If you’re planning a trip to Albufeira, you may be wondering what the best things to do are while you’re there. Well, we’ve put together a list of our top picks!
It’s no secret that this Algarve-Coast whitewashed town is renowned for its beaches. From fine sands to action-packed adventure parks, Albufeira has it all.
1. Beaches
One of the main attractions of Albufeira is its beaches. They range from bustling family-friendly shorelines to beachfront bars and a lively party atmosphere.
Praia do Pescadores, the largest of the beaches in the centre of town, is a popular choice with locals as well as tourists. It’s also known for its beautiful sea stacks and beach caves, which can be explored through a boardwalk.
Located at the base of Albufeira’s New Town, Oura beach is lined with trendy beach bars and is busy during high season. However, a 10-minute walk leads to the quieter sands of Oura Leste.
Another interesting beach is Olhos de Agua, which features geological springs. These are discharges of freshwater from underground lines in the area, which create turbulence in the water.
2. Old Town
The charming Old Town of Albufeira, the historic centre of this once quiet fishing village, has remained largely unspoiled by tourist development. It’s a series of traditional Portuguese streets and plazas, with a selection of boutique shops & restaurants.
The tree-shaded main square, Jardim Publico de Albufeira, is a hub of activity throughout the day and evening. Here you can eat at any one of the alfresco dining venues and sit back to soak up the local atmosphere.
The main beach of Albufeira, Praia dos Pescadores, is sheltered and calm enough to allow for sunbathing and swimming. The fisherman’s beach also features many oceanfront restaurants and cafes for a great day out on the water.
3. Marina
Albufeira's marina is a major attraction and offers a range of activities for all tastes. Here you can explore the sea on a boat trip or book a diving excursion.
There are plenty of restaurants around the Marina to choose from, most of them serving typical Portuguese food. You can also try international cuisine if you're looking for something different.
The marina also has some fun activities for kids. There's a bowling & leisure centre, a karting track (hot wheels), shops with swimming pool/beach toys and several ice cream shops.
4. Igreja Matriz
The Igreja Matriz in Albufeira is a landmark church with one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in the Algarve. Built in 1782, it replaced an older church that collapsed during the earthquake.
It has a single nave with four neoclassical side altars, finely decorated. It also houses a larger-than-life representation of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao.
Another church worth a visit is the Museu de Arte Sacra, housed in the old town on Praca da Republica. It exhibits sacred art recovered from churches that survived the 1755 earthquake and tsunami.
The marina is a popular jumping off point for adventure on the water, with sailing lessons and yacht charters available. If you're not in the mood to sail there are a number of companies offering kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard excursions.
5. Ponta da Baleeira
Ponta da Baleeira is a great viewpoint overlooking the beach, fishing port and rocky coastline. It's a short walk from the main town and a great way to see a little bit more of Albufeira.
The cliffs of this headland are one of the finest natural features in the Algarve and have been chiselled-out by savage winter storms. This scenic location is also great for long coastal walks along the sandstone cliffs.
If you want to get more out of your visit to the city, there are several sightseeing tours that will take you to some of the best sights in and around Albufeira. These range from the famous beaches to the Benagil caves and more.
