10 Best Things to do in Albufeira, Portugal 

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Planning a trip to Albufeira? Well, get ready to discover the best activities this Algarve gem has to offer!

We fell in love with Albufeira as soon as we set foot in this charming coastal city. Since then, we’ve taken several trips to enjoy its golden beaches, fun nightlife, and gorgeous scenery. So whether you’re looking to zoom around the mountains in a jeep or enjoy thrilling aquatic adventures, we’ve got you covered.

From exploring castles to checking out hidden beaches, this is the ultimate guide to visiting Albufeira. Your epic Portuguese vacation starts here!

Things to do in Albufeira, Portugal

1. Take a Jeep safari in the Algarve Mountains

• Duration: 4 hours 
• Time: 9 am or 2 pm 
• Highlights: Exciting Jeep safari, exploring the villages of Paderne and Alte, visiting Paderne Castle, swimming in Fonte Grande, enjoy the view from Pico Alto
• Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking driver and guide
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 660+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This Jeep safari through the Algarve Mountains was the highlight of our trip to Albufeira. We had so much fun bouncing along rugged off-road trails, taking in mountain views, and visiting some of the area’s most unique highlights. 

Our guide, Vitor, was not only a pro behind the wheel but also full of energy and passion for the region—it was contagious. He kept us engaged with stories from the very start, beginning at the medieval Paderne Castle. Before heading to Alte, we even squeezed in a visit to a cozy café in the village of Paderne, where we got a real taste of local life.

Not only is Alte a stunning village, but it’s also home to the Fonte Grande, the town’s largest natural spring. Plus, we actually got to take a refreshing dip—remember to bring your swimmers! 

Next, we stopped at a specialty store in Alte to sample fresh honey, olive oil, and delicious marzipan sweets. From there, we made our way to the Pico Alto viewpoint—the highest in the region—where we took in sweeping views of rolling hills, vineyards, and the distant coastline.

We love this half-day tour because it’s an exciting and efficient way to explore the Algarve. We made great memories and had so much fun zooming around in the Jeep. No wonder it has hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews!

Book this tour here, with FREE 24-hour cancellation!

2. Spot dolphins and explore the Benagil Caves

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Time: Multiple departure times from 9:30 am–5 pm
• Highlights: Spotting dolphins, small boat tour, exploring isolated coastal areas that big boats can’t reach, swim stops, visiting the Benagil Cave
• Inclusions: Semi-rigid inflatable boat ride, skipper, life jacket 
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 3,990+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you do one thing in Albufeira, make it this incredible dolphin spotting tour! It was a magical experience that we’ll never forget. 

What set this experience apart was that we got to explore the Atlantic on a super small boat that could access remote coastal areas that bigger boats just can’t get to! We hugged the cliffs, cruised into little coves, and got views that felt totally exclusive.

One minute, we were excitedly scanning the waves for signs of movement as we sped across the ocean, and the next, we suddenly saw a whole pod of dolphins playfully leaping through the water beside us. It felt completely surreal.

Next, we got to explore the famous Benagil Cave. This stunning sandstone formation has a hole in the ceiling that creates a natural skylight, casting light across the golden walls. It looked just like a real-life Van Gogh painting!

Our boat driver was incredibly skilled, maneuvering us deep into the cave so we could take in every detail up close. On our way back to shore, we also had some time to swim in the refreshing turquoise waters, which was the perfect note to end on.

With thousands of 5-star reviews, it’s no surprise this tour often sells out. Spots go fast, so booking ahead is the best way to lock in your chance to experience this unforgettable dolphin cruise and coastal adventure!

Reserve our favorite Albufeira tour here, before it sells out!

3. See Albufeira’s best sights on a tuk tuk tour

• Duration: 2 hours 
• Time: 10 am 
• Highlights: Zooming about Albufeira in a tuk tuk, private sightseeing experience, exploring the Strip, visiting the Old Town, going to the Fishing Port and the Marina, visiting hidden beaches, getting local tips and insider insights
• Inclusions: Tuk tuk transport, driver and guide, private tour, hotel pickup and drop-off
• Rating: 5 stars (check 310+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This tuk tuk tour is the perfect introduction to Albufeira. It was fun, fast, and offered a fantastic overview of the area. Plus, we had the most amazing guide, Tony, who was full of interesting stories about the town and took us to all of the best hidden beaches! 

The fun began in the Old Town, where we weaved through the charming cobbled streets while Tony pointed out historic buildings and his favorite local restaurants.

