Albufeira, the pearl of the Algarve, seduced us with its golden beaches, picturesque historic center and lively atmosphere day and night. Once a fishing village, now one of Portugal’s most popular destinations, the town offers a fine balance of nature, relaxation, culture and entertainment. Here you’ll find magnificent beaches nestling at the foot of cliffs, whitewashed houses and a wide range ofwater sports. It’s also an ideal base for exploring the rest of the Algarve. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or several days, you’ll find it easy to alternate between idleness, cultural discoveries and coastal escapades.
Discover our 10 ideas for what to do in Albufeira, illustrated with photos we took on site. Bonus: useful tips and extra activities!
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 well worth a visit! We were seduced by its contrasting atmosphere, with its charming white streets, sandy beaches and festive atmosphere. Its historic center, with its traditional houses and lively squares, is an inviting place to stroll, while the golden coastline along the way boasts some of the Algarve’s most beautiful scenery. It’s also an excellent starting point for exploring the coast, taking part in water sports or exploring the hinterland.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, nature or atmosphere, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Albufeira is one of the most complete destinations in the region!
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)
1. Get lost in the narrow streets of Albufeira’s old town
Why explore Albufeira’s historic center?
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 cafés, and ocean views. We discovered several craft stores, restaurants where you can sample regional cuisine and a warm atmosphere at all hours.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: allow about 1? hours for a leisurely exploration of the old town and its monuments.
- Difficulties and PRM access: cobbled streets and stairs can be difficult for people with reduced mobility.
- Book your guided city tour now!
2. Go back in time at Albufeira’s Archaeological Museum
Why visit Albufeira’s Archaeological Museum?
To better understand the city’s history, a visit to the municipal museum is a must. Housed in the former town hall, this small museum presents a collection of archaeological finds tracing the evolution of the region from prehistory to modern times. We were surprised by the richness of some of the exhibits, such as Roman ceramics and Islamic artefacts. The tour is educational, clear and quick to follow, making it ideal for the curious without being too long. You’ll be able to enrich your understanding of the city before setting off to discover its beaches and cliffs.
Practical advice
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm and weekends: 9.30am – 12.30pm.
- Tour duration: approx. 1 hour
- Price: €1
WHERE TO STAY IN Albufeira
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Albufeira (coming soon)
3. Enjoy Albufeira’s emblematic beaches
Why go to Albufeira’s beaches?
Albufeira is first and foremost a seaside destination, and its beaches are among the finest in the Algarve. Praia do Peneco (the town’s main beach), Praia dos Pescadores and Praia da Oura are all within easy reach of the town center, either on foot or by public transport. We enjoyed the diversity of these beaches: some are large and family-friendly, others more intimate, nestling between golden cliffs. The sand is fine and golden, the sea generally calm and the water crystal-clear. You can spread out your towel in the sun, swim in the Atlantic or sip a cocktail in one of the beach bars while admiring the sunset.
Practical advice
- We advise you to check the bus timetable here, or to consider renting a car if you plan to make many trips to the beach and back.
- Praia do Peneco is accessible to people with reduced mobility, has amphibious wheelchairs and offers an accompanied swimming service. More info here.
4. Try your hand at water sports in the Algarve
Why take part in water sports?
If you’re a thrill-seeker or want to discover the coast in a different way, Albufeira offers a wide choice of water sports. We tested a kayak outing at the foot of the cliffs, a unique experience for exploring sea caves and hidden coves. You can also opt for a dolphin-watching cruise, paddleboarding or jet-skiing. These excursions often depart from the marina, easily accessible from the center. Remember to book in advance, especially in high season.
Here’s our selection of the best activities and excursions to discover the treasures of the Algarve, starting from Albufeira:
- Observe Atlantic Ocean dolphins and the Benagil Cave on an unforgettable excursion – see activity details
- Surf on Galé Beach and discover the local surfing culture – see activity details
- Explore the coastline by kayak and discover places inaccessible by boat – see activity details
- Experience the thrill of parasailing! – see activity details
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you would like to be informed when our guide to Portugal is published, please register:
5. Explore the wonders of the Algarve from Albufeira
Why choose Albufeira as your starting point?
