Albufeira

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Albufeira is a town (cidade) and municipality (concelho) in the neighborhood of Faro (Algarve).

Introduction

Albufeira is one of the most popular and internationally famous holiday destinations in the Algarve the most southern and sunniest region of continental Portugal. The resorts and hotels extend from Olhos d'Agua to Galé along the beautiful rocky coastline of the area. Once a small fishing village it has now developed to be a very touristic area. Many holiday makers return year after year because of the lovely beaches, very good climate, proximity of some Halal restaurants, bars and pubs. The origins of Albufeira date back to the prehistoric period. Later it was settled by the Romans, who called it "Baltum" . The name of Albufeira goes back to the time of the Moors "Al- Buhera", as the town in the 8th century was an important trading centre. There are hardly any remains from this period, only a plaque to commemorate the former Moorish castle on the upper town. Mid-13th century, Albufeira was recaptured by the Order of Knights of Santiago under Afonso III of the Moors. After that, it was for many centuries an insignificant fishing village. The huge Lisbon earthquake in 1755, devastated large parts of the nation and Albufeira was particularly affected. The subsequent tsunami flooded the lower part of the village. This destroyed any significant monuments. The last quarter of the 20th century saw a revival in Albufeira’s fortunes. Its discovery as the main tourist destination of the Algarve marked a huge expansion from fishing village, to town, to city. Today and the hotels and resorts extend almost seamlessly along the beautiful Albufeira coastline. In the summer months up to 300 thousand holidaymakers join the usual 22,000 residents.

Travel to Albufeira

Travel by plane to Albufeira

Faro Airport (IATA Flight Code: FAO) is also the main entrance to get in the Algarve through many low cost airline companies and there is a large choice of airport transfers carrier companies that can provide private or shared ground transportation to Albufeira or any resort in the Algarve.

By rail

The train station (Albufeira - Ferreiras) is 6 kilometers from the centre. There is a town bus that can take you into town. A small number of taxis are also available and are generally timed with the train stops . Be sure to grab one quickly, as it may be a while before another one turns up. Although no wifi is offered at the station itself, a small cafe nearby offers free wifi for its clients (and surprisingly delicious pastels de nata!). Trains to Lagos & Faro take about one hour each. The train to/from Lisbon takes 3–4 hours. There is now a rapid train that takes 2 1/2 hours but with more limited runs. A student fare costs €17 (for Portuguese students only).

Long distance buses are also available in the downtown.

Get Around in Albufeira

GPS 37.09227|-8.25252 There are local buses that run throughout town - ask your hotel for a timetable. Taxis are available and can be found in the town center.

Travel by vehicle to Albufeira

Car rental facilities are located in the town center and include major international chains (Hertz, Europcar) as well as local ones. Even for the expert driver, getting around can be quite challenging in Albufeira as there are no street signs to navigate you through the maze-like structure of the endless roundabouts, making maps similarly difficult to interpret. Coupled with the high cost of vehicle rentals, taxis or buses may be simpler modes of transportation.

Halal Sightseeing Tips

• Praia dos Pescadores - Fishermen's Beach | 37.0859382,-8.2514654 - The most famous attraction in the Old Town. Fishermen's boats are still pulled in every morning. The beach side is lined with restaurants, bars etc. and are open at night as well as during the daytime.
• Castelo de Paderne - Almoáda Castle | 37.1581432, -8.2110308 Free Entrance Moorish 12th century castle.

Top Must Do Travel Tips to Albufeira

More than 25 superb beaches, many of them recognised for their quality with the distinguished Blue Flag by FEE, entice holidaymakers to swim and walk. The long sandy beaches Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Tunel and Praia do Inatel stretching for miles in front of the old town offer a variety of water sports including parasailing, jet-skiing and kayaking.Smaller sandy beaches sheltered by rocky bays with bizarre sandstone cliffs extend to both sides. The new purpose built marina, located in an artificial basin on the Western edge of the city, was opened in 2003 with a capacity to moor nearly 500 boats. Alufeira can offer many varieties of culture, entertainment and family fun.

