Benagil Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal

Q: How to get to Albufeira?

To get to Albufeira from afar, the best option is to travel by plane . Your most convenient options are the international airports in Seville, Porto, Lisbon, and Faro . The Faro airport is the closest to Albufeira . Once you’ve arrived in one of the cities, the best way to continue your journey is by train . Albufeira does not have its own train station, but several nearby cities and towns such as Faro , Olhão, and Portimão do. The cities are also part of the Algarve region, and Albufeira is easily accessible from any of them. You can hire a car, drive your own, or take a taxi to your final destination. The distances are relatively short, and the prices are reasonable . Another option from Faro or surrounding cities is the bus . There’s a regular line that travels from Faro to Albufeira . The express service runs every 55 minutes . Its price is slightly higher than the standard line , which travels more slowly but runs more frequently. If you’re travelling from the south of Spain , which is the part of the country closest to the Algarve region, you’ll have to take the A-49 in Seville in the direction of Huelva . Once you reach the border with Portugal , take the A-22 until you reach Albufeira . The most common choice from northern Spain is flying , as it saves a lot of time. However, many first-time visitors to the Algarve prefer to take the train to Seville and continue their journeys from there.

Visit Albufeira in the Algarve, and enjoy the best, most paradisiacal beaches in the south of Portugal

Albufeira, Algarve
© Vítor Oliveira

Albufeira is one of the most visited cities in the Algarve region on the southern coast of Portugal. Thanks to its heavenly beaches, its charming old town, and its wide offering of activities, you’ll experience an unforgettable holiday like no other.

The biggest attraction of the area is, without a doubt, the beautiful beaches with their crystal-clear waters and fine white sands. In addition, the summer weather is stupendous, perfect for taking a refreshing dip in the water or going for a peaceful stroll along the magnificent coast.

Elevador Praia do Peneco
© Vítor Oliveira

Albufeira, Portugal
© Vítor Oliveira

Lo más destacable de esta localidad son, sin lugar a dudas, sus hermosas playas de aguas cristalinas y fina arena blanca. Además, el clima es estupendo en verano, perfecto para que puedas darte un baño refrescante o para que des un tranquilo paseo por esta magnífica costa.

But this part of the Algarve is not only special for its magnificent beaches. In Albufeira, you can try activities of all sorts, from interesting cultural visits to the best nightlife and party experiences. The variety of options comes from the city’s two very distinct areas: its beautiful historic centre and the modern Strip district. The variation in neighbourhoods and activities means that the city adapts perfectly to whatever you are looking for.

Visiting Albufeira’s central old town, you’ll relive the history of the streets of this beautiful city, whose adventures date back to the times of the Islamic Empire. One good way to visit Albufeira is to take a guided tour through its most iconic places and discover the fascinating history of this typical Portuguese city. Tours can be difficult to get, so walking through the centre on your own is also a very good option. What’s more, in this area you will also find numerous restaurants and local family-run stores ready to serve you as best as possible.

A short distance from the centre of Albufeira is the Strip, a modern neighbourhood where you can enjoy the best nightlife in all of Portugal. There, you’ll find countless themed bars, discos, and nightclubs that will allow you to enjoy some of the best parties you could imagine.

Albufeira also stands out for the many activities it has to offer. In the marina, you can do different boating activities like tours of the coast, dolphin watching, boat parties, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. You also have the opportunity to make day trips to fascinating places such as the historic city of Faro, the beautiful walls of Silves, and the wonderful market town of Loulé. And if you are a lover of water parks, there are several a few kilometres away from Albufeira. Slide & Splash stands out among the rest, with huge slides, canals, and attractions with floats. Without a doubt, it’s a trip that you will enjoy to the fullest.

As the most visited city in the Algarve region, Albufeira has everything you might look for in a visit. You’ll find bars and restaurants with delicious traditional and local food. The local dishes stand out for their spectacular meats (pork and lamb) and grelhados (grilled) fish like mackerel, salmon, sea bream, and sea bass. You’ll find exquisite seafood of all kinds, including the region’s wonderful cod prepared in thousands of different ways and its delicious cataplanas, delicious stews based on vegetables, fish, or seafood. You will also find a multitude of accommodations of all kinds where you can relax and enjoy the best services. It all comes together to make your trip to Albufeira an unforgettable experience.

