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What are the Best Things to Do in Albufeira: A Coastal Paradise

Written on : 07 November 2025
By : Alexis Steinman
What are the Best Things to Do in Albufeira: A Coastal Paradise

Bathed in sunshine for most of the year, Albufeira is a lively coastal gem offering something for everyone. Its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and golden cliffs invite lazy days in the sun, while the charming Old Town, bustling marina, and seaside restaurants offer a taste of local culture. With its warm weather, vibrant nightlife, and endless outdoor adventures, Albufeira offers the perfect Algarve escape.

What is Albufeira like? Beach, culture, and charming villages 

What is Albufeira like? Beach, culture, and charming villages 

Albufeira is a famous coastal town that perfectly blends traditional charm, endless sunshine, and a laid-back lifestyle. Once a fishing village, it is now a vibrant destination offering a perfect mix of family-friendly activities, golden-sand beaches, and refined dining. Visitors can stroll through the historic Old Town, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or explore authentic, nearby towns. With its welcoming atmosphere and balance of relaxation and sophistication, Albufeira captures the very essence of the Algarve’s coastal allure.

Is Albufeira a good holiday destination? Beaches and seaside escapes

Is Albufeira a good holiday destination? Beaches and seaside escapes

Make the most of the sun in the summer months at Albufeira’s beautiful beaches. Praia do Evaristo, a sandy, Blue Flag beach, is nestled between low cliffs and pine trees. Its calm waters are ideal for families and water sports like snorkelling. For less crowds, head to Praia do Castelo, a 200-metre stretch of sand and small secluded coves surrounded by dramatic cliffs. For long walks and breathtaking sunsets, Praia da Falésia impresses with its golden sands beneath red cliffs. Meanwhile, Praia dos Pescadores, another Blue Flag favourite with gentle waves, sits steps from the Old Town.

Albufeira Old Town and nearby villages

Albufeira Old Town and nearby villages

The historic centre of Albufeira charms visitors with its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares filled with cafés and music. Wander through the Old Town (Baixa de Albufeira) to discover art galleries, local markets, and small boutiques showcasing regional crafts. Lined with colourful buildings, the marina has a lively contemporary atmosphere. 

Take a short, 30-minute drive to Loulé, a charming village known for its Moorish castle and crafts, including the Project Tasa artisan-designer collective. 30-minutes west of Albufeira, the little village of Silves has a distinctly Portuguese feel - the Moorish covered market is its main attraction.

Outdoor adventures and family fun

Outdoor adventures and family fun

Albufeira is a sun-drenched playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy horseback rides through orange groves and cork trees at Albufeira Riding Centre - a sunset ride on the beach is an unforgettable experience. Explore the coast on a kayak or boat tour, discovering hidden sea caves and pristine coves. Inland, tee off on scenic golf courses or take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside. Nature lovers can venture on a day trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park, a haven for birdwatching and peaceful walks amid lagoons and salt marshes. Your Villanovo concierge is happy to book these special activities for you. 

Gastronomy and local experiences

Gastronomy and local experiences

Albufeira's local gastronomy features traditional dishes like Piri-piri chicken, petiscos, and grilled fish.  Open June to September, Evaristo serves just-caught fish and seafood from the Atlantic Ocean - so fresh the menu changes daily. In an idyllic setting with stunning sea views, it is perfect for romantic evenings watching the sunset. O Marinheiro offers typical Portuguese classics with a modern touch at excellent value for the money. Both wine cellar and restaurant, Veneza is an impressive Albufeira institution with over 1000 bottles to pair with regional dishes like the famous cataplana seafood stew.  

Where to stay: Luxury villas to rent in Albufeira

Where to stay: Luxury villas to rent in Albufeira

From private pools to stunning sea views, discover a selection of our favourite villas in Albufeira. 

Villa Rikana Boasting a private swimming pool, jacuzzi, and direct access to the beach via a private path, this 6-bedroom villa is a good place for people looking to be close to town - its just 500 meters from shops and restaurants.

Villa Idillya: One of the exclusive villas located in the protected area beside Santa Eulalia, this 5-bedroom villa has family-friendly features like a cinema room, private pool, jacuzzi, and direct access to the beach, all while being within walking distance to town. 

Villa VermelhoBuilt in Belle Epoque style, this historical 4-bedroom villa in Armação de Pêra has superb sea views, large terraces, a heated pool, sauna, and access to the exceptional facilities at a nearby resort. 

Villa Montanha: In the heart of the Portuguese countryside in Boliqueime, this charming 6-bedroom villa features stunning views of the Malhao mountains, a swimming pool, garden, billiards, and a relaxation area. 

Weather and climate in Albufeira and the Algarve coast 

Albufeira enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. July sees average highs around 28°C, while the coolest month, January, stays pleasant at around 16°C. The moderate rainfall in winter keeps the landscapes green, but you can expect mostly sunny weather year-round, making Albufeira an inviting destination for any season. 

Villanovo in Albufeira: Exceptional stays and luxury concierge services  

Villanovo in Albufeira: Exceptional stays and luxury concierge services  

Our exclusive collection: 

Villanovo offers a wide range of luxury villas in Albufeira with direct access to the beach, heated swimming pools, sea views, on a golf course or a full house staff. Whether travelling with family, as a couple, or with a group of 12 people, you will find the perfect villa for your needs and desires. 

Find a villa rental for your Albufeira holidays in the most sought-after locations like Alporchinhos, Armação de Pêra, Galé, Olhos de Agua, and Pine Cliffs Resort, as well as nearby towns in the Algarve: Faro, Quinta Do Lago, and Sagres

A unique experience for your holidays in Albufeira, Portugal:

Thanks to Villanovo's concierge service, every stay becomes an exclusive experience: boat trips in the summer months, cultural excursions to discover the nicest part of the Algarve, private dinners for romantic evenings, boat tours from Albufeira, and family-friendly activities are organised according to your wishes. Before your arrival, you will receive a personalised travel diary with expert tips on what to do in Albufeira, including the best restaurants, shops, and activities.  

Discover Villanovo's selection of luxury villas for Albufeira

Villa Rikana

(7 reviews)
1 071 € - 2 035 € per night
12 6 6

Algarve - Albufeira

Villa Idillya

(4 reviews)
928 € - 1 857 € per night
-15%
10 5 5

Algarve - Albufeira