What to see in Albufeira ?

Albufeira long lived by fishing before tourism radically transformed its coastline in the 1970s. The old town nonetheless preserves an authentic kernel around Rua Cândido dos Reis, with its whitewashed alleyways and understated azulejo tiles. It is this tension between historic village and committed seaside resort that gives the town its particular character.

The best period falls in May-June or September, when beaches like Praia dos Pescadores remain accessible without August's saturation. Two days suffice to explore the centre and neighbouring coves. Hiring a car remains the most efficient way to reach the isolated beaches along the western coast. Avoid the Marina strip at night if you're after something local: it functions almost exclusively for a foreign clientele.