Albufeira, in southern Portugal, is one of the Algarve’s most energetic and popular coastal towns. Bathed in sunshine almost all year round, it’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking beautiful beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.
Once a quiet fishing village, Albufeira has grown into the Algarve’s largest resort town, offering a wide variety of hotels, hostels, restaurants, and activities. Whether you’re a family with kids, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a group of friends ready to party, Albufeira delivers. Yes, it’s one of those rare places where stag/hen dos and peaceful family holidays can coexist — and it works surprisingly well!
The nearest airport is Faro, just 40 km away, with connections all across Europe. All major low-cost airlines fly into Faro, and from there, you can easily reach Albufeira by car rental or airport transfer — you’ll find helpful links on our site.
Two Worlds: The Old Town & The Strip
Albufeira is like two destinations in one — and that’s part of its charm.
The Old Town
The historic heart of the city is near the famous Praia dos Pescadores. Here, you’ll stroll through cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and lively squares filled with street performers, shops, and family-friendly restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a seafood dinner, soak in the local vibe, and listen to live music as the sun sets.
The Strip
A couple of kilometers east, you’ll find “The Strip” — a lively area made for non-stop fun. With bars, nightclubs, karaoke joints, and beachside cafés, this is where stag and hen parties come to life. It’s loud, colorful, and unapologetically festive.
This separation of areas allows everyone to enjoy their own version of Albufeira — whether it’s peaceful and scenic or wild and electric.
Eating Out in Albufeira
Albufeira has one of the Algarve’s largest selections of restaurants and cafés — over 500 to choose from! You’ll find everything from authentic Portuguese cuisine to international dishes like Indian, Italian, and British classics.
Dining in Portugal is a slow and enjoyable affair. Expect your evening meal to last a couple of hours, especially with freshly cooked food. Even in tourist-heavy areas, many places maintain the Portuguese culinary tradition — and yes, that includes the heavenly cataplana de marisco and bacalhau in countless variations.
Pro tip: Portugal remains quite affordable compared to other European destinations like Greece or Spain. While Albufeira can be one of the pricier spots in the Algarve, it’s still very budget-friendly for most travelers. Tipping isn’t obligatory, but it’s appreciated.
Visiting Albufeira in Summer
Summer is Albufeira’s peak season — and it shows. The town buzzes with activity, beaches are full, and restaurants are bustling. For some, it might feel too crowded, but for others, it’s all part of the holiday energy.
Despite its popularity, Albufeira still feels more relaxed than other Mediterranean hotspots like Mallorca or the French Riviera. And with the rise of new resorts, Michelin-starred restaurants, and unique Algarve wines, it’s only getting better.
Travel tip: Book your flights and accommodation early — the best options sell out before Easter, and prices shoot up as summer approaches.
Albufeira Map
Popular hotels in Albufeira
Things to Do in Albufeira Beyond the Beach
Want to take a break from sunbathing? Albufeira offers boat tours to the Benagil Caves, dolphin-watching trips, jeep safaris through the Algarve countryside, and even wine-tasting experiences.
🧐 FAQ – All You Need to Know Before Visiting Albufeira
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Hotels
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Flights
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