Albufeira - Introduction

Albufeira is one of the Algarve's busiest resorts, a tourist destination well versed in the needs of holidaymakers. Once a sleepy Algarvian fishing village Albufeira has changed beyond all recognition and mushroomed into a fully fledged international resort with well equipped beaches, a massive choice of eating and drinking venues and plenty to keep families happy. Add in a flurry of enticing day trip options and this southern Portuguese resort has a lot going for it.

Who Goes There
Albufeira is a busy package tour resort that is very popular both with families looking for a relaxed week or two in the sun and 18-35 year-olds looking for a party. The majority of visitors are Western Europeans looking to enjoy the warm summers and mild winters.

Where in the World
The resort of Albufeira lies in the southwest of Portugal in the Algarve region. To the east are a string of sibling resort towns and the Algarve's main town and airport at Faro, while to the west are more resorts and beaches.

The resort hugs the main beach and what is left of the old fishing village, with ‘The Strip' out at Montechoro home to much of the nightlife action.

When to go
The climate in Albufeira is mild, with little rainfall and plenty of sun throughout the year, making it an ideal year-round destination. July and August are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F).

Beach
The Praia do Peneco is the town's main beach, reached through a tunnel from the old town. Local fishermen do still pull up their boats here, but much of the sand is given over to holidaymakers with sun loungers and parasols. A variety of watersports, including windsurfing and jetskiing, is available. To the west and east of Albufeira is a string of quieter beaches such as Balaia and Praia da Gale, with the latter particular popular for watersports.

Beyond the Beach
Albufeira's old town and its narrow streets just back from the main beach are worth exploring. They are home to a warren of small shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. In summer there are regular bullfights at the Praia da Oura bullring. Unlike in Spanish bullfighting the bull is not normally killed.

Family Fun
The beaches are the main attractions for families in the resort and many of the better hotels also have dedicated children's facilities such as children's clubs or creches. The out-of-town Alcantarilha Aqualand Algarve waterpark (Alcantarilha) (www.aqualand.pt) is the place to head for active family entertainment. This impressive complex boasts enough aquatic fun to keep even the most demanding of children occupied for at least half a day.

Retail Therapy
There are plenty of shops in the resort catering unashamedly for the passing holidaymaker trade with all sorts of beachwear and souvenirs. There are also supermarkets dotted in and around Albufeira. The most interesting shopping experience is at the Gypsy Flea market that is normally held just west of the resort centre on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

A Night on the Town
In and around the old town in the main resort there are plenty of bars, some on the waterfront overlooking the Atlantic. For no-holds-barred holiday fun head out to ‘The Strip' at Montechoro, a nefarious party zone with countless bars and clubs bashing out dance music and cheap drinks promotions late into the night. The accents are British and German rather than Portuguese, but they know how to provide everything their customers want.

Eating Out
Albufeira offers myriad venues serving up the fatty diet of burgers, cooked breakfasts and chips that is perennially popular with many holidaymakers. The old town also has a few more interesting options including restaurants offering the fresh seafood that the Algarve is so famous for. The Praia dos Pescadores is home to some decent seafood eateries.

Getting Around
The best way to get around the compact resort of Albufeira is on foot, with much of the old town pedestrianised. For those based at Montechoro taxis are a good way of travelling and there is also a limited bus network. Hire cars are a great way of getting out and exploring the surrounding countryside.

Exploring Further Afield
The inland town of Silves is a tempting day trip option. This charming settlement oozes history, which can best be appreciated at its landmark castle. Enjoy a coffee by the Arade river before strolling through the sleepy backstreets, and then indulge in a meal of spicy piri-piri chicken cooked on the grill as you sit overlooking the water. There are buses, trains and day trips to Silves from Albufeira.

Splashing Out
Hire a boat and a skipper for the day and head out into the Atlantic. You can enjoy a lazy lunch onboard as you are taken to an isolated sandy cove away from the crowds. The choice of where you want to go and what you want to do is yours, with the skipper on hand to provide real local insider options.

Flying In
Faro International Airport (FAO)

Albufeira Deals

Flights to Albufeira
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Hotels in Albufeira

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prices are per night based on two people sharing

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