Holidays to Albufeira

Overview

As one of the leading tourism lights of the popular Algarve region, Albufeira is a diverse resort that attracts fun-seeking families, partygoing groups of friends and those simply looking for some well-earned relaxation. Enticing beaches attract many sun worshippers, and there are many fascinating Moorish and Roman sites you are likely to stumble upon quite by accident.

With it being in a coastal location, Albufeira is a warm city that never becomes too sultry, even when temperatures rocket towards 40°C. Of course, even if things do get a little too heated, there’s nowhere better to cool off in the water than here.

Beaches

In Albufeira, you have your pick of beautiful beaches to spend the day on. Praia de Pescadores, or Fisherman’s Beach, is an easily accessible area of sand and is popular with guests for its BBQ’d fish and variety of restaurants. Praia de Peneco slightly to the west of Fisherman’s Beach, is backed by picturesque whitewashed buildings and Oura Beach near the main strip, is a delightful, clean blue flag beach which is perfect for families.

Things To Do

The colourful marina is a great starting point for excursions and days out in Albufeira. Hop on a boat trip to take in the scenery of the coastline or head out on a dolphin safari to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. If you need more of an adrenalin rush, hire out a jet-ski or blast away on a rocket speed boat for an exhilarating ride on the waves.

If history is more your cup of tea, take a look at the remains of the Castle of Paderne, offering an insight into the Roman and Moorish past of this fascinating area.

Food And Drink

You would struggle to find anywhere in Algarve with the same number of culinary options as Albufeira, where Indian, Dutch, Italian and traditional English food are regularly served up. To make the most of the location, however, be sure to try some of the Portuguese and Mediterranean-themed eateries that use local ingredients to provide a treat for diners.

Meat and fish are staples of the Portuguese diet, and a number of local restaurants are famed for their enormous T-bone steaks. Due to the country's colonial influences, spices are often present too, so you might be treated to a sprinkling of paprika or piri piri sauce. In an area defined by the cost, locally sourced sea bass and other fresh fish can be enjoyed. The particularly adventurous might like to try conquilhas (Portuguese clams). Complemented with everything from garlic to white wine sauce, this is a dish that’s never the same twice.

In the Old Town, you’ll find a more traditional set up where local restaurants and trees line the pretty central square.

After sundown, most visitors looking for a good time head to the Albufeira Strip, although there are plenty of other gems dotted around the area. The Strip is the main place for late-night partying, with many bars and clubs owned by Brits, whereas those looking for something more quintessentially Portuguese might be better looking for pockets inside of the city.