If you like golden sand, bright aqua sea and pretty white towns sitting neatly atop a cliff, then you'll adore Albufeira. The pedestrianised streets of the older part of town are narrow, winding, and full of charm, with a warren of whitewashed cottages where you can still faintly see the town's Moorish roots. The choice of accommodation here is vast, but our selection of the best places to stay in Albufeira aims to recommend hotels with charm, as opposed to the enormous resort properties and chains that you'd usually imagine.

The Coast

There are a number of lovely beaches right in front of Albufeira, so you don't have to travel far from your hotel for that postcard perfect view. Some of the largest beaches offer all sorts of water sports gear hire, in addition to the staples: parasols and sun loungers.

There are lovely beaches in both directions as you turn along the coast. Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Peneco are just down from the old town, whilst there are also smaller and quieter beaches just a few minutes from the marina, like Praia de Sao Rafael. Those to the east are more developed, with long stretches of golden sand: try Praia da Oura, just off the Strip, or Praia da Falesia. If you prefer your beaches quieter and more cove-like try Praia de Gale.

.Not To Miss

• If you're looking for a fun-filled family day out then some of the Algarve's best family theme parks are a short drive from Albufeira, including Zoomarine and Krazy World.
• If your kids don't mind a bit of pretty architecture then it's also worth planning a trip into the hills to the little village of Alte.
• Albufeira also has a golf course and a horse-riding centre for travellers who plan on staying (fairly) active!
• Take in the truly breathtaking panoramic views from Pau da Bandeira viewpoint.
• Albertu's Bar is a top spot if you fancy a night out on the strip. With a buzzy yet friendly atmosphere, karaoke nights and special drinks deals, you're bound to have a wonderful time.

If you're coming in the busy summer months then be sure to book ahead as the best places to stay in Albufeira get quickly booked up.

Some of the Best Places to Stay in Albufeira

For A Beach Break

• If you're looking for somewhere special book the Vila Joya. The rooms are five star and the restaurant has two Michelin stars. Add to that the most spectacular ocean views in town, as well as a fabulous Ayurvedic spa, and you have one of the best places to stay in Albufeira for anyone wanting to treat themselves to every luxury imaginable.

For Families

• Some 17km west of Albufeira, close to Porches, you'll find Vila Vita Parc - a good option if you're looking for a resort lifestyle holiday. There's a fantastic children's club, which entertains toddlers through to teens (though not together of course!), a nine hole pitch and putt golf course, tennis courts, boats for hire, yoga classes, a world-class spa and some of the family suites and villas come with their own pool. So if you want to treat your family to every individual luxury, this is one of the best places to stay in Albufeira.

For A Country Escape

• Quinta Do Mel is a traditional farmhouse set in a tranquil rural location. Offering ten simple and comfortable rooms, there are plenty of outdoorsy activities right on your doorstep while the coast is also just a short distance away.

For An Apartment Or Villa

• If you've decided that you'd rather the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Albufeira?

• Albufeira's nicest in the summer months, with the average daily temperature rising to 23°C in July and August. This however is of course peak tourist season, so the beaches may well be crowded and accommodation will be on the pricier side of things.
• If you fancy a cheaper and quieter time to visit then consider coming in spring or autumn. The average daily temperature at these times is around 17-19°C, so it's still warm enough to enjoy spending time on the beach.
• International visitors can fly into Faro Airport, 30km east of Albufeira. Ryanair and Jet2 fly here from Stansted, whilst easyJet and British Aiways go from Gatwick. Ryanair also fly to Faro a couple of times a week from Edinburgh.
• From here, take the bus for 20 minutes into central Faro and then hop on a train to Albufeira which takes a further 20 minutes.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Albufeira.
• Expand your search to include all our Algarve recommendations.
• Or, feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Albufeira