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Albufeira, Portugal: a tourism and holiday guide for 2024

Albufeira is the largest, liveliest and most exciting of all of the resort towns that line southern Portugal's beautiful Algarve coastline.

It provides everything needed for a fun-packed holiday, with glorious beaches, a wonderful climate, varied activities and a buzzing holiday atmosphere. There is so much to love about Albufeira, and this is why this once peaceful fishing village has been transformed into the Algarve's most popular holiday destination.

Being the largest resort town of the Algarve, Albufeira boasts an extensive range of activities and accommodation along with its legendary nightlife. With so much variety on offer, Albufeira makes an ideal holiday choice - whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or for a party holiday with friends.

This article will provide an introduction to Albufeira, one of the best holiday destinations in Portugal. Related articles: Sights and activities - Albufeira’s beaches - 1 week in Albufeira

Highlights of Albufeira

The Praia dos Pescadores beach – The magnificent sandy beach that extends along the front of Albufeira.

The Strip – Albufeira's party street at the heart of the New Town. Head here for themed bars, nightclubs and riotous nightlife that continues until the sun rises.

Albufeira’s holiday fun - There is so much to do in Albufeira, from speed boat tours, dolphin-watching trips, insane waterparks and world-class golf courses.

The speed boat tours moored in Albufeira marina

The Old Town - The charming historic district of Albufeira that boasts over one hundred restaurants and bars.

Why have a holiday to Albufeira?

Albufeira is an outstanding holiday destination, offering so much more than just glorious beaches and fantastic weather.

At the heart of Albufeira lies the delightful "Old Town", with its cobbled streets and traditional white-washed houses.

To the east of Albufeira is the New Town, home to ‘The Strip’ - a street crammed with themed bars and pulsating nightclubs. The area surrounding The Strip is perfect if you are 18-27 and wanting a lively and exciting holiday.

Although Albufeira welcomes a wide range of visitors, it is still primarily a family holiday destination, with facilities and activities that are perfect for children of all ages. There are safe beaches, family-focused resort hotels and exciting waterparks for teenagers.

To the west of Albufeira is the colourful marina complex. Departing from here are numerous boat excursions, including dolphin-watching cruises, boat tours to Benagil cave, speed boat tours, deep-sea fishing trips and party boats.

For a golfing holiday, Albufeira can't be beaten; there are world-class golf courses, along with the vibrant nightlife of the Old Town.

And if you wish to discover more of the Algarve, there are also plenty of enjoyable day trips. These include the fortified town of Silves , the historic city of Faro and the traditional market town of Loule .

Albufeira is an amazing holiday destination, and you will have a fantastic time here!

For more information on the best activities and sights of Albufeira please read this guide .

The narrow-cobbled streets of the Old Town

The map below displays the main tourist areas and beaches of Albufeira. The Old Town area is highlighted in yellow and The Strip in orange. The shaded areas surrounding the Old Town and The Strip are good places to look for accommodation if you wish to be based close to these areas. The purple area is where many of the large, family-focused hotel complexes are located, with these being close to the town Olhos de Água. The marina complex is highlighted in blue. ( Note: zoom in or out to see all of the markers)

Areas of Albufeira: 1) Albufeira "Old Town" 2) Albufeira "The Strip" 3) Albufeira "Marina" 4) Olhos de Água Beaches: 5) Praia de São Rafael 6) Praia dos Três Penecos 7) Praia dos Pescadores 8) Praia do Peneco 9) Praia do Inatel 10) Praia dos Alemães Beach 11) Praia da Oura 12) Praia de Santa Eulália 13) Praia Maria Luísa 14) Praia dos Olhos de Água 15) Praia da Falésia Nightlife: 16) Kiss Club 17) Matt's Bar 18) Club Vida 19) Club Heaven

Albufeira holiday ratings

How can Albufeira be suitable for both families and stag/hen/group holidays?

With two very separate tourist areas - the Old Town and The Strip (New Town) - Albufeira is able to cater for families and couples seeking a more laid-back getaway, as well as those seeking a lively, party-filled holiday.

At the historic centre of Albufeira, the Old Town consists of a series of traditional Portuguese streets and plazas filled with family-friendly restaurants and shops. This district opens out onto the Praia dos Pescadores beach, a calm and sheltered stretch of coast perfect for families and children.

The New Town lies 2km to the east of the Old Town and is filled with modern hotels and sprawling apartment complexes. The Strip is lined with themed bars and nightclubs, designed for all-day drinking and late-night partying. At the base of The Strip lies Praia da Oura beach, the perfect location for recovering after a wild night out at the clubs.

The separation between these two distinct areas of Albufeira allows both families and party groups to enjoy the resort at the same time without antagonise each other. Related articles: Stag & hen Albufeira guide – Albufeira for children and family activities

The bars, clubs and chaos of The Strip

The nightlife in the Old Town is just as good but tends to be slightly older (over 30 year old)

When to Visit Albufeira

Albufeira has hot summers, pleasant springs/autumns, and winters that are mild, but have the chance of poor weather. The peak season aligns with the school holidays (July and August), but September is also surprisingly busy with couples who have no children.

The Strip is most vibrant between late June and the end of August, with many stag/hen holidays at the weekends. Golfing holidays are best from May to June or September to October when the sun is less intense.

The weather is suitable for spending time on the beaches from May until mid-October, but the sea waters are surprisingly cold, only reaching 20C at the height of summer.

In winter, Albufeira has mild but unpredictable weather; there can be an equal number of sunny and grey days. The resort should not be considered a winter sun destination, however it does offer some of the best winter weather in mainland Europe.

With a large permanent population, Albufeira never fully closes in the winter, and many restaurants, bars and cafes remain open year-round. Related articles: When to visit Albufeira?

The daytime maximum temperature (measured in the shade) and night-time minimum

The average hours of sunshine per day and monthly rainfall

Albufeira for 2024

Albufeira is expecting a sell-out summer season for 2024, as visitors seek holidays to safe and established destinations within Europe.

With a combination of returning holiday-makers (who know how good the Algarve is), and first time visitors, means that Albufeira will sell out in 2024. We highly recommend that you book accommodation and flights early before prices increase.

The map below shows the best hotels and rental rooms in Albufeira. If you adjust the dates to your holiday plans, it will display current prices and availability.

Does Albufeira have good beaches?

Albufeira is situated on a stunning, sandy coastline and boasts magnificent beaches. The main beach of Albufeira is a 1.3km stretch of sand that extends along the front of the Old Town. Its vast size means there is ample space, even in peak summer months, and the beach is sheltered from any strong waves or sea breezes.

Historically, fishing boats were moored on the western side of the beach, and as such it is known as the Praia dos Pescadores (fisherman's beach). The eastern side of the beach is called the Praia dos Alemães - a glorious sandy stretch that is slightly quieter.

The Praia dos Pescadores

The Praia dos Alemães

The Praia da Oura is the beach that lies at the base of The Strip. This beach provides golden sands and calm turquoise waters, but its smaller size means that it does get extremely busy during the summer months.

The Praia da Oura

The most picturesque beaches in the Albufeira region can be found to the southwest of the marina, however a car or taxi will be needed to travel to them. These beaches nestle at the base of golden cliffs, with the most beautiful being the Praia de São Rafael. Related articles: Albufeira beach guide - Praia de São Rafael

The gorgeous Praia de São Rafael

• 1 week in Albufeira

Most visitors come to Albufeira to relax on the beaches or to party by night, but there is a lot more to do and see within the surrounding region. A suggested 1-week itinerary to make the most of your holiday could include: Day 1 – Explore Albufeira Old Town and the marina complex Day 2 – A day trip to Faro , the historic capital of the Algarve Day 3 – A boat trip Benagil Cave and a dolphin watching tour Day 4 – A day trip to Silves , a fortified town with massive castle Day 5 – Visit "Slide and Splash" waterpark or “Zoomarine” theme park Day 6 – A day trip to the market town of Loule (Saturday is the best day to visit) Day 7 – A day trip to Vilamoura , a sophisticated resort town Note: all of these day trips can be made without the use of a car.

Albufeira Airport

The main international airport of southern Portugal is Faro airport, which is 36km east of Albufeira.

There is surprisingly poor public transport from Faro airport to Albufeira, with most visitors either pre-booking a private transfer or getting a shared transfer from the airport. Private transfers to Albufeira cost €32 (1 to 4 people), with shared minibus transfers costing from €15 per person.

Getting a taxi from the arrivals lounge will be very expensive (over €80). There are also ride-hailing apps (such as Uber and Bolt) in the Algarve, however demand can be very high at peak times.

Travelling from Faro airport to Albufeira using public transport requires catching two buses; the first from the airport to Faro city and the second from Faro city to Albufeira. The journey by public transport is inexpensive, but there are few departures and long waits for connections. Related articles: Faro airport to Albufeira

Faro airport

Water and theme parks in Albufeira

The Algarve boasts some amazing water parks and theme parks, however none of these are situated in Albufeira. To reach these, you will need to travel by car, taxi/Uber or use a shuttle service.

The best water park is Slide n' Splash (30km from Albufeira, €27 adult entrance), a huge complex of insane slides, flumes and rubber ring rides. Water parks closer to Albufeira include Aqualand (15km, €29 adult) and Aquashow Park (19km, €29 adult). The best theme park is Zoomarine (9km, €29 adult), which is a combination of waterpark and sea life centre that is well known for its dolphins.

All of these theme parks are modern and well maintained, with the only downside being expensive entrance fees. Official websites are: Zoomarine - https://www.zoomarine.pt Aqualand - https://www.aqualand.pt/ Slide n’ Splash - http://slidesplash.com

Slide n’ Splash

Boat tours and trips

Some of the most popular activities in Albufeira are its boat tours and boat day trips. These range from jet boat rides, dolphin-watching tours, coastline tours, deep sea fishing trips and party boats! The resort has the largest selection of sea-based activities in the Algarve. We have worked with Getyourguide.com for the previous 6 years, and some of their best boat tours from Albufeira include:

Albufeira Alternatives

Albufeira will undoubtedly sell out this summer, however popular alternatives in the Algarve include Lagos, Praia da Rocha and Vilamoura.

Lagos is the most similar resort town to Albufeira and boasts a charming historic centre, beautiful beaches and excellent tourist facilities. Praia da Rocha is a lively and modern resort town set on a massive beach, while Vilamoura has an exclusive marina and is popular for golfing holidays. For a more relaxed holiday, consider Carvoeiro or Alvor. These are both ideal for families with younger children.

Our Opinion: Our favourite holiday destination in the Algarve is Tavira, with other highly recommended beach towns around Portugal including Cascais, Sesimbra and Nazaré. Related articles: Lagos guide - Praia da Rocha - Tavira - Cascais - Sesimbra - Nazaré

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• Albufeira Introduction
• Things to do and see
• Albufeira Best Hotels
• Day trips from Albufeira
• Praia de São Rafael beach
• Albufeira or Lagos?
• Albufeira for Families
• Hen & Stag Do in Albufeira
• Sold out Albufeira
• Lagos Introduction
• 1 Week in Lagos
• Lagos Day Trips
• Day trip to Sagres
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha intro
• Day trips from Rocha
• Portimão guide
• Rocha beaches

Algarve Guides

• Algarve Introduction
• Best town in the Algarve?
• Itineraries and tours
• Algarve for Families
• Day trips in the Algarve
• Algarve for Christmas
• Lisbon to the Algarve
• Praia da Marinha beach
• Praia da Falésia
• Vilamoura introduction
• 1 week in Vilamoura
• When to visit Vilamoura?
• Vilamoura Beaches
• Vilamoura day trips
• Airport to Vilamoura
• Faro Introduction
• Faro top 10
• Faro's beaches
• Airport to Faro
• Day trip to Faro
• Bone Chapel

Portugal Guides

• Where to go in Portugal?
• Top 10 Portugal
• 1 week in Portugal
• A weekend in Portugal
• Top 10 beaches

Carvoeiro guide

• Carvoeiro introduction
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Sete Vales Suspensos hike
• Carvoeiro day trips
• Ferragudo day trip

Alvor Guide

Alvor Introduction Alvor weather Alvor day trips Airport to Alvor

Tavira Guide

• Tavira Introduction
• Tavira activities and sights
• 1 Week in Tavira
• Tavira Beaches
• Tavira Day Trips

Algarve Towns

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• Monte Gordo
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Albufeira, The Algarve

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Albufeira is the most popular resort town in the Algarve, with fine sandy beaches, water sports and a sailing center, and a lively night scene of bars and discos. The old center of this small settlement of about 30,000 people retains its historical look from centuries ago. The pedestrianized streets are full of stalls and entertainers, giving Albufeira a fun, friendly buzz.

Albufeira is without doubt the Algarve's largest and liveliest resort, packed with bars, restaurants, shops and tourist facilities for all the family.

Albufeira (from the Arabic al-buhera meaning "Castle on the Sea") is a fun resort, popular with people from the UK and the rest of Europe of all ages, with plentiful nightlife and things to do for children during the day. Enjoy a stroll on the pedestrianized seafront, a drink in one of the town's many fine bars and a sample a variety of food that takes in British fish and chips as well as Indian and Thai curries, Chinese and Japanese cuisine.

The Algarve continues to thrive as Portugal's most popular destination and Albufeira holidays set the scene for the perfect getaway, with stunning beaches , a beautiful climate with sunny days, cool evenings and low humidity, as well as a huge variety of bars and restaurants to relax after a hard day's sun worship.

The beach in town is the Praia do Penico (Praia do Túnel) but there are other fine beaches in and around Albufeira within easy reach: to the east of the town centre is Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen's Beach) about half a kilometer distant, Praia da Oura about 3 km, Praia da Falésia 10 km and Balaia and Olhos de Água slightly nearer to town. All of these beaches can be easily reached by local bus. To the west of Albufeira are some beaches located in coves such as the jet-ski and water-skiing center of Praia da Galé . Easily reached by car, there is no direct bus - its a 2 km walk from the main road to Portimão .

Back in Albufeira town the main square is the pretty Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco . Albufeira is all about sand, sea and fun but for sightseeing there's a worthwhile Archeological Museum (Museu Municipal de Arqueologia de Albufeira) in the old town hall, the Ermida de São Sebastião better known as the Museum of Sacred Art (Museu de Arte Sacra) and the Igreja de Santana - two historic churches set in the old town.

Albufeira's main festival is the Festa da Ourada held on August 14 which celebrates the patron saint of fishermen with a procession and giant fireworks display.

Other things to do besides soaking up the sun on the beach include a visit to Zoomarine (Tel: 289 560 300) 8 km northwest in Guia with a host of swimming pools, water slides as well as an aquarium and dolphin shows.

Aqualand Algarve - formerly the The Big One (Tel: 282 320 230) claims to be Portugal's biggest water-theme park with a variety of huge water slides and pools. Aqualand is 15 km from Albufeira in Alcantarilha. There are buses from town and other places on the coast.

Aqua Show (Tel: 289 389 396) claims Europe's largest wave pool and also has exotic wildlife, bungee jumping, mini-golf and various water rides. Aqua Show is in Vilamoura, 10 km east of Albufeira.

There are numerous golf courses in the Algarve , riding facilities and tennis courts within easy reach.

Albufeira Tourist Office

Rua 5 de Outubro (tel. 289 585 279)

The main tourist office is near a set of stairs at Rua 5 de Outubro just before the tunnel to the town's beaches. There is another tourist office out near the beach at Praia da Oura to the east of the city centre. This modern, tent-like building is on Estr. de Santa Eulália not far from The Strip and close to a number of large resort hotels, bars and restaurants.

Tourist Offices in Portugal

Getting to Albufeira

Bus travel in portugal.

Albufeira bus station (tel: 289 589 755) is 2 km north of town reached by a Giro shuttle bus from outside the bus stop on Avenida da Liberdade. There are buses to Faro , Lagos and to Lisbon as well as to Huelva in Spain for Sevilla.

The local bus network in Albufeira is called Giro . There are 5 colour-coded routes, which depart and return to the Caliços Bus Terminal about 2 km outside town. You can purchase either a single ticket or a day pass, which gives unlimited travel on the buses for a day. There is also a rechargeable EVA bus card which can be purchased at the EVA bus stations at Avenida da Liberdade and Caliços.

Train Travel in Portugal

Albufeira Station has daily trains to Faro , Lagos and to Lisbon - change at Tunes. Albufeira Station is 5 km out of the center of town.

Car Travel in Portugal

Albufeira easily connects with the east-west IP1/EO1 (for the Algarve and Spain) and north-south A2/E1 (for Setubal and Lisbon) motorways. From the west, take Route 125. From Spain, get onto N125 going west or the IP1/EO1 motorway.

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From the Airport

The nearest airport is Faro 40 minutes by bus to the east. You will need to change buses in Faro town. First take a #16 bus from Faro Airport to Faro bus station and change to the bus to Albufeira. A taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira costs 25-30 Euros and takes about 30 minutes.

Portugal Hotel & Hostel Accommodation

Featured Hotel

Baia Grande Hotel - 4 Star, 131 rooms, Sesmarias - 8200. Book this hotel

Between diving, dolphin-watching, boat trips and lots of great eating and drinking in the attractive little tourist town of Albufeira, make sure you stay somewhere wonderful. Here's a selection to get you started from the huge range of accommodation available: listed from high-end, to mid-range, to budget.

The Pine Cliffs Residence, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve , is a luxury resort with every facility imaginable on its more than 70 hectare (170 acre) landscaped site - a virtual town unto itself, dedicated to vacational rest and recreation. Just a 10-or-so minutes' stroll along a boardwalk to beautiful Falesia Beach, this holiday compound has several restaurants, a wellness center that includes a full gym and massage service, floodlit tennis courts, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a 9-hole golf course, onsite minimart, and fun playgrounds and games galore to keep kids happily occupied. The beautifully decorated, spacious rooms have a kitchen and a large deck with a view. Service is attentive, friendly and professional. A true pleasure ground amid nature. 7 km east of central Albufeira and 30 km west of Faro, with airport shuttle bus available. The best Albufeira has to offer.

The Vila Gale Collection Praia is right in front of the scenic Praia Da Gale beach, just a minute's walk away, and is open all seasons but winter. This hotel with its palm trees and broad green lawns is centered on a large outdoor pool surrounded by deck chairs. There is a spa facility with a big jacuzzi pool, sauna and Turkish bath, yoga lessons and body treatments. Plus there's a gym, library and billiards room. The tranquil atmosphere makes for a very relaxing stay, enhanced by friendy, attentive staff. Stylish rooms with full amenities and a highly rated breakfast help ensure an unforgettable sojourn. Free parking. Great value for money if you want to feel pampered.

The Alfagar Aparthotel is a contemporary apartment-style hotel, located in the east part of Albufeira, and with private access to the beautiful Santa Eulália Beach. With no less than three pools - one just for the kids, with waterslides, plus an indoor pool - and a broad, relaxing poolside area with deckchairs, there is fun and sun to be had just a minute from your room. The spacious one- or two-bedroom apartments have a kitchen for independent living, are decorated warmly and simply, and with deckchairs and a table on the balcony. Great restaurants, and entertainment for the children. Balaia Golf Course is 12 minutes walk away. As close as you'll get to luxury for the reasonable mid-range price.

The Orange Terrace Hostel is tucked down an alley in a buzzing area of Albufeira town, in a neighborhood of stores, bars, and restaurants, and only five minutes' walk to lovely Praia do Peneco beach. What this budget dormitory with comfortable bunk-bed sleeping facilities lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in jazzy, upbeat colorfulness, sociability and - of course - unbeatable price. Bathroom and toilet facilities, kept spotlessly clean, are shared by all occupants of the dormitory, and there are small lockers for guests' possessions. Communal kitchen and chill-out terrace. Good breakfast served. Guests also love how helpful and friendly the staff are.

See a range of other hotels in Albufeira .

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Albufeira has some of the most varied cuisine outside of Lisbon from traditional Portuguese through Indian, Chinese and British-style breakfasts and fish and chips.

Rua Candido dos Reis is the centre of the bar and disco scene as rival establishments compete for your Euro.

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Internet Cafe

The GOLDSPOT internet cafe in front of Hotel Paraiso de Albufeira, 2 mins from Modelo Supermarket on Rua Alves Corriera 81 8200-090 Albufeira is now closed.

The average high June temperatures for Portugal is between 22 degrees Centigrade and 26 degrees Centigrade. Get more weather information for Portugal

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Algarve Resorts

Other places to visit in the Algarve region of Portugal include Albufeira , Alcoutim , Aljezur , Alvor, Cabanas, Cacela Velha, Faro , Ferragudo , Fuseta, Lagos , Loulé , Monchique, Olhão , Portimão , Praia da Rocha , Sagres , Silves , Vilamoura and Vila Real de Santo Antonio .

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Albufeira, Portugal: The Ultimate Guide to Albufeira [2024]

Albufeira is the biggest and perhaps most widely known of the Algarve resort towns. A once quiet fishing village now turned into a pure out and out tourist destination. Despite its reputation, it remains ever popular today with a lively mix of locals, seasonal visitors, and of course tourists. How exactly does a prime beach destination by day mix with an infamous party destination by night? Well you could easily describe it as a twin town, with a twin personality. With different areas for those looking for different experiences. Read on to find out everything there is to know about Albufeira, and if it’s the right destination for you!

A Brief History of Albufeira

Underneath the town and mass of development are the remains of a fishing village. Even before it was a small Portuguese fishing village the area was occupied by the Romans and the Moors. Its name today, reportedly comes from the Moorish al-Buħayra. Which means related or near to a lagoon.

Albufeira would be one of the last hold outs of the Moors, before eventually falling to the Christian forces of Afonso III in 1249. Moving towards more recent centuries it became a fishing hub, and the town grew to accommodate a large fishing industry. However, during the latter half of the 20 th century fish exports would decline, and the local fisheries only supported the local towns people.

Modern day Albufeira

Its economic decline would change considerably during the 1960s and 70s. Package holidays meant sun seekers from all over Europe could now experience, the sun, sea, and sand of warmer climates. The likes of Albufeira in Portugal, and Benidorm in Spain rode the wave. In Albufeira today, you can still see the scars of this rapid development, 1960s and 1970s concrete apartment blocks, mixing with uninspiring multistorey hotels. Underneath it all, and within the old town, the charming, cobbled streets, pastelarias and even a little bit of history do remain. It just completely depends on if you want to look and experience it, or not.

Albufeira Old Town

The old town is perhaps the most charming of Albufeira’s streets, and one of the few areas that still has a somewhat traditional feel. The main streets lined with calçada, and much smaller cobbled streets are definitely worthy of getting lost in. Although you will never be far from a ticket or souvenir shop. Supposedly there are over 100 cafes, bars, and restaurants here as well, so you are never far from a refreshment either! From the old town, it’s hard to decide which direction to head to. You can head west to its marina, south to discover its incredible beaches, or east for an introduction to the more infamous side of Albufeira.

Albufeira New Town – The Strip – Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro

You can’t mention Albufeira, without mentioning ‘the strip’. For those unaware, the strip is actually around 3km from the Old Town. Which is how, and why, Albufeira can balance these twin personalities. That’s not to suggest that the old town is quiet or sensible in the evening, it’s just a slightly quieter experience. The strip is located on Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro and is around 2km in length. However, its most popular and dense area is the southern 700m stretch known as Areias de São João. It is packed with bars, pubs, clubs, and international restaurants.

Walking along the strip is an experience. During the afternoon the terraces fill with drinkers awaiting the night ahead, and once the sun sets neon lights will guide them to an array of clubs and discos. Cheap drinks, cheap food, and an over-the-top party atmosphere is what the strip is known for, and what it delivers. Picking a hotel anywhere near the strip during the high season is only recommended if that is what you want. Bars, kebab shops, and café’s offering English Breakfasts, keep the atmosphere alive throughout the night, and into the following morning. There really isn’t a particularly quiet time, so you’ve been warned.

Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira

Heading back towards the old town and Albufeira’s main beach will lead you to the impressive Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira. It’s a fantastic look out point that gives you incredible views across the beach, and the whitewashed old town. You can look out east for views across Praia de Albufeira, or west across Praia dos Pescadores and into Albufeira. It’s well worth a stop and a few moments to appreciate some of the beauty that Albufeira does offer visitors.

Albufeira Museum – Museu Municipal de Arqueologia

To delve into Albufeira’s history, then its small Archaeological Museum is worth a quick visit. It’s located in the old town in the former town hall. Spread across two floors you’ll find several exhibits covering the Roman, Islamic, and Modern era. Most of the artifacts come from the surrounding area, so it’s great local museum. It costs €1 to enter, and children up to the age of 14 can enter for free.

Albufeira Church – Igreja Matriz de Albufeira

To continue on the cultural theme, take a short walk from the museum to the grand Igreja Matriz de Albufeira. Compared to other regional churches the whitewashed 18 th century could almost be called plain. However, it does fit in well with its surroundings in the old town. Its construction dates to around 1782. Head inside and you’ll find a large altarpiece of the patron saint of Albufeira – Our Lady of the Conception (Nossa Senhora da Conceição).

Albufeira Marina

Approximately 1.5km from the old town is Albufeira’s Marina. The modern marina surrounded by colourful developments is a completely different experience than both Albufeira’s old town, and The Strip. As a daytime activity, it’s a more peaceful experience and a walk around the marina is a nice change of pace. There are multiple bars and restaurants, but overall, the area is unhurried compared to the wider town. It’s also the departing point for many of the coastal excursions and tours you can take from Albufeira.

The Best Beaches in Albufeira

With the main sights covered, perhaps now we should turn our attention to the beaches in Albufeira. It is after all, widely known as a beach resort! Albufeira technically has two beaches that the town directly opens into – Praia dos Pescadores or Fisherman’s Beach, and Praia do Túnel or Peneco. All of these beaches exhibit the superb characteristics of the region, soft golden sand, and clear blue water.

Praia dos Pescadores – Fishermans Beach

The Fisherman’s Beach is named after the original inhabitants of the town. The 100m wide sandy beach would have been where the fishing boats were pulled up and looked after. Despite its romantic name, this is one of Albufeira’s most resort-like beaches and it can get very busy during the high season. The beach front area of Albufeira is also a mini resort of such, with a variety of bars and restaurants for refreshment. You’ll also find shops selling anything you might have forgotten for your day on the beach. Multiple sections are life guarded, and you’ll find your usual beach resort facilities like sunbed and parasol rental.

Praia do Túnel or Peneco

Although it appears to be one large beach, this stretch of sand is actually divided into two. As you head west along the Praia dos Pescadores you’ll soon find yourself on Praia do Túnel. It’s the same supreme stretch of sand, but at this end you’ll find a couple of interesting features. Located at the far eastern edge of the beach is the first. Elevador do Peneco – the Peneco Elevator. Resulting in divisive opinions, it’s either an impressive concrete structure housing an elevator. Or an unnecessary eye sore on a beautiful beach. In our opinion it’s a futuristic and unique focal point. It’s glass and concrete platform offers some incredible views, and it allows access to the beach for those of lower mobility. We recommend visiting and deciding yourself!

The second feature is the 20m tunnel that leads from the beach, directly onto Rua 5 de Outubro of Albufeira’s oldtown. The pedestrian only tunnel adds another unique way of getting from the centre of town, right to the beach. To the beach itself? Well, it’s the same blue flag beach mentioned earlier. As well as all the usual facilities like lifeguards and sunbed rental, you’ll also find a beach bar. Which also offers refreshments, free toilets, and changing rooms. Of course, the rest of the town and its restaurants aren’t far either!

Praia de Albufeira

Directly west of those two beaches, and separated by a small pier, is Praia de Albufeira. Yes, confusingly, Praia de Albufeira is not directly part of the old town of Albufeira but slightly offset from it. It is also sometimes referred to as Praia do Inatel, named after the hotel complex on eastern section of the beach. It’s the same supreme stretch of sand that forms a gently curved bay and offers views into Old Town Albufeira. Once again, you’ll find all the facilities you’ll need for a day on the beach.

Praia da Oura and Praia da Oura East

To the west of Albufeira’s main beaches are Praia da Oura, and Praia da Oura East. These two beaches are much closer to The Strip so are slightly less family oriented and more popular with young adults and a party atmosphere. The area surrounding the beaches is almost a mini resort in itself dominated by large hotels, but you’ll also find smaller cafés and restaurants. You’re also only a very short walk from The Strip.

Praia das Marias and Praia das Silvas

Don’t be fooled by the locals and media calling these secret beaches. Compared to the much bigger beaches closer to Albufeira. These are much more reminiscent of the famous west Algarve beaches you’ll find closer to Lagos. Although they are much smaller and surrounded by cliffs, they are widely known and get equally busy during the summer months.  Praia das Silvas is served by a small café, which also offers sun bed and parasol rental. Continuing further to the east will lead you to Praia da Oura (Leste). As it’s the furthest beach, Praia da Oura Leste is often the quietest.

A Family Destination – Tours, Trips and Activities

The town and beaches aside, Albufeira offers a massive number of activities catering to all ages. Looking at the coast, there’s a whole variety of boat trips and tours. For the wildlife lovers, dolphin watching out at sea is an incredible activity. If you want to experience the sea, and a sunset then you’ll also find sunset catamaran cruises to take things at a slower pace. For the more active, you can also experience the coastline and its caves by kayak or paddle board. Looking back inland, you’ll find an array of waterparks and adventure parks in proximity.  

For those looking to explore the regions fantastic wines, there’s even a few vineyards to explore and wineries for wine tastings. For those that want to visit the more traditional and historical Algarve, then Albufeira is connected to the towns of Silves and Loulé by public transport.

Somewhere to Stay in Albufeira?

Albufeira is a big enough resort that it caters for every budget, from lively hostels and budget hotels, to 5 star resorts.

For a a stunning beach front option then one of the best places to stay is the Hotel Sol e Mar Resort . The town centre hotel has a fantastic location and a selection of its own pools. For a more family friendly options with a focus on activities and great pools take a look at the Jupiter Albufeira Hotel – Family & Fun . For the full list of  hotels in Albufeira check this list here .

Should You Visit Albufeira?

So, the final question. Should you visit Albufeira? We hope to have provided a balanced guide here, covering both its good and bad bits. Make no mistake, Albufeira is one of the most popular and widely known Algarve resorts, as such it’s also a launch pad of Portuguese discovery of sorts.

In amongst the international eateries and tourist fare, you’ll find a few Portuguese gems, the beaches are of course stunning, and it is easy to explore a more authentic side to the Algarve. Alternatively, it is an out and out resort destination, it offers everything you could possibly need without having to go very far. For many families and tourists, Albufeira is all they wish to see of the Algarve. There is after all a good reason it become the most popular resort.

Let us know in the comments what you think of Albufeira!

5 thoughts on “Albufeira, Portugal: The Ultimate Guide to Albufeira [2024]”

Do you have any suggestions for accommodation in an area of Portugal that is perhaps not quite so touristy? We would like to stay for a month in an apartment. Thank you .

Any of the bigger towns with more of a local year round population – Loulé, Faro, Portimão would be good places to start. However, June to September even these places have plenty of tourists!

We’ve just spent 2 weeks in Albufeira for the first time at the end of October. The weather has been mostly fine. 2 rainy days out of 14 but we have good tans. We stayed at a small guest house 5 mins from the old town. Nothing spectacular but served our needs very well.Only £543 for 2 people for 2 weeks. Plenty of places to eat and drink. Worth shopping around as prices vary a lot. We are not night time people so we stick to backstreet bars and restaurants which there are plenty of. We did visit the strip in the daytime which was nice and explored the old town and the beaches. We had an amazing day swimming with dolphins at zoo marine. This park is very good and would highly recommend.

Is the Luna Ocean Club in a good location for a 3 night stay over August? We are keen on the beach and restaurant options but note that it only has a 7.7 point rating on booking.com other option is Aqua Pedra Dos Boutique Hotel that is $300 more but looks further away

It’s around half way between the old town, and the hectic strip, so looks to be in a quieter area if that’s what you want. Also easy walking distance to Praia dos Alemães, so looks great for a beach holiday!

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Visit Albufeira: Everything You Always Wanted to Know

If you are planning a trip to  Portugal and are looking to relax by the beach, then Albufeira is surely one of the cities you should visit.

Here is everything you need to know about one of the most scenic and liveliest Portuguese beach resorts.

A bit about Albufeira

Once a small fishing village and now a very popular tourist destination, it still keeps all of the allure of the old days. The city of Albufeira boasts its original charm with its cobblestone streets, pretty corner-cafés and stunning ocean views.

Where is Albufeira?

Albufeira is a city located by the coastline in the heart of the Algarve , the southernmost region of Portugal.

It is 250 km (160 miles) from Lisbon .

Faro, the capital of Algarve, is situated 45 km (28 miles) to the south-east and Lagos is about 30 km (19 miles) to the west.

How to get to Albufeira

Getting to albufeira by plane.

If you’re planning a holiday in Albufeira and you’re flying directly to the Algarve, keep in mind that the Faro International Airport is the nearest airport and is 40 km ( 25 miles).

For those of you flying into Europe , there are many options to get to the Algarve, if you check Faro’s airport  site  you can find the list of different companies making direct flights to the region. Ryanair and EasyJet are two of the low-cost companies flying directly there.

From Toronto, in Canada, there’s also a direct flight to Faro.

Getting to Albufeira from Lisbon

If you’re in Lisbon and want to take some days off and enjoy the nice weather by the Algarve coast, there are many trains and buses travelling directly to Albufeira.

Renting a car could also be a good option since it’s possible to get quite a cheap car, just bear in mind you will have to pay for the tolls which will amount to around €20.

You can also travel from Lisbon by train . Lisbon Oriente to Albufeira – Ferreiras costs €20. There is also a  bus , that leaves from Lisboa Sete Rios, for which you will pay €18.50.

The journey from Lisbon to Albufeira takes between two and a half to three hours. It really depends on which means of transportation you choose.

Travelling from Faro to Albufeira by taxi, train or bus

There are different ways to reach Albufeira from the airport: bus, train, taxi or private transfer.

To get to Albufeira from Faro, you will need to get a regional train  from just outside the town. This will usually cost €3.30. If you want to travel from Faro to Albufeira by bus , expect to pay €4.65 for the trip. Just keep in mind that no matter which option you choose, booking in advance will be the best way to get a better deal and to guarantee you get a seat.

Private transfer with either Bravotur or Yellowfish will cost you about €35, whilst a taxi will charge you at least €50. Public transport is more affordable. However, buses and trains may not take you all the way into the heart of Faro and a taxi might be needed for the final leg of the journey.

What’s the weather like in Albufeira?

There is no chance you won’t fall in love with the weather in Albufeira (and the Algarve in general)!

Between February and May, the average temperature is a mild 15°C (59°F). During this period, highs of up to 19°C (66°F) are common during the day, dropping to about 11°C (52°F) at night.

The hottest time of the year in Albufeira is between July and the mid-August with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F). During the day, it goes up into the 30’s (over 86°F)and falls down to 18°C (64°F) after dark. Slap on some suncream and keep well hydrated to avoid any nasty sunburns and heatstroke!

While an average temperature of 16°C (61°F) in Albufeira during the winter makes it milder than most European holiday destinations, this Portuguese city has around 20 rainy days in the winter months, so there might be one or two showers during your stay.

What is the best time to visit Albufeira?

Albufeira certainly has some exciting activities for everyone throughout the year but the summer months, from July to September, can be a bit crowded. This is to be expected as the weather is glorious.

However, if you prefer to have some quiet time with your friends or family and enjoy the nice sunny weather on the beach , the period between April and June is a good off-peak option.

Visiting between October and May also offers some nice weather compared to the rest of Europe.

Where to stay in Albufeira

There are many hotels in Albufeira, catering to everyone from families with young children to adults only and couples’ retreats. The choice is immense so to help you decide, here are some suggestions.

For families, you have a resort style hotel called Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa.  It’s a five-star resort by the Santa Eulália Beach. For a week in June, you can pay as little as €790. This hotel is not only great for couples and families, but it is also amazing for children as they have a kids’ club running throughout the summer.

If you are travelling with a group of friends, you can rent a villa in Albufeira. HomeAway has some great options and you can get a villa for eight of your friends for as little as €90 a night.

For couples,  Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos is an adults only, designer beach hotel  and could be a good option. There is direct access to Oura Beach from the hotel. For a week in the summer, you can pay as little as €700 for two with breakfast included.

For travellers on a budget, there are also some really nice, cheaper alternatives where you can stay. You can pay as little as €18 for a four bed, mixed dorm or €56 for a private room if you book your stay at Lost and Found Hostel .

Top things to do in Albufeira

Albufeira is not just about sunbathing on the beach and enjoying the stunning views. There are countless cool things to do in this beautiful city that will make your experience unforgettable.

Here’s a choice selection:

Enjoy an organised horseback riding tour

For all the animal-lovers reading this, there are two companies that organise regular horseback riding tours around the city of Albufeira; Albufeira Riding Centre (you should book at least five days in advance)and Riding Center Quinta da Saudade .

A 30-minute riding session usually costs about €30, while the price of a two-hour beach ride can go up to €75 per person.

Have an ice-cold glass of  ‘Sagres’ in the historical centre of Albufeira

No matter how much time you’re planning to spend in Albufeira, find a moment to explore the historical centre’s romantic cobbled streets and be rewarded with breathtaking views and an interesting history.

Why not stop for a while and enjoy a refreshing glass of Sagres, the most popular beer in Portugal, in one of the several cute, little bars?

Grab the camera and visit the famous Benagil caves

Seacret Tours is a local tour company specialising in organised boat tours to the famous Benagil caves near Albufeira. This company also offers group bird-watching tours to Salgados lagoon, as well as dolphin spotting tours.

Keep in mind that there are quite a lot of companies organising these kinds of trips on a daily basis. We recommend booking your tour in advance in order to get the best price possible.

Which are the best beaches in Albufeira?

You couldn’t go to Albufeira without enjoying the fabulous golden sandy beaches , the main reason why people visit Albufeira every year. Here is a list of the best beaches around the city.

Praia dos Pescadores   or Fisherman’s beach – situated in front of the historical centre (old city) of Albufeira, the closest beach to the city. The most accurate way to describe it is; A sandy beach with stunning rock formations. Because it’s an urban beach, sometimes it can be crowded but if you visit Albufeira outside of August or July, this is a lovely beach where you can relax and take a dip in the sea.

If you like walking, you can also go to Praia do Inatel , an endless line of golden sand which is around a 10-minute walk from Albufeira’s city centre.

Also, make sure you visit  Praia de Oura , Praia de Santa Eulália  and Praia de São Rafael , which are amongst the most loved beaches in Albufeira, according to locals and travellers alike.

Top tourist attractions in Albufeira

Aside from the insanely beautiful beaches and crazy nightlife, Albufeira has a lot more to offer for the fans of history, food and photography.

Albufeira’s old town centre is an absolute must-see thanks to its outstanding buildings and attractive cobblestone streets. The main square, Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco, is named after a noble 20th-century Portuguese politician and civil engineer and is well worth a visit.

You should also try to find some time to see the rich collection in the Archeological Museum (“Museu Arqueológico”) and enjoy the breathtaking view from the Castle of Paderne (“Castelo de Paderne”).

Where to eat in Albufeira?

Buzzing Albufeira is a thrilling spot for all food lovers. Here are some of the best places to try some local dishes.

O Marinheiro is a cute Mediterranean restaurant, located close to the city centre, that’s offering a wide range of delicious Portuguese meat and seafood dishes. A great spot for families or groups of friends!

Dom Carlos  is a mainstay in the city of Albufeira. It’s a typical Portuguese restaurant serving traditional seafood dishes. However, Dom Carlos is also renowned for its popular five-course menu.

Castelo do Mar combines traditional Portuguese food recipes with modern world cuisine. Even if this does not tempt you, go for the view which is beyond spectacular!

The nightlife

Old town centre.  It’s impossible to talk about Albufeira without mentioning the nightlife. It boasts a busy strip right in the centre of the city, which is popular with hen and stag parties. In almost every door you will find bars, restaurants, cafés and clubs.

Rua da Oura is three km (1.9 miles) from the old town centre. It is also the next stop for those looking to continue the party into the small hours.

Is Albufeira a good city to live in?

YES, YES, YES! Albufeira is a great city to live in . Why? Because it’s a very lively city with amazing beaches and a very rich nightlife. The weather in the region is also sublime and the locals are very welcoming. There’s also a large community of expats living around the Algarve region so there is never a shortage of meet-ups and events to go to.

Last, but not least, the cost of living is more affordable compared to Lisbon .

Did we cover all the options in Albufeira for you? Do you have any experiences to share? Feel free to leave a comment below.

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• The Ultimate Guide to Albufeira
• Town & Resort Guides

Albufeira is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Algarve and it is easy to see why, with so many things to do and different places to stay in Albufeira for all ages and budgets.

Whether you are here on holiday with your family, are staying with friends, have come for a romantic break or are celebrating a stag or hen weekend, there is a place to suit you.

Where to stay in Albufeira?

Get directions.

If you are looking for a great place to enjoy a family holiday then the Old Town of Albufeira is one of the best locations to choose in the local area.

While many of the other areas of Albufeira have been developed to meet the needs of the ever-growing tourism industry, the Old Town retains the charm and traditions that first made it popular with visitors decades ago.

If you are looking to be able to experience cobbled streets, winding alleys, boutique shops and traditional cafes and restaurants then this is the best part of Albufeira for you.

In the summer time it is very busy in this area with live music and entertainment not only in the bars and restaurants, but also out on the streets, while during the festive season you can enjoy the lights and quieter times with family and friends.

The heart of the old town has to be the main square area, the Jardim Público de Albufeira.  Around this square you will find the open air restaurants, cafes and bars where you can take a break after browsing the local shops.

In the old town of Albufeira you can also find many of the historical sites of the local area, including the Sant’Ana Church and the Museum of Sacred Art.

Areias de São João (The Strip)

This area of Albufeira is where you will find the busy nightlife and is perhaps the most lively place in the Algarve.  Because of the concentration of bars and reasonably priced restaurants, shops, tattoo parlors, nightclubs and fast food outlets, it is not surprising that The Strip, as it is known to the locals, is the most popular place for groups of friends, stag and hen parties and generally those looking to party until the early hours!

This is the place to come in Albufeira if you are looking for a party atmosphere with the busiest months being in June, July and August.  However even in the low season you will bump into your fair share of stag and hen parties at weekends.

There is definitely an “adult” feel to this area of Albufeira, although during the day it is quite calm if you fancy exploring.  The strong tradition of this part of Albufeira being geared towards groups for parties means that you will find many bars with discounted drinks, karaoke, late night clubs, gentlemen’s clubs and adult shops.

Located in the new area of Albufeira, Montechoro sits at the north end of “The Strip” and while there are still lots of bars and restaurants in this area it has a quieter atmosphere more suited to those looking to enjoy the nightlife but without being in the thick of it.

Montechoro is home to many hotels, apartments and other forms of accommodation, usually reasonably priced which makes it popular with anyone who is travelling on a budget.  There is however such a huge choice of places to stay here that you are sure to find something to meet your needs and budget and it is only a short walk to shops, cafes and much more, making it a great choice to stay if you do not want to hire a car.

Set further back from the beach than other areas in Montechoro, here the buildings are not on top of one another and you have more of a feeling of space, thanks to municipal gardens and green areas.

The Oura area of Albufeira is a great place for families and beach lovers as this area is very close to the coast with a beautiful cove beach.

There are many resorts and hotels in this area and while it is a not in the heart of all the nightlife and entertainment, it is only a short walk away from “The Strip” and because of this you can find younger travellers in the area, all happily enjoying the sunshine alongside families with children and solo travellers.

Oura has a wide choice of restaurants and cafes as well as typical shops you would expect to find in a beach destination and because of the combination of accommodation options, the beach and amenities this is possibly the best area of Albufeira for anyone wanting to experience a beach holiday.

Olhos de Água

Anyone looking for a more low-key holiday in the Albufeira area should consider staying in Olhos de Água.  The traditional fishing village feeling remains here thanks to the quaint cobbled streets and golden beach which is still home to fishing boats and fishing huts.

This is a good area for those looking for self-catering accommodation, although there are still many resorts and hotels to choose from if you prefer.

There is a large expat community in Olhos de Água and this tends to be a place favoured by older visitors and families wanting a relaxing holiday in the sunshine while still only being a short distance from the hustle and bustle of the new town of Albufeira.

There’s a good choice of shops in the local area, including supermarkets for those staying in villas and apartments and needing supplies to cook at home, but generally Olhos de Água has a more natural and less built up feeling than other areas of Albufeira which helps to create the relaxed atmosphere.

Albufeira Marina

Albufeira Marina is a recently developed area only a short distance away from the main areas of Albufeira itself to the west of Albufeira old town

You cannot miss the Marina, mainly due to its very distinctive paint job, with all the blocks of the building painted in different candy colours and creating an effect that you will either love or hate, but one that you certainly won’t forget in a hurry!

For most people, the marina is the place to go to get a boat trip from Albufeira along the coast, with many leaving from the safe and calm waters of the marina before heading out to explore the caves or to search for dolphins, however the marina is also a lovely place to come for a few hours with family and friends.

Albufeira Marina may not be as big as its neighbour in Vilamoura but it has its own special sense of charm thanks to little touches, such as the brightly coloured dolphin statues dotted about or the fact that you can enjoy a quick lap or two around the go kart track while friends have cocktails overlooking the waters – and all in one place.

Albufeira FAQ’s

Want to know more about Albufeira before you arrive?  Have a look through our handy FAQ’s to get the best out of your time here in Albufeira.

What are the beaches like in Albufeira?

One of the best things about Albufeira is the choice of beaches that you have on your doorstep!  Wherever you are staying in Albufeira you will never be far from a beach and each has its very own distinct atmosphere and features.

From west to east, here are a list of the beaches in Albufeira:

Praia dos Salgados

A paradise for nature lovers, this long sweeping beach is backed by sand dunes rich in local flora and fauna and a lagoon area which is home to plenty of birdlife.  You can walk all the way from Albufeira to Armação de Pêra along this beach so you will never struggle to find a spot to lay your towel here – even in the peak of summer!

Praia da Galé 

Explore the rocky outcrops and play in the usually gentle waves along the east and west Galé beaches.  A perfect place for families with children who are old enough to explore the little path, waves and play around the rocks while parents relax on the fine sandy beach.

Praia do Evaristo

Not the easiest beach in the world to find and most famous for the restaurant that you will find here which is far more than your average beach restaurant.  There is not a lot of parking here so it is better to visit in the quieter months unless you are happy to walk a bit.

Praia do Castelo  

A picture perfect cove beach with craggy cliffs, white sands and clear waters.  This beach is just around the corner from Evaristo and gets its name because the rocks here look like a castle.  A good one for small children as the beach is not too large and you can keep a good eye on the entire beach if you need to.

Praia da Coelha

A small and intimate cove beach with stunning cliffs forming the back drop.  There is good access down to the beach but in the summer time its small size means that it can become very crowded and parking can be a challenge.

