Best things to do in Albufeira
One of the main resorts of the Algarve, Albufeira promises a charming blend of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and lively streets.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira: Among Albufeira’s most popular viewpoints, Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira is the first choice as it offers fascinating views over the beach and the old town, both most exhilarating at sunset.
Sunset views from the cliffs: For stunning views of the sunset, walk to the cliffs near Praia da Falésia or Praia dos Aveiros. Bring a camera and take delightful photos of the cliffs bathed in warm sunlight. A feast for the eyes!
The best districts
Centro Antigo (Old Town): The old centre, with narrow cobbled streets, is a highly picturesque medley of whitewashed houses atop low sandstone cliffs facing a fantastic town beach. A must for relaxed wandering and people-watching.
The Strip (Areias de São João): For nightlife lovers, The Strip is the go-to place. It brims with bars, clubs and restaurants, perfect for experiencing Albufeira’s party scene.
Historical monuments
Torre do Relógio (Clock Tower): Visiting Albufeira and missing a look at its famous clock tower is almost a sin. Watching its unique structure made of wrought iron is most fascinating when lit up at night.
Sant’Ana Church: Gracing the old town, this small but beautiful church dates back to the 18th century and features a charming baroque façade. Walk inside to admire its elegant interior.
Museums
Archaeological Museum of Albufeira: This museum presents a well laid-out collection of artefacts from Neolithic times to the present. There are fragments of mosaics from a Roman villa, Visigothic rock tombs and jars, and even an Islamic silo excavated beneath the museum. A must for history buffs.
Day trips in the area
Benagil Cave: The tiny village of Benagil marks the start of a clifftop path that leads past an awesome sea cave, as large as a cathedral, with a hole in its roof, one of Portugal’s most photographed natural wonders.
Faro: Some 45km from Albufeira, Faro boasts a lovely old town, an oval of cobbled streets set within a run of sturdy walls. Picturesque bright-white houses are fronted by decorative balconies and tiling, a few now serving as antique shops, cafés or art galleries.
Silves: Just 45 minutes from Albufeira, Silves is known for its well-preserved red-brick Moorish castle, offering sweeping views over the town and surrounding countryside.
Activities for families in Albufeira
Albufeira is packed with family-friendly attractions, with something to suit every age group.
Theme parks: Albufeira is the nearest base to a couple of the Algarve’s best family-orientated theme parks. Located just 15 minutes from Albufeira, Zoomarine is an adventure park where visitors can watch dolphin shows, enjoy water rides, and even swim with the dolphins. Krazy World Zoo, around 13km north of the town, has crazy golf and traditional rides, a mini zoo-cum-petting-farm and a reptile zone complete with enormous pythons, crocodiles and a turtle city.
Boat tours: A boating tour is a unique way to show Albufeira to kids from the water. Your children will be ecstatic to take part in a dolphin-spotting cruise.
Swimming pools: Albufeira’s hotels and resorts usually have facilities with swimming pools where visitors can take a rest at the end of a hot day. Outside hotel premises are some water parks like the Aquashow Park where children will be on cloud nine.
Free things to do in Albufeira
Albufeira has a plethora of free attractions to offer, from street art, through outdoor markets to festivals.
Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman’s Beach): One of Albufeira’s top beaches, the Praia dos Pescadores, is free to access and offers stunning views of golden sands and turquoise waters.
Outdoor markets: Albufeira hosts various markets throughout the week, from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Wandering through the stalls and soaking up the local atmosphere costs nothing at all.
Street art in the Old Town: As you wander through the Old Town, check out the eye-catching colourful street art. Many walls and buildings showcase unique murals and designs, and having a look at them is totally free.
Free events and festivals: Albufeira hosts a wealth of free outdoor events throughout the year. Summer concerts at the Praia dos Pescadores bring live music, the Al-Buhera Festival in July celebrates local crafts, food and music, while Christmas and New Year’s Eve see concerts and fireworks displays along the beach.
Nature and outdoor activities in Albufeira
Albufeira has a lot to offer to travellers who are adventure-seekers or outdoors enthusiasts.
Hiking: The cliffs outside Albufeira are ideal for scenic hikes and jogging in the lap of nature. One can combine these activities with admiring the stunning views of the cliffs and vast ocean.
Birdwatching: Nature lovers will be delighted to visit the nearby Salgados Lagoon, famous for such bird species as herons and flamingos.
Water sports: Albufeira is a great destination for water sports lovers, with options including stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), jet skiing and kayaking.
Cycling: With scenic paths for beginners and experienced cyclists alike, Albufeira is ideal to explore by bike. Local bike rental shops offer mountain bikes and casual cruisers.