In our opinion, Albufeira is a very convenient point from which to explore the wonders of the Algarve. In addition to excursions and activities in the Atlantic Ocean, you can discover the Benagil Caves, the Lagos Cliffs or the charming town of Silves with its medieval castle. You can also discover emblematic cities such as Faro, Lagos and Portimão. Nature lovers will appreciate the Sentier des 7 vallées suspendues, offering breathtaking scenery with its steep cliffs and ocean panoramas. Whether you rent a car or take part in a guided tour, most iconic sites are less than an hour’s drive away. You’ll be able to enjoy the Algarve’s varied landscapes and authentic atmosphere, while returning to Albufeira at the end of the day.
Practical advice
Here’s our selection of the best excursions from Albufeira to discover the treasures of southern Portugal:
- Discover the Algarve on a day trip to Lagos, Sagres, Monchique and Silves – see activity details
- Day trip to Faro & Olhão – see activity details
- Visit Olhão and Culatra Island with lunch included – see activity details
- Visit the Algarve’s most traditional regions: Silves, Cabo São Vicente and Monchique – see activity details
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
6. Admire Santa Ana Church
Why visit Albufeira’s Santa Ana Church?
Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Santa Ana church is one of the most emblematic monuments in Albufeira’s historic center, built in the 18th century. Its white facade of Baroque and neoclassical architecture conceals an interior of discreet charm, marked by Baroque details and natural light. Here you can see works of sacred art. We appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the unobstructed ocean view from the forecourt. It’s a short cultural break that you can easily incorporate into a stroll through the old town.
Practical advice
- How to get there: Santa Ana Church is located in the historic center. The nearest parking lot is on Rue Maria Teresa Semedo de Azevedo, a 2-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the “Beato Vicente / Centro Antigo” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Price: admission is free.
- Duration: allow between 10 and 20 minutes.
- Difficulties: the building is not easily accessible for PRMs: there are stairs to get there.
7. Taste the flavours of the Algarve
Why discover Algarve specialities?
In Albufeira, you can discover Portuguese gastronomy, and more specifically that of the Algarve. We discovered a delicious mix of flavors, with traditional dishes such as seafood cataplana, Carne de Porco Alentejana, grilled sardines and Raia de Alhada. And let’s not forget Pasteis de Nata and the famous bacalhau (cod). In the seaside town, you’ll find numerous addresses in the historic center and along the beaches, from traditional taverns to more refined restaurants. To find out more, discover our selection of the Best Restaurants in Albufeira!
Book now your guided tour of Faro with food tour included!
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8. Visit Albufeira’s Museum of Sacred Art
Why the Musée d’Art Sacré?
This small museum housed in the former Chapel of San Sebastian is often overlooked by visitors, yet we think it’s well worth a visit. It features a collection of religious objects, sculptures and paintings from the region’s churches. We loved the intimacy of the place and the quality of some of the pieces, such as the polychrome wooden statues and liturgical ornaments. The ensemble offers a different view of the local heritage and allows visitors to discover a more spiritual side of Albufeira. It also provides a better understanding of the works of sacred art on display in the region’s religious buildings.
Practical advice
- Opening hours: generally open every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Tour duration: about 30min
- Price: €2
9. A night of partying in Albufeira
Why party in Albufeira?
The pearl of the Algarve is also known for its lively nightlife. Cocktail bars, clubs, taverns, wine bars, rooftops and lively terraces delight party-goers from all over the world who come to enjoy Albufeira’s beaches and nightlife. 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 festive atmosphere. It’s very concentrated, so it’s easy to navigate from one establishment to another and meet new people.
Best places to party
- The emblematic Avenue The Strip, Albufeira’s party HQ. Here you’ll find numerous clubs and cocktail bars. It’s located in the Montecherro district, about a 30-minute walk from the historic center.
- The historic center: although fairly quiet during the day, it gives way to a more festive atmosphere after dark.
- The marina is also a pleasant place to start the evening, sipping a drink as the sun sets over the moored boats. You’ll also find fairground rides.
- The Quarteira district is home to some famous clubs.
- The Praia da Oura is lined with lively establishments.
10. Fun at Slide & Splash Water Park
Why go to Slide & Splash?
Looking for a change from the beach? The Slide & Splash water park, about 20 minutes away by car, is one of the biggest and most popular in Portugal! Here you can spend a busy day in the giant slides, current pools, children’s zones and wave pools. And don’t forget the massage center and fish spa. It’s a fun and refreshing activity, perfect for families or groups of friends looking to return to childhood.