Praia de São Rafael  

A cove beach but this time with a bit more space making it a good place to go with friends or groups – although if you want to park it is a struggle during the summer months.  The cliffs here are beautiful and there is a good beach restaurant to soak up the views.  One of the highlights of this beach is the rocky outcrop on the shoreline – making this a perfect place for an Instagram post or two!

Praia dos Arrifes

One of the smallest local beaches with shallow waters, this beach is good for families with young children but be sure to get there early in the summer to find a space as it can get very busy making it perhaps more suitable for a visit out of season in the spring or autumn.

Praia do Túnel/Peneco

Known as both Túnel or Peneco beach this is the most local beach for anyone staying in the old town of Albufeira and is a long sandy beach with easy access.  Because it is one of the larger beaches you can get on to this beach at several different points which makes it a great choice for meeting up with friends as everyone is sure to be close to a way on! One of the access points is through the tunnel in the old town which is located next to the tourist information office and is worth seeking out for a great photo opportunity.

Praia dos Pescadores  

In English this beach is known as the fisherman’s beach and is one of the most famous and photographed beaches in Albufeira.  The city may now be a tourist hotspot but the fishermen still use this beach which is located near to the escalators in Albufeira old town.  A great spot for some people watching, or to catch a couple of hours of sunshine while exploring Albufeira old town.  This each is also home to a number of open air concerts, including New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Praia do Inatel & Praia dos Alemães  

These two beaches join so you can only tell which beach you are on depending on whether or not the café is to your left or your right!  The widest part of the beach is on the Inatel side while the beach becomes narrower as you move towards Alemães.  Because these beaches are still within walking distance of the centre of Albufeira they can become very busy during the summer but are perfect for those who don’t want to drive or take a taxi.

Praia da Oura

Once you have descended the very steep hill down from the Strip in the new part of Albufeira you will be met with Oura beach.  The very steep hill up and down to the beach makes this not great for people with accessibility issues but once you are there then you are rewarded with a sheltered beach with a small promenade area home to restaurants and bars.  This is the closest beach to the Strip so can attract a younger crowd, however plenty of families also use this popular beach.

Praia de Santa Eulália  

A long sandy beach with good parking.  This beach has a trendy feel to it thanks to Le Club being located here and feels a million miles away from other beaches.

Praia da Maria Luísa  

This beach is popular with people staying in Olhos de Água and is famous for the red cliffs that flank the golden sands.  The cove beach has an intimate feel and a relaxed atmosphere making it ideal for older visitors or those looking for a calm day down by the sea.

Praia dos Olhos d’Agua

This is the main beach of Olhos de Água and is right in the very heart of the resort town making it a top choice with the families and groups staying here who don’t want to drive to the beach in the summer.  This beach has a traditional feel to it thanks to the fishermen’s huts at the end of the beach and fishing boats that are still in use.

Which beaches have a Blue Flag near Albufeira?

Within easy reach of Albufeira there are over 20 beaches which have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag status. The Blue Flag means the beach has been assessed based on environmental standards, such as water quality and beach cleanliness, and also on important facilities including toilets and lifeguards.

In the Algarve the lifeguards normally work from 1st July to 30th September.

Below you can find a map of every Blue Flag beach near to Albufeira:

What are the best things to do in Albufeira?

Albufeira has the biggest range of attractions and activities in the Algarve so there really is something for everyone which means there is too much to fit into this guide! To find out more you might enjoy our dedicated guide on this “ Top 52 Things To Do & Love in Albufeira “.

When is the best time of the year to visit Albufeira?

Albufeira is a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year but the atmosphere and feel of the destination changes over the months, so choose when to come depending on what you are looking for!

Spring / Autumn – This time of the year the weather is mild and you will find many groups of golfers out and about taking advantage of the perfect golfing conditions.  The beaches are far less crowded and the weather is usually still good enough to get in a good few days of sunbathing.  With children in school at this time, there are less families with children around and visitors tend to be older and looking for a more relaxing holiday.  Weekends are when the nightlife is at its best and you are likely to come across a stag and hen party or two, especially along the Strip.

Winter – This is the quietest time of the year but if you are looking for a budget holiday then you can’t go wrong in Albufeira for the winter.  Many retirees choose to spend the winter months in Albufeira and you can find lots of great deals on food, drinks and long holiday rentals.  The weather is still generally good and if you enjoy walking then this is an ideal time to take in the natural beauty of the area.  Much of the Strip closes down for the winter but you will still find places for a drink, especially at the weekend when the locals come out for the night.  Albufeira also hosts a big New Year’s Eve party with fireworks and live entertainment on the beach and throughout the streets over the festive season.

Summer – The majority of visitors choose to come to Albufeira in the summer months, creating a busy, bustling and lively atmosphere.  Depending on the area of Albufeira you stay in will depend on the level of nightlife and crowds at this time of the year.  You can be sure of high temperatures, all the bars, restaurants and attractions will be open and pop up nightclubs, beach parties and shops all appear in the peak summer months.  Wherever you are in Albufeira during the summer you can be sure to find something going on and there are some great offers available for families, friends and groups coming to the area in June, July and August.

What is the weather like in Albufeira?

The Algarve enjoys some 300 days of sunshine every year, making it one of the very best places in Europe to come if you are looking for warm weather and blue skies throughout the year.

The hottest weather is in the summer months of June, July and August when daily highs can easily surpass the 30ºc mark and it is very rare to even have a single day of rain.

The coldest weather is in December, January and February. However its worth noting that even in these months, while you might need a jacket for the evening, during the day the temperature can be a very pleasant 18ºc.

Its also worth noting that even in the wetter months is often raining for less than 10 days in the whole months which still leaves 20 days of sunshine for you to enjoy.

You can find more information about the weather in the Algarve here.

Where is the best place to eat in Albufeira?

Albufeira has restaurants, snack bars and cafes to meet every budget and taste:

High end – If you want to treat yourself then head over to Vila Joya for a Michelin star meal in an exceptional setting.  This is true luxury at its best with incredible food served with an unforgettable view over the ocean.

Budget – All you can eat buffets and special promotions and offer run throughout the year in the Oura area of Albufeira.  Choose from Chinese food, Indian, British, Sushi, Portuguese, Mexican and much more in this area that is great for those looking to eat for less.

Portuguese – The old town in Albufeira is where to go if you are looking for more traditional Portuguese foods.  In the summertime it can be hard to get a table at peak times so consider booking ahead.  Don’t forget to try out some of the local fish specialties including the cataplana fish and rice dish.

Where is best place for a night out in Albufeira?

Families, couples and groups can all enjoy a great night out in Albufeira!

Families – Visit the Albufeira marina to promenade safely along the front without the worry of traffic in the evening.  Enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants, some family entertainment in one of the bars and an ice cream or two as you take in the atmosphere here.

Couples – Enjoy a great cocktail, some live music or simply sit back on one of the open air terraces and watch the world go by in the Albufeira old town.  There are some great intimate bars here, while the pretty main square is an ideal place for a walk with a loved one.

Groups – Hens, stags, groups and everyone looking for a big night out in Albufeira heads to the Strip in the new town of Albufeira.  In the summer months every night is a party night with special offers for groups, karaoke, live music, dancing on the bar tops and clubs that stay open into the very, very early hours!

How far is Albufeira from…?

Albufeira is in the centre of the Algarve making it ideal for exploring wherever you’d like to go!

Faro Airport – 45km (approx. 40 minute drive)

Vilamoura – 16km (approx. 25 minute drive)

Zoomarine – 11km (approx. 17 minute drive)

Aquashow water park – 33km (approx. 30 minute drive)

Algarve Shopping Centre, Guia – 8km (approx. 15 minute drive)

Spanish Border – 80km (approx. 50 minute drive)

Sagres – 85km (approx. 1 hour)

Lisbon – 250km (approx. 2hr 30)

Seville – 230km (approx.. 2hr 30)

(all distances have been rounded up)

Where is the bus station and train station in Albufeira?

The bus station is located on Rua Paul Harris which is about 1.5km from the centre of the Old Town or 2.5km from the top of the Strip.

The train station is not in the main town and is located in Ferreiras approximately 6km from centre of Albufeira. By taxi, traffic allowing, it normally takes about  15mins and cost about €5-€10 depending on where you’re staying.

How much is a taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira?

Please bear in mind that Albufeira is quite spread out but as a guide if you’re staying near Oura the airport is approximately 45km and 40 minutes away.

As a guide for the price if you take a taxi from the rank outside the airport its about €50 each-way (€100 return), or by pre-booked private transfer about €35 each-way (€70 return) so its well worth booking in advance if possible.

Some taxis charge extra (€2-€5) if you take the toll road which is a little quicker. Larger vehicles, such as 8-seater mini-buses also cost a little extra however it does work out significantly cheaper than 2 normal (4-seater) taxis.

If you’re on a budget there are shuttle buses available which cost approximately €10 however note this is per person so while great value if you’re travelling on your own for groups you would be better with a private transfer. Also note that shuttle buses make several stops so can take considerably longer, but if you’re not in a rush that shouldn’t matter!

It is possible to travel by train, however note that you would need to get a taxi or bus from the airport to Faro train station, and then Albufeira Ferreiras station to your accommodation in Albufeira so for most people its generally not cost effective or convenient.

Algarve Fun

Algarve Fun are one of the leading ticket companies in Portugal for activities and attractions including water parks, theme parks, boat trips, water sports and over 200 more. Tickets and bookings can be made via their  website  and during peak season also at their  ticket shops  at various locations across the Algarve. Their friendly staff are available to answer questions and help you find your perfect attraction, activity or trip so don’t hesitate to  contact  them.

For further information you might also enjoy our articles:

Things to do with teenagers in Albufeira

Best albufeira beaches, albufeira attractions & activities, things to do with young kids in albufeira, top 52 things to do & love in albufeira – discover great activities, attractions & sites, things to do at night in albufeira.

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About Albufeira

Albufeira is where cultural authenticity meets modernity; where the sand meets the sea; where people come together to experience unique offerings in culture, sports, business and family entertainment.

Exceptional place to enjoy a holiday in tranquility and safety, to discover landscapes full of contrasts, to taste the delights of a rich and varied cuisine, and to discover the hospitality of a people.

A cosmopolitan place, dotted with the white houses of its historic center where the blue of the sea merges with the blue of the sky and where the sun shines for more than three hundred days a year. 

Connected via motorway to the main points of the country, it is served by a modern transport network that allows a quick connection to the entire region, being just 35 minutes from Faro Airport.

Albufeira has the best and most diversified tourist offer: Quality accommodation, golf courses, theme parks, water parks, dream beaches, nature, nightlife, culture, gastronomy.

A world waiting for you! 

© 2023 Visit Albufeira | allrights | Developed by Kapta .

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By train
• 2.3 By plane
• 7.1.1 In the Old Town
• 7.1.2 Along The Strip Albufeira
• 7.1.3 In or at the Belavista shopping centre
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 9.1 Mid-range
• 9.2 Splurge

Albufeira is a city ( cidade ) and municipality ( concelho ) in the district of Faro ( Algarve ). Albufeira is one of the most popular and internationally famous holiday destinations in the Algarve, the most southern and sunniest region of continental Portugal . The resorts and hotels extend from Olhos d'Agua to Galé along the beautiful rocky coastline of the area. Many holiday makers return year after year because of the lovely beaches, very good climate, proximity of many restaurants, bars and pubs.

Understand [ edit ]

Once a small fishing village, Albufeira ( ahl-boo-FAY-ruh , /aɫ.bu.ˈfɐj.ɾɐ/) has developed to be a very touristy area. It's not a place to experience any level of authentic Portugal, as any local culture is overwhelmed by foreign-themed businesses.

The origins of Albufeira date back to the prehistoric period. Later it was settled by the Romans, who called it "Baltum". The name of Albufeira goes back to the time of the Moors "Al-Buhera", as the town in the 8th century was an important trading centre. There are hardly any remains from this period, only a plaque to commemorate the former Moorish castle on the upper town. Mid-13th century, Albufeira was recaptured by the Order of Knights of Santiago under Afonso III of the Moors. After that, it was for many centuries an insignificant fishing village. The huge Lisbon earthquake in 1755, devastated large parts of the country, and Albufeira was particularly affected. The subsequent tsunami flooded the lower part of the village. This destroyed any significant monuments.

In the last quarter of the 20th century, Albufeira's fortunes were revived. Its discovery as the main tourist destination of the Algarve marked a huge expansion from fishing village, to town, to city. Today, the hotels and resorts extend almost seamlessly along the beautiful Albufeira coastline. In the summer months up to 300,000 holidaymakers join the usual 22,000 residents.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Trains from Lagos and Faro take about 1 hr each (for €2-3). The train from Lisbon takes 3–4 hr. There is now a rapid train that takes 2½ hr, but with more limited runs.

By bus [ edit ]

• 37.099 -8.24505 2 Terminal Rodoviário de Albufeira . Stop for local, regional and national buses. The Royal Express and Flixbus call at the Camping Palmeira car park across the street near the round about. Local buses to the center go from here, e.g. take the Azul line. Here also you will have to interchange coming by bus from the train station. ( updated Nov 2020 )

For buses from and to local nearby towns and cities, checkout the timetables of the local transport company Eva Bus .

By plane [ edit ]

Faro Airport ( FAO  IATA ) is also the main entrance to get in the Algarve through many low cost airline companies, and there is a large choice of airport transfers carrier companies that can provide private, shared or public ground transportation to Albufeira or any major place in the Algarve.

Get around [ edit ]

There are local buses that run throughout town—ask your ho(s)tel for a timetable.

Taxis are available and can usually be found in the city centre.

By car [ edit ]

Car rental facilities are found in the city centre and include major international chains (Hertz, Europcar) and local ones. Even for the expert driver, getting around can be quite challenging in Albufeira as there are no street signs to navigate you through the maze-like structure of the endless roundabouts, making maps similarly difficult to interpret. Coupled with the high cost of car rentals, taxis or buses may be simpler modes of transportation.

See [ edit ]

• 37.158143 -8.211031 1 Castelo de Paderne ( Almoáda Castle ). Moorish 12th-century castle. Free Entrance .  

Do [ edit ]

More than 25 superb beaches, many of them recognised for their quality with the distinguished Blue Flag by FEE, entice holidaymakers to swim and walk. The long sandy beaches Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Tunel and Praia do Inatel stretching for miles in front of the old town offer a variety of water sports including parasailing, jet-skiing, and kayaking.Smaller sandy beaches sheltered by rocky bays with bizarre sandstone cliffs extend to both sides.

The marina was opened in 2003 in an artificial basin on the western edge of the city, with a capacity to moor nearly 500 boats.

Alufeira can offer many varieties of culture, entertainment and family fun.

Buy [ edit ]

• 37.09546 -8.24644 1 Mercado Municipal de Albufeira ( near the bus station ). Great place to get fish, fresh fruits and veggies, and dried figs from local producers and farmers. ( updated Nov 2020 )
• The narrow streets of the lower old town are filled with shops and street vendors that offer souvenirs and beach accessories. In the summer months, it is worth taking a stroll through the pedestrian zone with its pubs, bars and restaurants to drink into the special atmosphere of this bustling city.

Eat [ edit ]

There are many restaurants to choose from, with many of them offering traditional Portuguese fare as well as a wide variety of fresh seafood. Dishes involving different preparations of codfish are plentiful, and the Cataplana styled dishes are well known in this region. Shellfish such as prawns, lobster, and crab tend to be very expensive, while fish is much more affordable. For a break from seafood, try the chicken piri-piri (roasted chicken with a sort of spicey sauce).

Budget [ edit ]

Teaser's Bar , Estr. de Santa Eulália . ( updated Oct 2023 )

In the Old Town [ edit ]

• 37.087238 -8.25336 1 Restaurante O David , R. João de Deus 24A . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.088768 -8.252836 2 O Zuca , Portugal, Tv. do Malpique 2 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.088834 -8.253848 3 O Veleiro , R. 5 de Outubro 81 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.090212 -8.25426 4 Pizza D'Italia , Av. da Liberdade 85 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.091615 -8.254778 5 Sal & Mel , Av. da Liberdade 136-138 . ( updated May 2022 )

Along The Strip Albufeira [ edit ]

• 37.091762 -8.227614 6 The Cottage , Praia D'Oura, The Strip, Av. Sá Carneiro . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.091655 -8.227571 7 Kami Doner Kebab(halal) Albufeira , Av. Sá Carneiro . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.090774 -8.227498 8 Ricks Café , Av. Sá Carneiro 36 . ( updated May 2022 )

In or at the Belavista shopping centre [ edit ]

• 37.091317 -8.240553 9 La em Casa , R. do Município 1 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.091902 -8.24059 10 O Jorge , Centro Comercial Pingo Doce . ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 37.0922 -8.304 11 São Domingos , Estrada Vale Rabelho, Galé-Guia , ☏ +351 289 592 349 , +351 289 591 169 , [email protected] . High quality restaurant serving fresh seafood and a wide range of meat dishes. Highly recommended is the Chef's Fillet Steak. ( updated Feb 2019 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 37.0795 -8.3144 12 Vila Joya Restaurant , Praia da Galé , ☏ +351 289 591 795 . One of the top Michelin Restaurants in Portugal, Vila Joya resembles a small oriental palazzo and is nestled in a breathtaking garden setting on a cliff with stunning views facing the sea.  

Drink [ edit ]

Nightclubs, cafes and snack bars are abundant in the Old Town and on the Avenida Sa Caneiro, called The Strip , the best known nightlife destination in the entire Algarve, especially popular with tourists from UK and Ireland. If you are looking for drunk people, loud music and cheap drinks, this is where you have to head. Everything is a bit more expensive in the discos at night, so many holiday makers will drink in the bars and go to the disco after 01:00—they are open until 06:00 in the summer!

Sleep [ edit ]

Holidaymakers have the choice of more than 500 different accommodations in Albufeira and the surrounding area. Many of these hotels and resorts stretch along the coast between Vilamoura and Albufeira on the beaches of Inatel, Praia da Oura, Santa Eulalia, Olhos de Água and Falésia. West of Albufeira, between the marina of Albufeira and the tourist centre of Armação de Pêra many more hotels and resorts sit on top of the cliffs, overlooking small rocky bays and the beautiful sandy beaches of São Rafael, Castelo and Galé. If you prefer to stay closer to the picturesque old town of Albufeira to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the narrow lanes or to experience the night life on the famous “Strip”, you will find many hotels and apartments along the ring road Av. dos Descobrimentos, encircling the city centre, offering beautiful panoramic views towards the marvellous bay of Albufeira.

• 37.0908 -8.2389 1 Varandas de Albufeira , Rua do Indico 14 , ☏ +351 289 540 850 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 10:00 . This hotel in Albufeira offers rooms equipped with cable TV, air conditioning and kitchenette. Some of its facilities and services are restaurant, bar, game room, billiards, outdoor swimming pool, safe deposit boxes and housekeeping. Rates start at €26 .  
• 37.0897 -8.2409 2 Luna Miramar Club ( formerly Perola do Algarve ), Rua do Pacífico 24 , ☏ +351 289 540 850 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 10:00 . Offers rooms equipped with cable TV, air conditioning and kitchenette. Some of its facilities and services are bar, pool bar, restaurant, game room, outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned public areas, billiards, 24-hour front desk and housekeeping.  
• 37.0906 -8.2439 3 Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa , Rua do Município 26 , ☏ +351 289 583 100 , [email protected] . On the banks of the Ria Formosa, the interior is said to have an Arabian ambience of old southern Portugal. Online booking.  
• 37.0844 -8.3141 4 Vila Galé Atlântico , Praia da Galé - Apt. 2436 , ☏ +351 289 570 800 , [email protected] . Close to Praia da Galé and only 6 km (3.7 mi) away from the centre of city. Online booking.  
• 37.0812 -8.3147 5 Vila Galé Collection Praia , Praia da Galé, Lote 33, Apt. 2204 , ☏ +351 289 590 180 , [email protected] . Located right at Praia da Galé, 5 minutes away from Albufeira. Online booking.  
• 37.0926 -8.1846 6 PortoBay Falésia , Quinta do Milharó, Olhos de Água , ☏ +351 289 007 700 , [email protected] . Located over the red cliffs and with direct access to the beach.  
• 37.1019 -8.2604 7 Eden Resort , Loteamento da Quinta da Bolota 2 , ☏ +351 289 243 000 , [email protected] . A condominium with luxury villas and apartments.  
• 37.0885 -8.2608 8 Encosta da Orada , Rua Jose Ramos Pimenta , ☏ +351 289 381 551 . Encosta da Orada offers rooms equipped with television, kitchenette, refrigerator and microwave and has a swimming pool, casino, garden, tennis court, golf course, room service, dry cleaning, parking, bicycle rental and airport shuttle. Rates start at €145.98 .  
• 37.0916 -8.2183 9 Jardins de Santa Eulália , Estrada de Santa Eulália ( 500 m (1,600 ft) from Santa Eulália Beach ), ☏ +351 289 381 551 . Jardins de Santa Eulalia offers rooms equipped with in-room safe, kitchenette, refrigerator, fireplace, television and dining area, and has a bar/lounge, garden, outdoor swimming pool, airport shuttle, laundry service and car rental service. Rates start at €145.98 .  

Go next [ edit ]

Lagos , Silves , Lagoa , Tavira , Evora , Milfontes, Troia, Lisbon .

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Plan Your Albufeira Holiday: Best of Albufeira

Essential Albufeira

How to do Albufeira in 3 days

Some must-try traditional restaurants in and around Albufeira

Browse collections

Beach days at their best.

On the water

Taste the ocean

Take a step back in time

Albufeira on a dime

Albufeira Is Great For

Dreamy golden-sand beaches.

GoPro-worthy water adventures

Feasting on the daily catch

• Towns & cities
• The Algarve

Albufeira - Portugal holiday guide

Central on the Algarve coast and only 40 minutes away from the Faro airport, Albufeira has been the most popular holiday destination in the south of Portugal since the 1970s. Originally a fortified Roman town, and for centuries a typical algarvian fishing village awash with simple white houses and the smell of grilled sardines, this picturesque location is now a thriving tourist town offering activity and diversion day and night, and surrounded by a host of beautiful beaches.

The narrow streets of the centre have been well maintained and lead to Largo Duarte Pacheco , the main square. Near here there is a tunnel to access the town’s principal beach, the tourist information point and it’s also a good place to hang out and watch the town go about its daily business. As one heads out of the centre, Albufeira spreads into a multitude of tourist developments and hotels, and colourful new buildings surround the recently built marina.

Albufeira church

Cultural sights in the town include the Manueline doorway of the Church of São Sebastião and the archway in the Travessa da Igreja Velha , evidence of the Moorish presence in the town. The ‘ old church ’ in the name of the street refers to what was once a mosque, latterly transformed into a Christian church and destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. The clock tower on Rua Bernardino de Sousa is considered a local treasure and its filigree iron bell support is illuminated on festival days. Another tower of note is the 19th century bell tower of the Matriz Church . 28 metres high, it complements the neoclassical white church below whose interior boasts a precious piece by local painter Samora Barros above its main altar. The local municipal art gallery holds differing exhibitions and a collection of medieval Ming ceramics is on show at the local museum.

Albufeira nightlife

At night, myriad bars and restaurants open their doors as Albufeira's nightlife gears up. Local specialities include the steamed seafood served in its metal cooking dish, the cataplana, and freshly caught fish in various guises including caldeirada, fish stew. Sun blessed revellers of all generations spill out onto the cobbled streets later on and on certain days of the year local festivities include live music and fireworks (especially 20th August and New Years Eve).

Praia da Falesia

The beaches of the area are doubtlessly the main attraction, with their golden sand, the stunning colours and contours of the cliffs, and the reliably good weather. Aquatic sports and boat trips are very popular here and just 10km away the Zoomarine is a marine park where education about wildlife is offered via interaction with dolphins. Olhos de Agua and Falesia are the closest beaches offering good tourist facilities and therefore, although very beautiful, often the most crowded. Praia da Galé and São Rafael are a few kilometres along the coast but offer a more secluded experience whilst still providing the necessary facilities and the extra bonus of some stunning rock formations.

 For the visiting golfer, three courses stand out. Salgados is well-known and offers a challenge to even the most practised with its lakes and seaside terrain. Beginners fare well on the 9 holes at Balaia and The Sheraton Hotel, situated in a breathtaking cliff top location to the east of Albufeira, has its own 9-hole course, Pine Cliffs, built as its name suggests in pine woods.

Albufeira Guided Tours & Excursions

Discover Sagres & Lagos & Portimao ( Full Day Private Tour )

Wine and Chicken tour - Albufeira

Faro Airport -Albufeira

Ria Formosa Natural Reserve Park Day Trip from Albufeira

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Plan Your Trip to Albufeira: Best of Albufeira Tourism

Essential Albufeira

How to do Albufeira in 3 days

Some must-try traditional restaurants in and around Albufeira

Browse collections

Beach days at their best.

On the water

Taste the ocean

Take a step back in time

Albufeira on a dime

Albufeira Is Great For

Dreamy golden-sand beaches.

GoPro-worthy water adventures

Feasting on the daily catch

Albufeira Guide: 5+ Things to See & Do

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Albufeira, the crown jewel of the Algarve resort towns, stands as a vibrant testament to the region’s dynamic history and changing tides. Originally a serene fishing village, Albufeira underwent a transformative journey, morphing into a pulsating tourist hotspot. This transition, however, has not diluted its charm; today, it presents a lively tapestry of locals, seasonal expat dwellers, and eager tourists. This duality, where pristine beaches by day seamlessly transition into a bustling party hub by night, gives Albufeira its distinctive twin-town character, catering to a diverse range of interests.

Peeling back the layers of Albufeira’s vibrant present reveals a rich tapestry of history. Before its days as a quaint Portuguese fishing enclave, it was a significant territory for both the Romans and the Moors. The name “Albufeira” is believed to derive from the Moorish term “al-Buħayra,” translating to ‘near a lagoon’. It proudly resisted until the end of Moorish reign in Portugal, only conceding to the Christian troops of Afonso III in 1249. As centuries rolled by, Albufeira burgeoned as a fishing nexus, its expanding borders reflecting the growth of its fishing industry. Yet, as the 20th century progressed, the town witnessed a dip in its fishing exports, relegating its fish trade to merely local sustenance.

The tourism winds of the 1960s and 70s breathed new life into Albufeira. Drawn by the allure of sun-soaked beaches, tourists flocked to the region, placing it alongside European destinations like Spain’s Benidorm. This influx ushered in rapid infrastructural growth, which, while ensuring modern amenities, also introduced a landscape dotted with ’60s and ’70s-style apartment complexes and towering hotels. Yet, beneath this veneer of commercialisation, Albufeira’s heart retains its authenticity. The old town, with its cobbled lanes, quaint pastelarias, and whispers of history, waits to be discovered by those eager to seek out the town’s soul amid its bustling exterior.

Useful Resources for Your Trip to Albufeira

Here’s our top tips and tricks for getting the best deals for your trip to Albufeira. 

• Accommodation: Booking.com and Airbnb are the two most comprehensive websites for finding hotels, hostels, apartments, and other types of accommodation in Albufeira. 
• Car Rental: Discover Cars and Rental Cars are the two most useful sites for booking local car rental. 
• Airport transfers: There are taxis and Ubers at Faro Airport, but you can also pre-book an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups . 
• Tours & Things to Do: Both Get Your Guide and Viator list lots of local tours and activities in Albufeira and the surrounding Algarve region. 
• Luggage Storage:  Luggage Hero and Bounce are two great sites for finding places to store your luggage in Portugal. 
• Public Transport: Cp.pt is the main website for trains in Portugal. For longer distance buses, see Rede Expressos . Flixbus.pt often has cheap tickets between cities in Portugal. 
• Flights: Skyscanner and Google Flights are the two most useful websites for finding flights to Portugal: The nearest airport to Albufeira is Faro Airport. 

Old Town Vs New Town

Albufeira, a gem in the Algarve region, presents an intriguing duality of character. The town seems to dance between its historical roots and a lively modern beat, each side offering its own unique flavor. While the Old Town serenades you with its traditional charm and winding cobbled lanes, the New Town, synonymous with ‘the strip’, throbs with an unmistakable energy of pulsating nightlife and contemporary entertainment.

The Old Town : Nestled in the heart of Albufeira, the Old Town stands as a testimony to the region’s rich past. Its charming streets, resplendent with traditional ‘calçada’, transport visitors to an era gone by. The intricate labyrinth of alleys promises an adventure at every corner, although souvenir shops ensure a constant reminder of the present. Here, more than a hundred cafes, bars, and restaurants beckon tourists, offering them a respite and a taste of local cuisine. From this historic centre, one is spoilt for choice: head west to marvel at the marina, go south to bask on its stunning beaches, or take the eastern route for a glimpse of Albufeira’s vibrant nightlife.

The New Town – ‘The Strip’ : A stark contrast from the calm of the Old Town, ‘the strip’ is Albufeira’s pulsing heart of modern revelry. Located a mere 3km from its older counterpart, this electrifying avenue, specifically its most bustling part, Areias de São João, is packed wall-to-wall with bars, clubs, and international eateries. By day, terraces are abuzz with anticipatory chatter as patrons gear up for the night; once dusk falls, a neon kaleidoscope lights the way to numerous clubs and discos. This part of Albufeira thrives on its reputation for affordable drinks, global cuisine, and an unapologetic party spirit. If you choose accommodations near ‘the strip’, especially during peak season, be prepared for a soundtrack of nightlife that doesn’t really have an off switch. In essence, this region embodies the phrase, “the city that never sleeps”.

Where to Stay

Explore the historic town centre.

Nestled amidst the vibrant buzz of a renowned tourist hotspot, Albufeira’s historic town centre offers a serene retreat into the city’s rich past. As one meanders through its narrow alleyways and cobbled streets, there’s a palpable sense of journeying back in time, where each corner whispers tales of a bygone era. The traditional whitewashed houses adorned with terracotta roofs stand as silent sentinels to a period when Albufeira was but a humble fishing village, long before its transformation into a bustling tourist destination.

The central square, often pulsating with lively local performances and vibrant alfresco dining, is surrounded by quaint cafes, boutiques, and remnants of ancient fortifications. As you delve deeper, the town’s Moorish influence becomes evident in its intricate architecture and design. The age-old churches, especially the Igreja Matriz, stand as testaments to Albufeira’s religious heritage, beckoning visitors with their grand facades and richly adorned interiors. But, perhaps the most enchanting aspect of the town centre is its effortless blend of the old and the new. While the historic core retains its timeless charm, contemporary amenities and establishments ensure that visitors enjoy the best of both worlds.

Enjoy the Many Beaches on offer

The main reason that people come to Albufeira is the beach. There are a lot of beach options in Albufeira, depending on where you’re staying, and how far you’re willing to walk (or taxi). If you’re staying in the Old Town, the easiest options are Fisherman’s Beach (Praia dos Pescadores) and Peneco Beach (Praia do Túnel) while the easiest option for New Town holidaymakers is Praia da Oura and Praia da Oura East. 

However, the best beaches are probably beaches like Praia da Falésia and Praia de São Rafael, and these require a bit more of a pilgrimage (if you’re willing). Don’t worry: there are always plenty of taxis, Ubers, and tuk-tuks. 

Fisherman’s Beach (Praia dos Pescadores) and Peneco Beach (Praia do Túnel)

In the heart of Albufeira’s Old Town lie two enchanting beaches, seamlessly merging with the town’s vibrant pulse – the Fisherman’s Beach (Praia dos Pescadores) and Peneco Beach (Praia do Túnel). Not far from the Old Town, the New Town welcomes beachgoers with the lively Praia da Oura.

Fisherman’s Beach, christened in honor of the town’s original settlers, stretches out over a vast 100m, its sands echoing the days when fishermen hauled their boats ashore. Today, the beach has transformed into a sought-after destination, with its resort-like ambiance attracting throngs of visitors during peak seasons. The beach’s vicinity mirrors a mini-resort, sprinkled with bars, restaurants, and shops catering to every beachgoer’s need. With designated lifeguard areas and facilities like sunbeds and parasol rentals, it offers a complete beach experience.

Venturing westward along Fisherman’s Beach, one transitions into the Peneco Beach. This golden expanse has two intriguing features that make it stand out. First, there’s the Elevador do Peneco or Peneco Elevator, a concrete marvel that’s been the subject of much debate. Some see it as an architectural achievement offering panoramic views, while others find it incongruous against the beach’s natural beauty. The elevator’s design promotes accessibility, ensuring that everyone, including those with mobility issues, can access the beach. Second, a 20-meter tunnel carves its way from the beach straight to Albufeira’s Old Town’s Rua 5 de Outubro, offering a novel route from the town’s heart to its sandy shores. The beach here upholds the same high standards as the Fisherman’s Beach, complete with lifeguards, sunbed rentals, and a convenient beach bar.

Praia da Oura

Further west from the main beaches, one encounters Praia da Oura and its eastern counterpart. Proximity to The Strip means these beaches have a youthful energy, drawing in young adults and offering a festive vibe. The surroundings teem with imposing hotels interspersed with quaint cafés and eateries, ensuring that visitors are always just a few steps away from both the beach’s allure and the buzzing nightlife of The Strip.

Praia da Falésia

Nestled between Albufeira and Vilamoura, Praia da Falésia stands out as one of the Algarve’s most captivating beaches. Spanning over 6 kilometres, this beach is famed not just for its golden sands but for the stunning backdrop of amber-hued cliffs that loom majestically behind, providing a picturesque contrast to the azure waters of the Atlantic. These cliffs, layered with striations from millennia of erosion, guard the beach and offer visitors a unique spectacle, especially during sunset when the sun casts a warm glow, setting the cliffs ablaze. The beach itself is serene and spacious, making it perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. With pine trees dotting the cliff tops and the sound of waves gently crashing, Praia da Falésia offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and beachside relaxation.

Just a short drive from Albufeira’s bustling streets lies Zoomarine, an aquatic theme park that serves as a delightful escape for families and ocean enthusiasts alike. At its core, Zoomarine is more than just a place of entertainment; it combines the thrill of rides and performances with a strong commitment to environmental education and marine conservation.

Visitors are treated to a medley of experiences. From the playful antics of dolphins and seals to the awe-inspiring birds of prey demonstrations, there’s a performance to captivate every age group. Beyond the shows, the park offers a chance to take a refreshing dip in their wave pool, drift along the lazy river, or even have an exhilarating time on the water slides. One of the park’s significant highlights is the opportunity to interact closely with dolphins, a magical experience that leaves a lasting impression. Amidst all the fun, Zoomarine never loses sight of its mission to educate. Throughout the park, exhibits and information panels shed light on the marine world’s wonders and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Quinta do Canhoto Adega

Tucked away in the picturesque landscapes of the Algarve, Quinta do Canhoto Adega is a testament to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Stepping into this vineyard, visitors are instantly greeted with rows of meticulously cared-for vines, basking under the warm Portuguese sun. As an establishment rooted in tradition, the winery effortlessly blends age-old techniques with modern innovations. A visit here is as much an educational journey as it is a sensory delight. Guests have the opportunity to explore the winemaking process firsthand, witnessing the transformation of grapes into the delectable wines that Algarve is celebrated for. Each tasting session is a unique experience, with the wines revealing stories of the soil, climate, and passion that went into their creation. 

Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira

Overlooking Albufeira’s sprawling coastline, the Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira stands as a favoured vantage point for both locals and visitors alike. Positioned atop a cliff, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic merging with the golden sands of Albufeira’s beaches. The gentle caress of sea breezes and the mesmerising sight of the horizon stretching infinitely make it an ideal spot for contemplative moments or capturing memorable photographs. Whether you’re greeting the dawn or bidding farewell to the day, the views from Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira promise a serene and unforgettable experience.

Albufeira Marina

Nestled on the western fringe of Albufeira, the Marina offers a vibrant burst of colour, with its pastel-hued buildings forming a picturesque backdrop against the shimmering blue of the ocean. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Albufeira Marina is a bustling hub of activity, playing host to an array of boutiques, seafood restaurants, and lively bars. Visitors can indulge in various water-based adventures, from leisurely boat tours exploring hidden coves to adrenaline-pumping jet ski escapades. As yachts sway gently in their moorings and the sun casts its golden glow over the waters, the Marina emerges as a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment in Albufeira.

Have a drink (or two) on the strip

While ‘The Strip’ in Albufeira might have earned its reputation as the epicentre of boisterous nightlife, it doesn’t mean that only party enthusiasts can appreciate its allure. A casual saunter down Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro during the early evening can be quite the experience. The terraces hum with excitement as visitors and locals enjoy their first sips of the evening, bathed in the warm Algarvian sunset.

For those staying elsewhere in the town and not necessarily keen on a night of dancing till dawn, ‘The Strip’ offers an enticing invitation for just one or two drinks. It’s an opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere, indulge in some people-watching, and perhaps enjoy a local brew or cocktail. The melange of neon lights, diverse sounds, and animated chatter makes for a memorable, albeit maybe brief, immersion into Albufeira’s vibrant nightlife scene.

What to Eat

When in Albufeira, one may not find dishes exclusive to the town, but the culinary canvas of the wider Algarve region offers an explosion of flavours, textures, and aromatic delights that are quintessentially Portuguese. 

One cannot speak of Algarve’s culinary treasures without mentioning the fiery and flavorful Piri Piri chicken. Marinated in a spicy concoction made from African bird’s eye chili, this dish is a delicious testament to Portugal’s historical connections with Africa.

The Cataplana, a seafood extravaganza named after the clam-shaped copper pan it’s cooked in, encapsulates the region’s coastal bounty. This aromatic stew, simmered with a mix of fish, shellfish, and fragrant spices, evokes the essence of the Algarve’s seafaring spirit.

The region’s coastline also gifts its diners the delicately flavored Ria Formosa oysters, an epitome of freshness, and the simple yet delightful grilled sardines, a summer favorite that celebrates the Algarve’s fishing heritage.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Doces finos do Algarve beckons. These almond-based pastries, artfully crafted to resemble fruits, vegetables, and even fish, pay homage to the Moorish influence on the region’s gastronomy.

But no culinary expedition in the Algarve is complete without sipping on Medronho, the local spirit distilled from the ripe fruits of the Arbutus tree. Robust and slightly sweet, it embodies the wild spirit of the region’s interior and is often touted as a “firewater” due to its potent kick. 

Getting Here

• Flying: The nearest airport to Albufeira is Faro Airport, which is situated around 45 km (28 miles) from Albufeira. At the airport you can easily rent a car or take a taxi or Uber to Albufeira. 
• Train: While Albufeira does have a train station, Albufeira – Ferreiras, it is actually located around 6.6 km (4.1 miles) from Albufeira Town Centre. This means that if you take the train here, from Lisbon or Faro for example, you’ll then need to get a taxi or Uber onto Albufeira. Don’t worry: there’s a taxi rank at the train station and Ubers are usually readily available. For train tickets and timetables, see cp.pt. 
• Bus: There are regular buses to Albufeira from other destinations in Portugal, including Lisbon and Faro. For long distance coaches, see Rede Expressos or Flixbus.pt. For local buses, see Vamos.pt. 
• Car: The drive from Albufeira to Faro Airport takes around 40-45 minutes and from Lisbon it takes around 2.5 hours. 

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20 Best Things to Do in Albufeira: Tours & Activities Included

Discover what to do in Albufeira, a former fishing village located 28 miles from the capital Faro , which is known for being the largest and most popular resort town in the Algarve.

Albufeira has many attractions, including a charming old town with whitewashed and tiled houses sporting traditional Algarvian chimneys, plenty of bars, a bustling nightlife, gift shops and some of the best beaches in Algarve .

My first time in the city was in 2008 and since then I haven’t stopped. Not least because I have relatives there, but also because I love its stunning scenery! I discovered many exciting things to do in Albufeira, and in this local guide, I want to share my favourite ones with you.

From wandering the alleys and streets of the Old Town to conquering a castle, beach exploration, dolphin watching, shopping and partying hard, here is a list of what to do and see in Albufeira.

Some of the most popular tours in Albufeira:

Table of Contents

20 Best Things to Do in Albufeira

1 – visit praia da coelha, the most beautiful beach in albufeira.

The are many beautiful beaches in Albufeira , and Praia da Coelha is at the top of my list.

Located around 3.7 mi west of Albufeira Old Town, Rabbit Beach is a breathtaking beach surrounded by yellow cliffs and has fine golden sand with seashells and crystal-clear turquoise water.

This Blue Flag beach has a parking lot, calm water, extraordinary rock formations and very picturesque scenery. There are also lifeguards, a restaurant, SUP and beach chairs and umbrellas for hire.

When visiting Praia da Coelha you can’t miss the opportunity to walk on the trail path along the hilly landscape to find hidden coves and marvel at the beautiful landscape, as it’s one of the best things to do in Albufeira.

2 – Admire the vistas from São Rafael Beach viewpoint

Located within 25 min walking distance from Praia da Coelha, São Rafael is another gorgeous beach surrounded by bright orange cliffs with golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.

There’s a huge parking lot, a restaurant, a kiosk selling beachwear and souvenirs, water sports with good prices, beach chairs and umbrellas for hire and even a masseur. Pets, caravans and camping are not permitted.

São Rafael is wheelchair accessible, and very popular among locals, tourists and families with kids. But you can also stay in the second section, which has more shade because of the cliffs and is much quieter.

The viewpoint of São Rafael Beach is a popular Albufeira attraction and provides breathtaking vistas. But be careful when standing on the cliffs because of the risk of erosion and falling.

• Start planning your holiday here: Algarve itinerary for 3, 5 and 7 Days

3 – Explore the Algarvian coast by boat

The best way to explore the breathtaking Algarvian coastline is definitely by boat.

This is the reason that when you’re in the Algarve, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to sail along with beautiful scenery and discover sea caves, grottoes, hidden gems beaches and magnificent rock formations from the perspective of the boat.

There are several boat trips that you can take while in Albufeira and the more popular choices are: Benagil Caves Boat Cruise , 2.5-Hour Dolphin Watching and Caves Cruise , and 3-Hour Cave and Coastline Boat Trip .

Tours start from 30 euros and bookings in advance are highly recommended.

• Check it out: 15 Best Algarve Tours, Excursions and Activities for an Unforgettable Trip

4 – Wandering around the Old Town

An Albufeira holiday cannot be complete without visiting its Old Town!

Featuring cobblestone streets, whitewashed and tiled houses, museums, lovely alleys, picturesque churches, lively squares and a myriad of restaurants, stores, bars and pubs, Albufeira’s Old Town is the heart of the city.

The main streets, Rua 25 de Abril and 05 de Outubro, and squares, Largo Eng. Duarte Pacheco and 25 de Abril, are the busiest places in the Old Town, so after walking through them, I suggest you find narrower and quieter streets for a more relaxed atmosphere.

You should also get a bird’s eye view from Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira and Peneco, two famous attractions, and make your way down to the beaches, especially Praia dos Pescadores, an iconic Albufeira beach.

Whether you go during the day or at night, you’ll find many things to do in Albufeira Old Town!

• Don’t miss: Best Things to Do in Algarve

5 – Have a sunset drink at Restaurante Pedras Amarela

Located on Praia da Galé, approximately 4.35 mi west of Old Town Albufeira, Pedras Amarelas is a beach bar and restaurant serving Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisines.

The beautifully renovated restaurant has a modern main dining area with floor-to-ceiling glass panels, a stylish roof terrace with umbrellas, loungers, live performances, full moon parties and stunning views.

I love going to Pedras Amarelas to watch the sunset!

The last time I was there, a DJ was performing. We ordered some sangria and watched the sun going down and the sky getting painted with vibrant shades of gold. It was thrilling and magical!

6 – Enjoy the vivid nightlife

If you like to party hard, Albufeira has the hottest Algarvian nightlife with a plethora of bars and clubs that attract young locals and tourists.

The greatest thing about Albufeira’s nightlife is that you can go to two different areas of the city: the Old Town, where you can find lots of bars with live performances and entertainment; and the Strip, a 2Km avenue full of neon lights, cafes, restaurants, themed bars and clubs.

Some of the most famous bars and clubs in Albufeira are Matt’s Bar , Wild & Co , Le Club , Kiss and Club Vida .

I personally prefer the Old Town where you can walk around and see live performances on the street with people gathering and singing along. The crowd is also a bit older and the night doesn’t get as crazy and wild as in the strip.

Both parts get busier from 9 – 10 PM and go until 3 – 4 AM.

7 – Go beach exploring

I love beaches, and one of my favourite free things to do in Albufeira is beach exploring.

The city is home to 25 Blue Flag beaches, the highest number anywhere in Europe. Another great thing about Albufeira is that some of its best beaches are very close to each other, so you can take in a few in one go.

Whether you decide to explore the east or west coast, you’ll find impressive beaches surrounded by towering cliffs, with fine golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.

You can start at Praia da Galé, located around 4.4 mi west of Albufeira Old Town, and walk for about 2h all the way to Praia dos Arrifes. Or do the 25-minute walk from Praia de São Rafael to Praia da Coelha.

8 – Go shopping

With a great variety of boutiques, souvenir and gift shops, jewellery stores, bookshops, a nice shopping centre and thriving gipsy markets, you’ll feel very tempted to go shopping while in Albufeira.

You can buy some clothing for yourself or as a gift, beach accessories such as hats and sunglasses, handmade bags, watches, designer jewels, magnets, tiles, etc.

I like shopping in Albufeira, whether in the Old Town or at Albufeira Shopping. I always buy swimming suits, shorts for myself, magnets, tablecloths and tea towels for gifts. People always love it.

Shopping in Albufeira is fun and it’s an activity for the whole family. Prices are good, especially compared to the UK.

9 – Visit Praia da Falésia, one of the best beaches in Europe

At almost 6 Km, Praia da Falésia is the longest Albufeira beach and extends from Olhos d’Água, on the east side of the city, to the municipality of Vilamoura.

The contrast between the dark red and white sandy cliffs topped by green pines against a blue sky makes it one of the most unique beaches in Albufeira. Seeing the very “long wall” formed by the differently coloured cliffs of different shapes and heights makes me appreciate Mother Nature’s grandeur even more.

Falésia Beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing and practising water sports including kayaking, surfing , jet skiing and parasailing.

Praia da Falésia is a Blue Flag beach and has been ranked several times by Trip Advisor as one of the best beaches in Portugal and Europe alike.

10 – Go dolphin watching

Dolphins are constantly seen in the Atlantic Ocean and one of the greatest things to do in Albufeira with kids is dolphin watching.

These adorable and playful creatures are some of the most liked marine animals and nothing is better than seeing them in their natural habitat, swimming and jumping in front of you

Dolphin tours are offered in the Algarve from March to November, although the best months to spot dolphins are from June to September.

A tour costs an average of € 35 and takes between 1 and 3 hours. Children usually pay a lower price. Most of the dolphin tours depart from the Albufeira Marina, and I highly recommend that you book your tour in advance here .

11 – Take your kid to a waterpark

With plenty of slides, tunnels, inflatable mattresses, giant buoys, wave pools and fountains, spending the day at one of the Golden Coast waterparks is certainly an unforgettable experience!

The four best waterparks in the Algarve are: Slide & Splash , Aquashow , Zoomarine and Aqualand .

