Slap bang in the centre of the well-loved southern coast of Portugal, drenched in year-round sunshine and boasting a gorgeous coastline, Albufeira is the heart of the Algarve. With fantastic sandy beaches, the alluring Old Town complete with cobbled streets, a pretty marina, a vast range of resorts, lively nightlife and enjoyable attractions are all within easy reach. It ticks all the boxes for families, singles and couples alike.
The centre of the action
The authentic Old Town area with its attractive central square is the main hive of Albufeira. The cobbled streets that dissipate from the centre uncover a myriad of shops along with plenty of restaurants and cafes to relax in hidden among the nooks and crannies. Street entertainment during the busy months only adds to the fantastic atmosphere and when evening rolls around, the bars boast live music to keep you entertained!
Time at the marina
The candy shop colours of the apartments and buildings which surround the marina ensure that you won’t miss it. 
There’s always something to see here, whether sat at a table at one of the water-side cafes watching the boats coming in, or enjoying a spot of people watching. Embark on one of the frequent boat trips that run along the rest of the sparkling coast, with a few hours of snorkelling thrown in. You could also go dolphin watching.
Hit the beach
The golden sands are a huge allure, much of your time will be spent sun-worshipping and frolicking in the sea under the watch of the hot Algarve sun. With the back of the beach flanked by colourful fishing boats, Fisherman’s Beach is the best known in Albufeira and often the most popular. Awarded blue flag status and within close proximity to restaurants, cafes and the Old Town, you can’t get much better. That said, Praia do Túnel, Praia dos Olhos d’ Água and Praia da Oura are also beautiful and equally worthy of a visit, with plenty of water sports available at each.
Head a little further afield
Outside the limits of the town, there is still plenty to be enjoyed. Zoomarine is one of the Algarve’s greatest attractions and is just a short jaunt away. Spanning 8 hectares with a focus on marine life, all ages delight in the dolphin shows. The animal habitats for creatures like alligators and rare birds are also fantastic. The 4D cinema, aquarium and on-site water park add to the fun. If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, embrace the country’s most famous sport, golf! There are innumerable courses to choose from along the coast which will make for an enjoyable but challenging round or two. For everyone one else, there are jeep and quad bike safaris, go karting tracks and horse riding to enjoy, historical buildings and churches to visit and plenty of shopping to indulge in.
Once a sleepy fishing village, Albufeira is now one of Europe’s most popular places for a year round holiday in the sun so it could well be the very place you’re after for your next holiday!
Have you been to Albufeira? What was your favourite part about it?
