Albufeira is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Algarve, thanks to its expansive golden sands and central location. Choosing where to stay in Albufeira and getting the right accommodation for your needs is important as you won’t necessarily want to be based in the party zone or too far from the beach.
To make this easier for you, I’ve selected some of the best Albufeira accommodation in terms of location, facilities, service and value for money at different price points.
My insider tips, based on numerous trips, personal experience, industry knowledge and extensive research, will help you avoid unsuitable areas and find a great place to stay.
My Top Picks For The Best Places To Stay In Albufeira
5-star hotel: W Algarve a luxury resort with 5-star service throughout
4-star hotel: Hotel Sol e Mar Albufeira a lovely hotel in the old town, overlooking the beach
3-star hotel: Cerro Da Marina Hotel overlooking the marina
Luxury villa: Vila Balaia close to Falesia beach
Apartment: Apartamentos Rossio Mar with panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean
One very important tip: Book early to avoid disapointment!
Wondering what to do in Albufeira? Read this article to find out
Areas to aim for:
- Albufeira Old Town, for culture, charm, plenty of restaurants and easy access to the beach
- Albufeira Marina with its candy-coloured buildings and easy access for boat trips and the fishing harbour
- Praia de São Rafael for easy access to a wide sandy beach in a natural setting, often overlooked by tourists
- Praia da Falesia is a little further out of the city and good for a relaxing stay for families and couples
- Olhos de Água, a quieter fishing village with a small beach and plenty of restaurants
Areas you may want to avoid:
- Areias de São João (or, ‘The Strip’) for the party animals
- Montechoro, close to The Strip and growing in popularity with the youngsters
5 star Albufeira hotels
There is quite a choice of 5 star hotels in Albufeira although none are particularly close to the centre of the town. They have wonderful seaside locations but if you want to explore Albufeira’s sights and attractions then transport is necessary.
W Algarve
This impeccably designed and stunning 5-star hotel is well positioned for beaches and comes with all amenities you’d expect from a top hotel. The staff are exceptional and go out of their way to help.
There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness centre and some balconies come with lovely views of the coastline.
This modern and stylish hotel is the perfect base for your Albufeira stay. Choose a room to suit you.
Vila Joya
If you like ocean views and don’t mind dining at a two Michelin star restaurant then this award-winning resort could be perfect for you. You can enjoy two outdoor pools, a spa and even practice your strokes at the golf academy.
The lovely rooms have a Moorish-inspired design and you can enjoy coastal views from your balcony. You can relax in the gorgeous gardens or sip a cocktail in the outdoor hot-tub. The staff are very well trained so you can chill-out in the knowledge you’ll be well looked after. Check availability.
Luxury villas in Albufeira
If you’re looking for a luxury villa, Vila Balaia has a small cluster of self-contained villas set within landscaped gardens around an outdoor heated pool. It’s close to the huge Falesia beach and free private parking is available onsite. It’s just over 3 km to Albufeira Old Town. Check for dates.
Alternatively, you can search Plum Guide for independently-run villas in different parts of Albufeira.
4 star hotels in Albufeira
Hotels in Old town Albufeira
One of the best hotels in Albufeira Old Town and right on the beach is this adults-only hotel. Bedrooms have private balconies with sea views and you can dine in the very good onsite restaurant.
There’s no parking facility but a car isn’t necessary if you just want to spend time in Albufeira or take organised tours to explore further afield. Book your room overlooking the beach.
This super hotel and spa is just above Praia dos Peneco, in the heart of the old town but slightly removed from the most crowded spots. You can relax in the pool at this adults-only hotel and enjoy sea views from the restaurant. Check out the rooms and book one with a sea view.
Praia da Falesia
To avoid the noise of bars and experience luxury, this 4-star adults-only hotel is ideal. It’s 7 km from Albufeira and the hotel is surrounded by large gardens and has indoor and outdoor pools plus a hot tub.
Rooms come with private balconies and, for the golfers, the world renowned Pine Cliffs Golf Course is close by. Falesia beach is a 10 minute walk and there are free shuttle buses if you don’t want to walk. Check out the photos and book your stay.
3 star Albufeira hotels
Overlooking Abufeira marina is the Cerro Da Marina Hotel. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, each room comes with a balcony and overlooks the garden or the pool. Free private parking is available at the hotel and they also have apartments. See available accommodation options for your dates
A 5-minute drive away, near Olhos d’Agua, is this lovely boutique hotel. Rooms are elegantly furnished and some come with either views over the tranquil fishing village or the Atlantic Ocean. There’s an outdoor pool and the hotel offers free car parking. See photos.
More Albufeira accommodation for larger groups can be found at the excellent Plum Guide.
Apartments and villas
Apartamentos Rossio Mar has clean and simply designed apartments within two buildings (one with an outdoor pool) very close to the Praia do Peneco’s elevator. The staff are very friendly and accommodating.Check your dates.
About 3 km outside of Albufeira are these luxury villas, apartments and guesthouse. Kitchenettes are well-equipped and the outdoor pool is the perfect place to relax after a long day. Choose your perfect accommodation.
Nothing quite fitting the bill for your ideal Albufeira accommodation? Search Booking.com for other great options.
HANDY TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR TRIP TO PORTUGAL
Use these quick links to make your dream trip a reality:
Fully managed Portugal itineraries designed by Julie
Portugal accommodation guides
Browse Portugal travel guides and itineraries in my shop
Reserve a room on Booking.com
Get a great car rental deal with Discovercars.com
Get a quote for travel insurance with Yonder
Like this article? Pin it for later!
We are enjoying your blog ! We just may book our flights prior to our accommodations – and wonder if we should book Fri – Fri , or Sat – Sat or Sun- Sun – which is more common ?