A magnificent blend of old and new, Albufeira has wonderful views, golden beaches and a lively nightlife. With more than 20 enchanting beaches, hidden coves, tranquil green countryside and seafront kiosks this is the ideal opportunity for all ages and types of traveller to grab some fun in the sun. Temperatures peak around 30°C in the summer and rarely drop below 10°C in the winter, with temperatures even rising to 20°C in November. A popular all year-round destination, Albufeira is a 35km drive from Faro Airport, which takes around two-and-a-half to three hours to reach from the majority of UK airports year round.
More than 20 beaches and a variety of accommodation makes Albufeira appealing to all types of holidaymaker...
From retired couples to wild teens, families with young children to single adults, there is something for everyone in Albufeira with just about every type and grade of accommodation making this a very affordable holiday destination. It has one of the most renowned nightlife atmospheres in the Algarve region, making this an appealing holiday destination for partygoers, while business travellers will be attracted to the golf courses and abundance of bars and restaurants.
With such an expansive region to choose from, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a beach in Albufeira. The most popular is Praia d'Oura, which is just east of Albufeira Town, and is particularly renowned as the nightlife capital of the region with clubs, discos and bars galore. The Strip is famed for its many bars that keep visitors happy well into the early hours with clubs like Sir Harry's, Kiss and Capitulo. It should be noted that during the summer months Albufeira is especially popular with young singles and can be rowdy into the early hours.
Praia do Inatel is the old town's main beach with a huge boulder sitting in the sand, Praia dos Pescadores is a fisherman's beach filled with small fishing boats, while Praia do Forte do Sao Joao marks the end of the shoreline that sits on the old town beach. Watersports are popular along all of the main beaches, with jet skiing, windsurfing and sailing readily available. Further away from the old town, there are numerous other sands hidden between the rocky crags, including Praia dos Arrifes, which is the smallest beach in the region.
Albufeira Old Town has retained much of its heritage. Much like the rest of the Algarve, seafood dominates in the restaurants of Albufeira, including at La Ruina and Os Azeiteros, though if you fancy a full English breakfast you should head to Merlin's Snackbar. For shopping, the town's main plaza is the Modelo Centre in Rua de Municipio, though you could be tempted to reach into your wallet at some of the many seafront kiosks. The Algarve Shopping Complex in Guia is also vastly popular with restaurants, an English cinema and a bowling alley.
The old town centre draws many sightseers with local landmarks including the 18th century Parish Church at Rua da Igreja Nova, which was built on the site of earthquake, and the Clock Tower at Rua Bernardino de Sousa. There is also a museum and a number of galleries.
Golf is one of the main attractions for the Algarve and the Albufeira region is no exception. About three miles east of the old town is the nine-hole Pine Cliffs course and there are many larger courses dotted along the coastline, with stunning sea views. For those travelling with children, the Zoo Marine in Guia is well worth a visit.
