Map of Albufeira and surroundings, with main points of interest, useful locations and residential areas. Distances to the main locations in the south of Portugal
… a tourist city, with paradisiacal outskirts
Eastern view of Albufeira’s beach and the old town. On the left, a family strolls on the elevated pathway leading to the old town, with quaint cliffside houses beneath. Below, the sandy beach is speckled with umbrellas, bordered by the greenish hues of the ocean, all under a clear, blue sky
History of Albufeira
Two tourists marvel at the historic charm of Albufeira downtown, standing by a historic tunnel entrance, gateway to the stunning Pescadores Beach
Although not exactly the origins of Albufeira, it is known that was an important location for the Romans who built that aqueducts, bridges and roads area with some traces of them still visible today. The term “reservoir” is derived from the Arabic name “Al-Buhera” which means “Sea Castle” highlighting the geographical position of the area. More recently, in the 60s, Albufeira began to receive many tourists, especially Englishmen who contributed greatly to its current tourist reputation.
Albufeira church bell and tower majestically rising above a picturesque skyline of homes, all set against the backdrop of the expansive ocean on the horizon.
Gastronomy in Albufeira
Inviting esplanades of beachfront restaurants, providing the perfect setting for seaside dining and relaxation in Albufeira downtown
The gastronomy of Albufeira is very rich and diverse, in part thanks to tourism that brought influences from many international cuisines. Still, thanks to its proximity to the sea, seafood and fish occupy a place of excellence to the restaurants and homes of albufeirenses table. A stew of fish, shellfish rice with cuttlefish and ink are some of the dishes.With regard to chocolate, candy stand out made from figs, almonds, gila or carob.
Cultural Events in Albufeira
Bayou brings together a wide range of cultural events that combine the past with the present and provide the city a unique cultural dynamics. Some of the most significant cultural events are:
- Carnival Paderne;
- Celebrations of the Day of the Municipality;
- Festival Al-Buhera;
- Food Festival in Albufeira;
- Sardine Festival;
- Fisherman’s Feast.
The Fisherman’s Feast is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic festivals of the region. Lasting for three days in September, due on Fisherman’s Beach and attracts the crowds with their traditional games, pubs, folk music and folklore shows.
Beaches in Albufeira
view spanning from Praia do Penedo to Fishermen’s Beach, then onto Praia do Inatel and German Beach, displaying Albufeira’s diverse coastal beauty.
The 30km of coastline is one of the main attractions of Albufeira. The magnificent white sand beaches and warm waters are the delight of all and form an enviable natural heritage. Some of the beaches of Albufeira:
- Salgados beach;
- Gale beach;
- Manuel Lourenço beach;
- Evaristo beach;
- Praia do Castelo beach;
- Coelha beach;
- San Rafael;
- Arrifes beach;
- Peneco beach;
- Fishermen beach;
- Inatel beach;
- Germans beach;
- Aveiros beach;
- Oura beach;
- Santa Eulalia beach;
- Maria Luísa beach;
- Olhos d’Água beach;
- Barranco of Belharudas beach;
- Falésia beach;
- Praia da Rocha Baixinha beach.
Golf courses in Albufeira
The Balaia Golf Village e o Pinecliffs Golf Course make available to its customers a field with 9 holes, ideal for initiation into the sport or games short, but intense. The Salgados golf course account with 18 holes.
Why live in Albufeira?
Albufeira beach image captured from beneath the beach umbrellas, featuring a sandy foreground, an expansive ocean view, and a serene sky above.
Albufeira has a unique way of providing welfare to all who visit or live in it. The city combines the natural beauty and tranquility to a diverse range of services:
- A marina located west of the city
- city beaches and cliff beaches
- Natural viewpoints and walking paths
- Hotels, shopping streets, a wide variety of restaurants and bars
- Night clubs
- Various theme parks
Learn more about where to live or invest in Albufeira.
Albufeira is a city situated in the central western region of Algarve, Portugal. Known for its beaches, cliffs, and nightlife. Located approximately 30 kilometers from Faro Airport, with stunning ocean views and a pleasant Mediterranean climate.
