A holiday in Albufeira, in the central Algarve
Albufeira is known for tourism capital, beaches, nightlife and families. It has around 44 168 residents and 25 Blue Flag beaches. It is a popular destination for families, groups, stag and hen groups.
Albufeira is about 26 km from Faro airport. The area is strong on golf, with courses such as Salgados Golf, Balaia Golf. It brings together 1 destination with accommodation — Albufeira. May, June and September bring warm weather and fewer crowds; July and August are peak season.
Towns and destinations in Albufeira
60 homes in Albufeira
Where to stay in Albufeira: areas and neighbourhoods
Albufeira has distinct areas, each with its own feel — choose by the vibe you are after:
- Cidade Velha (Old Town) — historic centre, walkable lanes, restaurants, everything on foot
- Praia da Oura & The Strip — intense nightlife (Montechoro/The Strip), Oura beach
- Galé & Salgados — quieter, wide beaches, golf (Salgados)
- Santa Eulália — family-friendly and calm, near the centre
- Areias de São João — between the centre and Oura, residential and handy
- Branqueira — private-pool villa area, minutes from the centre
Location and surroundings — Albufeira, Algarve
The municipality of Albufeira
Albufeira sits in the central Algarve, in southern Portugal. It is especially well suited to families, groups, stag and hen groups.
Beaches and nature
Albufeira has 25 Blue Flag beaches. Explore the Algarve beaches and choose your accommodation by the beach.
Golf in the area
Courses nearby: Salgados Golf, Balaia Golf. Albufeira makes a good base for a golf holiday in the Algarve.
Getting there
Faro airport
Albufeira is about 26 km from Faro airport, the main gateway to the region.
On the map
Why choose Albufeira for a holiday
Albufeira suits families, groups, stag and hen groups. The area is strong on apartments, villas, townhouses. Book early for peak season — complete the booking on Homing, our official partner.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Albufeira and what is it known for?
Albufeira is a municipality in the central Algarve, in southern Portugal. It is known for tourism capital, beaches, nightlife and families, which shapes the atmosphere and the kind of holiday in the area. It has around 44 168 residents and 25 Blue Flag beaches. It is about 26 km from Faro airport.
What are the best areas to stay in Albufeira?
The main areas of Albufeira are Cidade Velha (Old Town), Praia da Oura & The Strip, Galé & Salgados, Santa Eulália, Areias de São João, each with its own feel. For example, Cidade Velha (Old Town) offers historic centre, walkable lanes, restaurants, everything on foot. Choose your area by the kind of holiday you want: a lively centre, a quiet beach or a residential villa area.
Is Albufeira good for families?
Yes. Albufeira is especially popular with families, groups, stag and hen groups, for its beaches, dining and choice of accommodation. The area is strong on apartments, villas, townhouses, which helps you find the right home. Families value the proximity to the beaches and homes with a pool; groups, the nightlife and the restaurants.
How far is Faro airport from Albufeira?
Albufeira is about 26 km from Faro airport, usually under an hour by car. There are hire cars, private transfers, taxis and buses from the airport. Hiring a car pays off for visiting the municipality's various towns and beaches.
How many Blue Flag beaches does Albufeira have?
Albufeira has 25 Blue Flag beaches, among the most distinguished in the Algarve. The Blue Flag certifies water quality, safety and beach services. See the Algarve beaches to choose by the sand and the access.
What towns and destinations does the municipality of Albufeira have?
With accommodation available, Albufeira brings together Albufeira. Each destination has its own character, from the fishing village to the tourist centre. See the towns section above to open each one's hub and compare what's available.
Is there golf in Albufeira?
Yes. Around Albufeira there are courses such as Salgados Golf and Balaia Golf. The Algarve is one of Europe's finest golf destinations, playable almost all year.
When is the best time to go to Albufeira?
May, June and September offer warm weather and fewer crowds, the best balance of climate and calm. July and August are peak season in the Algarve, with more buzz and demand. In winter the municipality is calmer and cheaper, good for longer stays.
How much does it cost to rent accommodation in Albufeira, and why book direct?
Prices vary with the season, the town, the size of the home and the length of stay, and are kept up to date on Homing. Booking direct on Homing is usually cheaper than Airbnb or Hotels.com, as it avoids those platforms' commission. Open the listing for any accommodation in Albufeira to see the price for your dates, with secure booking.
How do I book in Albufeira?
Choose the accommodation, open the listing and click 'View on Homing' to complete the booking on Homing, our official partner. Payment is secure and confirmation immediate, with support in English and other languages. There are no extra middlemen and no hidden fees.