Albufeira: from fishing village to beaches between the cliffs
Albufeira grew out of a fishing village and is now one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve, with an old town of narrow streets and white houses that still feels different from the resort area around it.
The old town
The original core of Albufeira sits on a hill, with cobbled streets, a parish church and viewpoints over the sea. A tunnel cut through the rock links the centre to Praia dos Pescadores, a 20th-century solution to the access problem the cliffs always posed for the village.
Beaches between the cliffs
East and west of the centre there is a run of small and medium beaches separated by cliffs: coves reached by steps, caves visible from the sand, and, further east, wider stretches of sand such as Praia da Falésia, close to Vilamoura. Each has a different feel, from the liveliest to the quietest.
Beyond the beach
For a change of pace, there are boat trips along the coast to see caves and rock formations, and a seafront walkway linking several beaches on foot. Inland, the landscape turns to hills of almond and carob trees.
Food in the area
In Albufeira you will find everything, from traditional grilled fish to international kitchens, the result of decades of welcoming visitors from all over the world. For something more traditional, look for fresh seafood and cataplanas away from the busiest strip.
Getting there and parking
Albufeira has good motorway and national road connections to the rest of the Algarve. The old town has pedestrian areas, so the most practical option is to park in one of the car parks on the edge of the centre and continue on foot.
Best time to visit
In summer, Albufeira is one of the busiest parts of the Algarve; for more peace and quiet, spring and autumn keep the good weather with far fewer people on the beaches and in the old town.
Where to stay and what to book
Albufeira has one of the largest accommodation offerings in the Algarve, from apartments in the centre to resorts by the beach. To find accommodation and experiences in the region, such as boat trips along the coast, visit Algarve Férias, and to see the ratings of homes and experiences, Algarve Reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Is the old town of Albufeira still worth seeing? Yes, it keeps the layout and feel of a fishing village, even surrounded by a larger resort area.
Is it easy to walk from beach to beach? In several areas yes, via steps and boardwalks along the cliff, but check each beach’s access before you go.
Videos from our channel
The Algarve Video channel has filmed this place. Watch it here:
