec. 2025 by Juliane Barth
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
54 years
Overall rating
4.0
“Location, nice welcome.”
“It is expensive for the number of hours and the level of instruction. I don't think I will come back again.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 21. Jul. 2025 by Inma Moya
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
60 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Super committed teachers, making language learning fun!”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: It worked well.Other comments: Great small groups.
Course: Combined 25 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 7. Jul. 2025 by Frank Trappmann
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
70 years
Overall rating
4.0
“The school is easily accessible and has pleasant premises. Everyone is very helpful and friendly. Overall, the school is well organized.”
“It was very much based on the book. Personally, I would have liked more interaction, especially with the smaller number of participants.”
Insider tip: “The school has further possibilities for more individualized forms of teaching that appear to make sense.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: The participants in the first week brought more liveliness to the course. The second week was challenging for me due to the very high level of the only other participant.Other comments: Overall, the school is recommendable.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 26. May. 2025 by Chantal Streibig-Pabsch
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
51 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Everything is ok”
“Nothing bad”
Details of the review
Course: Combined 30 lessons/week - 3 weeks
Review date: 8. Jan. 2025 by John van Gestel
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
67 years
Overall rating
4.0
“Skilled teachers.”
“Questionable value of the initial test as a basis for language level/team placement.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 28. Oct. 2024 by Søren Møller Petersen
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
59 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Highly qualified lecturers who respond very well to the students. They all seem very committed. I was also able to learn a lot about Portuguese culture”
“Classrooms sometimes a little too small. Afternoon activities coincided with private lessons and could therefore not be attended.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Top course, very demanding but you learn a lot!!! 100% recommendation.
Course: Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 20. Oct. 2024 by Hans Lilienthal
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
66 years
Overall rating
4.0
“Good lecturers.”
“Somewhat cramped classrooms. Classic frontal teaching. No partner work.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 14. Oct. 2024 by Ulrike Kösters
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
59 years
Overall rating
3.0
“The teacher was very nice and the placement test was helpful.”
“There was little emphasis on speaking the language, instead the book (which I didn't like) was "rushed through... That was a pity!”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 26. Feb. 2024 by Regine Kellermann-Jung
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
58 years
Overall rating
5.0
“At the time of my participation, my group and the parallel groups were small (less than 5 participants). The exchange during the breaks and after the lessons even took place across groups, including with the teachers. I had never experienced this before and I thought it was excellent.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 21. Feb. 2024 by Detlef Spandl
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
53 years
Overall rating
5.0
“I really liked the dedication and the work of the teachers. They are the best.”
“Old school technology”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 16. Oct. 2023 by Gordana Podvezanec
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
52 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Very good teachers and enjoyable classes, good quality of the material provided.”
“Perhaps the price, a bit expensive for the 2.5 hours per day.”
Insider tip: “The school is small but this is an advantage, the classes are more personalized.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Overall very good as I was assigned to a higher level and was able to learn new things.Other comments: In general, everything went very well. I learned new things and practiced the language, which was my intention.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 3. Aug. 2023 by Inmaculada Moya
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
58 years
Overall rating
5.0
“* Course with only 3 or 4 participants,
* Great teacher who responds to questions etc. in a qualified way,
* Regular, inter-course meetings in the early break.
* pleasant atmosphere in the whole school”
“* Expansion of the range of leisure activities would be nice
* A notice board or other way for course participants to coordinate afternoon or evening activities would be great.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Super package, small group in the morning + individual practice in the afternoon.Other comments: Great togetherness in the school! Super nice atmosphere!
Course: Combined 30 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 7. Jul. 2023 by Frank Trappmann
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
65 years
Overall rating
4.0
“Very friendly reception. Teachers and other staff were very nice and helpful. Very personal atmosphere, as the school is quite small. The school is very centrally located in Faro.”
“The classroom was quite small for the number of participants.”
Insider tip: “Visit Igreja do Carmo and Jardim da Alameda”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: good choice
Course: Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 4. Jul. 2023 by Norbert Koch
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
