11 Best Things To Do In Albufeira, Algarve

Are you looking for the best things to do in Albufeira, in Portugal’s Algarve?

Do you need recommendations for where to eat and what to see in Albufeira?

Well, in this post, I’m sharing the top things to do, eat and see in Albufeira to help make the most of your trip to the Algarve – so keep reading!

Algarve: The Jewel of Southern Portugal

I’ve been to the Algarve a number of times, and every time I am blown away by its beauty.

The Algarve region is the jewel of southern Portugal.

With stunning coastlines, jaw-dropping sea caves and cliffs, and beautiful weather year-round, the Algarve will capture your heart. The region is packed with charming villages and golden beaches for days.

There are so many beautiful beaches and towns to visit – and if you’re anything like me, you want to avoid tourist traps as much as possible.

And beyond the tourist paths, you might be wondering what to do, where to go and what to eat in the Algarve – so this guide is for you!

Where is Albufeira in the Algarve?

Albufeira is a coastal city in the southern Algarve – and it’s the ideal base for exploring the coastline.

Formerly a fishing village, Albufeira now a major holiday spot, with sandy beaches and busy nightlife.

Albufeira’s modern marina isn’t just for local fishermen, either – it’s the jump-off point for diving, dolphin-watching and boat tours.

Albufeira is the perfect base for getting around the Algarve by car or by boat – though I’d recommend staying away from the Marina if you’re keen to avoid crowds and tourist traps, since there’s a big strip there full of bars, clubs, arcaders and restaurants!

If you’re wanting peace and quiet, Albufeira Old Town is a great and much calmer place to stay.

Where is the best place to stay in Albufeira?

Just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Albufeira, Algarve? Here are my top picks, by category:

Where to stay in Albufeira to avoid tourists?

I stayed near the Marina in Albufeira – which, honestly, is very busy and full of tourists. I’d recommend staying in Albufeira Old Town or the beautiful Carveiro for a slice of peace.

I’d definitely recommend an Airbnb or small apartment where possible if you want to encounter as few tourists as possible in the summer months. If you’re after a town in the Algarve that’s more sleepy and chill, check out Alvor.

Avoid New Town AT ALL COSTS unless you want to be drained by flashing club lights and hordes of tourists in peak season!

What’s the best way to get around the Algarve?

Driving is hands-down the easiest way to get around the Algarve. Parking is free at most beaches and towns, renting a car is really affordable, and it’s way more efficient to visit different places if you’re driving.

You can also leave your beach bags and parasol in the trunk of your car while exploring. I rented an automatic car at Faro Airport, this time from Sixt, but have previously rented with Hertz and Avis when road-tripping the Algarve from Lisbon Airport.

Should you drive around the Algarve?

Driving around the Algarve gives you so much more freedom, it saves time waiting for public transport, and you get to cover way more ground than you could on foot. In Portugal they drive on the right-hand side.

I recommend getting full insurance coverage if you plan to go off-road. Also, when driving on motorways, opt to have a transponder put in and hooked up to your credit card so it’ll automatically pay your toll fees on the highways. In 7 days we drove through 3 tolls – I was charged about €8.

That said, if you don’t drive, you can easily take buses and trains in the Algarve, and buy either a three-day or seven-day public transport pass.

Ubers and local taxis are also available all over the coast. Now let’s get into the guide!

11+ Epic Things to Do In Albufeira, Algarve

1. Do a sunrise kayak tour to Benagil Cave

All along the Algarve coast, there are countless caves created by the constant encounter of the sea with the rocks. Benagil Cave, or Algar de Benagil in Portuguese, is one of the most beautiful geological marvels… and it’s only accessible by water!

You’ve got to take a kayak, SUP (paddle board) or do a boat tour to safely access the inside of the cave.

We did a sunrise kayak session and enjoyed peachy-pink dawn on the water (which was cold). When you’re inside the sea cave, on the beach, you can look up to the open sky!

What time should you go to Benagil Cave?

Depending on sea conditions, it only takes between 5 and 10 minutes to kayak to Benagil Caves. It was beautifully still and calm at 7am – but by 9am the waves were so choppy! I’d recommend kayaking with a buddy if you’re not confident on the water. I’d also suggest kayaking in the early morning so you can be one of the first in there. It’s a meatmarket by 9.30am! Afterward, warm up with a toastie and coffee at a nearby cafe!

Don’t fancy getting wet?

If you’d rather stay on land, you can walk to the top of the cliff and peer into Benagil Cave through the fenced sinkhole from above.

The walking trail by the cliffs is very beautiful and it will take you both to Praia do Carvalho and to Praia da Marinha, two gorgeous beaches that I adored.

Top Tips for visiting Benagil Cave:

• Choose a smaller boat tour as bigger boats don’t allow you to explore the cave.
• Remember to bring a waterproof, wide-angle camera like a GoPro or a water-resistant pouch for your smartphone to capture the magic.