Zoomarine, in Guia, municipality of Albufeira, probably the best and most beautiful, also offers live performances, a dolphin show and interactions.

The first time I went to a waterpark was in July 2019. My family and I went to Slide & Splash and we had a blast.

• You may also be interested in: 10 Best Things to Do in Algarve with Kids

12 – Do water sports

The Algarve is blessed with fantastic conditions for water sports, with over 300 days of sunshine a year and regular thermal winds.

So, naturally, one of the top things to do in this region is take a dip in the sea and do water sports.

Most of the beaches in Albufeira offer water activities, but the ones in the centre, as well as Praia de São Rafael, Galé, Santa Eulália and Falésia, have more options.

From inflatable rides to kayaking , jet skiing , Stand-Up Paddle Boarding , surfing , parasailing , and coasteering , there is no reason not to engage in some sort of water activity while you’re there.

• Watch my video Flyboarding for the first time in the Algarve

13 – Take a day trip to Lagos

During your Albufeira holiday, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Lagos, one of the best cities in the Algarve.

This ancient marine town, whose history stretches back more than 2000 years, has some of the most beautiful and famous beaches in the world, and also a great variety of restaurants and bars.

You can explore the delightful and historically important Lagos Old Town, visit the Mercado de Escravos, the Baroque church of Saint Anthony, Forte da Bandeira, Lagos’s Castle and see the remains of the ancient city walls.

After visiting the city centre, it’s time to explore one of the greatest shorelines on the globe.

You must see Praia Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade, the two most famous Lagos beaches , and also Praia do Camilo, one of my favourites in the Algarve.

• Further reading: Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal

14 – Eat plenty of Algarvian food

When visiting a new destination, besides the desire to see famous tourist attractions and have memorable experiences, there is also the curiosity to taste local and different dishes.

While in the Algarve, you must not miss the opportunity to taste Portuguese cuisine.

Some of the foods you should try when visiting the Algarve are:

• Bacalhau à Brás (fried potatoes, codfish and parsley mixed together with eggs);
• Cataplana de mariscos (mix of seafood with herbs, tomatoes and white wine);
• Enchidos (smoked sausages filled with different ingredients);
• Grilled sardines;
• Pastéis de nata (the famous Portuguese custard tarts).

I love Bacalhau espiritual (Spiritual Codfish) and Pastéis de nata, and every time I’m in Algarve I eat a lot of it.

15 – Go wine tasting

Portuguese wines have gained fame, recognition and multiple awards across the globe.

Better known for Port, the fortified wine produced in the Douro region (north of the country), Portugal also produces other brilliant types of wines.

Even though the Algarve has only started to revitalize its wine sector in the past few years, you should go on a wine tour and discover the best wineries in the area.

During your wine-tasting tour, you can also explore the scenic Algarvian countryside, historical sites and even some beaches. There are plenty of options, and you can check them all here.

16 – Renew your faith at the Igreja Matriz

Constructed in the 18 th century, the Igreja Matriz (Parish Church) Nossa Senhora da Conceição is a neoclassical church featuring a single nave with four altars, a barrel vault ceiling and notable artworks, including an imposing triumphal arch with the image of the patron saint of Albufeira, Our Lady of the Conception.

But the real interest lies in the statue of Nossa Senhora da Orada, the patron saint of Albufeira’s fishermen.

Every August there is a religious festivity with prayers, Eucharist, concerts, processions (including a sea one from the marina to Praia do Inatel) and fireworks. If you visit Albufeira in the first two weeks of August, you should take part in these celebrations.

At any other time of the year, you should pay a visit to this graceful church when you’re in the Old Town.

17 – Learn about Albufeira’s history at the Museu Municipal de Arqueologia

Located in the Old Town, within walking distance of the Parish Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, this museum is housed in a two-story building overlooking the sea.

The collection is closely linked to the history of Albufeira and divided into four sections: Prehistory, Roman Period, Islamic Period and the Modern Age.

A curious fact is that the main collection was gathered by a priest, Father José Manuel Semedo de Azevedo, and includes a Neolithic vase dating back to 5,000 BC, a set of architectural elements and artefacts from Villa Romana da Retorta and the Old Parish Church of Albufeira, as well as some pieces of unknown origin found in the city.

The Museu Municipal de Arqueologia de Albufeira is open from Tuesday to Sunday, costs only 1 euro and the visit takes between 20 to 60 minutes.

• Read next: Best Unusual Things to Do in Algarve

18 – Visit the colourful Albufeira Marina

The vibrant Marina de Albufeira , constructed in 2009 and located around 1 mi west of Old Town Albufeira, is considered one of the best marinas in the country.

This award-winning marina features 475 mooring posts for all classes of nautical recreational vessels and is one of the safest and most sheltered marinas in Portugal.

In addition to the marina itself and the Nautical Club, this development hosts several types of restaurants, stores, tour agencies, beauty parlours, self-catering apartments and villas for ren t, etc.

Visiting this complex is one of the best things to do in Albufeira when raining, as it provides family-friendly entertainment such as bowling , a leisure centre and indoor karting .

There are also rides, trampolines and a SCAD jump, but in an outdoor area though.

19 – Discover the nearby towns and beaches

Albufeira, Lagos, Vilamoura, Carvoeiro, Loulé and Portimão are generally considered to be some of the best places to visit in Algarve.

But the Golden Coast, which extends for an area of 4,997 km 2 (1,929 sq mi), has many other attractions.

And this is the reason that when you’re in the city, you should take advantage of its central location to discover the nearby towns and beaches.

If you like history, you should visit Loulé , Faro or Silves . If you prefer unique beaches don’t miss Lagoa and Portimão, two of the most breathtaking beaches in the Algarve are in these municipalities.

But if you’re more into the off-the-beaten track, my top recommendation is Costa Vicentina Natural Park, where you find a bit of history and gorgeous beaches.

• Complete Guide to Praia da Marinha – One of Portugal’s Best Beaches

20 – Conquer the Ruins of the Castle of Paderne

If you’re looking for unusual things to do near Albufeira, put the Castelo de Paderne, one of the few remaining castles in the Algarve, on your list.

This ancient fortification constructed in the late 12 th century by the Moors is located on a hilltop of a valley dotted with Mediterranean vegetation.

After several battles between Muslims and Christians, the castle was conquered by the Portuguese in 1248 and abandoned in 1858.

When visiting the Castle of Paderne today, you’ll see the remains of a trapezoidal structure, almost a hectare in size, surrounded by thick walls and a tower/gate with a walkway made of Taipa (a mixture of mud, chalk, lime and aggregate that sets like concrete).

You can visit the Castle of Paderne by car, but my recommendation is to book this Quad-biking Tour that combines thrilling driving with historic sightseeing. I’ve done that and I had so much fun!

• Watch the video: Quad Bike Tour in Albufeira

This is my list of the 20 best things to do in Albufeira and below you will find a suggested itinerary and some tips to help you plan your trip.

Safe travels and have fun in Portugal.

What to Do in Albufeira in 1 Day – Full Itinerary

• 09:00 – Take in the scenic views from Elevador do Peneco
• 09:30 – Explore the Old Town and its beaches
• 13:00 – Have lunch by the sea on Praia da Coelha or São Rafael, two of Albufeira’s best beaches
• 14:00 – Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging around the beach
• 18:30 – Get a sunset drink at Praia da Galé
• 21:30 – Have dinner in Old Town
• 22:30 – Enjoy Albufeira’s lively nightlife

More posts about the Algarve that might interest you:

• 10 Best Adventurous Things to Do in Algarve
• 10 Best Hikes in Algarve
• Full Guide to Benagil Cave

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Visiting Albufeira, Portugal

Where is albufeira.

Albufeira is a coastal city in the southern Algarve region of Portugal located 45 km (28 mi) from the capital Faro (check the exact location here ).

How to get to Albufeira, Portugal?

There’s an international airport in Faro, but Lisbon is the more popular choice for travellers from outside of Europe.

From Lisbon, you can take a bus or a train to Albufeira. The prices are basically the same and they take around 2h30min to get there.

From Faro, you can take an airport transfer, which costs an average of €15, and a train or bus to Albufeira, which costs €3.40 and €4.90 respectively.

You can find the best deals on airline tickets at Skyscanner . This is the website that I use, trust and recommend.

Best time to visit Albufeira?

Albufeira is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit it is from mid-May to June and September to mid-October. July and August it gets too hot and crowded.

The Christmas Holiday season is also a popular time because there’s a big New Year’s Eve celebration on the beach.

How many days to spend in Albufeira?

At least 3 full days. There are many things to see and if you stay longer, you can also take a day trip to Lagos, which is also one of the best places to visit in the Algarve.

Where to stay in Albufeira?

If you want to stay in a central location from where you can easily reach most of Albufeira’s points of interest, I would suggest anywhere between the Old Town and Praia da Oura.

If you prefer a quieter area, I would suggest near Praia de São Rafael or Praia da Falésia.

Some Albufeira hotels that I recommend are:

Budget: Apartamentos Turísticos Novochoro , Água Viva and Albufeira Beach Hotel .

Great Value for Money: Villa Alegria – Happy Home , Hotel Topázio , Rocamar Exclusive Hotel & Spa and Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa .

Luxury: Salgados Dunas Suites , Pine Cliffs Residence a Luxury Collection Resort and  Aqua Pedra dos Bicos .

How to get around?

The best thing is to hire a car because public transportation in Albufeira isn’t good.

Local buses don’t run very often, and neither do intercity buses or trains.

If you don’t hire a car, you can use taxis, tuk-tuk , or Uber, but that isn’t cheap.

If you’re visiting only Albufeira and staying in a central location, you may not need a car, however, it is easier to get around and much more convenient with a car.

You can hire a car with Rental Cars here at no extra cost to you.

Have you been to the Algarve? What do you think of my list? Leave a comment below 😉

• This post was converted into an app article and you can download it here :
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• Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! I always use World Nomads  for short-term trips and SafetyWing for long-term ones. Find out why Travel Insurance: Much More Than a Precaution, a Necessity .
• Book Tours in Advance Book unforgettable experiences and skip-the-line tickets with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book Ground Transportation BookaWay offers a stress-free experience with secure payments and no hidden fees. You pay online and receive your itinerary by email.
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• Packing Guide Check out my How to Pack a Carry-on Luggage For a Five-month Trip to help you start packing for your trip. Don’t forget your camera, chargers and other useful travel accessories.

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40+ Best things to do in Albufeira: The Ultimate Guide

LOOKING FOR THE BEST ALBUFEIRA THINGS TO DO?

Albufeira has quickly become one of my favorite cities in all of Portugal — at least during the shoulder and off-season. Summer can be crazy, but that shouldn’t dissuade you from coming and exploring this Algarve city.

So why do I love it? It’s simple. Albufeira’s central location makes it the perfect base for Algarve adventures. It’s not just about the convenience, though; this city is a treasure trove of experiences.

You’ll find everything you need here – cozy cafes, lively bars, and restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine. The natural scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. Think stunning beaches and majestic cliffs, each offering its own unique view.

But what should you do in Albufeira? Welcome to the ULTIMATE travel guide for Albufeira — it’s around 10,000 words long 🤯🤯🤯 so make sure to bookmark it and use the table of contents!

It’s your one-stop shop for planning the perfect Albufeira adventure, ready let’s go!

Top Things To Do in Albufeira

1. albufeira old town.

Albufeira’s Old Town is charming yet bustling with restaurants, bars, and shops. While the city has become more of a resort town in recent years, Old Town shows off what the city once was — a quaint fisherman’s village. 

Wandering the cobbled old Albufeira town streets is a great way to taste the city’s vibes. Start in Old Town Square ( Jardim Público de Albufeira ), the city’s beating heart, but then work your way away from that center.

It’s down smaller alleyways where you’ll find the whitewashed buildings of a picture-perfect Portugal. Don’t be afraid to get a little lost in them.

One of the best things to do in Albufeira old town is to wander around during the daytime, but if you’re looking for a party after dark, this is where you’ll want to be. In its peak summer months, Old Town in Albufeira bars overflow with tourists and can get very rowdy.

2. Albufeira Tunnel 

Albufeira Tunnel is a unique stretch that connects the historical world of Old Town to the natural world of Praia do Tunel. The tunnel is completely pedestrianized and lit up at night. Passing through it is a fun transition between these two sides of Albufeira. 

The man-made tunnel cuts through 20 meters of cliff (about 20 yards) under the Sol e Mar hotel. Note that, to access the beach, there are a few steps down,  so the route is not completely accessible for anyone with limited mobility.

The beach you’ll come out to on the far side is officially called Praia do Peneco but is more commonly referred to as Praia do Tunel — so don’t be confused if you hear both names —they’re the same place.

3. Private Yacht Cruise

Whether you are looking for things to do in Albufeira with kids for a special family occasion or just a decadent afternoon out with friends, going on a private yacht cruise is the perfect treat to enjoy during your visit to Albufeira.

You’ll get to lounge out on the luxury 55-foot yacht and customize your day’s itinerary according to what you want. The cruise will bring you past the famous and picturesque Benagil cave as well as the Alfanzina Lighthouse. 

4. Tuk-Tuk Tours 

Albufeira is small but incredibly hilly. So instead of walking around or calling a UBER, another option is to hail town a tuk-tuk to take you from point A to point B.

You can take a tuk-tuk for a short trip, but you can also book a tuk-tuk tour to take you to some of the best spots in and around Albufeira.

For groups of up to 6, join Tony on one of his Tuk-Tuk Tours where you’ll see multiple highlights, including  The Strip, the Old Town, the Fishing Port, and the Marina. Alternatively, if you want a unique experience this tour will take you down the coast and interior of Albufeira, and you’ll also stop for a traditional Portuguese lunch.

⭐️ UBER drivers tend to cancel trips , especially if it’s a short trip—it’s just not worth it for them. When visiting Albufeira, it might be easier to take a tuk-tuk or walk wherever you need to go.

5. Take a Boat Tour

Experience the essence of Albufeira by indulging in Albufeira activities like an organized boat trip, the perfect stress-free way to admire the breathtaking coastal scenery.

Combine sightseeing by land and sea on this tour , combining a jeep safari with a boat tour . Absolutely, everything will be handled, with hotel pickup and drop off and transportation between villages, farms, and a tour to Benagil Cave.

Alternatively, enjoy a scenic day cruising the coast on this all-inclusive tour . You will visit the famous Benagil Cave and secluded beaches that can only be accessed from the sea. You’ll also stop for a beach BBQ.

6. Peneco Beach & Elevator

The Paneco elevator allows easy beach access and exceptional views across the water. Behind the elevator is an extended viewing platform about 28 meters, or nearly 100 feet, above the beach. 

The elevator is free to ride and enclosed in glass, so you can enjoy the views all the way down (or up). The elevator not only saves a whole lot of sweating as you go up and down the stairs, but it also makes Paneco Beach accessible.

The elevator grants access at the west end of Paneco Beach — the same beach as the Albufeira tunnel, which is to the east, in the middle of the beach.

7. Parasailing

Experience the contrast of the golden brown cliffs with the twinkling blues of the sea on this once-in-a-lifetime parasailing adventure in Albufeira. Seeing the Algarve coast from the land is beautiful, from the sea is awesome, but from the sky is something else entirely. 

You’ll head out on a boat with your group, and once you’re out at sea and appropriately briefed, you’ll get into the right gear and go up into the air for a 10-minute parasailing ride. The maximum height you’ll reach is about 80 meters, or nearly 270 feet , above the water. 

8. Rent a Jet Ski

For anyone looking for more adrenaline rush on the water, a jet ski rental may be just the answer. You’ll pick up your jet ski in the marina and head out for up to 30 minutes. 

Before leaving, you’ll be told all about how to operate the jet ski, and you’ll be given a full safety briefing and a life vest. You can ride the jet ski solo, or two people can go out together.

9. The Strip & Estrada de Santa Eulália

Have you heard of the Albufeira Strip? Also known as Avenida Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro, it is a popular area known for its lively (often crazy) nightlife. The Strip is a long avenue lined with various bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops.

The Strip is a party zone, where the atmosphere is intense and energetic well into the early hours of the morning. Recently the Estrada de Santa Eulália has been dubbed as the Albufeira new town strip.

⭐️ Travel trip : one of my favorite American-style restaurants in Albufeira is the Bull Dog Bar on the Strip—it is also the place where I’ve had the best ribs of my life. This family-owned business is small, with limited seats, and has great portions for great prices. Make sure to bring cash 💵 .

10. Dolphin Watching 

Several species of dolphins make the Algarve coast their home, including the ‘smiling’ bottlenose dolphin. So, if spotting dolphins in the wild is on your bucket list, Albufeira is the perfect place to set out on a dolphin watching cruise. 

Hop aboard this tour on a small boat that can move quickly through the water to get you to a pod of dolphins as soon as they’ve been spotted. In addition to dolphin spotting, you’ll visit the Benagil Cave and stop for a dip in the ocean.

For an opportunity to see dolphins and explore the caves and grottos of the coast, plus a stop at Beach of Carvoeiro, this half-day tour is the perfect one to book . After exploring the rocky coastline, you’ll get to cruise along in hopes of spotting a pod or two at play.

11. Professional Photoshoot

Albufeira is stunning—the beaches, coastline, and limestone cliffs are the perfect backdrop for a professional photoshoot. Introducing Nahal, the founder of Beyond Passion Photography .

Nahal is an Algarve and destination photographer. But she is much more than that—she is a storyteller who finds the true perspectives at the right time.

But why book her? Beyond her incredible eye and photography style, she provides many photos available a week after your shoot. She even gives you preview pictures (around 20) within 24 hours of your shoot.

12. Shopping 

Itching to go shopping? Well, you’ll have plenty of options in Albufeira. First, the Albufeira old town square shops are filled with leather goods, knick-knacks, and straw purses made in Portugal and Morocco. Another central shopping spot is the Av. da Liberdade shopping street. These are great souvenir shops.

But if you are searching for something larger, there are a couple of options within driving distance of Old Town Albufeira. Algarve Shopping is a big mall that is around 6km (3.73 miles). Home to around 100 stores, you can find everything and anything you need here.

A little bit outside of Albufeira—36km (22 mi) to be exact— is the Designer Outlet Algarve Mall . An outdoor mall, it is home to around 70 designer stores and is next to the MAR Shopping Centre , which also is home to an Ikea.

13. Wine-Tasting

If there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave Portugal without doing, it’s tasting the local wine. The Algarve hasn’t always been the most popular wine region in Portugal , but that has gradually changed as new winemakers have moved to the area. .

There are four DOCs in the Algarve — that means wine areas that are delineated and controlled. Albufeira sits in the Lagoa region. 

The best way to make it out to the nicest wineries in the region without having to worry, is by going on an organized tour. On this half day tour , you’ll visit orange groves and cork forests before stopping at a local winery. There, you’ll sample the wine, local cheese, cured meats, and jams. 

If you want to learn more about winemaking, check out this tour, which combines a visit to a winery and a tour from the winemakers with some time in the small local town of Silves. You’ll have free time to explore the small fishing village before returning to Albufeira.

🍷 Although a little out of the way, one of my favorite experiences in the Algarve was at Morgado do Quintão , where I sampled wine and ate delicious food underneath a 3,000-year-old olive tree. Read about my experience here .

14. Quad Bike Experience

Embark on a quad bike or buggy adventure to explore the arid landscapes dotted with cacti and cork forests inland—a must for the things to do around Albufeira .

On this off-road adventure , you’ll get dusty and dirty as you navigate your own quad bike. Prepare to bounce along rough tracks, cross rivers, and explore the Algarve backcountry. 

This buggy adventure is a great option for a bit more comfort. It allows for kids as young as seven to come along and ride shotgun. You’ll traverse terrain that cars can’t get you to. In addition, this tour will take you to the ancient Berber Paderne Castle or Castle of Paderne.

⭐️ Drivers on both tours will need a valid driver’s license. 

15. Private Jewellery Workshop

A totally unique must do Albufeira experience that will have you accessing your creative side, this jewelry workshop is a great way to spend half a day. By the end, you’ll walk away with your own creation — whatever that may look like. 

At Nini’s workshop on the west side of Albufeira, you’ll engage hands-on with an expert silversmith, learning to saw, stamp, and solder your own memorable piece of jewelry.

There are not many souvenirs that are as memorable as one you get to craft yourself.

16. Albufeira Marina

The marina in Albufeira is known for being the most sheltered marina in all of Europe. In addition, the marina has been awarded a Blue Flag award — showing that it’s sustainable and being rated 5 out of 5 Gold Anchors, indicating that the marina is operating at the highest level —  similar to that of a five-star hotel. 

In addition to being a home for fisherman’s boats and those who arrive in Albufeira by sea, the marina is also very likely where you’ll leave from for any boat tours in the area. 

On land, the marina has an impressive amount to do. From bowling and go-karting to bars, shops, and restaurants, this is a bustling center of life in Albufeira. If you’re searching for centrally positioned accommodation, villas and apartments are available here.

17. Scuba Diving 

Albufeira has created several artificial reefs to draw a rich diversity of marine life, making it a hotspot for divers. With diving experiences tailored for all levels of expertise, from beginners to advanced, Albufeira offers an array of reef and wall diving adventures.

The serene Atlantic waters here are well-suited for both newcomers to diving and those with more experience. If you are a beginner scuba diver, you can take an introductory scuba course, which still starts with safety dive in a pool before your first dive in the sea. But if you are already certified, then opt for a two-dive trip . Remember to bring your certification card.

18. Eat Lots of Seafood 

Food, food, and more food — is there anything better to do on your vacation than try the local dishes? If you can, try Catapalana, a traditional Algarve dish that is a seafood lover’s delight. Named after the clamshell-shaped pot it’s cooked in, this stew combines fresh fish and shellfish with a rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty and aromatic meal perfect for sharing.

The best way to explore the local food is to go on a food and wine tour. This Wine and Traditional Tapas Experience is the perfect option. If you are feeling a little more adventourous, you can head to Olhão for an oyster farming experience or even take part in a Cataplana cooking class .

19. Horseback Riding 

As a horseback rider, I can’t think of anything better than riding along long stretches of beach — which is exactly what you’ll get to do on this tour . You’ll ride along the coast above the picturesque Albufeira lagoon.

Your journey starts with a personal pickup and a visit to the area’s secluded spots. Then, it’s time to meet your horse. After a detailed briefing, you’ll be all set to experience the coastline’s beauty from the unique perspective atop your equine companion .

21. Ponte da Baleeira

Located east of Praia dos Arrifes beach, Ponte da Baleeira offers a panoramic viewpoint that provides stunning vistas of Albufeira harbor, Baleeira Beach, and the striking golden cliffs.

This scenic spot is a lesser-known treasure in the city of Albufeira, allowing for quieter moments away from the bustling tourist areas. Access to this viewpoint is completely free, and visitors can reach it by following the coastal cliff-top road.

20. Galeria Municipal João Bailote

João Bailote is known as one of the most famous and best-selling Portuguese artists, especially when he was at the top of his game, from the 1960s through the 80s . Bailote was originally from Albufeira and is a beloved member of the city’s history. Walking around, you may notice a city street named after him.

The Galeria Municipal João Bailote is full of his pieces, which are contemporary works. The space is open from Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. It is also closed on Sundays.

22. Igreja Matriz de Albufeira

This church is incredibly unassuming against the white buildings it blends in with. It is, however, one of the best examples of neoclassical architecture in the Algarve. Inside is its highlight — an altarpiece that features Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the patron saint of Albufeira.

The church also houses a 15th-century statue of Nossa Senhora da Orada, the fishermen’s patron saint. Each year, on August 15th, a procession is held by local fishermen. The statue is returned to where it was initially kept in the nearby Convento de Nossa Senhora da Orada.