• Zoomarine Guia - A few kilometers from Albufeira on the N125 direction west ☎ +351 289 560 300 -

  Based on the theme "The Life of the Oceans", Zoomarine, located at the EN125 near Guia, at present occupies over 8 hectares, where, with a single ticket and the visitor has access to an area of leisure, entertainment and education. Just a few kilometers from Albufeira you can watch presentations with dolphins, seals and sea lions, with tropical birds and birds of prey. Here you find also an amazing aquarium with sharks, various habitats, Cinema4D, attractions, amusements and swimming pools, making your visit to Zoomarine even more unforgettable.

  Zoomarine is very popular with families with kids and therefore you need to take into account longer queues during the high season.

• Aquashow, Quarteira, https:// 1One of the best water parks in the Algarve, has something for every member of the family, including the highest freefall slide in Europe! There is an area dedicated to children with small slides, fountains and shallow waters ideal for young visitors and there are also many tubes and slides to satisfy those who are looking for adrenaline. The water park is located near Quarteira a short trip from the resorts of Albufeira, Loulé, Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. On your visit make time to experience the water roller coaster - unpredictable for anyone looking for adrenaline and be sure to visit non-water activities including the theme park for all ages and can even swim with the Sea Lions!
• Fiesa, https://en/ 1The International Festival of Sand Sculpture, Armação de Pera (3 kilometers further on from Zoomarine on the N125 is the largest festival of sand sculptures in the world, has been held regularly and annually since 2003 in Pêra, Algarve. Every year, around 60 artists use 35,000 tons of sand to create various works of art in an area of ​​15,000 m². The event is open to the public in the evening, where night lights provide a completely different view of the event. That is accompanied with circus arts, dance and theater and live music.

Muslim Friendly Shopping

The narrow streets of the lower old town are filled with shops and street vendors that offer souvenirs and beach accessories.In the summer months, it is worth taking a stroll through the pedestrian zone with its pubs, restaurants to drink into the special atmosphere of this bustling city. One of the largest of its kind in the Algarve is the Algarve Shopping commercial centre at Guia on the EN125. Over a hundred shops, a supermarket and numerous restaurants are spread over two floors. Apolonia supermarket in Galé carries a huge selection of regional and international specialties and world famous brand names. By Nature - Rua do Movimento das Forças Armadas 10, 8200-157 Albufeira, Portugal Thit is a rather lovely little shop which opened in 2013. They sell beautiful soaps in many different styles and scents. The cupcakes look incredibly realistic and smell divine.

Halal Restaurants

Please be informed that on some destination such as Albufeira we had no local Muslim/a that has researched some of the area. If you are a Muslim/a and have been to Albufeira or would like to maintain the eHalal Guide to Albufeira, please contact us at guides@ehalal.io or email us your updates.

There are some Halal restaurants to choose from, with many of them offering traditional Portuguese fare as well as a wide variety of fresh seafood. Dishes involving different preparations of codfish are plentiful and the Cataplana styled dishes are well known in this region. Shellfish such as prawns, lobster and crab tend to be expensive, while fish is much more affordable. For a break from seafood, try the Chicken piri-piri (roasted Chicken with a sort of spicey sauce).

• Dream Wave - Albufeira - Albufeira Marina ☎ +351 962 003 885
• O Bom Garfo, in the Oura zone.
• Teodosio In Guia. Specializes in Chicken Piri-Piri.
• Vila Joya Restaurant - Praia da Galé - ☎ +351 289 591 795 One of the top Michelin Restaurants in Portugal, Vila Joya resembles a small oriental palazzo and is nestled in a breathtaking garden setting on a cliff with stunning views facing the sea.
• Pita Gourmet | Rua Camilo Castelo Branco - ☎ +351 289 541 676 Greek restaurant for youngsters and families.
• São Domingo Estrada Vale Rabelho, Galé-Guia - ☎ +351289592349 , +351289591169 High quality restaurant serving fresh seafood and a wide range of Meat dishes. Highly recommended is the Chef's Fillet Steak.

Nightclubs, cafes and Snacks bars are abundant in the Old Town as well as on the Avenida Saturday Caneiro, called The Strip and the best known nightlife destination in the entire Algarve, mainly popular with tourists from UK and Ireland. Everything is a bit more expensive in the discos at night, so many holiday makers will drink in the restaurants and go to the disco after 1am (they are open until 6am in the summer!)