Then, we cruised along The Strip, which is home to the city’s best nightlife spots, and checked out the Fishing Port. Here, we admired the colorful boats bobbing in the water and watched fishermen preparing their daily catch, which gave us a real feel for Albufeira’s coastal culture.

Our favorite stop had to be the Marina. We loved seeing its colorful buildings against the backdrop of the deep blue sea. Tony even took the time to show us some secluded beaches that only locals know about. I’m not kidding when I say that we never would have found these beauties on our own!

The whole experience was relaxed and enjoyable, and since the tuk tuk can go where cars can’t, we got to see so many incredible spots without the hassle of walking for hours.

If you’re visiting Albufeira, we highly recommend doing this tour at the start of your trip. It’s the best way to get a feel for the city and discover places you’ll want to return to later!

Book your private tuk tuk tour here and enjoy FREE 24-cancellation!

4. Kayak through the Benagil Caves

• Duration: 3.5 hours 
• Time: Various slots between 9 am and 4:30 pm 
• Highlights: Choice of kayak or paddleboard, venturing deep into the Benagil cave system, scenic boat ride 
• Inclusions: Kayak or paddleboard, all equipment, return boat transport, local guide, tour photos
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 530+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We’re not kidding when we say that this cave tour was the perfect mixture of adventure and relaxation. We started with a scenic boat ride along the Algarve coast, and when we reached the Benagil area, we had the option to hop into a kayak or onto a paddleboard, ready to explore the sea caves.

We chose to share a double kayak, although single ones are available. Paddling into the Benagil Cave was pretty easy, and the scenery inside was incredible. The sunlight poured through the hole in the roof onto the golden sand, illuminating the sandstone walls.

But what made this tour even better was exploring smaller hidden caves and secluded spots that most boats can’t access. It felt like such an adventure, and our guides were super supportive the whole time. They were really helpful and made sure we always felt safe on the water.

After almost two hours of exploring, we climbed back into the boat and relaxed on the ride back to the marina. There was music on board, as well as a bar where we could buy cold drinks and snacks to enjoy as we cruised back to shore.

With an exciting kayak or SUP adventure and a laid-back boat ride, this tour truly offers the best of both worlds. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first-timer or have tons of experience with water sports. As long as you’ve got an adventurous spirit (and some sunscreen!), you will absolutely love this tour.

Check details and book this bucket list-worthy kayak tour here!

Related Read: If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the choices, our 3-day Albufeira itinerary narrows it down to the best activities in a step-by-step guide!

5. Relax on a luxury yacht sunset cruise

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Time: Various time slots between 4:45 pm and 7 pm
• Highlights: Small group yacht cruise, viewing scenic beaches and villages, snorkeling, light refreshments on board, watching the sunset over the ocean
• Inclusions: Yacht cruise, welcome drink, local snacks, friendly crew, snorkeling equipment
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We had the best time ever on this sunset yacht cruise! But with its glowing reviews and tendency to sell out quickly, we knew we had to book it in advance, and we’re so glad that we did.

The cruise departed from Vilamoura, about a 25-minute drive from Albufeira—and it was absolutely worth the trip. As soon as we stepped onto the luxurious sailing yacht, we were impressed by how sleek and elegant everything felt.

Things got even better when the friendly crew greeted us with a complimentary drink, which we enjoyed while cruising out from the dock and taking in the stunning views along the Algarve’s coastline.

The sun began to set as we passed by stunning beaches like Praia da Falésia and the hidden gem of Praia do Barranco das Belharucas. As we glided through the water, our skipper shared fascinating insights about the area, and we got to stop for a swim!

The crew even provided us with snorkel gear so we could explore beneath the surface. Floating in the ocean with the orange light bouncing off the water was a truly magical experience.

Back on board, we sipped refreshing drinks and snacked on light bites as music played softly through the yacht’s sound system. The whole experience felt incredibly intimate and exclusive—truly the perfect way to wrap up the day.

Grab your spot on this VIP sunset tour before it sells out!

6. Try Parasailing

• Duration: 1.5 hours 
• Time: Various time slots between 10 am and 5 pm 
• Highlights: Exciting parasailing ride, aerial views of the coastline and ocean, reach heights up to 262 feet (80 meters)
• Inclusions: Professional pilot and crew, safety equipment, tour guide, boat ride, safety briefing 
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 230+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience in Albufeira, this parasailing ride is it! We opted for a double flight so we could go at the same time and enjoy the experience together, but single and triple flights are also available.