Index

What to see in Albufeira?
What are the best beaches in Albufeira?
What to do in Albufeira?
What are the best excursions from Albufeira?
When is the best time to visit Albufeira?
How to get to Albufeira?
Where are the best places to stay in Albufeira?

What to see in Albufeira?

The enormous beauty of Albufeira has made it one of the most visited destinations in the south of Portugal. You’ll be drawn in by the heavenly beaches, beautiful historic centre, and spectacular nightlife that make the city a perfect place for a visit.

Praia dos Pescadores, Albufeira
© Vitor Oliveira

Its magnificent beaches are definitely worth a visit. Albufeira has 20 kilometres of beaches, including 2 kilometres of completely uninterrupted coastline. The area is typically divided into three distinct beaches: Praia dos Pescadores Beach, Praia do Peneco Beach, and Praia do Inatel Beach. These three beaches are recommended if you don’t want to stray too far from the city centre. All three are connected and have plenty of sandy spaces to walk and explore. Praia dos Pescadores is a Blue Flag beach, and Praia do Peneco has a 28-metre-high lift that connects the city to the beach and offers unparalleled views of the entire coastline.

In addition to its beaches, Albufeira’s beauty is hidden throughout the streets of its fantastic old town. Despite its small size, the historic nucleus has a considerable number of monumental buildings that will surprise you with their great charm.

One of the most iconic buildings in the centre of Albufeira is the beautiful Igreja de São Sebastião Church, rebuilt in the 16th century in a mix of different architectural styles. You will be surprised by its curious Baroque façade, its Manueline side door, and, inside, the altarpiece of Nossa Senhora da Piedade and the beautiful polychrome dome.

Another beautiful church that you should visit is the Igreja de Sant’Ana, which has a monumental Baroque façade and a spectacular dome surrounded by pinnacles. Inside, you can take in the wooden altarpiece made by the masters João Baptista and Francisco Xavier Guedelha. You’ll also see a wooden sculpture of the crucifixion of Christ and the altarpiece of Nossa Senhora das Dores in its curious chapel.

Right in the centre of the city, the Igreja Matriz stands out. The cosy 18th-century church has a Neoclassical interior, an attention-grabbing triumphal arch, and a marvellous Rococo chapel that will leave you impressed. Inside the chapel, there is a massive image of the patron saint of Albufeira, Nossa Senhora de la Conceição, which measures at least 2.4 metres high.

In addition to the churches, Albufeira’s clock tower stands out. It’s an old tower that can be spotted from almost anywhere in the city due to its height. It’s a great idea to climb up to its highest point. From there, you’ll have spectacular views of the whole city of Albufeira.

Another must-see is the Albufeira Municipal Museum of Archaeology. Located in Praça República Square, where the old town hall stood, it’s a comprehensive museum that will give you a better understanding of Albufeira's fascinating history. The exhibition focuses on four periods of the city's history: prehistoric, Roman, Islamic-Visigothic, and modern times. You will also find various temporary exhibitions that are sure to catch your attention.

The Albufeira marina is also worth a visit. It was inaugurated in 2003 and has large green areas designed for strolling and relaxation. Its harbour can accommodate more than 475 boats.

The historic centre itself is very beautiful, and it’s worth spending some time walking around there during your visit. In a short period of time, you can walk through the main streets that compose the city centre. In particular, 5 de Outubro Street (named for the 1910 revolution that started the First Portuguese Republic) is a pretty pedestrian street where you will find a large number of bars and shops.

What are the best beaches in Albufeira?

Albufeira has an impressive 20 kilometres of stunning coast with crystal-clear water and fine-sand beaches. As well as taking pleasant walks along the coast, relaxing in the sun, and cooling off with a swim, you can also discover unique natural spaces and a wide range of aquatic activities that will allow you to enjoy the coast in this area of the Algarve to the fullest.

Praia da Falésia, Albufeira, Algarve
© Vitor Oliveira

One of the longest beaches is Praia da Falésia Beach. The sandy stretch of over 6 kilometres is flanked by a series of ochre and white cliffs dotted with several green areas of pine trees, creating a spectacular panorama of great natural beauty. Its beauty makes Praia da Falésia an ideal place to sunbathe or stroll along the shore enjoying the natural scenic beauty of the beach and the cliffs.