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Albufeira

Albufeira July 29, 2023 - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Albufeira, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Albufeira. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Albufeira and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Albufeira. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Albufeira. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Albufeira: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Albufeira. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Albufeira: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Albufeira, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Albufeira. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Albufeira, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Albufeira, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Albufeira and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Albufeira, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Albufeira, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Albufeira without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Albufeira is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Albufeira. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Albufeira is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Albufeira, please contact: Irwan Shah Bin Abdullah Chief Technology Officer eHalal Travel Group Albufeira info@ehalal.io

Buy/Rent Muslim Friendly Condos, Houses and Villas in Albufeira

eHalal Group Albufeira is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Albufeira. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Albufeira. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Albufeira ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Albufeira. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and facilities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Albufeira, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Albufeira are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private facilities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan in Albufeira

Ramadan 2025 in Albufeira

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Most hotels and resorts in Albufeira do not offer Halal food, however you can order Halal groceries from eHalal Group if you are booking your stay with eHalal Hotels and we will deliver your halal food to the property you will be staying in Albufeira.

Holidaymakers have the choice of more than 500 different lodgings in Albufeira and the surrounding area. Many of these hotels and resorts stretch along the coast between Vilamoura and Albufeira on the beaches of Inatel, Praia da Oura, Santa Eulalia, Olhos de Água and Falésia. West of Albufeira, between the marina of Albufeira and the tourist centre of Armação de Pêra many more hotels and resorts are situated on top of the cliffs, overlooking small rocky bays and the beautiful sandy beaches of São Rafael, Castelo and Galé. If you prefer to stay closer to the picturesque old town of Albufeira to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the narrow lanes or to experience the night life on the famous “Strip”, you will find many hotels and apartments along the ring road Av. dos Descobrimentos, encircling the downtown, offering beautiful panoramic views towards the marvellous bay of Albufeira.