55 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Very motivated and dedicated teachers, very nice and friendly atmosphere, all kinds of shops and supermarkets nearby (I did not participate in any of the excursions)”
Details of the review
Course: Combined 30 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 20. Feb. 2023 by Nadja Groeber
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
62 years
Overall rating
5.0
“The teacher responded very individually to our previous knowledge and our learning speed and we were able to make enormous progress as a result.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 3. Feb. 2023 by Günter Eckert
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
41 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Denise (the teacher) and all the people there a super lovely and it was a lot of fun.”
Details of the review
Course: Easter & Christmas Course - 2 weeks
Review date: 2. Jan. 2023 by Nina Glassl
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
66 years
Overall rating
3.0
“Everything really.”
“In the second week the spread of ability was very wide and there seemed to be a lot of English spoken. Hard to manage this type of imbalance I know. I think I would have private lessons next time but would certainly use CIAL again. Denise was fab.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: No, three hours was the right length.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 27. Jun. 2022 by Lynn Marsay
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
61 years
Overall rating
5.0
“I felt very comfortable from the first minute. Many thanks to Christine and Denise!”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 1. May. 2022 by Helene Steyrer
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
37 years
Overall rating
4.0
“Family atmosphere”
“Frequent change of teachers; Strict approach according to textbook”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 4 weeks
Review date: 20. Apr. 2022 by Sabine Tschubi
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
42 years
Overall rating
5.0
“The school is great, very familiar. The accommodation is right across the street. There is a great atmosphere.”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course + Workshop 25 lessons/week - 4 weeks
Review date: 8. Nov. 2021 by Magdalena Krakowski
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
40 years
Overall rating
5.0
“The organization, the teachers, the helpfulness, excellent work.”
“There was no room where you can have a coffee or chat with other students.”
Insider tip: “To do the course at least 3 weeks”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: I liked the course very much. After a few days I was able to find my way around the environment and use the language quite well. The teachers have adapted to the knowledge of the students.Other comments: The cleanliness, especially in the toilet, was sometimes poor. Especially the first week. After that, it got better.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 11. Oct. 2021 by Maria Unterlugauer
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
56 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Very friendly, professional, excellent teacher for which a big thank you!”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 3 weeks
Review date: 11. Aug. 2021 by Nens Stam
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
68 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Our teacher Denise was excellent. While teaching us the language, she gave us information about the history and culture of Portugal.”
Details of the review
Other comments: I would recommend this school to everyone.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 4 weeks
Review date: 16. Mar. 2020 by Denis F Simard
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
71 years
Overall rating
3.0
“Friendliness of everyone”
Details of the review
Other comments: Should focus more on the interests of the students and not work through every boring point in the textbook.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 2. Mar. 2020 by Jutta Peter
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
60 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Brilliant location. Small and friendly. Winter is a good time to study because classes aren't too big. Not sure I'd want to be in a class of 9!”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Excellent course. Really enjoyed the approach.Other comments: Lovely friendly staff
Course: Combined 25 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 9. Dec. 2019 by Sara Gourlay
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
63 years
Overall rating
5.0
Insider tip: “Always take the ferry to one of the beaches and not the bus.”
Details of the review
Course: Combined 30 lessons/week - 2 weeks
Review date: 29. Aug. 2019 by Harm Olthoff
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
49 years
Overall rating
5.0
“Great teachers and good materials”
Insider tip: “The restaurant at the nearby market has delicious food at very cheap prices”
Details of the review
Other comments: Very friendly school, good organisation and great teachers!
Course: Combined 25 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 10. Jun. 2019 by Nadia Boyes
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
57 years
Overall rating
4.0
“We had a great and patient teacher, Denise.”
Insider tip: “We received the text books on our last day of the course.”
Details of the review
Other comments: Great institute.
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 14. Jan. 2019 by Theo Heger
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
62 years
Overall rating
4.0
“I found it a very pleasant atmosphere, and my teacher Ines has been able to teach me a lot in a short time”
Insider tip: “It is nicer to stay closer to the school, more than an hour of traveling I found a lot later”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course 20 lessons/week - 1 week
Review date: 28. Nov. 2018 by Franka Roeters
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
See all reviews of CIAL Faro