The Igreja Matriz de Albufeira is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sundays, the church is open from 9:00 to 12:00 pm

23. Water parks & Theme parks

In Albufeira, thrill-seekers and families can enjoy a day out at Aquashow Park , known for its water slides and wave pools, or Slide & Splash , which boasts a vast array of slides for all ages. For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Aqualand offers an array of gentler rides and pools, suitable for younger visitors.

⭐️ Travel Tips: For things to do in Albufeira water park options, purchasing tickets online often comes with a discount, and arriving early can help avoid the crowds. Remember to pack sunscreen and hats, as shade can be limited, and consider renting a locker for valuables.

Beaches in Albufeira

Albufeira shines as a coastal haven with its stunning beaches, each offering a unique slice of paradise. The sun-soaked shores are a must for those wondering about things to do in Albufeira.

From the lively to the serene, the beaches cater to every mood and are quintessential in any list of what to do in Albufeira. Whether it’s a family day out or a solo retreat, the beaches will surely be a highlight of your trip.

⭐️ Travel tip: Each beach is home to at least one restaurant, and although these spots are great for a snack and chilled glass of wine, eating here is not recommended. Yes, the food is good, but the prices are astronomical— you are essentially paying for the view.

🗺️ ALBUFEIRA BEACH MAP

24. Fisherman’s Beach

Fisherman’s Beach (Praia dos Pescadores in Portuguese), another blue flag beach, is easily accessed directly from central Albufeira. You, you can literally step from street to sand.

The many bars, restaurants, and cafes around Fishermen’s Beach are great places to sit and watch the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine or a cold beer. 

The name of this beach comes from the colorful fishing boats which used to fill the water. The number of boats slowly decreased until the ones left relocated to the Albufeira marina. Now, the beach is covered by bathers and their colorful towels instead.

The easiest access point to Fisherman’s Beach is from the 25th of April Square. There are sunbeds for hire on the beach and toilet and shower facilities. In the summer, there is a lifeguard on duty.

25. Praia da Falésia

Located near Albufeira and Vilamoura, Praia da Falésia (translated to Beach of Cliffs) is one of the longest beach beaches in the Algarve. Stretching over 6km (3.7 mi) long , the beach is known for its red and orange-colored sandy cliffs.

In 2018, Praia da Falésia was considered the number-one beach in Portugal , the third-best in Europe, and TripAdvisor’s 12-best beach worldwide. Its natural beauty and relatively calm sea conditions make it a great spot for swimming and enjoying water activities.

26. Praia da Coelha

Praia da Coelha encapsulates all that the Algarve is —  rugged cliffs, clear waters, and bright sand — the wild, abundant nature of the region surrounds the little beach.

This beach is a favorite among locals, so while it is quiet on weekdays, it fills up quickly on weekends. Of course, this is because it’s a great place for everyone, including families. The sand is soft, and the water is nice for an easy paddle. However, if you venture farther from shore, the ocean floor drops off, and the current becomes quite strong.

The beach is about 5 km (3 mi) west of Albufeira center. Driving is the easiest way to access it . Taking the public bus is also an option, but you’ll walk about 10 -15 minutes to the beach.

27. Praia da Oura

Praia da Oura is most well-known for its wild nightlife scene. The beach is located about 3 km (1.8 mi) east of the center of Albufeira but is walking distance from the strip. The party from the strip often flows onto the beach late at night and into the early morning hours.

That said, during the day, Praia da Oura is calm, clean, and a great spot to set up your beach towel. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer. 

You can enjoy water sports here, like diving, jet skiing, or parasailing . The bars and restaurants which run along the edge of the beach are also much tamer during daylight hours.

28. Praia Santa Eulália & Praia da Balaia

Praia Santa Eulália is a haven for families, nestled just 4 km (2.5 mi) from Albufeira’s bustling center. With easy parking and access via a gentle slope, it’s a hit for all ages. The beachfront is lined with a variety of restaurants and bars, perfect for a midday snack or a refreshing drink.

Facilities are top-notch, with sunbeds available for a comfortable day by the sea. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

A stone’s throw away Praia Santa Eulália, Praia da Balaia offers a more secluded vibe. At just 3 km (1.9 mi) east of Albufeira, it’s a quiet retreat for those looking to unwind. The smaller beach has fewer facilities, making it a peaceful alternative to the more popular spots.

It’s accessible by a short walk down from the main road. Keep in mind there are no lifeguards here, so swim with caution. Both beaches promise a delightful day out, with Santa Eulália catering to convenience and Balaia to tranquility.

29. Praia de São Rafael

Praia de São Rafael is best known for its beautiful rock formations and the gorgeous sunsets you can catch from the top of the cliffs above the beach. 

The water is very comfortable to swim in, and it’s a great spot for snorkeling. You can also wander along the sand and explore the caves and grottoes. At low tide,

ou may also discover small secluded beaches on either side of the main beach. 

There are paths along the top of the cliffs which offer great views across the water. 

Praia de São Rafael is about 4 km (2.5 mi) west of Albufeira Algarve. Once you arrive, there is a wooden path thatwhich leads to the beach, but you will have to take a few steps down as well.

30. Praia dos Arrifes

Praia dos Arrifes is the best beach to visit in Albufeira for snorkeling. There are several rock formations in the ocean, just out from the shore, which attract a variety of fish and small sea life so it’s easy to spot many species within an easy swim out.

This is the smallest beach in Albufeira , but at low tide, there is a lot to explore. You’ll want to make sure you’re wearing good water shoes as the ground is very rocky and uneven. But you can find small rock pools dotted around and can spot little critters like crabs or small fish skirting around them. 

🦶 The beach itself is also a rock-sand mixture, so it’s not the best spot to go barefoot.

31. Praia da Galé 

Praia da Galé, a serene expanse of beach within easy reach of Albufeira center—just 6 km (about 3.7 miles) away— offers a unique blend of accessibility and leisure.

Unlike many Algarve beaches, there’s no need to navigate steps, making it welcoming for disabled visitors or those who prefer a straightforward stroll from car to sand.

Here, the beach bars and surf schools pepper the long stretches of soft sand, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. You can rent loungers and wind protectors for a comfortable day by the sea.

Praia da Galé is also appreciated for its practical amenities, which cater to diverse needs. These include easy accessibility for a stress-free beach outing.

32. Olhos de Água

Olhos de Água Beach, or Eyes of Water , is known for the natural springs that run through the beach at low tide, thus giving the area its name. 

This beach is located in a village of the same name, about 6 km (4.5 mi), east of Albufeira. While the clearest water for swimming is on the east end of the beach, walking west is where you’ll likely find more space on the sand to lay down your beach towel. 

This village used to be a small, sleepy fishing village. And you can still see the colorful fishermen’s huts which line the backside of the beach.

At low tide, you can walk east along the coast all the way to Vilamoura — about 6km (4 mi) away.

Day Trips from Albufeira in Algarve

There are various places to visit near Albufeira in Portugal that can enrich your holiday experience. The Algarve region is dotted with charming towns, historical Albufeira attractions, and breathtaking Albufueira sights, all within a short drive. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or just a change of scenery, there’s a nearby destination waiting to be discovered.

33. Benagil Cave

The famous Benagil cave , also known as Algar de Benagil, features a stunning hole in its ceiling, creating a natural skylight illuminating the sandy beach. It’s a must-visit spectacle for anyone venturing into fathe Algarve Albufeira region.

The cave is close to several popular Algarve destinations, including Albufeira (30 minutes away).

📍HOW TO GET TO BENAGIL

As of September 2023, Benagil Cave is temporarily closed to certain watercraft, including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. At the moment, the best way to get to Benagil is by boat tour. There are various boat tours that take you to Benagil from the Albufeira marina.

But is the Benagil Cave closed? No, it is not. It’s open year-round, and weather permitting and sea condition permitting, you can still enter by boat. For more infomation click here .

34. Marinha Beach 

Marinha Beach, or Praia da Marinha, is hailed as one of the Algarve’s iconic coastlines, with its golden sands and towering limestone cliffs. Situated about 8km (roughly 5 mi) east of Lagoa, this beach is a poster child for the region’s natural beauty, often gracing the covers of travel guides.

The beach is famed not just for its picturesque scenery but also for its clear, calm waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming.

🥾 Praia da Marinha is the starting point the Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (Seven Hanging Valley) hiking path .

📍HOW TO GET TO MARINHA BEACH

If you’re driving, it’s a straightforward trip that takes about 30 minutes. Head east on the A22 motorway and exit for Lagoa. From there, follow the signs directing you towards Praia da Marinha. The route is well-signposted, and you’ll find a car park near the beach.

Alternatively, if you’re relying on public transport, take a regional bus to Lagoa, and then transfer to a local bus service that heads towards the coast. There are also tour operators in Albufeira offering half-day or full-day excursions to Marinha Beach,

35 . Ferragudo

This quiet fishing village has beautiful cobblestoned shopping streets, amazing seafood restaurants, and some of the best beaches in the area. So if you’re craving something more peaceful and a chance to escape the bigger resort towns, a day trip to Ferragudo is the perfect answer. 

Check out the long, sandy stretch of beach at Praia Grande or the riverside beach of Praia da Angrinha , and stop in to A Ria for an amazing selection of grilled fish.

Overlooking the river and the beach is the medieval Fort of São João de Arade — unfortunately, as the fort is now privately owned, you can’t enter. Still, the, but the view of the fort against the sea is pretty spectacular.

📍HOW TO GET TO FERRAGUO

The easiest way to get to Ferragudo from Albufeira is by car or taxi. The drive is about 40 kilometers, or 25 miles, and takes about 40 minutes. 

Alternatively, you can take a bus, but you’ll need to switch over. The fastest trip takes you through Lagoa—about an hour in total. Or you can travel through Portimao, which will take about two hours. Bus timetables can be found on Vamus Algarve .

Once the capital of the kingdom of the Algarve , in Silves, you can still see the castle, which is the same one the Moors once used to defend the city from invaders. The history of Silves is as enticing as its present-day lifestyle.

The small city sits on the banks of the Rio Arade, and it has a relaxed way of life about it. Enjoy a visit to a cafe and stroll the laneways. And make sure to stop by the Cathedral of Silves , which is built in a Gothicgothic style with some elements of baroque architecture. 

📍HOW TO GET TO SILVES

To get to Silves from Portugal Albufeira you can take a direct bus which takes about 45 minutes. Or you could go on a day tour. 

On this tour , you’ll visit key Silves landmarks like its castle and cathedral, then head to Mount Foia and Cape Saint Vincent for panoramic views. Your journey continues with the caves at Praia da Cordoama and ends in the historic town of Lagos, offering a diverse experience of the Algarve in just one day.

37. Paderne

Padernea is a perfect day trip for anyone trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the coast. You can relax in the friendly village, explore its history, and tuck into the surrounding nature. 

At the center of Paderne, you’ll find Igreja Matriz de Paderne — the main church of the village, which was built in the 16th century. The architecture combines Portuguese late Gothic with a Renaissance style. You can also visit the Corte-Real Gallery , housed in a traditional Quinta. The gallery has artworks ranging from ceramic pieces to exotic light displays.

If you want to explore beyond the village, start at the ancient Paderne Castle ruins and follow the Paderne castle trail, or PR1, in a 10 km (just over 6 miles) loop through the arid Algarve countryside.

📍HOW TO GET TO PADERNE

You can get to Paderne from Albufeira easily on a direct bus (the number 4) run by Vamus Algarve . If you choose to drive, it should take you around 20 minutes door to door. 

38. Lagos & Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is a stunning testament to nature’s artistry in the Algarve, where the relentless sea has sculpted 20-meter-high cliffs and winds into a labyrinth of caves, grottoes, and arches.

The cliffs stand proudly near Lagos, which complements these natural wonders with its own array of attractions. Lagos not only boasts a rich history evident in its maritime heritage and preserved old town, but also offers culinary delights, with seafood as a staple.

The city’s beaches, marina, nightlife, and cultural scene make Lagos one of the best towns to visit in the Algarve.

📍HOW TO GET TO LAGOS

Lagos is a 50-minute drive from Albufeira, or you can take several public bus routes, which take 90 minutes to two hours.

Alternatively, many local guide tours provide pick-ups in Albufeira. This full-day tour will take you first by boat to admire the dramatic cliffs before enjoying a guided tour through Lagos. Visit the Baroque Church of Santo António and the nearby Castelo dos Governadores, which has stayed standing since before the Holy Wars. You’ll also have time to explore the city.

Known as the end of the world, Sagres sits out in one of the most remote regions of Portugal — at the westernmost tip of the Algarve. The area has barren landscapes, stunning beaches, and amazing surf. The small coastal town has a relaxed atmosphere.

Visit at least one of the beaches and admire the raging sea. Praia da Mareta is a good pick for surfers and easy to access from town. You can also visit the Fortaleza de Sagres, a sea fort that utilizes the ocean as part of its protection and has more amazing views.

🚘 If you’re driving, go out to Cabo de São Vicente headland where you can experience one of the most magnificent sunsets if you have the time to stay late.

📍HOW TO GET TO SAGRES

The drive from Albufeira to Sagres is about an hour. If you want to go by public transport,t you’re looking at a trip of close to three hours by bus , with a transfer to Lagos.

Day tours can also be a great way to make the most of your time and really see a lot in the area. This full day trip focuses on the region’s history. It includes stops in Silves, Mount Foia — the highest point in the Algarve, Cabo de São Vicente headland, the rugged Praia da Cordoama, and finally, the historical center of Lagos. 

Alternatively, move at a slightly slower pace with this day trip that makes stops just in Silves, Mount Foia, and Lagos, and ends the day at the beautiful Cabo de São Vicente headland in Sagres.

40 . Olhão & Ria Formosa

Olhão is a small town brimming with charm, authenticity, and lots to do . Fishing was, and continues to be, a main infrastructure in the town and you can find amazing fresh seafood in the Mercado de Olhão — one of the most famous markets in the Algarve.

Wandering through the center of town, you’ll pass the beautiful yet simple, white-washed fisherman’s homes with flowers growing from the terraces and balconies and overflowing into the streets.

The nearby Ria Formosa is a lagoon system that houses the most important wetlands in southern Portugal. There, you’ll be able to spot amazing birdlife, such as the unique purple swamphen, which is the park’s symbol.

📍HOW TO GET TO OLHÃO

If you’re driving, Olhão is about 45 km (28 mi) east of Albufeira. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes via the A22 highway. While it is possible to take public transport to Olhão from Albufeira , the trip will take about 90 minutes on the bus or a train with a change in Faro.

Your best bet is to go on a guided tour. This trip brings you from Albufeira to Faro — the capital of the Algarve, then to Olhão for a visit to the fish market. From there, you’ll head to explore the cobblestone streets of Tavira and finish the day in one of the easternmost towns in the Algarve — Vila Nova de Cacela.

41. Loulé & Estoi Palace

Loulé’s main attraction is its covered market . Inspired by similar markets in the Arabian peninsula, it overflows into the surrounding alleyways. The town is a throwback since not much has changed since medieval times, but now it has a much more peaceful, calm way of life. While in town, you can also visit the medieval Castelo De Loule.

From Loulé, you can find the Rococo design Estoi Palace , just 17 km (about 10 miles) to the east. The palace dates back to the 18th century but has been recently refurbished and now stands in all its pink splendor with an array of beautiful azulejo (Portuguese blue tiles) murals.

The palace now functions as a hotel , but many of the rooms and French-style gardens are still open to the public.

📍HOW TO GET TO LOULÉ

It’s about 33 km — or around 20 miles from Albufeira to Loulé by car. The drive should take around 30 minutes. From there, it’s another 20 minutes to the palace. There’s no great way to do this day trip by public transportation, so a guided tour may be your next best option if you prefer not to drive.

This full day trip goes in-depth with what Loulé has to offer by visiting the market, the castle, and the municipal museum, which will reveal more about the region’s history. After that, you’ll visit the 16th century Nossa Senhora da Conceicao Hermitage and the ancient Islamic hammam. The tour ends at the Estoi Palace.

42. Salgados Nature Reserve 

Salgados Nature Reserve offers a serene getaway, ideal for nature enthusiasts and anyone keen on a day away from the bustle. It’s a sanctuary for birdwatchers, boasting species such as the showy flamingo and the elusive purple swamphen among its residents. Spanning a generous area, the reserve promises ample space for visitors to roam and discover.

📍HOW TO GET TO SALGADOS NATURAL RESERVE

The reserve is about 14 km from Albufeira, roughly a 20-minute drive. There’s not much in the way of buses or trains that get you there, so driving is your best bet.

If you’re not into driving, you might want to grab a taxi or a UBER, or if you’re feeling sporty, a bike could be a fun way to roll up to the reserve. It’s a bit out of the way, but definitely worth the trip if you’re into nature and need a break from the buzz.

Where is Albufeira located? 

Albufeira is centrally located in the Algarve region of Portugal , approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of Faro and roughly 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Lisbon.

Nestled along the coast, it offers easy access to the region’s picturesque beaches and is a prime spot for enjoying the Algarve’s sunny Mediterranean climate.

For anyone coming from Lisbon, Albufeira awaits at the end of a 250 km (approximately 155 miles) journey south. This road trip will take you through the heart of Portugal’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to the sea-kissed horizon, making the travel part of the adventure itself.

Whether you’re coming to Albufeira from Faro or the historic grandeur of Lisbon, Albufeira is an accessible retreat that promises the essence of Portuguese coastal charm.

How to Get to Albufeira

Albufeira is reachable by car, train or by bus from throughout Portugal. Of course you can also rent a car and drive there or even take a private transfer.

How to get from Faro to Albufeira?

If you’re flying into the Algarve from overseas you’ll land at the airport in Faro. From Albufeira it’s a distance of just under 50 km, or around 30 miles.

There is a local bus which leaves from the airport — number 56 . It’s a direct connection to Albufeira, and takes around 50 minutes.

Alternatively, the Alsa bus goes from the airport, making just one stop in Faro center before continuing on directly to Albufeira. Because of the stop in the center this actually takes a bit longer at about an hour total.

Other options include taking a taxi/UBER or a private FARO airport transfer to Algarve Albufeira .

How do you get to Albufeira from Lisbon? 

To get to Albufeira from Lisbon, you can take a direct train or bus, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, or drive via the A2 and A22 motorways.

The Rede Expressos bus makes a super easy connection from Lisbon to Albufeira. It’s about two hours and 45 minutes leaving Lisbon’s Oriente station and not stopping anywhere else.

There is also a train going from Oriente , but this trip takes a little over three hours (with several stops) and terminates at Albufeira’s Ferreiras station, about 7 km (4 miles) north of town.

Best Time to Visit

What is the Albufeira weather? Well, Albufeira shines throughout the year, yet it truly comes alive in the summer with bustling beaches and vibrant nightlife—ideal for those who love the heat and high-energy atmospheres. Expect temperatures around 28-35°C (82-95°F), or more, but prepare for larger crowds.

Winter in Albufeira has its own appeal, with mild conditions and average temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F) and minimal rainfall. It’s a serene period to explore the Algarve, with the cooler weather deterring many beach-goers, leaving you with tranquil vistas and a peaceful ambiance.

For the best balance of weather and experience, the shoulder seasons win hands down. With temperatures pleasantly warm at 18-25°C (64-77°F), the ocean remains inviting, and you can enjoy the city’s charm with fewer tourists.

🤯😱 Albufeira has a population of around 40,000 people in the low season. The number increases to around 500,000 in the summer busy season (July-August). In the summer, prepare for lines and packed parking lots. If you do come during the summer season make to to book everything months in advance.

What to Pack

A best of Albufeira guide isn’t complete without a guide on what to pack. Here is our travel guide to what to pack for your trip to Albufeira.

Spring & Fall

The weather in Albufeira is never too cold, and it starts getting warm around April. In fact, you’ll probably see people already swimming in the ocean as early as March.

Temperatures are warm Apr-Sep, the peak travel time. The warmest (without being too hot) times to travel to Albufeira are between May-June and Sept-Oct. The weather isn’t too hot and not too cold; it’s just about right . So what should you pack?

The months of Jul–Aug are hot, sunny, and dry . So make sure that you pack:

The weather gets cooler from November until March. Nevertheless, the Algarve is the only region on mainland Portugal that doesn’t get too cold during the winter months. If you come to Albufeira during the winter, you should pack.

If you are looking for a general Portugal packing list, read ➤ Portugal Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring.

Where to Stay in Albufeira

Deciding where to stay in Albufeira can be as simple as choosing between the allure of Albufeira hotels and the charm of the Albufeira area itself. Each location offers its unique take on hospitality, comfort, and access to the city’s highlights.

Praia Inatel – Praia dos Alemaes

For anyone seeking a blend of tranquility and convenience, the area around Praia Inatel and Praia dos Alemaes strikes the perfect balance. Offering serene beach views and a quieter location, it’s the best place to stay for easy access to all local attractions.

You’re just a leisurely 10 to 20-minute stroll from the old town, yet far enough to enjoy a peaceful retreat.

Some of the best-rated hotels in this areas include:

• 💰💰💰💰 — Auramar Beach Resort — gorgeous location, amazing staff & great amentities
• 💰💰💰 Alisios — 4⭐️ hotel with a great beachfront location
• 💰💰 Luna Clube Oceano
• 💰 Inatel Albufeira — amazing budget-friendly option right on the beach

Albufeira Old Town

In the pulsating heart of Albufeira, the Old Town is where all the action is. With is long sandy beach and a huge variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, it’s the epicenter of local life.

Be mindful that during the high season, the area is abuzz with energy, people, and sounds. If your idea of a getaway includes lively nights and social vibes, this is the place to be. But make sure to bring ear plugs.

Some of the best-rated hotels in this area include:

• 💰💰💰💰 — Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa Albufeira — Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa Albufeira is a 4⭐️ adults only hotel right on the beach.
• 💰💰💰 Vila Origens — Adults-only boutique hotel.
• 💰 Hotel Baltum — 50m from the beach, right in the heart of old town Albufeira Portugal.

Praia da Oura

Praia da Oura is perfect if you’re after a mix of sun-soaked days and lively nights. With the beach just a stone’s throw away and a cluster of restaurants to choose from, you’re all set. The Albufeira Strip is also within an easy stroll, offering a slice of the famous Albufeira nightlife.

Just a note: the beach is down a steep hill, so be ready for a bit of a climb back to your hotel. It’s also a bit further from the Old Town, but if you don’t mind the walk, the journey’s part of the adventure.

• 💰💰💰💰 Monicca Collection Suites and Residences — beachfront location, 3 swimming pools, 4 restaurants & free parking.
• 💰💰💰 Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel – Adults Only — private balconies, exceptional breakfast, clean and comfy beds.
• 💰 Club Ouratlantico — 500m from the beach, great amentities & free parking.

Santa Eulalia – Praia da Balaia

If you’re hunting for tranquility with easy access to sandy shores, Santa Eulalia and Praia da Balaia should be on your radar.

Nestled on the eastern side of town, about 3.5 km (just over 2 miles) from Albufeira Old Town, it’s the perfect spot to dodge the hubbub but still pop into town whenever the mood strikes. Ideal for families who want a serene retreat.

• 💰💰💰💰 Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa — 5⭐️ hotel, amazing location, incredible staff, sea views & great amentities. The hotel offers suites as well as apartments.
• 💰💰💰 Santa Eulalia Hotel & Spa — 800m from the beach, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, welcoming staff and great breakfast.

Olhos de Agua

Olhos de Agua gives you that small-town vibe with all the beachy goodness you’d expect. If you’re looking to stretch your euros a bit further and still soak up the sun, this is your spot. Plus, it’s just 6 km (around 3.7 miles) from the Albufeira Old Town, so you’re never too far from the action.