• Varandas de Albufeira Rua do Indico 14 - ☎ +351 289 540 850 Check-in : 2PM / Check-out: 10AM Rates start from €26This hotel in Albufeira offers rooms equipped with cable TV, air conditioning and kitchenette. Some of its facilities and services are restaurant, bar, game room, billiards, outdoor swimming pool, safe deposit boxes and housekeeping.
• Valmangude Jardim Rua Dunfermline, Lote 5/7 - ☎ +351 289580820 Rates start from €78 All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cable television and kitchenette. Some of its facilities and services are bar, swimmingpool bar, outdoor swimming pool, billiards, 24 hour front desk, safe deposit boxes, high-speed internet access and housekeeping.
• Perola do Algarve Rua do Pacífico, Lote 24 - ☎ +351 289 540 850 Check-in : 2PM / Check-out: 10AM price= Perola do Algarve offers rooms equipped with cable TV, air conditioning and kitchenette. Some of its facilities and services are bar, swimmingpool bar, restaurant, game room, outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned public areas, billiards, 24-hour front desk and housekeeping.
• Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa | Rua do Munícipio, Lote 26 8200-916 - ☎ +351 289 583 100 - On the banks of the Ria Formosa and the interior is said to have an Arabian ambience of old southern Portugal. Online booking
• Vila Galé Atlântico | Praia da Galé, Lote 7 - Apartado 108 8201-902 - ☎ +351 289 570 800 Close to Praia da Galé and only 6 kilometers away from the centre of city. Online booking
• Vila Galé PRAIA | Praia da Galé, Lote 33 - Apartado 2204 8201-917 - ☎ +351 289 590 180 - Located right at Praia da Galé, 5 minutes away from Albufeira. Online booking.
• Porto Bay Falésia - Quinta do Milharó, Olhos d´Água - ☎ +351 289 007 700 - Located over the red cliffs and with direct access to the beach.
• Hotel Nau: Rafael Suites| url São Rafael Suites ☎ +351 289 540 300 }}
• Hotel Luna Falesia Mar| url Quinta do Milharó, Olhos d'Água ☎ +351 289 501 677 }}
• Hotel Luna Alpinus| url Web: n/alpinus-hotel Pinhal do Concelho - Açoteias ☎ +351 289 247 270 }}
• Hotel Baia: Grande| url Praia da Coelha – Sesmarias ☎ +351 289 583 500 }}
• Hotel Luna Clube Brisamar| url Sede Rua de S. Pedro, Lote 28 R/c Dt. ☎ +351 289 009 400 }}
• Hotel Luna Miramar| url Web: aspx Rua do Pacífico, Lote 24 ☎ +351 289 540 850 }}
• Hotel Luna Hotel Da Oura| url Web: aspx Rua Dunfermline, Areias de São João ☎ +351 289 590 170 }}
• Hotel Luna Solaqua| url Web: aspx Rua do Mediterrâneo, Lote 23 A ☎ +351 289 540 980 }}
• Hotel Paladim| url Rua do Municipio Lt.1 A 5 A ☎ +351 289 580 010 }}
• Hotel Pinheiros Balaia| url Rua do Alfaiate ☎ +351 289 508 070 }}
• Hotel Quinta Pedra Dos Bicos| url Aldeamento Quinta Pedra dos Bicos 24 ☎ +351 961 731 230 }}
• Hotel Nau: Rafael Atlantico| url São Rafael Atlântico, Albufeira ☎ +351 289 599 420 }}
• Hotel Silchoro| url Silchoro Apartamentos Turisticos Praceta Jaime Cortesão ☎ +351 289 541 880 }}
• Hotel Tropical Sol| url Rua Natália Correia, Lote 11 Apartado 508 ☎ +351 289 588 79 }}
• Hotel Baltum| url Avenida 25 de Abril, 26 ☎ +351 289 589 102 }}
• Hotel Belver: Boa Vista| url Rua Samora Barros 20 ☎ +351 289 589 175 }}
• Hotel Belver: Aldeia| url Av. Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro ☎ +351 289 588 861 }}
• Hotel Choromar| url Rua Candido Guerreiro, Lote 22 ☎ +351 289 588 207 }}
• Hotel Brisa Sol| url Rua do Municipio, Lote 27, Apartado 2054 ☎ +351 289 580 420 }}
• Hotel Vidamar: Guesthouse| url Estrada do Aldeamento São Rafael, Lote 26 ☎ +351 961 686 120 }}
• Hotel Apartamentos Do parque| url Rua do Parque Olhos de Água ☎ +351 289 598 600 }}
• Hotel Alagoa Mar| url Rua do Municipio, 8200-161, Albufeira, Algarve 8201-161 , Albufeira Albufeira ☎ +351 289 580 800 }}
• Hotel Vidamar: Villas| url Estrada do Aldeamento São Rafael, Lote 26 - Edifício Recepção ☎ +351 961 686 120 }}
• Eden Resort - Vale de Santa Maria - ☎ +351 289 002 700 A condominium with luxury villas and apartments.
• Encosta da Orada Rua Jose Ramos Pimenta - ☎ +351 289 381 551 Rates start from €145.98 Encosta da Orada offers rooms equipped with television, kitchenette, refrigerator and microwave and has a swimming pool, casino, garden, tennis court, golf course, room service, dry cleaning, parking, bicycle rental and airport shuttle.
• Jardins de Santa Eulalia Estrada de Santa Eulalia - 500 m from Santa Eulália Beach ☎ +351 289 381 551 Rates start from €145.98 Jardins de Santa Eulalia offers rooms equipped with in-room safe, kitchenette, refrigerator, fireplace, television and dining area and has a bar/lounge, garden, outdoor swimming pool, airport shuttle, laundry service and vehicle rental service.

Where to go from Albufeira

Lagos_(Portugal) | Lagos, Silves, Lagoa, Tavira, Evora, Milfontes, Troia, Lisbon. Lisbon: From the Old Town to the train station the easiest route is by taxi (it's 6 km). This can be purchased quite reasonably for 8-€10 and the journey time is 5-10mins. The first train leaves for Lisbon at 07:19am and takes 2h 40m, other services take 3h 20m so be sure to check when the trains arrive/depart. Definitely book and print tickets in advance, www.cp.pt (there's an English version, just click the flag). Return journey cost €32 for a regular class seat. It's well worth the money and you see lots of Portugal on the way. Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
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