Ratings of CIAL Centro de Linguas compared to ratings of all schools in Portugal

 CIAL Centro de Linguas FaroAverage of all other schools in Portugal
Overall school rating4.44.5
Location of the school4.74.8
Facilities4.04.1
Social activities3.73.9
Organisation4.44.4
Quality of teaching4.44.5
Value for money4.24.2
Homestay4.44.2
Shared flat4.44.2

CIAL Centro de Linguas (CIAL)

“We look forward to welcoming you to CIAL. It will be an unforgettable experience of cultural immersion and fun learning meeting people from around the world.”
– 
Cristina Palma
, 
Director of CIAL Centro de Linguas
Accreditations and Quality seals
EAQUALSIALCInstituto Camões, DGERT
Portuguese teacher qualifications
100% hold a university degree
100% hold a recognised language teaching qualification
Languages spoken by school staff (cannot be guaranteed by school)
Student gender mix
44% male / 56% female
Offer for returning students
You will be refunded/waived the school's administration fee if you already attended previously a course at CIAL Centro de Linguas and you book here.
Year of school foundation
1959

General school facilities

  • Microwave for student use

  • Fridge for student use

  • Library

  • Free after-class access to language learning software

  • Movie room

  • Garden

  • Rooftop terrace

  • Balcony / terrace

  • Student support desk

  • Copy machine

  • Free water dispenser

  • Free WIFI

  • Smoking zones (outdoors)

  • Tourist information

  • Assistance with reservations for restaurants, bars, clubs

  • Assistance with organizing transportation

  • Paid parking (<500m)

  • Classroom equipment

    • TV in some classrooms

    • Air conditioning in all classrooms

    • Heating in all classrooms

    • Ample natural light in all classrooms

    • Number of classrooms: 6
    • Number of public PC workstations: 2
Additional comment about facilities of school
Located in the heart of Faro, near the Municipal Market, just a short walk away from the historical centre, CIAL occupies a typical Algarve villa, with a garden and terrace.

Student Age / Nationality

Top student nationalities
Student Nationality Percentage of students
Germany 42%
Switzerland 8%
Netherlands 8%
France 7%
England 6%
USA 5%
Spain 5%
Italy 3%
Sweden 2%
Other nationalities 14%
Age of students
  Percentage of students
1-18 years 0%
18-24 years 14%
25-34 years 16%
35-50 years 26%
>50 years 44%
The average age outside summer is 15 years higher than in summer.
Average number of students
In summer: 25
Throughout the year: 15
Minimum age of students
18 years
Average number of levels
Adult courses In summer: 6
Adult courses Throughout the year: 6
Average age of students
In summer: 30 years
Throughout the year: 45 years
Read our recommendations for students in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s.

Information for all courses offered by CIAL Centro de Linguas

Lesson duration
50 minutes
Course material
Generally course material is distributed free to students and will stay in student property.
Comments about courses

Airport transfer for two students traveling together: EUR 60 (one way).



If only one student is placed at a given level, the course will be replaced as follows:

Group 20 lessons/week - Individual 12,5 lessons/week

Workshop 5 lessons/week - Individual 3 lessons/week

Individual classes
Single individual lessons of tuition can be reserved at 40 €. The combination of group and individual lessons is highly recommended. Individual lessons will encourage you to actively speak the foreign language and will offer you the opportunity to discuss individual problems and weaknesses.
Days without class
In 2026 (including national and regional bank holidays):
01 Jan 2026, 03 Apr 2026, 01 May 2026, 04 Jun 2026, 01 Dec 2026, 25 Dec 2026, 07 Sep 2026, 05 Oct 2026.
School policy regarding bank holidays:Private classes are recuperated or refunded. Same as for nearly all language schools, group classes falling on bank holiday are not refunded and not recuperated.
Level test
A test to assess your exact language level takes place at the school on the first day of the course.
Lessons needed per Portuguese language level
Level (CEFR) LESSONS needed per level WEEKS needed
(20 lessons per week)
A1 Beginner A1 to A2 80 4
A2 Elementary A2 to B1 160 8
B1 Intermediate B1 to B2 180 9
B2 Higher Intermediate B2 to C1 200 10
C1 Advanced C1 to C2 220 11
C2 Proficiency
Data above gives some guidance. For more details consult our page How long does it take to learn a language or reach a specific level.

Airport transfer

Faro Airport:
€55 one way
€110 return (both ways)
Best arrival airport is Faro (FAO).

Leisure activities

Leisure programme for adults (sample):
Sample Program activities Faro
Sample Program activities Faro
View

Examples of leisure activities organized by the school

Adults - Free activities

- Visits to museums and monuments
- Lectures at the school
- Movies at the school
- Typical almond sweets tasting.

Adults - Paid activities

- Typical dinners around EUR 35 some with live music
activity possibledistance from school
Dancing1 km
Diving3 km
Football (soccer)3 km
Golf10 km
Horse riding10 km
Sailing3 km
Squash3 km
Swimming3 km
Tennis3 km
Volleyball3 km
Windsurfing3 km
Yoga-

Accommodation

Show details of all accommodations
Tip: Type of accommodation. What is best for you?
Homestay Most Popular Accommodation
In high demand!
4.4
24 ratings
Single room, Breakfast
Shared bathroom
from
€200/ week
Show more
Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 Additional
Week
Price in € 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 2000 2400 200
Price in US$ 236 471 707 942 1,178 1,413 1,649 1,884 2,355 2,826 236
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person

Limited availability.

