Nestled on Portugal’s southern coast, Albufeira embodies the very essence of theAlgarve: spectacular beaches, a mild year-round climate and a warm atmosphere. Behind its image as a dynamic seaside resort, the old town is full of charm, with its lively white streets still bearing the imprint of its past as a fishing village. We loved its diversity: you can relax by the ocean, explore the hinterland or immerse yourself in the lively nightlife.
In this article, we share our 7 reasons to visit Albufeira, as well as a few points to keep in mind.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Albufeira worth a visit?
Yes, Albufeira is definitely worth a visit!
It’s one of the most complete destinations in southern Portugal: spectacular beaches, charming old town, generous gastronomy, water sports and lively nightlife . Here you can enjoy a relaxing seaside holiday, go on excursions in theAlgarve or try out unique experiences such as visiting sea caves.
We particularly liked the contrast between the wilderness and the atmosphere of the city center. And you’ll be able to tailor your trip to suit you, whether you’re coming as a couple, with friends or as a family.
Reason 1 – Enjoy spectacular golden beaches
It’s impossible to talk about Albufeira without mentioning its beaches. With their ochre cliffs, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, they are among the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Some are lively and well-equipped, like Praia dos Pescadores, while others are quieter and wilder, like Praia da Coelha. Find your favorite among Albufeira’s best beaches!
We enjoyed a change of scenery as we discovered the variety of beaches lining the city. You’ll enjoy soaking up the sun, swimming in sheltered coves or even exploring coastal caves by kayak.
Embark on a kayak excursion from Albufeira! Discover the hidden caves and secluded beaches of the Algarve coast. – Find out more and book
WHERE TO STAY IN Albufeira
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best historic hotel
Boutique Hotel Vila Origens – See prices, photos and availability
Best hotel on the beach
Hotel Sol e Mar – See prices, photos and availability
Best luxury hotel
Pine Cliff Ocean Suites Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Reason 2 – Discover a charming old town
We loved Albufeira’s historic center, with its narrow streets, white houses and lively squares. In our opinion, it has retained its typical atmosphere despite the tourist boom. You’ll find it easy to stroll between the boutiques, small restaurants and ocean views. Here you can visit Albufeira’s Municipal Museum of Archaeology, the beautiful Church of Saint Anne and the small Museum of Sacred Art.
We loved losing ourselves in the alleyways after sunset, when the golden light reflects off the facades. We recommend a stroll along the Esplanade Prof. Dr. Frutuoso da Silva which overlooks the magnificent Praia do Peneco and features a fresco depicting the city’s history. In Albufeira’s old town, you’ll easily find a terrace where you can dine or have a drink in pleasant surroundings, in one of the city’s best restaurants.
To make sure you don’t miss out on any of Albufeira’s treasures, opt for a panoramic bus tour! – Find out more and book
Reason 3 – Explore the pearls of the Algarve from Albufeira
Albufeira is ideally located for discovering the rest of the Algarve. You can easily drive to the white villages of the hinterland, the cliffs of Lagos, the Benagil Cave, the Odeleite Valley Gorges or the marshes of the Ria Formosa. As well as to other coastal towns: Lagos, Faro, Portimão or Tavira.
It’s a perfect base for exploring the region while enjoying convenient seaside accommodation. We appreciated this flexibility during our stay. You’ll be able to tailor your days to suit the weather and your personal tastes, from nature to culture and seaside walks.
Visit the Algarve on an excursion from Albufeira! – Find out more and book
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Reason 4 – Enjoy water sports and outdoor activities
Albufeira is a veritable playground for water sports enthusiasts! Kayaking, jet-skiing, surfing, scuba diving or boat cruises: the options are numerous. We particularly enjoyed going on dolphin-watching excursions and kayaking to the sea caves along the coast. What’s more, the area is ideal for hiking, with trails offering spectacular sea views.
Discover the best water sports in Albufeira!
Reason 5 – Taste simple, tasty local cuisine
Albufeira also seduced us in terms of food. Portuguese cuisine is generous, often featuring fish, seafood, grilled vegetables and olive oil. You can try cataplana (a seafood stew), grilled sardines or the famous Pasteis de Nata for dessert.
We ate in several small restaurants in the old town, always very simple but welcoming. It’s easy to find a good place to enjoy local produce at reasonable prices. Discover our selection in our article dedicated to the city’s best restaurants.
Discover the flavors of the Algarve with a tapas and Portuguese wine tasting.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Reason 6 – Enjoy a lively nightlife
Albufeira is also known for its festive atmosphere, especially in summer. Bars, clubs and restaurants liven up the evenings in the old town and the more modern“The Strip” district of Montechoro. The atmosphere is friendly, with live music, cocktails on the terrace and travelers from all over the world.
We liked being able to go out on foot in the evening, without having to take the car back. Of course, you can also choose to spend a quiet evening on a terrace, but if you like to party and dance, you’ll find what you’re looking for. We enjoyed the city’s nightlife. It’s very concentrated, so it’s easy to navigate from one establishment to another and meet new people.
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Reason 7 – Enjoy a pleasant year-round climate
The Algarve enjoys a mild, sunny climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Even in winter, temperatures remain mild, ideal for strolling, sightseeing or simply enjoying the fresh air by the sea. We enjoyed this climate, which is conducive to idleness and discovery, and makes visiting Albufeira and the Algarve a pleasure. It’s ideal, especially if you’re looking for an off-season destination away from the summer crowds.
DISCOVER Albufeira
- Attractions in Albufeira
- Best hotels
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Albufeira in winter
Some disadvantages of a trip to Albufeira
A popular tourist destination in high season
In summer, Albufeira attracts many visitors. Some beaches are crowded, downtown streets get noisy, and it can be hard to find a good restaurant without a reservation. The atmosphere becomes very festive, which doesn’t please everyone.
We found the city much more pleasant out of season. You’ll appreciate its charm even more if you avoid July and August.
A city center that’s sometimes too busy
The old town, while charming, can lose some of its authenticity in the evening. Between the lively bars, the loud music and the party bands, the atmosphere can quickly become tiring, especially if you’re staying right in the center.
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, we advise you to choose accommodation a little out of the way. You can still get to the entertainment on foot. Discover the pros and cons of the city’s different districts in our guide to the best hotels in Albufeira.
An urban landscape shaped by tourism
Apart from the historic center, some of Albufeira’s neighborhoods have been rapidly developed to meet tourist demand. Charmless modern residences, international signs and queues of cars can give a more standardized impression.
We preferred the smaller, more typical neighborhoods and secluded coves. You’ll find it easy to avoid these areas if you do your homework, thanks to our detailed articles.
How to get to Albufeira
You can reach Albufeira by train from other major cities in Portugal and Spain, including Faro (22min), Lisbon (3h30) and Sevilla (4h). You can book your tickets on the Combios website here. To get to Albufeira station from the city center, we recommend walking, taking the bus or a cab.
L’Faro AirportFaro Airport, a 40-minute drive from Albufeira, serves the region with flights from major European cities, including Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Albufeira is easily accessible by car, with major roads such as the A22, N395 and M526.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha
Dolphin watching (coming soon)
What to do in Lagos
What to do in Portimao
What to do in Albufeira
What to do in Faro