• 💰💰💰💰 — PortoBay Falésia — gorgeous location, sea views, luxury wellness area
• 💰💰💰 3HB Guarana (All-Inclusive) — beachfront location, indoor pool, sauna, nightclub and a kids’ club.
• 💰 Aquamar Albufeira Moon Dream

Albufeira Marina

Over at Albufeira Marina, you’ve got lively vibes without breaking the bank, and you’re in the middle of some of the best Albufeira restaurants and activities

It’s the launchpad for most boat tours, and you’re only about a 20-30 minute walk from the Old Town—that’s roughly 1.5 km (just under a mile). No big hotels here, but a bunch of apartment options make it another family-friendly winner.

• 💰💰💰 The Homeboat Company Albufeira — a unique stay on a boat 🛥️.
• 💰💰 Orada Apartamentos Turísticos — self-catering apartments.

Food & Drinks

Considering Albufeira’s size, the city has an unreal number of restaurants and bars. There are many fish restaurants and regular debates about which is best. But there are also vegetarian options, great steak houses, and lots of international food options.

⭐️ Be aware that Albufeira is a seasonal town, meaning that some of these restaurants might be closed during the low season between November to March.

Breakfast & Brunch

• Café Mané – Tv. Alves Correia 2, 8200-179 – for a coffee, pastry or brunch in a perfect setting.
• Alfarroba – Parque da Corcovada Lote 31 loja c, 8200-321  – vegan Café only open weekdays and on lunch hour delicious vegan desserts .
• Sugar Rabbit Kaffe – R. Latino Coelho 42, 8200-123 – coffee and smoothie bowls & vegan options.
• Al-Gharb Coffee Roasters – Beco do Sol 3, 8200-269 – best speciality coffee
• Doçaria Almeixar –  Estr. de Vale Rabelho, 8200-428  – sweets, crepes & waffles
• Jungle Brunch & Drinks – Ed. Lancemar. Nascente, Av. Sá Carneiro 3ºH, 8200-362 – brunch options.

Lunch & Dinner

• Restaurante Vivaldo’s – R. Ramalho Ortigão 6, 8200-604 – classic Portuguese dishes and food. Beach views of Oura beach.
• Casa Da Fonte – 8200 076, R. João de Deus 7, 8200-142 – classic Portuguese dishes and food
• Cabana Fresca – Largo Cais Herculano, 8200-061 – traditional Portugueuse dishes with a beautiful view.
• Restaurante Os Arcos – R. Alves Correia 27, 8200-206 – traditional Portuguese dishes, with emphasis on grilled fish and sea .
• Peccati di Gola – Av. 25 de Abril 3 A, 8200-012 – Italian food
• Yoya’s Thai Kitchen – Av. da Liberdade 42, 8200-151 – Authentic Thai food in old town
• Urban Pizza Old Town – Av. 25 de Abril 26, 8200-096 – Pizzeria 🍕
• Georgina – Old Town – Av. 25 de Abril 13, 8200-012 – Italian food
• Il Brigante – R. Alves Correia 40, 8200-090 Albufeira – Italian food
• Wild & Co Steakhouse – Av. Sá Carneiro, 8200-291 –
• Gandhi Palace Albufeira – Av. dos Descobrimentos 6RC, 8200-260 – Indian food
• The Bull Dog Bar – Av. Sá Carneiro 53, 8200-260 – absolutely amazing ribs. Bring cash.
• Copos & Pesticos – R. Alexandre Herculano A, 8200-269 – best tapas vegan+ vegetarian friendly
• Tatsumi – Estr. de Albufeira 66, 8200-635 – delicious fusion food
• Happy Sumo – Albufeira Estrada de Santa Eulália – best all you can eat sushi spot. Great for when you want a bit of everything 🍣.

Drinks & Party

• Legends Bar – Av. Sá Carneiro n.47, 8200-340 – great local bar with reasonably priced drinks and free shots .
• 33 Sports Bar – R. Alexandre Herculano 33, 8200-271 – a great place to watch a sports game
• Sherry’s Irish Bar – R. Alves Correia 51, 8200-090 – authentic Irish bar
• Friends Bar – R. da Ladeira 21A, 8200-642 Olhos de Água – known for having some of the cheapest prices
• Matt’s Bar – R. Victória 1, 8200-395 – Albufeira strip hotspot
• Picadilly Cocktail Bar – R. Cândido dos Reis Nº 19, 8200-103 – the best place for cocktails
• Sharky’s Bar – Marina de Albufeira – located in the marina, great views, drinks & pub food.
• Blue Bell Bar – R. Miguel Bombarda 20, 8200-167 – a local bar

Is Albufeira safe?

Yes & No — Albufeira is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any popular tourist destination, it has a well-established infrastructure to ensure the safety and security of its visitors

However, as with all travel, it is wise to take standard precautions such as safeguarding your belongings, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding unlit or less populated areas at night.

Instances of crime are usually low, but petty theft like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas or during peak tourist season. Always exercise common sense and follow local guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Is Albufeira safe at night?

Yes & No — Albufeira has a lively nightlife that sometimes gets pretty wild, especially in the Old Town and on the Strip. You’ll see a lot of partygoers and sometimes things can get out of hand with too much drinking.

There aren’t many cops around, but they do step in if there’s a fight. It’s smarter to stay clear of any trouble spots, especially if things look like they’re heating up. But I do recommend always having travel insurance.

Living in Albufeira: Things to Consider

So you are thinking about living in Albufeira? Well, there are a couple of things that you need to think about before making the move, according to Dorina Owindi, founder of Monversation who is happliy living in Albufeira.

First off, let’s talk about why you would even consider moving here.

(1️⃣) Albufeira’s charm lies in its perfect mix of city amenities and countryside calm , sitting at the Algarve’s heart. With a car, the whole region is your oyster, from Spain to the cliffs of Sagres.

(2️⃣) Next, even if your Portuguese is a work in progress, locals are patient and helpful, making settling in smoother. Plus, a lot of places, including government institutions, have people that speak English.

(3️⃣) The community here is active and friendly; it’s common to see people out for strolls, enjoying the cafe local culture.

(4️⃣) The sense of safety , combined with the (5️⃣) scenic drives and hikes, makes Albufeira more than a home— it’s a lifestyle 😍 .

Digital Nomads in Albufeira

Albufeira is fast becoming a hotspot for digital nomads , with a growing international community drawn to its charm. Recognizing this trend, the local government is keen on nurturing this sector, fostering an environment conducive to remote work.

💻 Looking for a middle to long-term renting option in Albufeira ? I recommend Flatio . Flatio is a platform for monthly rentals with hand-picked, deposit-free, and reasonably priced listings in over 300 destinations, mainly in Europe. I personally stayed in this apartment (with my dog and cat) and LOVED it.

The rise in coworking spaces is a testament to Albufeira’s commitment to accommodating the digital nomad lifestyle. This city is particularly appealing for anyone looking to escape to a warmer climate during the off-peak season , offering the perfect blend of work and leisure.

Renting in Albufeira

Finding a long-term rental in Albufeira can be quite a challenge because many landlords prefer short-term vacation renters. The best strategy is to network locally; often, someone you meet could lead you to available properties.

It’s wise to be cautious on housing platforms like Idealista or Facebook to avoid scams. Never send money before confirming the property and owner are legitimate. Also, beware of individuals offering to search for rental properties on your behalf for a fee.

To get a feel for different neighborhoods, try the local hop-on-hop-off bus tour. And when you find a potential home, thoroughly check its condition.

If you’re into the lively scene, consider areas like the Old Town or the Marina, as they’re a short distance from the city’s center. Keep in mind that resort areas can get noisy during peak tourist season. If you prefer quiet, look for places off the beaten path.

For a quieter life, Olhos de Água is peaceful, and Ferreiras suits families well. Don’t hesitate to look beyond the usual spots—visiting various neighborhoods can uncover hidden gems.

It may take time—up to several months—but with persistence and a little local help, finding the right place is possible.

Albufeira: Facts & FAQs

Is albufeira worth going to.

Absolutely — from exploring idyllic beaches and participating in water sports to enjoying the local gastronomy and experiencing its lively nightlife, Albufeira offers a rich blend of cultural and recreational activities.

Albufeira is a worthwhile destination for its vibrant atmosphere and unique things to do in Albufeira . It’s a place where scenic coastal beauty meets a bustling tourist scene, ensuring that every visitor finds something memorable to enrich their travel experience

What is Albufeira best known for?

Albufeira is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife, making it a magnet for those seeking sun, sea, and entertainment.

It’s the Albufeira tourist attractions like the lively Albufeira Strip, the historic Old Town, and the numerous picturesque beaches that make it a popular destination in the Algarve region.

How many days do you need in Albufeira?

3-4 days in Albufeira is ideal to fully embrace the things to see in Albufeira and enjoy the must see Albufeira spots.

This timeframe allows for relaxation on its golden beaches, exploration of local markets, and indulgence in the nightlife. If your itinerary includes other cities in the Algarve or day trips to regions like Lagos, you might want to extend your stay to accommodate those excursions.

What is the best month to go to Albufeira?

The best time to visit Albufeira is during the shoulder season, which typically includes the months of May, June, September, and October.

During these times, visitors can enjoy the favorable combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more competitive prices for accommodations and activities.

Is Albufeira walkable?

Yes — Albufeira has a compact and tourist-friendly center that is very walkable, with most hotels, beaches, and attractions such as bars and restaurants within easy walking distance.

For anyone staying close to the town center or along the main beach areas, a car is often not necessary. However, if you wish to explore the wider places to visit in Algarve Albufeira and the other Albufeira places to visit, public transport or a car might be required.

Do you need a car in Albufeira Portugal?

No — In Albufeira, having a car is not strictly necessary, especially if you’re staying in the town center where most amenities are within walking distance.

Yet, for those planning to visit more secluded beaches or surrounding towns, a car offers flexibility and convenience. It’s also helpful for carrying beach gear or making large grocery trips if you’re self-catering. You can also use UBER, taxis or tuk-tuks if you don’t want to rent a car.

Is the sea warm in Albufeira?

The sea temperature in Albufeira can be quite refreshing, especially outside of the peak summer months. From June to September, the water is warmest, making it comfortable for swimming and water sports. Outside of these months, the sea may feel a bit cool, which some swimmers might still find invigorating.

Is Faro or Albufeira better?

Choosing between Faro and Albufeira depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. If you’re interested in cultural experiences and a quieter stay, Faro might be better. If you’re looking for vibrant nightlife and beach-focused activities, Albufeira would be the recommended choice.

Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, offers a more authentic Portuguese experience with historical sites, such as the old town and Faro Cathedral, and a less tourist-centric atmosphere. It’s also the gateway to the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa lagoon.

Albufeira, on the other hand, is better known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a wide array of dining and nightlife options. It caters more to tourists looking for a bustling seaside resort experience with plenty of activities and albufeira sightseeing attractions .

Final Thoughts: Things to do in Albufeira Algarve

As you can see, Albufeira Portugal Portugal is a treasure trove of things to do. Whether you’re looking for a party, to learn more about the region’s history, or to escape into nature — Albufeira’s got you covered.

Of course, that’s in addition to the stunning beaches, the amazing sparkling sea, and the stunning coastline. It’s one of the best places to go on holiday.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Must-see attractions in Albufeira

Fiesa is the world's biggest sand-sculpture contest. Artists are given 45,000 tonnes of sand to sculpt, and their truly amazing creations (up to 12m high…

Praia da Falésia

One of the Algarve's most impressive beaches is this 6km-long strip of sand backed by stunning cliffs in several shades of ochre. Starting 8.5km east of…

Praia da Galé

Beginning 9km west of Albufeira, Praia da Galé is long (5km), sandy and less crowded than many other beaches in the area.

Museu Municipal de Arqueologia

Excavated from the municipality and its surrounds (such as the castle in the village of Paderne), pieces dating from the prehistoric era to the 16th…

Museu de Arte Sacra

This tiny museum is housed in the beautifully restored 18th-century Chapel of San Sebastian and exhibits sacred art from surrounding churches that…

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28 amazing things to do in albufeira.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure policy  for further information.

Albufeira is undoubtedly one of the more touristy towns in the Algarve but that doesn’t mean it lacks charm or places of interest. On my many visits I’ve found loads of wonderful things to do in Albufeira to suit all ages and tastes, making it a popular base for many holiday-makers and longer-term residents.

As well as the historical, archaeological and architectural features in the old town and the beautiful beaches, there are a few art galleries and some quality crafts shops among the plethora of tackier souvenirs.

If you’re looking for tours, outdoor activities and excursions, these are plentiful, too. Read on to discover a wide range of things to do in Albufeira, although if you’re only interested in the hedonistic party scene on The Strip, you’re reading the wrong blog.

Top Picks For Albufeira Activities

Explore the highlights and hidden spots on a tuk tuk tour. LEARN MORE Indulge your senses on a wine and tapas tour. LEARN MORE Take a segway tour of Salgados Nature Reserve. LEARN MORE Soar above the beach on a parasailing adventure. LEARN MORE

Related : Decide where to stay in Albufeira with the help of this guide

1. Albufeira beaches for everyone

Along the 30 kilometres of Albufeira coastline you’ll find a whole range of beaches to satisfy all needs.

The most accessible (and popular) beach if you’re based in the Old Town is Praia dos Pescadores. It’s a family-friendly beach where the sand is golden and the water welcoming. There are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. A continuation of this, to the east, is Praia do Peneco (see #5 below.)

Praia da Oura, although usually frequented by the youngsters from The Strip, is a great place to enjoy the many water sports.

Praia dos Alemães is quieter with lovely clear water and to the west of Albufeira is Praia de São Rafael with its striking rock formations.

Further to the east of Albufeira is the renowned Praia de Falesia, backed by dramatic red sandstone cliffs.

Water-based activities from the beach

The coastline around Albufeira features intriguing caves that are ideal for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboard. If you dont’ have a car, you may need to take a cab or Uber to the start point.

You can discover the stunning Portuguese coast on this 2-hour kayaking tour that starts from Praia do Castelo.

Or maybe test your balance with stand up paddle boarding (SUP) (beginners welcome) and explore the many beaches, coves, and inlets along the coast. This tour departs from Praia da Coelha.

If you want to polish up your surfing skills with an experienced instructor, this small group surf lesson should help you ride those waves with confidence.

For the really adventurous, this Parasailing Adventure on Albufeira’s Coastline should get the adrenaline pumping. Gaze down at the city of Albufeira from 80 metres high while feeling the wind rush through your hair!

2. Visit the famous Benagil caves

The amazing natural beauty of the nearby Benagil caves attracts thousands of visitors and it’s easy to see why. With sunlight streaming through the openings in the dome-like ceiling, golden sand and translucent water, it’s a sight not to be missed.

Because the cave can only be reached by sea there are many tours by boat, kayak and SUP tours on offer (swimming is NOT recommended). However, be choosy how you get there. Some catamarans have up to 80 people on board!

You can take a small group speedboat tour to the caves and do a bit of dolphin spotting. Or, after leaving Albufeira Marina by boat, change to a kayak or SUP to explore the caves in a more intimate way.

The chance to experience a beautiful evening sunset cruise to the caves, also leaving via the Marina, is one to consider.

Please note: As from 25th September 2023 kayaks and SUPs are not allowed inside the caves due to safety concerns. This is a temporary measure from the Maritime authority so please check with the tour operators before booking these tours.

3. Take to the water for some dolphin watching

The coast of Albufeira is the perfect place to spot these aquatic mammals so if you’re more interested in wildlife than rock formations, take a dedicated dolphin tour, which includes a visit to the Benagil Caves .

You’ll access the more isolated coastal areas and, because the Algarve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, you’ll get the chance to see many of the various species of marine life and birds along the way.

4. Explore Albufeira Old Town

Tourism in Albufeira can be split into two distinct areas; Areias de São João , known colloquially as The Strip, and the Old Town. 

The Strip is party land, full of hen parties and people out for a good time, fuelled by alcohol. Don’t ask me about it because it’s not my scene but it’s easily avoided.

The Old Town is still quaint in parts, with picturesque cobblestone streets where you can wander, learn about the local history and browse for quality souvenirs, although there’s an awful lot of tat on offer so you’ll need to be discerning.

Tip: Save your legs and see the best of Albufeira on a private tuk tuk tour

Jardim Publico de Albufeira in Largo Enginheiro Duarte Pacheco is the old town’s leafy main square and the heart of everything; an attractive place to watch the world go by. It’s quite busy so if you want to find quieter streets, head towards Rua da Igreja Velha and surrounds.

There is a circular pedestrian route of just over 7 km, which gives you the opportunity to discover more about the Old Town.

It begins at the Tourism Office where you can pick up a brochure with all the necessary information to get the best out of the walk. Alternatively, if you want to reduce the distance walked, pick up a lealet from the Archaeological Museum and just follow the route around the heart of the historical centre.

If you’re lucky try and get on a guided walk. They’re on every Thursday morning at 10 am and you can register at the local Camara (council). For more info email [email protected] .

5. Take the tunnel to the beach

There aren’t many towns where direct access to the beach is directly from a busy street in the town centre, through a short tunnel, but Albufeira is one of them. Built in 1935, the tunnel connects Rua 5 de Outubro with the sandy Praia do Peneco.

Expect to be entertained by buskers in the tunnel before you hit the sand.

Don’t worry if tunnels freak you out – there are other ways to access Albufeira beaches including an elevator at the far end of Praia do Peneco and escalators at Praia dos Pescadores.

6. See the monument to the fishing community

Praia dos Pescadores means Fishermen’s Beach, which is exactly what this was before tourism took over.

Just off the beach, you’ll find a sculpted monument dedicated to the families who earned their living from the sea, which offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a bygone era.

7. Imagine the fish market at Cais Herculano

A few metres from the fishing monument is a covered area which was once a bustling fish market, Cais Herculano.

Nowadays, it’s surrounded by restaurants and has some benches where you can escape the sun for a while if needs be. When I visited, there was a temporary photographic exhibition in the space as well as more permanent sculptures.

8. Discover “A Different Algarve” photo exhibition

If you’re curious about life in the Algarve before it became a tourist hotspot, take a stroll along Esplanada Dr Frutoso da Silva.

Its white wall is home to an outdoor exhibition of black and white photgraphs taken by Artur Pastor, one of the best Portuguese photographers of the 20th century. His shots capture everyday scenes from the 1940s to 1970s, giving you a glimpse of times gone by.

8. Visit the Archaeological Museum

Not much of the ancient Albufeira escaped the 1755 earthquake and tsunami that devastated Portugal. If you want to get a sense of what the architecture was like, and understand quite how far back Albufeira’s history goes, the Municipal Archaeology Museum is well worth a visit.

The small but interesting collection takes you on a voyage from prehistory to the 17th century.

Praça da República, 1. Open daily from 9:30 to 5:30

9. See the remains of an Islamic home

In the square outside the museum, look out for a small excavation surrounded by a white barrier. This is part of an Islamic home, many of which still exist underneath Albufeira’s current buildings.

You can clearly see the hole in the ground that the occupants had carved out of the earth beneath their house in order to store precious commodities like food and water. This was common practice during the conflict between the Christian forces that eventually forced the resident Muslims to relinquish the territory. The origin of the name Abufeira is actually Arabic, “Al-buhera”, meaning “sea-castle”.

10. Check out some ancient doorways

The arched doorway on this small building on Rua Henrique Calado once led to the Old Inn (Antiga Albergue), which provided shelter and lodging to weary travellers. It’s one of the few buildings in Albufeira to have survived the 1755 earthquake.

The church of Saint Sebastion (Igreja de São Sebastião ) is in a small square in old town Albufeira and boasts a beautiful stone doorway.

11. Admire contemporary art at Galeria Municipal João Bailote

João Bailote was a local born artist who was one of the best-selling painters in Portugal and abroad between the 1960s and 1980s. Because of his local celebrity the Municipal Gallery of Albufeira was renamed after him.  

The gallery hosts a range of exhibitions throughout the year and is always worth checking out.

Rua do Município. Open Monday to Friday 9:30 to 12:30 and 1:30 to 5:30

12. Enjoy the views at Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira

Take in views over the old town including Praia dos Pescadores from this wonderful viewpoint. Thanks to the escalators you don’t have to wear yourself out walking up the hill. In the daytime you can take advantage of the shaded areas but at nightime, with Albufeira lit up, you get a lovely view.

Also a great spot for sunsets, too.

13. Hang out at Albufeira Marina

The marina is small in comparison to other marinas and noticeable because of the lego-like coloured buildings alongside it. As well as boats, you’ll find the usual hotels, restaurants, bars and a recreational and leisure centre.

You can save a little time by taking the tourist train or this tuk-tuk tour from the Old Town, otherwise it’s a bit of a walk.

It’s also where most boat trips start off from, like this 2.5 hr tour in search of dolphins and a visit to the Benagil Caves or this sunset cruise along the coast to the Benagil caves.

14. Study wildlife up close at Zoomarine

Albufeira’s Zoomarine complex is spread over 8 hectares and is the ideal place to watch presentations with dolphins, seals and sea lions, with tropical birds and birds of prey. Here you also find an amazing aquarium with sharks.

These kinds of places are not everyone’s cup-of-tea but they do a lot of conservation work and established the first Rehabilitation Centre for Marine Species in Portugal.

It’s very popular with families with kids, leading to long queues during the high season. You can purchase your entrance tickets in advance to save time.

Zoomarine opens from March 2023 until November 2023. For times check this calendar.

15. Find peace and quiet at Sant’Ana church

This 18th century church, (the original was destroyed, like so many buildings, in the 1755 earthquake), is dedicated to Saint Anne, the maternal grandmother of Jesus. It’s a tranquil place and, if it’s open, you can admire the Baroque altarpiece. Otherwise, just enjoy the views from the top of the steps.

16. Pay a visit to Albufeira’s homegrown saint

Cross the road from Sant’Ana church to see the bronze statue in memory of São Vicente of Albufeira in Largo Jacinto d’Ayet.

Born in Albufeira in 1590, Friar Vicente de Santo António began his overseas preaching endeavours in Mexico and ended up in Japan, where he was imprisoned, tortured and then burned to death, all the while proclaiming his faith in Christianity. Hence the cross in his hand, which he was apparently holding as the flames took his life.

17. See the latest exhibition at Galeria de Arte Pintor Samora Barros

You’ll find this contemporary art gallery in the historic centre of town, housed in a former power station. The attractive tiles and exterior motifs by the Portuguese painter Samora Barros add character to the building.

Temporary exhibitions are regularly rotated so check out what’s on during your visit.

Summer opening hours (July and August) are 3 pm to 8 pm and 9 pm to 11 pm (Closed on Sundays and holidays)

Winter hours are 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm. Entry is free.

18. Catch the Torre do Relógio at night

The Torre do Relógio is a clock tower in the heart of the old town on the corner of Rua José Bernadino Sousa and Praça da República. Dating from the Muslim era, the building was once part of the castle walls and defensive line.

In the centuries since then, it has also served as a jail. On the top of the tower is a crown of iron representing a belfry where a single bell is hung, added in the 20th century.

It’s a focal point when you’re in the old town and looks lovely when it’s illuminated at night.

19. Track down the castle walls

Very little remains of Albufeira Castle but there’s a small section of the walls visible near the former North Gate, which gives you an insight into the architecture of the period, and the former size of Albufeira.

These defensive walls protected the Arab population from Christian seiges for many years but eventually the castle and settlement was conquered in 1249/50 by King Afonso III.

20. Check out the quirky bar at Porta da Sant’Ana

Somewhat more attractive than the North Gate is Porta da Sant’Ana, which has a commemorative tile panel. This was originally the main entrance to Albufeira castle.