Check-in
Sunday
Check-out
Saturday
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
€40 (Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Single room
Average distance from school
11 minutes walking (average reported by 23 former students).
Includes
TV, Towels, Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
Breakfast.
Minimum age of students
18
Student reviews about Homestay
Chantal
Accommodation: 5.0
Location: 5.0
Room: 5.0
Meals 5.0
"It was perfect! Anna Martins, herself a teacher at the school, took very good care of us and at the same time respected our freedom.
Inmaculada
Accommodation: 4.0
Location: 3.0
Room: 5.0
Meals 4.0
"Very nice hosts who made me feel at home. Everything perfect in relation to the house and the room.
Jutta
Accommodation: 5.0
Location: 5.0
Room: 5.0
Meals 5.0
"Very affectionate, generous, helped me a lot when speaking, corrected myself (better than at school), overall wonderful. I felt very comfortable.
Shared Apartment
This accommodation tends to sell out quickly!
4.6
9 ratings
Single room, No meals
Shared bathroom
from
€225/ week
Show more
Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 Additional
Week		 One-time fee
(charged by school)
Price in € 225 450 675 900 1125 1350 1575 1800 2250 2700 225 50
Price in US$ 265 530 795 1,060 1,325 1,590 1,855 2,120 2,650 3,180 265 59
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person

Apartment located across the street from the school.

Check-in
Sunday
Check-out
Saturday
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Deposit (refundable)
Upon arrival a refundable deposit of €100 is charged and will be refunded to you when you leave the accommodation provided there are no damages.
One-time fee
The school/accommodation provider will charge a non-refundable one-time fee of 50€.
No extra nights bookable
Room Occupancy
Single room
Average distance from school
4 minutes walking (average reported by 8 former students).
Includes
TV, Towels, Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
18
Maximum age of students
1
Student reviews about Shared Apartment
Juliane
Accommodation: 3.0
Location: 5.0
Room: 4.0
"The accommodation was okay, but very spartan. I was in a shared flat. There were no pictures on the walls and no other decorations. The kitchen wasn't fully equipped either, but I bought a wine glass and a large water glass to start with. I also bought pepper, salt and shower gel. I'm leaving them there, but it would be really nice if they could be left for the next guests. As I lived there mostly on my own, the flat wasn't furnished in a cosy way by the people living there. The immediate proximity to the school was great. And there was heating, which I used on two days in December. There was also a washing machine, iron, clothes horse, two bathrooms, a dining room, a sofa area and a television. So, in terms of hardware, everything you need was there.
Gordana
Accommodation: 5.0
Location: 5.0
Room: 5.0
"Well kept rooms and well equipped kitchen, modern bathrooms. Nothing to complain about;)
Maria
Accommodation: 4.0
Location: 5.0
Room: 4.0
"The bed was uncomfortable
Shared Apartment
This accommodation tends to sell out quickly!
4.6
9 ratings
Twin room, No meals
Shared bathroom
from
€190/ week
Show more
Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 Additional
Week		 One-time fee
(charged by school)
Price in € 190 380 570 760 950 1140 1330 1520 1900 2280 190 50
Price in US$ 224 448 672 895 1,119 1,343 1,567 1,790 2,238 2,685 224 59
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person

Apartment located across the street from the school.

Check-in
Sunday
Check-out
Saturday
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Deposit (refundable)
Upon arrival a refundable deposit of €100 is charged and will be refunded to you when you leave the accommodation provided there are no damages.
One-time fee
The school/accommodation provider will charge a non-refundable one-time fee of 50€.
No extra nights bookable
Room Occupancy
Twin room
Average distance from school
1 minutes walking.
Includes
TV, Towels, Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
18

Student Testimonial Videos

Note: The video testimonials of students from CIAL Centro de Linguas have been provided by the school and schools do not usually publish negative testimonials. For uncensored reviews read what our students report about their stay at CIAL Centro de Linguas.

Map  

Questions and answers about CIAL Centro de Linguas

Is there a level test before start of the course?
“Yes, students will have a written test on the first day of lessons to determine their current level.”
Teresa Margarida, Registrar from CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro - May 19, 2025
I am looking for a Portuguese course in Albufeira, Portugal. I am in intermediate - advanced level but of Brazilian Portuguese.
“For your Portuguese course, the best option we can offer you is CIAL in Faro, a very prestigious school and the closest to Albufeira.

