Albufeira

Travel Guide

A beach with a sunset, calm sea, and a boat in the distance.
A crowded beach with colorful umbrellas and people enjoying the water.
A coastal town with multi-story buildings, a sandy beach, and a rocky hillside.
A beach with people walking and playing, waves crashing onto the shore, and a cityscape in the background.
A bustling street in a Mediterranean town with white buildings, orange tiled roofs, and various shops and restaurants.

Relax on the beaches, explore the old town and eat tasty seafood in one of Portugal’s most popular vacation destinations.

Albufeira is a scenic coastal town where you can find some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches.Cool down with a swim in the ocean or feast on local cuisine at a beachside restaurant. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and visit the ruins of the castle. Shop for souvenirs in the town center and spend your evening in one of the many bars on “The Strip.”

There has been a town on the site of Albufeira since Roman times. In 1755, an earthquake destroyed much of the town but it was rebuilt. Today, this old fishing village is now one of the most thriving destinations on the Algarve.

Albufeira is famous for its spectacular beaches. Visit one of the main beaches, Praia dos Pescadores or Praia do Túnel, just a short walk from the center of town. If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, head to the coves, such as Praia de Gale to the west. When it’s lunchtime, follow the smell of barbecuing fish wafting from the beachside restaurants.

Head to the marina to see the famous, multicolored apartments that overlook the water. Enjoy a glass of local sparkling rosé and watch the boats go by or head out onto the water yourself. Several operators will take you on fishing or sightseeing tours around the coast.

Spend a day exploring the town. Shop for local souvenirs along The Strip, which is located about 2 miles (3 kilometers) west of the old town. Stay in this area into the evening to experience the party atmosphere.

Albufeira is located in the Algarve region of Portugal, 22.5 miles (36.3 kilometers) from the capital Faro. Albufeira is easy to explore on foot and with excellent links to nearby Faro airport, you don’t need to rent a car. The weather is mild year-round. Albufeira is a popular summer destination, so book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to come during this period.

Where to stay in Albufeira

Find the best Albufeira areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Albufeira
Learn more about Albufeira

Albufeira Old Town

Albufeira Old Town is a destination visitors seek out for is beaches, abundant dining options, and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Albufeira Old Town Square or Peneco Beach while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Albufeira Center

Travelers to Albufeira Center praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Albufeira Old Town Square and Peneco Beach.

Santa Eulália

If you're spending some time in Santa Eulália, Santa Eulalia Beach and Oura Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Peneco Beach

Peneco Beach is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Peneco Beach and Elevador do Peneco.

Correeira

While there might not be top attractions in Correeira, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Albufeira Old Town Square and The Strip.

Hotel Da Gale

Hotel Da Gale

2 out of 5
Largo Dos Luisadas Albufeira
Fully refundable
$38 nightly
The price is $44 total per night from Oct 11 to Oct 12
$44 total
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
5.4/10 (523 reviews)
"Terrible experience – do not stay here Our stay at Hotel da Galé was deeply disappointing and completely unacceptable even for the low price. Management and staff essentially bully guests when legitimate issues are raised, and to top it off, they refused to issue a refund. The maintenance and safety ..."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

Hotel Da Gale
EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel

EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel

5 out of 5
Praia da Falésia, Pinhal do Concelho Albufeira
$212 nightly
The price is $224 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$224 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (902 reviews)
"The property was so clean and well maintained, we’re talking Four Season hotel level of cleanliness. The staff was good no complaints at all. The beach was absolutely breathtaking! The beaches in that area are known to be some of the most beautiful on the Mediterranean, and that’s so true. Pools ..."

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2026

EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel
PortoBay Blue Ocean

PortoBay Blue Ocean

4 out of 5
Quinta do Milharó, s/n Albufeira Algarve
$125 nightly
The price is $133 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$133 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (132 reviews)
"Absolutely beautiful property and hotel. Breakfast was delicious and the restaurant both at the resort and sister resort were fantastic. Only negative thing I can say is the pool which is beautiful was to cold. The ocean was warmer than the pool."

Reviewed on Oct 1, 2026

PortoBay Blue Ocean
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Clube Albufeira Garden Village

Clube Albufeira Garden Village

4 out of 5
Estrada de Ferreiras-Alpouvar Albufeira
Stay at this aparthotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free parking, 4 outdoor pools, and 2 restaurants. Popular attractions Albufeira Old Town Square and Albufeira Marina ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (271 reviews)
"Great location, safe, clean and accessible."

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2026

Clube Albufeira Garden Village
Hotel Apartamento Brisa Sol

Hotel Apartamento Brisa Sol

4 out of 5
Do Municipio Lote 27 Albufeira
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (243 reviews)
"Not fancy but clean and well equipped. Nice pool and good breakfast. A little walk to the beach and the old town. Parking was good."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

Hotel Apartamento Brisa Sol
Cerro Mar Atlantico & Cerro Mar Garden

Cerro Mar Atlantico & Cerro Mar Garden

4 out of 5
Cerro do Malpique Albufeira
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Cerro Mar Atlantico & Cerro Mar Garden
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Albufeira attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Albufeira worth visiting?
Albufeira is worth visiting for its beautiful Falesia Beach and the historic Albufeira Old Town Square. Travelers can explore distinct areas like Albufeira Old Town and Santa Eulália, and enjoy a variety of European and Italian dining options.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Albufeira?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Albufeira depend on what you want to see:

  • Albufeira Old Town features historical sites like Castle Wall Ruins and the Municipal Archaeological Museum, alongside Peneco Beach.
  • Santa Eulália offers family fun at Parque Aventura - Albufeira, the Quinta da Balaia estate, and Santa Eulalia Beach.
  • Albufeira Center provides scenic views from Elevador do Peneco, Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira, and Miradouro Rossio.

What is Albufeira known for?
Albufeira is known for its lively Albufeira Old Town Square, offering a taste of European food culture. Travelers can also enjoy the beautiful Falesia Beach and the vibrant entertainment along The Strip. The city features distinct areas like Albufeira Old Town and Santa Eulália.
What is a good itinerary length for Albufeira?
A good itinerary length for Albufeira is three to four days to explore Albufeira Old Town Square, Falesia Beach, and The Strip. For an extended stay of five to seven days, travelers can enjoy a Private Morning Yacht Cruise from Albufeira Marina or an Algarve Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour, with time to discover areas like Santa Eulália. See Albufeira Activities.
How do you get around Albufeira?
To get around Albufeira, rental cars are available in Albufeira Center, offering flexibility for exploring the area. Travelers can also use the train, with service at Albufeira - Ferreiras Station. Rideshare services provide another convenient option for local travel.
What are the top things to do in and around Albufeira?
Albufeira offers a mix of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and exciting excursions:


How do I plan a trip to Albufeira?
To plan your trip to Albufeira, search for places to stay in areas like Albufeira Old Town or Santa Eulália. Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as a Private Morning Yacht Cruise or a Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour in advance. Explore attractions like Falesia Beach and The Strip, and visit Albufeira Old Town Square.
What cuisines can you find in Albufeira?
In Albufeira you can find Portuguese cuisine, featuring dishes like Bacalhau à Brás and Cataplana de Marisco. Travelers also have options for Mediterranean and Italian flavors, alongside various Asian choices such as Indian, Japanese, and Chinese. Seafood and steakhouses are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Albufeira?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Albufeira by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Albufeira with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Albufeira trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Albufeira?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Albufeira can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Albufeira trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Albufeira trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Albufeira trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Albufeira trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Albufeira?
If it's your first trip to Albufeira, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Albufeira hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Albufeira hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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