One of Portugal’s most popular seaside resorts, Albufeira is also an ideal starting point for exploring theAlgarve‘s wealth of cliffs, sea caves, hinterland, historical heritage and escapades to nearby cities. We were surprised by the diversity of excursions available from this city, and we’d like to share our top discoveries with you.
Use our practical tips and our many photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the best excursions from Albufeira, to help you make your choice.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Albufeira
Albufeira is ideally located for travelling between sea and mountains. To simplify your visits, you can opt for guided tours. You’ll also find our complete guide to the best excursions in the Algarve and our article on what to do in Albufeira to complete your program.
Here are our 3 favorite excursions:
- Watch Atlantic dolphins on a sailing trip – see all available options
- Sail to the Benagil Cave, one of Portugal’s most beautiful natural sites – see all available options
- Jeep safari in the Algarve mountains, for an immersion in the hinterland – see prices and book now
1. Dolphin watching from Albufeira
Why do we recommend this tour?
Meeting the dolphins of the Atlantic Ocean is one of the best excursions you can make from Albufeira. These cetaceans roam freely in the waters of the Algarve, and sea outings offer excellent observation conditions. We were impressed by how close we could get to the dolphins. The boats are accompanied by guides who share their knowledge of the local marine fauna.
What you will see
- Dolphins on the loose in the Atlantic Ocean
- The Algarve coastline and cliffs seen from the sea
- The region’s marine life, depending on the season
- The Benagil Grotto if the tour combines dolphin watching with a visit to the grotto.
How much time should I allow?
Outings generally last between 2 and 3 hours. Departures are from the port of Albufeira, preferably in the morning for optimum sea conditions. In summer, we advise you to book in advance.
>> See all dolphin excursions from Albufeira <<
>> Combined option: dolphins and Benagil cave <<
To find out more, read our article dedicated to dolphin excursions in the Algarve.
WHERE TO STAY IN Albufeira
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best Historic Hotel –
Boutique Hotel Vila Origens – See prices, photos and availability
Best Beachfront Hotel –
Hotel Sol e Mar – See prices, photos and availability
Best Luxury Hotel –
Pine Cliff Ocean Suites Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
2. Sail to the Benagil cave
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Grotte de Benagil is undoubtedly the most photographed natural site in the Algarve. Its circular vault, open to the sky, its shaft of light and its deep blue waters set it apart from the rest. From Albufeira, there are several ways to get there by sea. We particularly enjoyed navigating along the ochre cliffs before arriving in the grotto: each bend revealed a new rock formation, arch or cove otherwise inaccessible.
What you will see
- The Benagil Grotto and its famous skylight
- The ochre cliffs and rock formations of the Algarve coastline
- Other sea caves and secret coves accessible only by sea
How much time should I allow?
Several options are available, depending on your wishes and the time you have available. By catamaran or speedboat, allow between 2h30 and 3h. The 2h30 package combining caves and dolphin watching is also very popular. In summer, remember to book in advance.
- Catamaran tour of the coastline and Benagil Caves – see details and book now
- By speedboat (2h30), excursion to the caves and dolphin-watching – see details and booking
- See all Albufeira – Benagil options – consult all available excursions
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.
3. Explore the coastline by kayak
Why do we recommend this tour?
Kayaking is one of the best ways to discover the Algarve coastline up close to its rock formations. From Albufeira, this guided tour follows ochre and golden cliffs to secret beaches inaccessible by road. We particularly appreciate this format, which allows us to paddle through sea cavities, pass under natural arches and stop off in unspoilt coves.
What you will see
- The cliffs and rock formations of Albufeira’s coastline
- Hidden beaches accessible only by sea
- Explore natural caves and arches by kayak
How much time should I allow?
The excursion generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours. It is accessible to beginners and takes place in small groups accompanied by a guide. Book in advance in high season.
>> See program, prices and book <<
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4. Paragliding in the air
Why do we recommend this tour?
For a radically different perspective on the Algarve coast, parasailing offers a gradual ascent over the blue waters of the Atlantic. We recommend this activity to all those who want to combine thrills and panoramic views. It is suitable for all levels of experience, and can be practiced safely from a dedicated boat.
What you will see
- Albufeira’s coastline and beaches from the air
- A panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean
- The cliffs and coast of the Algarve from a unique perspective
How much time should I allow?
The activity lasts about 1 hour, including the flight. Departures are from Albufeira marina. Book in advance in summer, as places are limited.
>> See program, prices and book <<
5. Jeep safaris in the Algarve mountains
Why do we recommend this tour?
Far from beaches and seaside resorts, the Algarve’s hinterland boasts landscapes of great beauty: wooded hills, farming villages, rivers and panoramic views of the Serra do Caldeirão. A jeep safari is the ideal way to venture out, accompanied by a guide who knows the most memorable trails and viewpoints. We were surprised by the diversity of environments we crossed in just half a day, a striking contrast to the coastline.
What you will see
- The wild inland landscapes of the Algarve
- Authentic villages and hamlets off the beaten track
- Panoramic views of the hills and Serra do Caldeirão
How much time should I allow?