Another stretch of the coast that you should visit is a stretch of 2 kilometres of uninterrupted coastline. There are three beaches on this part of the coast: Praia dos Pescadores Beach, Praia do Peneco Beach, and Praia do Inatel Beach. They are the closest beaches to the centre of Albufeira, and they’re ideal for having a rest in nature after visiting the city.

A bit further from the centre, you’ll find Praia Olhos de Água, located in a small traditional fishing village. The beach’s name comes from the beautiful freshwater springs that rise up in the sandy area and are visible next to the sea at low tide. On Praia Olhos de Água, you will be surprised by beautiful rock formations that create exotic arches, inlets, and small sheltered coves. It is a very popular beach, as it has an urban and tourist atmosphere. Next to the beach, there is a pretty square and a beautiful promenade adorned with palm trees, ideal for a stroll with a view of the sea.

If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, Praia da Oura is the place for you. Located next to the Strip neighbourhood, it has the best bars and nightclubs in the area. Praia da Oura is one of the busier beaches and a preferred spot for the younger crowd looking to have fun. It also hosts a variety of aquatic sports that you can try. Overall, it’s one of the best places to have a good time in this part of the Algarve.

You’ll find the opposite atmosphere at Praia dos Salgados, one of the most tranquil beaches in Albufeira. You’ll enter an incredible landscape with beautiful dunes and cliffs that will amaze you. Praia dos Salgados is the ideal beach for sunbathing, cooling off with a refreshing swim in the beautiful waters, or strolling along its extensive sand and enjoying the fantastic views. You may even see the occasional migratory bird characteristic of the area, such as the famous flamingo, which can be found in a well-known lagoon on the outskirts of the beach.

Another can’t-miss beach is Praia de São Rafael, a beautiful hidden cove where you will also find a truly tranquil atmosphere. It is surrounded by spectacular brightly-coloured rock formations and by extraordinary turquoise waters. Among the rock formations, Ponte Pequena and Ninha das Andorinhas stand out. Praia de São Rafael is a wonderful place that you should not forget to visit on your tour of the coast of Albufeira.

The beaches listed are only some of the many beaches to enjoy in this part of the Algarve. If you want to make the most of your visit to Albufeira, you should also visit Praia de Coelha, Praia dos Arrifes, Praia do Castelo, and Praia de Santa Eulália. They’re magnificent beaches that will put the finishing touch on your tour of the beaches of southern Portugal.

What to do in Albufeira?

As an area with a lot of tourist activity, Albufeira has endless activities for visitors to do. The plan that you absolutely can't miss is walking through the beautiful streets of the city. Stroll through its wonderful old town and visit beautiful churches such as the Igreja de São Sebastião, the Igreja de Sant'Ana, and the Igreja Matriz, and visit the centrally located 5 de Outubro pedestrian street.

Another plan that’s very popular with visitors to Albufeira is touring its iconic beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters surrounded by massive rock formations and cliffs. Among the famous beaches, you’ll see Praia da Falésia, Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Peneco, Praia do Inatel, Praia Olhos de Água, Praia da Oura, Praia dos Salgados, and Praia de São Rafael.

Beyond being the perfect places for sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the shore, the beaches are also known for all kinds of interesting maritime activities. Enjoy fabulous boat trips, dolphin watching, tours of the fantastic caves in the area, or go for a ride on a pirate ship or a motorboat. Don't hesitate when making the most of your visit to Albufeira! Take advantage of your opportunity to take part in these unique activities that are sure to entertain you and stick with you for a long time.

You can also practise exciting water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, surfing (very popular in the area), and paddleboarding. Above all, there is the characteristic activity of parasailing, an amazing activity that consists of flying with a parachute towed by a motorboat. The unique activity is ideal if you are a lover of thrills and excitement.

For the party crowd, Albufeira is known for its unparalleled nightlife. You’ll find it in the lively neighbourhood of the Strip, which has endless bars, nightclubs, gambling halls, and beach bars. You’ll be able to party until the early hours of the morning and have the time of your life. If you're looking for a good time, this is the place for you.