2. Take a Dolphin-Watching and Coastline Tour from Albufeira

I love dolphins, and the Algarve is full of them. I think one of the most thrilling things to do in Albufeira is jumping on a dolphin-watching and coast tour on a group speedboat or private catamaran!

The speedboat tours give you a much more intimate experience, as you can get up close and personal to nature with a maximum of 18 people on board, as opposed to a huge, heaving party boat. As the sun rises over the shimmering Atlantic, you’ll board a boat and set out into the open waters of the Algarve. The thrill of spotting graceful dolphins in their natural habitat is next-level. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready to capture those pods!

Our sunrise boat tour guide was hilarious. Gustavo, our guide, pointed out all the most popular spots along the stunning coastline, highlighted interesting rock formations, and shared facts in a funny way.

All the boats were very respectful of one another and worked together to find dolphins – this tour was the closest I’ve ever been to wild dolphins so I was buzzed. The dolphins swam beneath our boat and a pod frolicked all around us. It was well worth the 30 minutes of sailing around.

Consider booking a private catamaran tour for a more intimate experience where you can get up close and capture stunning photos.

Top Tip:

• Best chances for dolphin sightings are in the morning; bring binoculars for a closer look.
• Consider a private catamaran tour for a more intimate experience and better photo opportunities.
• I’d recommend bringing a towel or jumper if you plan to swim, as it can get chilly sailing around.

 

3. Do a Sunrise Hike on the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail from Praia da Marinha

If you love adventure and breathtaking vistas, the Sunrise Hike on the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail is an absolute must.

Nestled between Portimão and Albufeira, this 6km (3.5 miles) trek takes you along cliffside paths, offering unrivaled panoramic views of the dramatic Algarve landscape. I adored this hike because we were all alone and got the rugged coastline to ourselves while the sun was coming up.

The overall hike (return included) is about 12 kilometres (or 7.4 miles), and takes about 4-6 hours to complete on the full route. It’s moderately challenging. I’d recommend starting the trail at Praia da Marinha’s parking lot as the best views are in that area; you’ll have a great time even if you only do the first part of the hike. On that note, see my next recommendation!

Top Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring along a small backpack stocked with water, sunblock and snacks to keep your energy up. Starting early not only means cooler temperatures but also means the trails will be crowd-free for a while. I’d recommend a sturdy tripod if you’re planning to shoot photos or videos too – it gets pretty windy up there!

4. Cliff Walk on Praia de Marinha (or Praia da Mesquita)

If you’re trying to chill in the Algarve and be on holiday, rather than a pro hiker, then I’d recommend doing a gentle cliff walk from Praia de Marinha’s parking lot up to the Arcos Naturais da Praia da Marinha (elephant formation) and back. There are marked paths you can follow for a leisurely stroll.

With its striking limestone formations, and beautiful beach, Praia de Marinha is one of the Algarve’s best beaches (and it’s heaven for photographers).

The rugged orange and gold hues of the cliffs contrast beautifully with the clear blue waters below.

Top Tip: Same as above, I’d recommend arriving in the morning or late afternoon when the soft sunlight brings drama to the landscape. There are so many incredible viewpoints you’ll want to stop at. Bring your ND filter and a tripod if you’re planning to timelapse the sunrise. Once you’re dusty and sweaty, you can head down and set up at the beach for a day of splashing around in the cool Atlantic Ocean.

5. Have a Portuguese Sunset Dinner at Albufeira Old Town

As the day draws to a close, get stuck into Albufeira’s charm with a sunset dinner in the Old Town. Historically a fishing village, the Old Town is full of character and warmth.

I loved the restaurant Três Coroas (Three Crowns) which has the most beautiful setting, lovely staff and incredible classic Portuguese cuisine. (I’d honestly avoid New Town or Marina or Strip at all costs if you’re looking for a traditional experience).

Make a reservation in advance to secure the best spot for sunset views, and arrive a bit early to explore the narrow streets. The manager at the restaurant went above and beyond to get us great seats, since we rocked up without a reservation!

6. Explore the charming views and boutiques at Carveiro Town

Another great place to visit near Albufeira is the beautiful town of Carveiro. Gorgeous whitewashed villages and sleepy coastal cities are dotted all along the Algarve coast – but there’s something special about Carveiro.

Though Carveiro is a little touristy, it’s in a charming, picturesque fishing village kind of way.

Its small beach and traditional houses are nestled between two towering cliffs, which means the city is packed with character. Carveiro is lively: there are plenty of boutique shops, independent restaurants, and a stunning beach to laze under the sun at.

I’d recommend going up to the viewpoint and getting a snap overlooking the beach and sea. It’s absolutely worth the climb up the street steps, which have artistic tiles featuring local wildlife displayed next to each step. The combination of sun and steepness gets pretty intense at midday though – make sure you stay hydrated!

Top Tips: Check out local markets for handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also swing by Ferragudo, a nearby charming village, for more shopping and culture.

