Hotels in Albufeira

Azure Shores and Vibrant Vistas: Unveil the Magic of Albufeira

Discover Albufeira, a stunning coastal gem in Portugal's Faro District, where golden sandy beaches meet vibrant nightlife. Stroll through the charming heart of Albufeira, filled with delightful restaurants serving fresh seafood and local delicacies. Explore the picturesque marina, perfect for boating and watersports, or relax on the sun-kissed shores of Albufeira Beach. With its charming districts, historic sites, and breathtaking coastal landscapes, Albufeira is a romantic haven for couples and a fun-filled playground for families. Visit in November for a quieter experience, where the beauty of the Algarve shines without the summer crowds. For the best hotel rates in Albufeira, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Albufeira

Some of the best places to stay in Albufeira are Vilamoura, Albufeira Old Town and Vale do Lobo. Vilamoura, Albufeira Old Town, and Vale do Lobo offer distinct experiences for travelers. Vilamoura is known for its upscale marina and golf courses, making it ideal for luxury seekers. Albufeira Old Town boasts charming cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife, perfect for first-time visitors. Vale do Lobo features stunning beaches and upscale amenities. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to cozy hotels, providing options for every budget and preference, ensuring a comfortable stay in this beautiful region. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Albufeira:

1. VilamouraOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marina, Vilamoura is perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation by the sea. The area features Falesia Beach, ideal for sunbathing, and Vilamoura Marina, great for water sports and nightlife. Accommodation options include Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, which offers direct beach access and business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and work. Tivoli Marina VilamouraOpens in a new window also provides an adventure-filled experience with water sports nearby, while Anantara Vilamoura Algarve ResortOpens in a new window is family-friendly with childcare services and direct beach access.
2. Albufeira Old TownOpens in a new window: A charming blend of culture and nightlife, Albufeira Old Town is famed for its picturesque square and vibrant atmosphere. With attractions like The Strip and Albufeira Marina, visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. For hotels, NAU Sao Rafael AtlanticoOpens in a new window provides a luxurious stay with business facilities and direct beach access, while NAU Sao Rafael Suites – All InclusiveOpens in a new window offers a boutique experience with unique décor and family-friendly amenities. W AlgarveOpens in a new window caters to pet owners and business travelers alike, ensuring a comfortable stay.
3. Vale do LoboOpens in a new window: This upscale area is known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses, offering a perfect getaway for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Vale do Lobo features Falesia Beach and numerous adventure options including hiking and water sports. For lodging, Vale do Lobo ResortOpens in a new window is a resort with golf facilities and direct beach access, while Dona Filipa HotelOpens in a new window boasts natural hot springs and a focus on adventure sports. Ria Park Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window also caters to business travelers while providing beach access, ensuring a well-rounded stay for all types of visitors.

Things to do in Albufeira for first time

Albufeira offers a stunning coastline where golden beaches meet vibrant waters, perfect for swimming, diving, and sunbathing. With opportunities for boating, hiking through scenic trails, and relaxing at local spas, spending three days here is ideal for enjoying both adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Albufeira:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the serene São Rafael Beach, renowned for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters—perfect for swimming and sunbathing. After soaking in the sun, make your way to Xorino Cave, a historical site that offers insight into the region's ancient past and stunning views of the coastline. Conclude your day at Coelha Beach, a hidden gem that boasts a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after an exciting day of exploration.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Oura Beach, a vibrant spot known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful golden sands—great for both relaxation and socializing. After some beach time, head to Vilamoura Marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, browse boutique shops, or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants overlooking the yachts. Wrap up your day at Praia da Falésia Alfamar, famous for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views—perfect for a sunset stroll.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Praia dos Alemães, where you can lounge on the beach or take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic waters. Next, visit the Salgados Lagoon Observation Deck, a fantastic spot for birdwatching and appreciating the natural beauty of the surrounding wetlands. End your day at Praia dos Olhos de Água, a charming beach with traditional fishing village vibes, where you can enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.

5 tips to find a great Albufeira hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Albufeira for those on a budget is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure great value for money. To fully experience the main attractions, including the beautiful beaches and marina, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy everything Albufeira has to offer without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Albufeira, now's the perfect time to explore your options. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find enticing discounts on hotels just before your trip. To stay in the loop about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch fantastic hotel deals and save on your Albufeira getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Albufeira.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Albufeira is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can use transportation options like buses, taxis, or rental cars to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Albufeira. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Albufeira

Here are some famous dishes in Albufeira, Faro District, Portugal:

• Cataplana: This traditional Portuguese dish is a flavorful seafood stew cooked in a unique clam-shaped copper pot. It typically combines fresh fish, shellfish, and vegetables, all simmered together with herbs and spices. It's a social dish, often shared among friends and family, making it a perfect choice for a communal dining experience.
• Grilled Sardines: A staple of coastal Portuguese cuisine, these freshly caught sardines are simply seasoned and grilled over open flames. They are often served with crusty bread and a sprinkle of sea salt, embodying the essence of summer gatherings along the Algarve coast.
• Piri-Piri Chicken: This spicy grilled chicken dish is marinated in a fiery chili sauce, reflecting the influence of African flavors in Portuguese cooking. It's typically served with rice, fries, or a fresh salad, making it a beloved choice for locals and tourists alike.

Best time to go to Albufeira

Albufeira experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 54.7°F (12.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.0°F (23.9°C). March tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Albufeira are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.