At CIAL you will be able to perfect your Portuguese with native teachers, in an immersive environment that will allow you to adapt to European Portuguese while maintaining your knowledge of Brazilian Portuguese. In addition, the school offers a dynamic environment and small groups, ideal for effective learning.”
Rubén De Haro, LanguageCourse.Net - Feb 19, 2025
Are there language teachers at CIAL Faro who teach Brazilian Portuguese?
“Group courses in Lisbon and Faro are exclusively for European Portuguese. Brazilian Portuguese is not available in Faro.
There are teachers in Faro who can explain the main differences between the two varieties. European and Brazilian Portuguese are the same language. The differences can be compared with Spanish in Spain and the countries of South America.”
Teresa, Student Advisor from CIAL - Jan 03, 2025
Are there any Brazilian host families?
“No. The host families are Portuguese with a Portuguese background.”
Teresa, Student Advisor from CIAL - Jan 03, 2025
Can I book the course without booking accommodation with the school?
“Yes, that is possible. You can book the course with the school and the accommodation privately.”
Tanja, from CIAL Centro de Linguas - Jul 04, 2023
Is it possible to book extra nights for the accommodation type "homestay"?
“Yes, depending on availability, additional nights can be booked for the accommodation type "homestay" at an extra charge.”
Teresa, Administration from CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro - Mar 22, 2023
Can I take the A2 exam at the language school?
“CIAL does not offer the Caple exams. The exams can either be taken in Lisbon at the University or in exam centers around the world.”
Teresa Margarida, Registrar from CIAL Centro de Linguas - Mar 12, 2023
I need a Portuguese course for 3 months. Could it be with accommodation?
“CIAL Centro de Linguas offers accommodation in student residence and homestay, so you can choose one of these two options when you make your booking on our website.
Homestay is the most recommended option for a true language immersion experience, and if you also take into account that, in most cases, half board or full board is also included, you will have the opportunity to continue practising the language around the dinner table, and you will learn much more about the local culture and traditions.
Of course, if none of these options are to your liking, you can book just the course and find your own accommodation.”
Rubén De Haro, LanguageCourse.Net - Jan 12, 2023
I would like to take Portugese classes at the Cial Centro de Linguas in Faro. However, I need to have access at REALLY good internet because I am a professor and need to teach online. Is the WIFI good there?
“Yes, we have a good internet connection at the School and the homestay hosts working with Cial also regularly have fast internet connections.
”
Teresa Margarida, Registrar from CIAL Centro de Linguas - Dec 07, 2022
Is there good parking near the school?
“Yes, there is a larger parking lot not too far from the school. ”
Teresa , Reservation Manager from Portugal - Nov 22, 2022
Does the school accept dogs in classes and accommodation?
“I am afraid that we can not accommodate this request for the accommodation. Cial does not accept pets either in the school or in any of the accommodation’s options. ”
Teresa, Registrar from CIAL - Mar 04, 2022

FAQ about CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro

What is the best price for a course at CIAL Centro de Linguas, Faro?
“Portuguese courses at CIAL Centro de Linguas start at 247 € for Easter & Christmas Course course with 20 lessons per week. When booking here you benefit from an exclusive discount.”
What is the most popular accommodation offered by CIAL Centro de Linguas?
“The accommodation Homestay is the most popular among all our clients of CIAL Centro de Linguas”
Is it possible to take a course at CIAL Centro de Linguas as an absolute beginner?
Is airport pickup offered by CIAL Centro de Linguas?
“Yes. The school offers pickup from Faro Airport (55 €)”
What is the number of students per class at CIAL Centro de Linguas?
“Depending on the chosen course, the maximum number of students at CIAL Centro de Linguas varies from 1 (One-to-One Lessons) to 12 students (Easter & Christmas Course)”
Which countries are students of CIAL Centro de Linguas from?
“The highest Nationality percentage at CIAL Centro de Linguas comes from Germany with a 42% representation, followed by students from Netherlands (8%) and Switzerland (8%).”
CIAL Centro de Linguas offers courses for which ages?
“CIAL Centro de Linguas offers courses from 18 years to 99. Average age is 30 during the summer and 45 for the rest of the year.”

PDF brochure / price list of CIAL Centro de LinguasView or Send them to your email

CIAL Brochure
CIAL Brochure
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CIAL Course details 2026
CIAL Course details 2026
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CIAL Prices 2026
CIAL Prices 2026
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Leisure programme for adults (sample):
Sample Program activities Faro
Sample Program activities Faro
View

Terms of CIAL Centro de Linguas

First day of course
Written and oral level test is performed. Students should arrive at 8:45
Payment methods accepted for payments made directly to the school
Visa - logoMastercard - logoPayPal - logoBank Transfer - logo
Legal name/parent company
Sousa e Coimbra Lda | Tax registration ID: PT500275378

Visa Documents

Nationals from USA do not require a visa to study short term courses up to 90 days.
Check visa requirements for nationals from other countries.
Nationals from countries that require a visa will receive documents from the school, related to booking confirmation, which is required for the visa application.
Full payment of all fees required before school dispatches documents required for visa application
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