Practical advice
- Price: from €27 (prices vary according to season)
- Access from Albufeira:
- 20 min by car
- Approx. 40 min by public transport (more info here)
- Opening hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in high season and until 5 p.m. in low season. We recommend getting there early to avoid long queues.
- See the latest information on the official website, here.
- Catering available on site.
- Book your tickets now
Other beaches in and around Albufeira
East of Albufeira:
- Praia dos Aveiros
- Praia da Oura,
- Praia Santa Eulália,
- Beach Olhos de Água,
- Praia de Falésia
West of Albufeira:
- Praia da Vigia,
- Praia dos Paradinha,
- Praia da Ponta Grande,
- Praia da Coelha,
- Praia do Castelo
How to get to Albufeira + parking
Where is Albufeira?
Albufeira is located in southern Portugal, in the heart of the Algarve region. It is well connected to major Portuguese and Spanish cities.
- In the Algarve region of southern Portugal
- Faro to Albufeira: 40 min drive
- Lisbon to Albufeira: 2h30 drive
- Sevilla to Albufeira: 3h drive
Here’s a map of the city’s top 6 attractions:
How to get there
You can reach Albufeira by train from other major cities in Portugal and Spain, including Lisbon (2h45) and Sevilla (3h45). You can book your tickets on the Comboios website here. To get to the Albufeira train station (6 km from the city center) from the center, we recommend taking the bus or a cab.
Faro airport is the nearest and is served by major European cities, including Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Albufeira is easy to reach by car, with major roads such as the A22 and the M256.
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)
Parking in Albufeira
Parking in Albufeira can be a challenge, especially during the tourist season. The city center offers a wide range of parking options, with paid zones and a few strategically located free spaces. We recommend the Parking garage at 31, Aveninda 25 de Abril or the Marina underground parking lot as safe solutions close to tourist attractions. Alternatively, there’s free open-air parking along Rue Maria Teresa Semedo de Azevedo and a few spaces in the city streets.
Useful tips for visiting Albufeira
How long and when?
Allow at least a full day to explore the historic center and main monuments. If you’d like to take advantage of the sea excursions, add an extra day. We recommend visiting Albufeira in spring or autumn to take advantage of the pleasant weather and avoid the summer crowds.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
Visiting with children
Albufeira is a popular destination for families. The main Praia do Peneco beach is child-friendly, with generally calm, supervised waters.
Nearby water sports and water parks(including Slide & Splash) guarantee a fun day out for young and old alike.
In the town center, children will love the evening street shows and the rides on the little tourist train. Some boat trips are also available for families, with dolphin watching or exploring sea caves.
Start with the old town, its monuments and museums and its pretty cobbled streets in the morning, then continue with a beach break or water sports activity in the afternoon. At the end of the day, enjoy the views or a drink on the terrace.
The terrain is hilly, with a few steps and steep slopes: bring good shoes, especially if you’re staying in the upper part of town.
Best restaurants
See our selection of the best restaurants in Albufeira in our dedicated article.
Here are our favorites:
- Restaurant Vila Joya: with 2 Michelin stars, this is one of Albufeira’s top gourmet addresses.
- Restaurant Sal Maris: elegant restaurant with a seafood-inspired menu.
- Café Mané (coffee shop): a warm and cosy coffee shop, ideal for brunch or a coffee break in the heart of the city.
Visit Albufeira in winter
In winter, Albufeira looks much quieter and more authentic. With mild temperatures and lots of sunny days, it’s an ideal season for exploring the historic center on foot or taking long strolls along the almost deserted beach.
Restaurants remain open, and the atmosphere is more local. You can also take the opportunity to visit museums (such as the archaeological museum) or admire the architecture of the churches in an almost meditative calm.
We think it’s also the perfect time to discover the Algarve in a different way, away from the hustle and bustle of summer: take the time to chat with the locals, enjoy a more home-style cuisine, or take a trip into the hinterland without the crowds. You’ll return refreshed, with a more intimate and authentic image of Albufeira.
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)
Where to stay in the Algarve (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha (coming soon)
Things to do in Lagos (coming soon)
Things to do in Portimao (coming soon)
Things to do in Albufeira (coming soon)
Things to do in Faro (coming soon)