From the moment we stepped onto the boat, we could feel the excitement building. The friendly, professional crew took us through a safety briefing before we were harnessed in. We rose into the air as the boat sped up, and the views got better by the second. 

The feeling of flying above the water is totally unlike anything else. Our adrenaline was definitely flowing, but we also got a real sense of serenity while we were in the air, floating along as if we weighed nothing at all! The views of the golden coastline, dramatic cliffs, and endless blue ocean were absolutely breathtaking.

The experience lasts about ten minutes in the air, but with up to 90 minutes on the boat, we also got to enjoy the thrill of speeding over the waves and watching others take flight. The energy on board was infectious, with everyone cheering each other on and snapping amazing photos.

With such stellar reviews that you can read here, it’s no surprise that this tour sells out quickly. If you’re visiting the Algarve, don’t miss out. Book ahead and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Reserve your parasailing tour here, before it sells out!

7. Try Scuba Diving

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 1:45 pm
• Highlights: Introductory scuba lesson, pool practice session, guided sea dive to 12 meters (39 ft), marine life viewing
• Inclusions: Expert instructors, bottled water, all SCUBA equipment
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

If you’ve ever been curious about scuba diving, this 3-hour experience in Albufeira is such a good place to start. It’s aimed at complete beginners, but it’s also ideal if you’ve dived before and want a relaxed, confidence-boosting refresher before heading back into the water. We’d been diving in the past, but loved how this experience made everything simple, safe, and fun from the very first moment.

The day kicks off with a short theory session to cover the essentials, how the gear works, underwater hand signals, and the key safety steps. Then it’s into the indoor training tank with your instructor to practice breathing, movement, and a few safety exercises in a calm, controlled environment.

Our instructors were fantastic, patient, reassuring, and clearly passionate about helping people enjoy diving. With just two students per instructor, you get loads of personal attention, which makes it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

The dive itself lasted around 30 minutes, with a maximum depth of 12 meters (39 ft), just enough to feel exciting without being intimidating. Back on shore, we even got a six-month SSI certification, so we could dive again on the same trip or later in the year. It’s a friendly, low-pressure way to discover the Algarve’s underwater world, and we highly recommend it!

Find out more and reserve this exciting scuba diving experience here!

8. Visit the Algarve region’s top historic sights

• Duration: 8.5 hours 
• Time: 9 am 
• Highlights: See the best of the Algarve’s historical sights, including Silves, Monchique, Lagos, and Cape St. Vincent, free time to explore independently, small group tour, lots of local recommendations 
• Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, driver and guide
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re short on time in the Algarve, this full-day tour is the perfect way to experience the region’s historical and scenic highlights in just one day. It’s perfectly designed to provide a rich and varied experience without the hassle of planning or navigation. 

Our guide, Mario, was incredibly knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights throughout the day. You could tell he genuinely loves what he does, and it made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

We kicked things off in Silves, a charming city known for its ancient Moorish castle and winding, cobbled streets. After soaking up the history, we continued on to Monchique, where panoramic views from the highest point in the Algarve took our breath away.

Then it was off to Cape Saint Vincent, which locals refer to as the “end of the world,” and as soon as we arrived, we could see why. Towering cliffs drop straight into the crashing waves of the deep blue sea, creating a wild, untamed view that feels like the edge of the Earth.

We had some free time to grab lunch nearby, and then we wrapped up the day with a visit to the historical center of Lagos. Wandering through its cobbled streets and colorful squares was the perfect slow-paced ending after such an adventure-filled day.

Each stop on this tour was very well-timed, allowing for independent exploration while still getting to hear about the region’s rich history and culture from our guide. No wonder it has such great reviews—read them here!

Check availability and secure this full-day tour here!

9. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour 

• Duration: 1.5 hours 
• Time: 9:30 am, 2:30 pm, or 3:30 pm
• Highlights: Thrilling ATV ride, exploring off-road trails and the area around Paderne Castle, visiting Paderne Castle
• Inclusions: Use of ATV, bottled water, local guide, petrol, helmets, insurance, neck gaiter, goggles
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 170+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience in Albufeira, then allow me to introduce you to this ATV tour! It’s a must for thrill-seekers visiting the Algarve, but it’s also an amazing way to get off the tourist trail and explore the area in depth. 

The ride was a thrilling mix of dirt tracks, winding paths, and beautiful countryside views. We really got a sense of the Algarve’s natural beauty as we sped through hills and valleys. And of course, we got a huge adrenaline rush, too!

