Albufeira draws vacationers to its wide swaths of golden, sandy beaches, where sun-soaked days are spent lounging by the sea on the southern Algarve Coast of Portugal. Once a fishing village, the city now boasts a ton of amenities and family-friendly attractions along its colorful streets, from bustling shopping centers and tasty restaurants to golf courses, waterparks and zoos. When it's time to select your Albufeira vacation rental, you'll find an array of luxurious villas and cozy apartments await, many within walking distance of the best beaches, with sweeping views over the sparkling blue ocean and refreshing pools for cooling off on hot summer days.
Though the streets of Albufeira are now full of modern amenities, the town has a fascinating past, preserved at spots like the Municipal Archaeological Museum, which presents a collection of artifacts and exhibits from the prehistoric, Roman, Moorish and modern eras of Portugal. The remains of castle walls can be spotted in the city, but head just outside of town to see Paderne, a 12th-century Moorish structure, once built of mud and sandstone, with a centuries-old church and Roman bridge among the ruins. Pack a picnic and enjoy the hilltop views.
While it may be tempting to spend your entire vacation relaxing on the soft, sandy beaches of Albufeira, carve out some time to explore the waters beyond, where coastal vistas and a range of sea life await. Several tour providers are on hand to take you on catamaran cruises or high-speed boat rides, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs and caves along the spectacular coast line. When you get further out to sea, be on the lookout for the dolphins that swim in these waters. Some excursions provide an opportunity to jump in the sea for some snorkeling or paddle boarding, too.
Summers in Albufeira draw vacationers to the pristine beaches, where golden sands are perfect for afternoon naps and enjoying gorgeous sunsets over the sea. Temperatures rise into the 80s during the peak of summer, so refreshing dips in the ocean are a must. If you visit during this time, choose an Albufeira vacation rental with a pool for fun-filled afternoons spent splashing around with the kids. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, opt for a stay in spring or fall, as afternoons still average temperatures in the 70s during May, June and October.
Thanks to its coastal location, the local beaches are the best way to enjoy the outdoors in Albufeira. With a mild, year-round climate, there's no bad time to walk along the soft shores and watch the sun dancing on the waves. Falesia Beach's long strand of sand boasts a gorgeous backdrop of colorful cliffs in shades of red that contrast with the green ocean beyond, where you might spot sea creatures playing in the waves. Another popular spot, Fisherman's Beach, is just steps from downtown streets filled with shops and restaurants, and close to a number of Albufeira vacation rentals.
The nearest airport is in Faro Intl. Airport (FAO), located 16.1 mi (26 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Portimao (PRM), which is 18.8 mi (30.3 km) away.
If you prefer train travel, the main station serving the city is Albufeira - Ferreiras Station.
The heart wants what the heart wants, and right now it wants to go on vacation. Now's the time to pack your bags and retreat to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Albufeira:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Albufeira vacation rental for you.
Punching above its weight when it comes to character, a tiny house vacation rental in Albufeira offers a front-row seat to big adventure. Close down your tech and switch your focus to nature at one of these compact stays:
Your Monday to Friday will be much easier to face if you've got something wonderful set up for the weekend. Give yourself something to look forward to by reserving one of these top weekend getaways in or near Albufeira:
Studio apartments are hard to beat when it comes to character, convenience and location. Browse these studio apartments for rent in or near Albufeira and experience the local culture:
When you're ready to step outside your studio apartment and sightsee, there's loads to keep you amused around Albufeira. Enjoy cultural attractions? Swing by Archaeological Museum of Faro and Museum of Sacred Art.
Short-term rentals are easy to find in and around Albufeira. Kick back for a night or two in a cool condo, a budget studio apartment or a home that'll fit the family. Whatever sort of vacation rental you're chasing, you'll find the perfect place with Vrbo. These are a few of our favorites:
Whether spent in a cabin, a cottage or a treehouse, a romantic weekend getaway is a perfect way to say "I love you." Whisk your sweetie off for a few days at one of these appealing escapes in or near Albufeira:
You'll find some incredible mansions for rent in and around Albufeira. If you're looking for somewhere with plenty of room as well as wow factor galore, these stunners will tick your boxes:
Big groups mean enormous fun. They also mean finding someplace that'll effortlessly fit your entire gang. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Albufeira and get everybody together under one roof:
Whether you're hosting a big event like a wedding or a getaway with the special people in your life, we'll help you find the ideal space to fit your group. Corral your gang and check out these large vacation rentals in or near Albufeira:
Of all the conveniences a vacation rental can have, a pool is one of the most coveted. Check out these houses for rent with a pool in or near Albufeira and spend your days splashing around. Just don't forget to bring your flamingo floatie:
Wondering what the weather is like in Albufeira? It has a mediterranean climate, with average temperatures in summer ranging from 65 ºF to 80 ºF. If you're after a little more inspiration on places to stay in this epic destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to browse through our entire range of Albufeira vacation rentals.