Itineraries for Your Trip to Albufeira
1 Day in Albufeira for First Timers
When my mother announced she was moving from England to Portugal about a decade ago, I received the news with sadness. I would miss having her near. But after some research into her new home in Albufeira, that sadness turned to excitement. She’d be living minutes from the yolk-yellow cliffs and golden sands of an Algarvian beach. Plus, orange groves ringed her new property and (most importantly) sat beside a bakery that served delectable pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts).
That was when my love affair with Albufeira and the Algarve began. If you’re just about to start yours, follow my roundup of the best things to do in Albufeira on what’s bound to be your first of many visits.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a boat ride along the Algarve’s golden shoreline.
The Algarve enjoys 300 days of sun per year, with layers required only in December-February.
It’s nearly guaranteed the sun will be shining in Albufeira when you visit, so head straight to the water upon waking up. Boat tours typically depart from Albufeira Marina, ringed by cafés where you can stop in for a coffee and custard tart. Then, board your boat and head out into the Atlantic on a dolphin-spotting and cave cruise, which takes you into the incredible Benagil Cave. Kayak tours let you get closer to the rock formations.
Once you’re back on dry land, prepare for more adventures on a Jeep safari that takes you off-road and into Albufeira’s countryside, full of rolling orange and olive groves and historic whitewashed villages. Tours tend to stop at scenic viewpoints and include a traditional Portuguese lunch. For an extra thrill, opt for a buggy tour that grants you access to rugged roads that cars can’t handle.
Get back on the water tonight to see a famous Algarve sunset from the Atlantic. Feast on classic Portuguese food such as piri-piri chicken on an evening catamaran cruise that includes a barbecue on the beach,, or opt for something more intimate (and luxurious) on a private sunset yacht cruise that includes snacks and drinks to toast the sinking sun. Cap your evening with a cocktail in Albufeira Old Town.