Spectacular viewpoint overlooking Albufeira’s Fisherman’s Beach and the charming Old Town to the right. The azure ocean spreads to the right, while the sandy beach nestles centrally below under an expansive, clear blue sky.
Old Town
Albufeira city center street, paved with traditional ‘pedra de calçada’, bustling with a variety of shops offering souvenirs, lively bars, diverse restaurants, and an array of liquors.
Albufeira Beach in June
São Rafel & Galé
Captivating scene at Praia da Galé in March. An imposing limestone rock formation on the right perfectly complements the clear blue skies, creating an eye-catching image.
Situated just 4 kms west of Albufeira’s center, São Rafael / Galé offers tranquillity and a diverse range of stunning beaches. From secluded coves only accessible by boat to expansive white-sand shores stretching over 5kms, this area is a beach lover’s paradise. Historically characterized by solitary homes seeking sea proximity, today you can find numerous apartment buildings boasting captivating sea views. The area is complete with a golf course, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets, all conveniently located within walking distance.
Albufeira Marina
Albufeira Marina, featuring the distinctive yellow, blue, pink, and orange buildings designed by renowned architect Taveira. Serving as the departure point for tours to the Benagil cave, dolphin watching, and diving, it’s home to the famed Zen Mar boat trips operated by Marco and Anne. The marina is also adorned with restaurants, making it a prime spot for relaxation and culinary delights.
Striking view of the welcoming entrance to Albufeira’s lively and picturesque port.
Oura/Montechouro Beach Area in Albufeira
Peaceful and serene scene of Oura Beach in Albufeira, captured in the gentle light of March
Situated a mere 3 kilometers from Albufeira’s center, Oura/Montechouro Beach stands out as a vibrant hub of activity both day and night. Alongside Albufeira’s historic town center, it remains one of the region’s busiest zones. During the balmy months, the 2-kilometer stretch connecting Montechoro to Oura Beach transforms into a lively tourist-centric avenue. Visitors can indulge in a variety of attractions including diverse bars, restaurants, nightclubs, quaint shops, and other amenities catering to holiday-goers. It’s a display of traditional tourism at its finest.
Balaia & Santa Eulália
view of Santa Eulalia Beach with the distant Praia da Falésia visible on the horizon. Low tide reveals striking green rocks adorned with limes, contrasting against the lengthy stretch of sandy beach.
Balaia and Santa Eulália are serene regions boasting the pristine beaches of Maria Luisa and Santa Eulália, complemented by top-tier restaurants and 4-5 star hotels. While many properties serve as summer residences, the area is distinguished by its abundant green spaces and a mix of modern and traditional housing styles.
Olhos de Àgua
February 23rd scene at Praia de Olhos d ‘ Água, Albufeira. Features include fishermen with cane poles, low tide revealing water-logged rocks, marking the eastern village limit of Albufeira. To the further east lies Açoteias, a quaint village nestled just beyond the beachfront.
A quaint fishing village roughly 10km from central Albufeira, Olhos de Àgua has seen growth around its primary beach in recent years. With a tight-knit resident community, it offers traditional seafood restaurants and inviting bars with sun-facing terraces. The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming. The real estate landscape is dominated by one to three-bedroom apartments, with newer constructions offering superior finishes and spacious layouts, especially further from the beach.
Açoteias & Falésia
Image of Falésia Beach, the scenic boundary between Albufeira and Vilamoura, forming a beautiful link between the two coastal towns.
Located between Albufeira and Vilamoura, Açoteias & Falésia boasts beaches set against stunning red-toned cliffs, including the Algarve’s longest stretch of sandy shoreline. Home to some of the region’s most upscale and luxurious resorts, the area is also known for its traditional eateries and renowned athletic track, which hosts international competitions annually. Thanks to excellent facilities and the region’s consistently mild climate, it’s an athlete’s haven. Real estate in the area is diverse, with a mix of apartments, townhouses, and detached homes, both within and outside gated resort communities.