Albufeira also has a number of water parks that are ideal for families or for those who like thrill rides. One of the highlights is Zoomarine, where you'll enjoy a mix of a water park and a marine life centre specialising in dolphins. The most impressive of the water parks is Slide & Splash, with huge slides and wild rides. The parks are a great option if you're looking for fun.

Another activity that’s a hit with many of the tourists visiting Albufeira for holidays is the quad tour. It’s a 40 kilometre, 2 hour tour that takes visitors past some of the most outstanding and attractive spots in the Algarve town.

Finally, you can’t visit Albufeira without sampling the area’s exquisite cuisine. You should visit the bars and restaurants and try out the delectable local traditional food. Make sure to try out the spectacular grilled (grelhados) meat and fish dishes and the delicious cataplanas. The cuisine of this part of the Algarve is always scrumptious, so if you’re a food lover, this is the place to be.

What are the best excursions from Albufeira?

Near Albufeira, less than 30 kilometres away, is Faro. In Faro, the beautiful capital of the Algarve, you will discover some unforgettable places. The city's main attraction is its beautiful historic centre, also known as the Old Town, where you can admire its cobblestone streets, centuries-old walls, and lively squares. In addition, the city is home to all kinds of fascinating monuments, as well as a boat trip along the iconic Ria Formosa.

The main icon of the city of Faro is its imposing cathedral, the Sé de Faro. Built in 1251 on the site of an ancient Roman temple, today the cathedral showcases a mixture of architectural styles. From the top of its bell tower, you will enjoy splendid views of the surroundings. You can even catch a glimpse of the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve islands, considered Faro's greatest treasure. Of all the entrances to the city, you must see the Arco da Vila, undoubtedly the most beautiful of all the entrances.

Also near Albufeira is the city of Portimão. Just 30 kilometres away, the beautiful fishing town has a wonderful historic centre and stunning beaches that will draw you in. Strolling through its streets, you can admire the Praça da República, the Jardim 1º Dezembro, and the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição. Walk along the Ribeirinha, the city’s quiet promenade, and definitely visit Praia da Rocha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

A bit further, about a 45-minute drive from Albufeiera, is the small city of Tavira. Considered one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve, the city has beaches of fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. There is also a charming fishing port and monuments such as a mediaeval castle and the well-known Igreja de Santa María do Castelo. Tavira is also a wonderful place to eat, so make sure to try its most iconic dishes, especially the delicious sardine pâté.

In just an hour’s drive from Albufeira, you can reach Sagres, the southwesternmost point in Europe. You'll be amazed by its huge fortress, the town's iconic landmark, and the peaceful atmosphere of the town. It is another ideal place to practise sports such as hiking, climbing, or surfing, surrounded by a landscape full of nature.

Another unique and fabulous excursion is a visit to Praia da Marinha Beach. Located in Lagoa, about a half-hour drive from Albufeira, Praia da Marinha is one of the most famous beaches in Portugal and an emblem of the Algarve. The Michelin Guide ranked it as one of the 10 best beaches in Europe and one of the 100 best in the world. Praia da Marinha is famous both for its fabulous cliffs and for the high quality of its waters.

Another excursion that will blow you away is a visit to the Benagil and Carvoeiro caves. Located just 5 kilometres from each other and about a half-hour drive from Albufeira, the two towns offer you the chance to visit a landscape like no other. The best thing to do is to take a day trip to both towns. From town, you can take a small boat to tour the amazing interiors of the caves and sea grottos. The landscapes are truly a sight to behold, and your trip will no doubt create lasting memories.

When is the best time to visit Albufeira?

Albufeira has the ideal climate for a summer visit, as in winter it is likely to be cold, and the beaches are the Algarve's quintessential natural resource. The activities on the beaches are well worth trying, such as water sports, which are very popular and fun. Algarve is an Arabic word meaning 'land where the sun sets', so this destination is the perfect blend of nature, beach, and fun at its best.

Another great option is to visit Albufeira (or the broader region of the Algarve) in September. Though the weather is still perfect then, the heat isn’t quite as strong as in July and August. You’ll also be able to take better advantage of everything there is to do; the number of tourists decreases in September after the summer travel season, meaning that the beaches and tourist spots will be less crowded. If September doesn't suit you, the same is true for the month of May.

Most of the festivals that are celebrated are in honour of saints and celebrated figures in Catholicism. If you are planning a trip to Albufeira in August, you will get to enjoy the atmosphere on the 14 and 15 of the month, when the festivities honouring Nossa Senhora da Orada are held. There is a procession each year. It’s similar to those common in other Christian countries, with the difference that it takes place at sunset, making you experience a magical and unforgettable moment.

A few weeks later, around 3 September, Albufeira celebrates the feast of Beato Vicente de Albufeira (Blessed Vincent of Albufeira). Also known as Saint Vicent of Albufeira, he was born in the town in 1590 and has a statue in his honour there. During the celebration, the streets are filled with music and a festive atmosphere that will make you feel like one of the locals.

The annual Festa da Cenoura (Carrot Festival) deserves special mention as well. The carrots are purple, as they were before their colour was changed to orange to make them more visually appealing. The locals of the region place great value on the vegetable, which is considered an important part of their culinary culture. It is common to visit a bar and be served carrots seasoned with vinegar and parsley as a snack or starter.

How to get to Albufeira?

To get to Albufeira from afar, the best option is to travel by plane. Your most convenient options are the international airports in Seville, Porto, Lisbon, and Faro. The Faro airport is the closest to Albufeira.

Once you’ve arrived in one of the cities, the best way to continue your journey is by train. Albufeira does not have its own train station, but several nearby cities and towns such as Faro, Olhão, and Portimão do. The cities are also part of the Algarve region, and Albufeira is easily accessible from any of them. You can hire a car, drive your own, or take a taxi to your final destination. The distances are relatively short, and the prices are reasonable.

Another option from Faro or surrounding cities is the bus. There’s a regular line that travels from Faro to Albufeira. The express service runs every 55 minutes. Its price is slightly higher than the standard line, which travels more slowly but runs more frequently.

If you’re travelling from the south of Spain, which is the part of the country closest to the Algarve region, you’ll have to take the A-49 in Seville in the direction of Huelva. Once you reach the border with Portugal, take the A-22 until you reach Albufeira. The most common choice from northern Spain is flying, as it saves a lot of time. However, many first-time visitors to the Algarve prefer to take the train to Seville and continue their journeys from there.

Where are the best places to stay in Albufeira?

As a popular city that receives many visitors, Albufeira has all types of accommodation you can imagine, meaning you’ll find something to perfectly suit your needs. You will find options from 5-star complexes with all services included to simpler central flats, as well as accommodation a little further away from the centre in a more natural environment.

If you’re planning a romantic couple's getaway, one excellent option is the 4-star Falesia Hotel. Located just a 15-minute walk from the beach, the fantastic hotel is classified as “Adults Only” to ensure tranquillity and privacy for couples who choose to stay there. Its incredible services are designed for absolute enjoyment and relaxation. It has indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, and a Turkish bath. Customers especially highlight the evening entertainment, describing it as spectacular.

However, the jewel of Albufeira is the 5-star luxury hotel complex Pine Cliff Gardens. This divine resort has room for you, whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or as a family; it is so large that there is room for everyone to relax and have fun. Located just 650 metres from Praia da Falesia, it features two swimming pools, a spa and a bar. Guests also have access to a golf course, tennis, soccer, water sports, and even a children's playground. The complex and all of its wonderful amenities are located just 9 kilometres from the historic centre of Albufeira.

A slightly simpler option is to stay in the heart of Albufeira for a moderate price at the 3-star Vila Algarvia Boutique & Suites. The establishment is about 200 metres from Peneco Beach, 300 metres from Albufeira's historic centre square, and 500 metres from Pescadores Beach. In addition to being surrounded by the most popular points of interest in the city, it is perfectly equipped and adapted for people with reduced mobility and includes optional transport to the airport to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

However, if you prefer the privacy and independence of a flat, Vale de Carros is the accommodation you are looking for. Located in a beautiful mountain area, the flats are 2.5 kilometres from the spectacular Praia de Falesia. You can use the tennis courts and enjoy a swimming pool to cool off whenever you feel like it. The rustic style flats each have a terrace, kitchen, dining room, and bathroom. You can easily access the area of bars and restaurants, which is only 600 metres away.

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