The main attraction these days is the quirky, shell-clad bar next to it, i.e. Portas da Villa Antiquity Bar. The owner has lovingly decorated this bar over the years with shells collected from the local beaches.

21. Find a quality Portuguese souvenir to take home

You’ll find an abundance of souvenir shops in Albufeira but take your time to track down the better quality ones if you want something that will last longer than your suntan.

If you’re looking for good quality cork products, try Surpresa Inadiável (Avenida 25 de Abril, 10). They have great collections by Portuguese designers and they also sell ceramics and cataplanas, among other things.

If you prefer leather goods then Kitanda at R. Alves Correia, 13, is the place to go. Summer season opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:30 am-10 pm, Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm. Regular opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:30 am-7 pm, Saturday 9:30 am-1 pm

If you’re looking for memorable gifts to give to friends and family then check out these unique Portuguese souvenir ideas.

22. Make your very own souvenir

To make your time in Albufeira even more memorable, why not make your own unique souvenir? Try this Private Jewellery Workshop where you can learn some traditional silversmith techniques and create a piece of jewellery to take home with you.

There are several places of interest near Albufeira so don’t confine your explorations to the town and beaches.

23. Explore Albufeira by bike

I’m not a keen or experienced cyclist but I do appreciate the joys of electric bikes. They make the cliffs and hills of Albufeira easy to navigate and you can feel satisfied that you’re enjoying yourself and not harming the planet.

You can take this 30km e-bike tour that covers the town and beaches . There are also many shops in Albufeira providing independent bike rental, both electric and normal.

24. Discover the village and castle of Paderne

Just over 7 miles to the north of Albufeira is the village of Paderne, where you’ll find Castelo de Paderne or Paderne Castle . Constructed in the 13th century, the castle is believed to be one of the original castles that can be seen on the shield of the Portuguese national flag.

When I visited, the castle was only open Wednesdays and Sundays and is down a dirt track. This is fine if you’re walking (there’s a marked trail, the Rota do Castelo PR1 ABF), cycling or doing a countryside tuk tuk or quad bike tour but it’s not really worth the drive, especially in a rental car.

The village of Paderne is serene and not at all touristy. I was disappointed that the Museum of the Accordion was closed on the day I visited. On display are accordions, concertinas, photographs and all other accordion related material, most of which belong to Francisco Sabóia, who fulfilled his dream of sharing his passion and so built the museum. 

Opening hours are Monday to Friday: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and closed for lunch from 1pm to 2pm. Weekends by appointment only. Tel: 289599508.

It was such a shame that Corte Real Gallery was also closed on my visit. The gallery is an old traditional farmhouse and each room has a special theme. The artists on display there are exceptional. Just take a look at these.

Gallery opening times are Thursday to Sunday 11.30 to 4.30pm. Tel: 961 528 679 or email: [email protected]  to check before making the trip.

25. Spend time in nature at Salgados Nature Reserve

Lagoa dos Salgados is one of the most important freshwater wetlands in the Algarve and a marvellous place to explore. The wooden walkways and cycle areas give you access to this relatively small but rewarding lagoon.  

You can take in wonderful panoramas on this segway tour and try to spot the variety of local wildlife on view.

If you’re patient (and / or lucky) you can catch sight of many rare birds. Enlist the help of an expert on this Bird Watching in Albufeira Lagoon tour , a program specifically designed for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Or you could really get down to details on this 7 kilometre (4.3 miles) walking tour that explores the different ecosystems, and allows you to make your own little work of art with a local artist!

26. Taste local wine and traditional tapas

The rural regions of the Algarve produce good quality wines and, although it’s easy to pick up a bottle from the local supermarket or restaurant, it’s well worth the effort to go and actually see how and where the wines are produced.

There are many family-owned wineries that offer tours and tastings. This wine and tapas tour shows how a local winery works and you get to take off-road tracks to view some amazing landscapes, too.

27. Make some time for golf

The Algarve can quite rightly claim to be Europe’s number one golf destination and Albufeira has some excellent courses nearby. There’s the luxurious Pine Cliffs just a 15 minute drive away and Balaia and Salgados are both easily accessible.

For more information about where to play golf in the whole of the Algarve region, check out this guide by golf travel expert, Andy Waple .

28. Indulge your wild side at the Adventure Park

Adventurous souls can try high-rope courses and paintball at Parque Aventura, ideal if the family needs an opportunity to swing from tree to tree, cross monkey bridges or whizz down zip wires into vertical nets.

Opening hours are 2pm to 6pm daily. For tickets and information check out Parque Aventura website.

Events in Albufeira

To find out about the latest events, markets and what’s going on in Albufeira, check out this site.

Getting to Albufeira

If you’re flying into Portugal, it might be worth looking into Faro airport as there are direct flights from several international airports. It’s 46 km and a straightforward journey to Albufeira from there.

If you plan to explore the surrounding area, or take a road trip, without using any of the tours I mentioned above, I’d consider hiring a car from the airport, just to give you that extra flexibility and freedom. Discovercars or Booking.com car rentals are great for finding the best deals for car hire.

Alternatively, take a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Albufeira .

For a budget transport option, Flixbus run a regular service. Albufeira’s train station is quite far out of town so you’d probably need a cab or bus to get to your lodgings .

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Like this article? Pin it for later!

Albufeira is a beautiful place to go on your vacation with many different activity to do, places to explore and beautiful scenery to see.

Albufeira is an amazing destination, and this list is a great starting point for any traveller. I’ve been there a few times, and I always find something new to do. My favourite activities are relaxing on the beaches, exploring the old town, and visiting the Benagil caves.

Your blog has been an absolute lifesaver in planning my upcoming trip to Albufeira next year! The detailed insights into the beaches, activities, and local gems have truly set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. I can’t thank you enough for shedding light on the hidden treasures and offering such comprehensive guidance. I’m now counting down the days to immerse myself in the beauty and experiences Albufeira has to offer, all thanks to your fantastic blog.

Over to you. Please share your thoughts in a comment. Cancel reply

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Useful Information Tips for Tourist and Visitors

Here is some useful information about how to travel to Albufeira by plane or driving around the Algarve. Prices for electronic tolls on the A22 and where to charge your electric vehicle at the local EV stations in Albufeira.

Here are some facts and advices we believe will be good to know for those who come and visit Albufeira and the Algarve region for the first time. In this tourist guide, you’ll find a collection of tips, recommendations and contacts on diverse matters such as how to move around, average costs of things, precautions to take, a helpful phone book, links to websites of interest, etc.

How to get to Albufeira

After landing in Faro Airport , you can get to Albufeira by car (taxi, transfer bus or rent-a-car), driving West by the EN 125 main road or the A22 highway ("Via do Infante" - see below) for about 35Km (22 miles), the road is well sign-posted making it quite easy to get there.

If travelling by car from another country, coming down to the Algarve from the North, by motorway (A2), main road (IP1) or train, you will enter straight into Albufeira, as it is the main access to the region. Coming from the Spanish border, you will enter the Algarve at Vila Real de Santo António on the A22 highway.

See our page about local transportation for more detailed information!

Passport & IDs

To spend their holidays in Portugal, all tourists that come from countries under the Schengen Agreement only need their Identification Card to travel.

All tourists from Europe, the United States, Canada and Australia need a passport to be able to stay in the country for no more than 3 months.

In other cases, a Visa is needed to be able to stay for any length of time in Portugal.

Each visitor to Portugal should be able to produce onward travel arrangements and proof of sufficient funds to support their holiday.

No vaccinations are required before entering the country unless coming from an area infected with yellow fever

Traffic & Driving

For those who normally drive on the left side of the road, we advise you to take extra care when driving in Portugal, for here the driving is done on the right side .

The roads are reasonably well sign-posted and the speed limits for cars is 120 Km/h on the motorway and 90 Km/h on national roads unless indicated otherwise. Limits are 40 or 50 Km/h inside town and urban areas.

The use of a seatbelt is compulsory for all passengers.

The alcohol level in the blood should not go over 0.5 grams/litre – if the level should exceed this, it is punishable with a very severe fine, confiscation of the driving licence or even arrested.

It is advisable to take extra precaution when driving, for the traffic is very intense in the Summer Holiday season. On roundabouts, cars going around have priority (except signed otherwise) and in case the roundabout has two or more lanes you should only remain on the right side if you exit on the first or second road.

You will naturally have to carry your driver license at all time.

Electronic Tolls on the A22 («Via do Infante»)

Since April 2012, government has ended the free access to the A22, the main highway connecting the Algarve region (from Lagos to the Spanish border), and introduced an electronic payment method. Unlike on the A2 (highway to Lisbon), there are no manual tollbooth on the A22. Several electronic gates will detect license plates and payments can be done in different ways:

If you plan on using the A22 during your visit, it is recommended for users with a foreign license plate to purchase online or at the Portuguese/Spanish border (in Vila Real de Stº António) either a prepaid ticket or associate their license plate with a credit card, or rent an electronic device. Visit the following website for more info: portugaltolls.com

If you pass through the gates without any pre-payment card or electronic device, you can still pay the toll at the local post office (CTT) after two days with a 0.75€ surplus.

If you rent a car, the rental company should explain the best method on pick-up.

For vehicles with Portuguese plates, owners can acquire a device from «Via Verde» and be able to use every highway in the country.

• For the trip between Faro airport and Albufeira, exit the A22 at the Boliqueime (exit 11) and continue on the EN125. It's a shorter drive and sometimes even quicker (if you're staying on the eastern part of Albufeira), and it will only cost 0,35€, the price of gate between exits 12 and 11.
• Coming down from Lisbon on the A2, you can continue west on the A22 and exit at Albufeira (exit 9) without any cost.

EV Charging Station

There are now a few Electric Vehicles charging stations in Albufeira.

• On the parking in front of the Town hall
• On the avenue Alameda da Orada at the Marina
• On the parking of the Paraíso de Albufeira Hotel
• At the entrance of Pine Cliffs Resort (Açoteias)
• At Hotel Baía Grande
• At São Rafael Atlântico (TBC)
• A supercharger is to be installed at Vale Paraíso soon

All available information presented here has been gathered from online sources and from personal experiences. If you have any suggestions to make or find inaccurate, incomplete or outdated detail, please contact us and we’ll correct the information as needed.

• How to get here
• Local time & Currency
• The Portuguese Language
• Common Advices
• Average costs of living
• Communications & Media
• Faro Airport
• Airport Transfer & Car or Bike Hire
• Regional Buses
• City Bus - Giro
• Taxis & Tourist Train
• In case of Emergencies
• Consulates in Algarve
• Algarve Municipalities
• Public Services
• Culture, Leisure & Sports
• Local Associations, Clubs, Groups …
• Useful Website Links
• Upcoming events
• Regular events, Markets, …

Location Map of

9 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Albufeira

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Albufeira is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Algarve and a major European vacation destination. Located on the coast in the center of the region, about 36 kilometers west of Faro, the town is synonymous with tourism and boasts some of southern Portugal's best beaches.

Once a quiet fishing village, Albufeira still retains something of its traditional character. The old town center is a maze of steep, narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and fishermen's cottages that lead down to a fabulous beach.

Evidence of Albufeira's Roman and Moorish heritage is scant, however, with only vestiges of the town's once-mighty castle walls visible. The original Arabic name of the town, Al-Buhera , means "Castle-on-the-Sea," and one or two buildings feature telltale Moorish arches. But as the tourist capital of the Algarve, modern Albufeira is a lively holiday hub of hotels, restaurants, and boutiques.

Inland, away from the clamor, a more secluded Algarve is waiting to be discovered - countryside little changed by the advances of tourism.

For ideas on the best places to visit see our list of the top attractions in Albufeira.

See also: Where to Stay in Albufeira

2. Marina de Albufeira

3. parque aventura, 4. largo engenheiro duarte pacheco, 5. museu arqueológico, 6. igreja de são sebastião, 7. zoomarine, 8. krazy world, 9. castelo de paderne, where to stay in albufeira for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to albufeira, map of tourist attractions in albufeira, frequently asked questions, what are some of the must-visit destinations near albufeira, what are some of the best resorts near albufeira, what are some of the best golf courses near albufeira.

Albufeira is blessed with an outstanding choice of beautiful and unspoiled beaches ( praias ).

Praia dos Pescadores is right on the resort's doorstep. Named for the colorful fishing boats that once decorated the beach (they now all berth at the marina), this family favorite is conveniently accessible by foot, but can get uncomfortably crowded in peak season.

Alternatively, nearby Praia da Oura can be reached by following a scenic two-kilometer coastal footpath east out of the resort. Larger and less sheltered than its neighbor, this beach is a popular destination for windsurfers. Both beaches are served by an inviting array of seafront cafés and restaurants, and there are plenty of fun-packed activity options for water sports enthusiasts.

Also close by is Praia de São Rafael , one of the best beaches in the Algarve and a wonderful pocket of sand enclosed by honey-hued cliffs that resemble wedges of gingerbread.

Slightly more exclusive is picturesque Praia Olhos da Água . Set five kilometers away from the center of Albufeira and connected by local bus services, the wonderfully named "Eyes of Water" is a small pocket of sand wedged in a half-moon cove. This is a great place for kids to explore when the tide is out; the ankle-high shallows and rock pools are a beachcomber's dream.

Farther east still is stunning Praia da Falésia . Set under ochre-hued sandstone cliffs topped with clusters of umbrella pine, this is one of Portugal's best beaches , renowned for its seemingly endless band of golden sand and shallow waters. You'll need a vehicle to reach the out-of-the-way location.

Enhancing Albufeira's holiday resort credentials is the destination's swanky marina, located four kilometers west of the resort. The central focus of an upscale vacation apartment complex, the marina makes for an interesting diversion away from the busy town center.

Fringed by a boardwalk lined with several cafés and restaurants, plus a number of retail outlets and busy market stalls, this is also the departure point for numerous sightseeing cruises, maritime excursions, and other adventure tourist attractions.

Address: Rua da Orada, Albufeira, Algarve

Official site: http://marina.marinaalbufeira.com

High roping through a treetop assault course is the name of the game at this exciting and challenging Adventure Park . Participants must overcome a range of obstacles in order to complete the course, among them a giddy ropewalk and the daunting Monkey's Bridge. There's also an intricate cobweb to traverse, a vertical net to climb, and a zipline to glide down.

Located in verdant woods near Santa Eulália and Praia da Oura , the park consists of a series of games and trails set at varied heights between the trees. The course is designed to test stamina and motivation and allows participants to develop their own sense of responsibility as they move slowly through the canopy. There's a number of different adrenaline-pumping routes to attempt, each posing varying degrees of difficulty (some say playfulness).

Fully trained personnel supervise every step of the way, with special initiation trails set up for active youngsters. As well as being great fun, this is an educational experience and helps promote awareness of the forest environment. The organizers can also arrange paintball tournaments for adult groups.

Address: Estrada de Santa Eulália, Albufeira

Official site: http://www.lusoaventura.com

Albufeira's boisterous hub is tacky, over the top, and absolutely irresistible. Named after an illustrious 20th-century Portuguese statesman and civil engineer, this modern pedestrianized square draws locals and tourists alike to its plethora of restaurants, cafés, and snack bars.

It pays to browse the assortment of fashion boutiques for inexpensive summer garb, and it's worth investigating the handicraft workshops lining Rua Candido dos Reis for locally made souvenirs and a delightful selection of assorted vacation kitsch.

An interesting cultural attraction is the Galeria Pintor Samora Barros , a noted contemporary art gallery that exhibits works by Portuguese and international artists. After dark, troupes of buskers and street artists appear to help entertain the throngs.

The square is a short amble to Largo Cais Herculano , the town's bustling beachfront promenade, where a section of the original castle wall - now part of a restaurant façade - can be admired.

While modest in scope, the exhibits on display at the archaeological museum in Albufeira encompass prehistory ; the Roman , Islamic, and Visigoth periods; and the modern age.

Set over two floors, the most interesting artifacts include Stone Age flint tools, fragments of mosaics unearthed from a nearby Roman villa, and a collection of weathered 16th-century keystones.

The highlight is an impressive 10th-century Islamic silo, excavated while the premises still served as the town hall.

Address: Praça da República 1, Albufeira

The tiny, whitewashed church of St. Sebastian is an understated cultural highlight of Albufeira . Consecrated in the mid-18th century, its exterior is distinguished by a decoration of flourishing Baroque stonework framing the main portal.

Confusingly, the church's façade features a plaque dedicated to São Vicente - St. Vincent, the town's patron saint. Inside, visitors are regaled with a rare altarpiece of gilded wood surmounted by the rounded and ruddy faces of smiling cherubs. The nave doubles up as an ad-hoc museum of sacred art , and is also used for temporary exhibitions.

Address: Praça Miguel Bombarda, Albufeira

One of the Algarve's great family entertainment options, Zoomarine stages spectacular dolphin shows and an amusing sea lion spectacle, among other daily performances. There's also a fascinating aquarium-museum to explore.

A number of different habitats showcase exotic sea birds and majestic birds of prey. In addition, tickets allow entry to a fun-filled fairground and a fantastic aqua park complete with swimming pools for kids and adults and a giant waterslide.

Another highlight is the digitally animated film screened in the 4D cinema, which portrays a sea turtle's oceangoing journey. But the most magical moment is likely to be the opportunity to interact with bottlenose dolphins , where visitors can swim with these beautiful and intelligent creatures in a pool under the supervision of trainer.

Official site: http://www.zoomarine.pt

Lying somewhat off the beaten track, this wonderfully unpretentious theme park comprises a mini zoo and a string of leisure amenities ideally suited to those tourists traveling with youngsters. The idyllic countryside setting provides a pleasant contrast to the often-crowded coastal resorts, and the rural ambiance is tranquil and unhurried.

Parents and children can say hello to an array of cute and cuddly domestic animals at the petting farm, while the reptile zone is home to exotic creatures like turtles, iguanas, alligators, and snakes, including a gigantic python. There are pony rides and bouncy castles for younger kids, and teenagers can test their driving skills on the moto-quad track.

Meanwhile, budding golfers can practice their putting on the 18-hole mini golf course. And when it's hot, the swimming pools are especially welcoming.

Official site: https://www.krazyworld.com

The atmospheric ruins of Paderne Castle sit in splendid isolation high on a hilltop deep in the Algarve hinterland. Built by the Moors in the 12th century, on the site of an earlier Roman fortification, the castle overlooks the Quarteira River , where a well-preserved Roman bridge can still be crossed.

The castle, however, has proved less impervious to the ravages of time. The still impressive outer walls remain, as do vestiges of the tower gate, but little else. The site, though, affords a glorious sweep of the countryside, especially evocative during spring, when the slopes are flecked with flowers.

Within the ramparts lies the ruined Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Assunção , built after Christian forces overran the Moors in 1248.

The castle is situated near Paderne , a charming but sleepy smudge of a village that is worth a quick look before seeking out the castle. Visitors should note that the castle is unsupervised, and the steep dirt track leading up to the entrance should not be driven during wet conditions.

We recommend these charming hotels in Albufeira, with easy access to attractions and the beach:

• EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel : luxury beachfront resort, beautiful pools, spacious suites, contemporary decor, kids' club.
• Vila Gale Praia : mid-range pricing, short walk to beach, outdoor pool, yoga room, full-service spa.
• Golden Beach by 3HB : 3-star apartment-style resort, sea views, comfy beds, lovely outdoor pool.
• Vale de Carros : budget hotel, bright rooms and apartments, pool and tennis court.
• Boat Tours: A popular tour from the marina is the Caves and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Albufeira . This two-hour excursion explores some of the caverns carved from the rugged sea cliffs. Along the way, keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins that cruise the coastline. Another rewarding jaunt, and one with a fantastic fun factor, is the Leaozinho Pirate Ship Cruise from Albufeira. Kids can pretend to be Captain Hook or Long John Silver on this half-day or two-hour westward voyage along the picturesque Algarve coast.

Porches : Porches is one of those blink-and-miss towns, but keep your eyes peeled for this charming yet unassuming destination. Set 22 kilometers west of Albufeira on the N125 road, Porches is synonymous with pottery . This is where to shop for some of the finest handmade ceramics in the Algarve, and you can't miss the roadside artisan's stores advertising their wares - just look for the shop fronts clad with colorful hand-painted glazed pottery and earthenware.

One recommended outlet is the Porches Pottery Shop and Atelier, trading since 1968 and producing some of the best quality ceramics in the region. After purchasing a decorative pot, plate, or mug (ceramics make ideal souvenirs), take time to wander around town, perhaps lingering for lunch, before journeying on.

Armação de Pêra : Located on the coast about a 30-minute drive west of Albufeira is this appealing seaside town, which fronts one of the largest beaches in the region . The destination melds a modern, fairly nondescript urban hub with a far more attractive historic quarter, fronted by a pedestrianized promenade overlooking a band of golden sand.

The remains of the town's ancient fortified walls are at the eastern end of the resort, a reminder of the threat marauding pirates posed in the 16 th century.

At the other end of Pêra, two kilometers west of the town center, stands the diminutive Capela de Nossa Senhora da Rocha, a fortified chapel built on 8 th -century foundations on a promontory that affords sweeping coastal views.

Vilamoura : Portugal's premier resort destination, Vilamoura is home to a collection of upmarket hotels, championship golf courses, and fabulous leisure facilities, including an expansive beach. At the heart of the town is a glitzy marina, the largest facility of its kind in the country. Shops, boutiques, and restaurants line the boardwalk, which is also the departure point for some of the most exciting water sports activities on the south coast.

Vilamoura's cultural draw is the Museu Cerro da Vila, which displays vestiges of a 2 nd -century Roman villa complex, with sunken baths, salt tanks, and several well-preserved mosaics. A collection of Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish artifacts are displayed in the on-site museum.

Quarteira : While it won't win any awards for looks, high-rise, down-market Quarteira has its merits. One of the first fishing villages to be developed in the Algarve, Quarteira's rapid expansion effectively obliterated any semblance of old-world character and yesteryear charm. Yet despite (or because of) the developer's worst efforts, the destination retains a tacky allure that is oddly irresistible.

The beach is an immediate selling point, a two-kilometer carpet of soft, honey-colored sand - effectively an extension of nearby Vilamoura's beach. Another reason to visit the town is to browse its bustling fish market, one of the busiest in the region and where Portuguese restaurateurs come to stock their kitchens.

Salgados : A leisurely 15-minute drive west out of Albufeira brings you to Salgados Golf Course. This 18-hole, par 72 layout is set around an extraordinary number of water hazards, and keeping the ball dry will test the most accurate of play. Salgados is one of the flattest golf courses in the region, which will suit straight hitters. But with several fairways flanked by water (the narrow par 3 3 rd has water on both sides), off-game players can expect a damp scorecard.

Pine Cliffs : A nine-hole golf course set within the well-manicured grounds of the upscale Pine Cliffs Hotel , this superb layout lies perched 60 meters above the beach on a sandstone clifftop embroidered with umbrella pine. It's one of Portugal's most original golf courses and quite unique in that the sixth hole requires pin-point play over a deep ravine known as the "Devil's Parlour."

Balaia Golf : The nearest golf course to Albufeira is Balaia Golf, a nine-hole, par 27 layout that's attached to Balaia Golf Village, located five kilometers east of the town. A favorite with recreational golfers seeking to improve their iron shots and short game, Balaia nonetheless requires a studied approach. The course is hilly and presents subtle challenges to the novice golfer.

Vilamoura : Synonymous with golf in Portugal , Vilamoura boasts no less than six golf courses within its boundaries, including The Old Course, Laguna, and Victoria - designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer and home to the prestigious Portuguese Masters tournament.

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