One of the highlights was visiting the historic Paderne Castle, where we had a chance to take a breather and snap some photos before getting back to the action. Originally built in the 12th century, this castle is a major piece of the Algarve’s history. 

The quad bikes were easy to handle, making this tour a perfect opportunity for first-timers. Meanwhile, riding in a small group made the experience even better because we were able to keep up a good pace while still feeling safe and staying close to our guide.

If you’re in Albufeira and love adventure, this tour is a must! Whether you’re solo, with friends, or with a partner, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the Algarve in a way you never could on foot or by car. 

Check prices and book this exciting ATV tour here! 

10. Go wine tasting and explore castles

• Duration: 4 hours 
• Time: 9 am or 2 pm 
• Highlights: Exploring the Algarve countryside, learning about the area’s heritage, visiting a local winery and Silves Castle, tasting a variety of Portuguese wines, enjoying traditional tapas
• Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, wine tasting, transport by air-conditioned minivan, tapas, driver and guide, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Wine tasting in Portugal is an absolute must, and this half-day tour through the Algarve countryside did not disappoint! So pair that with a visit to the historic Silves Castle and you’ve really got yourself an incredible day out. 

Silves was our first stop of the day. It’s a historic town with a strong Moorish influence, so it’s definitely worth taking the time to wander through its cobbled streets and admire the ancient architecture. Then, we got to explore the striking red castle, which offered stunning panoramic views of the town below.

Next, it was time for the main event, the winery! It was a gorgeous spot nestled in the rolling hills of the Algarve. We started with a tour of the estate, during which our guide walked us through the winemaking process and explained how the Algarve’s unique climate influences the flavors.

Then, we got to taste three exquisite wines: a bold red, a crisp white, and a refreshing glass of rosé. Better still, it was all paired with some authentic Portuguese tapas—yum!

If you love wine, culture, and beautiful scenery, this tour is a must. It’s the perfect way to see a different side of the Algarve beyond the beaches. No wonder it has hundreds of glowing reviews—check them out here!

Check availability and secure your spot on this tour here!

Where to Stay in Albufeira, Portugal

Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s most popular beach towns with its dramatic coastline, buzzing nightlife, and laid-back charm. Whether you’re after a luxury beach resort, a quiet couples’ retreat, or a budget-friendly hostel near Old Town, Albufeira has you covered.

To help narrow things down, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Albufeira so you can relax and enjoy the sun, sea, and sardines!

Luxury – $$$

Set right on the golden sands of Santa Eulália Beach, the Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort and Hotel Spa is a 5-star resort that blends family-friendly fun with serious luxury. With four outdoor pools, a full-service Thalassotherapy spa, and sea-view rooms with private balconies, this place feels like its own private village. There’s even a kids’ club, pizzeria, and three on-site restaurants—plus direct beach access just steps away. Whether you’re here for golf, a spa break, or a seaside escape, it’s a standout choice in Albufeira.

Prices typically range from €250–€630 per night. Check current rates for this luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

For a relaxing resort-style stay in Albufeira, Regency Salgados Hotel and Spa checks all the boxes. Just a 15-minute walk from Salgados Beach, this stylish hotel features a spacious pool area, serene gardens, a full-service spa, and a modern fitness center. Rooms are sleek and comfortable, many with balconies overlooking the pool or garden. Guests rave about the helpful staff, peaceful atmosphere, and daily breakfast buffet that’s included with every stay.

Rooms start at around €140—€340 per night, with spa access and parking included. Head to Booking.com to book your stay and unwind in style!

Budget – $

For a budget-friendly stay in central Albufeira, Musical Hostel is a top choice! Just steps from Old Town Square and close to the beach, this clean, modern hostel features comfy bunk beds with privacy curtains, air-conditioned rooms, and a well-equipped shared kitchen. Guests love the social vibe, free Wi-Fi, and bonus perks like a garden and hot tub. The 24-hour front desk staff are friendly and helpful, making it easy to settle in.

Dorm beds start at €27 per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book your stay!

For more options, see all of Albufeira’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Albufeira has quickly become one of our favorite destinations in Portugal, and we hope this guide helped you plan your own adventure! From cruising along the coast and exploring sea caves to zipping through the mountains in a Jeep, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.

We’ve made so many great memories in Albufeira, and we’re sure you will too. For more travel ideas and inspiration in the area, check out our other Portugal blogs here—we’ve got plenty of tips to help you explore this part of the world!

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