Two formulas are available: half-day or full-day in the mountains. The half-day is ideal for combining this excursion with an activity on the coast. Departure is from Albufeira.
>> Half-day jeep safari option <<
>> Full-day mountain safari option <<
6. Discover the historic west of the Algarve
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Algarve boasts a remarkable historical and architectural heritage that is often too little discovered from the seaside resorts. This guided day trip from Albufeira takes in the most emblematic heritage sites in the western part of the region. You can admire the small town of Silves or Cape Saint Vincent and its cliffs at Sagres.
What you will see
- Emblematic heritage sites in the western Algarve, including Cape St. Vincent, Silves and Sagres
- Villages and towns steeped in history
How much time should I allow?
This is a full-day excursion departing from Albufeira. Transport and guide included. Book in advance, especially in high season.
>> See program, prices and book <<
7. Explore the eastern Algarve
Why do we recommend this tour?
The eastern part of the Algarve is often overlooked in favor of the west, yet it offers landscapes, villages and heritage that are well worth a visit. This guided day trip from Albufeira allows you to discover this less-frequented region, with its agricultural plains, rice fields, salt marshes and pretty towns such as Faro and Tavira. We recommend this outing for those who want to get off the beaten track and better understand the diversity of the Algarve as a whole.
What you will see
- The landscapes and villages of the eastern Algarve, such as Faro and Tavira
- The cultural heritage of a region often overlooked by travellers
- A diversity of natural environments: plains, marshes and coastline
How much time should I allow?
Full-day excursion departing from Albufeira, transport and guide included. Allow a full day to enjoy it to the full.
>> See program, prices and book <<
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and Cliffs by Boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep Tour
8. Quad adventure in the Algarve countryside
Why do we recommend this tour?
Quad biking is another way of venturing into the Algarve’s hinterland, off the usual tourist routes. Aboard an all-terrain vehicle, you’ll cross the hills, dirt roads and natural areas of the Algarvian countryside. We like this format for the sense of freedom it gives us, and the possibility of accessing panoramas that would otherwise be difficult to access. A convivial activity, whether solo, in a group or with the family.
What you will see
- The countryside and hills of the Algarve hinterland
- Natural landscapes accessible only off-road
- Views of the region from the heights
How much time should I allow?
The activity generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours. It is supervised and accessible to all levels. Departure is from Albufeira or its immediate surroundings.
>> See program, prices and book <<
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9. Culture and shopping day in Lisbon from Albufeira
Why do we recommend this tour?
A 2h30 drive from Albufeira, Lisbon is an ideal getaway for those wishing to combine shopping and exploring the Portuguese capital. This guided day trip takes in the city’s shopping districts and landmarks. We recommend this outing for travelers staying several days in the Algarve and looking to diversify their program with urban and cultural immersion.
What you will see
- Lisbon’s emblematic shopping districts
- Historical and cultural sites in the Portuguese capital
How much time should I allow?
Full-day excursion departing from the Algarve, transport included. Allow 5-6 hours on site in Lisbon. A good option if you want to see the capital without changing the base of your stay.
>> See program, prices and book <<
Read our article dedicated to Lisbon here.
10. Day trip to Sevilla from Albufeira
Why do we recommend this tour?
Sevilla is one of Andalucia’s most architecturally and culturally rich cities. Its Gothic cathedral, the Nasrid Alcázar and the Santa Cruz district are all must-sees in southern Spain. From Albufeira, this guided day trip allows you to get there without worrying about the journey. We see this outing as a real added value to a stay in the Algarve, especially for travelers who want to combine Portuguese and Spanish Iberian culture in just a few days.
What you will see
- Sevilla Cathedral and the Giralda, a 15th-century Gothic masterpiece
- Sevilla’s Alcázar and its gardens, a royal residence of Nasrid and Mudejar architecture
- The historic district of Santa Cruz and its narrow streets
How much time should I allow?
Full-day excursion, including transport from the Algarve. The journey takes about 2 hours. Allow a full day to enjoy Sevilla without hurrying.
>> See program, prices and book <<
Read our article dedicated to Sevilla here.
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best excursion from Albufeira?
It all depends on what you want. For a sea experience, dolphin watching or a visit to the Benagil Cave are the two most popular excursions from Albufeira. If you prefer nature and adventure, jeep safaris in the Algarve mountains or kayaking along the cliffs are excellent alternatives. For a cultural getaway, a day in Sevilla or Lisbon combines travel with the discovery of a capital city. Alternatively, excursions to the historic east or west of the Algarve are ideal for those wishing to get to know the region better.
Is it possible to do excursions from Albufeira without a car?
Yes. Most of the excursions suggested in this article are guided activities that include transport from Albufeira. These include jeep safaris, day trips to Lisbon and Sevilla, and historic excursions in the eastern and western Algarve. For water-based activities such as kayaking, dolphin watching or the Benagil Cave, departures are direct from the Albufeira marina. If you want to explore the region on your own, a rental car is the most practical way to get around Albufeira.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
What to do in the Algarve
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
Best excursions
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in the Algarve
How many days?
Itineraries
Where to stay in the Algarve
Lagos, Portimao or Albufeira
Most beautiful hotels
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