7. Do a Beach-Hopping Adventure to Different Praias

The Algarve is famous for its stunning beaches, and Albufeira is no exception. One of the best things to do in Albufeira is to go on a beach-hopping adventure.

While each beach in the region has its unique charm, there are definitely some standouts. It’s easiest to beach-hop the Algarve if you’ve rented a car.

Praia Sao Rafael, with its golden sands and dramatic rock formations, is a picture-perfect paradise. Praia Sao Rafael was my favourite beach in the entire area, though it can get pretty busy. I went back there multiple times. They have an incredible beach café too – I had a Portuguese cheeseburger and a passionfruit-basil smoothie (yum).

Praia do Carvalho, on the other hand, is a beach that offers a more secluded feel, tucked away behind limestone cliffs. You’ve got to take a hidden set of rocky stairs to get to Praia do Carvalho – a secluded, old smuggler’s cove to the west of Benagil.

Meanwhile Praia da Marinha is the quintessential Algarvian postcard, perfect for a beach day!

Check out my blog post: Best Beaches In The Algarve To Visit For A Relaxing, Sun-Soaked Trip

Top Tips:

• Shoot the iconic “tunnel shot” as you explore the hidden passage leading to Praia do Carvalho.

• To secure the ideal beach spot, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and you’ll have these coastal gems nearly all to yourself. If it’s a hot day, bring a parasol. Thank me later!

• Arrive early to secure a parking spot and enjoy the beaches before the crowds arrive.

8. Indulge in Delicious Portuguese Seafood Dishes at Various Marisqueiras

If you’re in the Algarve, and you love seafood, then boy, oh boy, are you going to be spoiled for choice. Seafood is regionally significant here and one of the best things you can do in Albufeira is hit up some local taverns.

Head to the sleepy, local-looking marisqueiras rather than the tourist-trap restaurants you get in main towns and strips.

At these places you can have incredible and well-priced fresh seafood dishes like cataplana (Portugal’s version of bouillabaisse, or seafood bisque), grilled sardinhas, garlic prawns, charred octopus and so much more.

I loved one particular restaurant, Porto de Abrigo, nestled in the marina. There were hardly any other tourists in sight and we had an unbelievable cataplana here. My top tip for visiting marisqueiras is to ask the staff what the restaurant’s ‘specialty’ is.

9. Try Frango Assado at Churrasqueiras

Though you’re in seafood heaven in the Algarve, why stop at at seafood?! Portugal’s culinary delights span all sorts of ingredients and dishes.

If you don’t love fish, but you do love chicken, then why not head to a local or highly-rated churrasqueira or churrascaria – a restaurant where meat is cooked in churrasco style (which translates roughly from the Portuguese word for “barbecue“).

Here you can try iconic dishes like frango assado(piri-piri chicken) – move aside, Nando’s!

We absolutely adored the crazy good, crazy cheap frango assado we had at O Recife Churrasqueira in Faro. It was delicious. I also recommend “Portuguese burger” and of course, having an iconic pastel de nata (custard tart) with your morning coffee. When in the Algarve!

10. Explore Local Pottery Shops and Ceramics Boutiques

Portugal is well known for being home to some truly stunning ceramics.

Local pottery shops and their traditional Algarvian ceramics have a charm and nostalgic feel that your average IKEA bowl just can’t bring to the table.

One of the best things to do in Albufeira is drive to neighbouring towns and you can stumble across local pottery artists and pick up a plate, or bowl, or entire dining set to bring back to your house.

I picked up a beautiful pair of handmade dipped ceramic cups that reminded me of the ocean at a local creative hub and art gallery called Gama Rama in Faro.

Top Tip: Some pottery shops offer workshops where you can create your pottery masterpiece. Bargain and shop during the off-peak hours for unique finds.

11. Explore Faro, The Algarve’s Capital, Before Flying Home

Meet the charming cobbled streets of coastal city Faro, the Algarve’s capital.

You’ll probably fly to the Algarve from Faro’s international airport, the gateway for many tourists coming to Portugal. But you shouldn’t overlook this city!

Faro’s Old Town is well worth a visit if you’re coming back from Albufeira. Faro felt like a mini-Lisbon to me.

Faro is a blend of city and nature: from the harbour you can take a boat tour to Ria Formosa Natural Park (Parque Natural da Ria Formosa), which is home to marshland, lagoons and small islands.

I’d also recommend visiting historical sites like the Santa Maria Cathedral, and exploring the local gallery Gama Rama to support Portuguese artists.

I’d definitely save your trip to Faro either for your last day (to stop and have lunch and explore before your flight) or from when you first land, before driving to Albufeira.

Top Tips: Climb the Faro Old Town walls for panoramic views of the city and the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Try to visit Faro on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.

There’s no place like the Algarve – and Albufeira is the perfect base for adventure.

I hope this was useful – next up, why not check out my roundup of the Best Beaches in the Algarve For A Stunning, Sun-Soaked Trip?

If you’re exploring more of Portugal, here are some more Portugal travel guides: