Albufeira

Albufeira is a city and municipality in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, in the Faro District. It is situated on the Atlantic coast, about 40 kilometers west of Faro. The municipality covers roughly 140 square kilometers and had a population of around 40,000 in the early 2020s. The coastline features a sequence of beaches and coves, including Praia dos Pescadores in the old town, Praia da Oura, Praia de São Rafael, and Praia da Galé.

History and development: The area has ancient roots with Moorish and Roman influences. The name Albufeira is believed to derive from Arabic, and the town developed from a fishing village into one of the Algarve’s major tourist destinations from the 1960s onward. The Old Town preserves a traditional character with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, a harbor, and a historic fortress, while the newer areas include hotels, nightlife districts such as Areias de São João, and a modern marina.

Economy and administration: Tourism is the dominant economic activity, complemented by fishing and agriculture. The municipality is divided into four civil parishes: Albufeira e Olhos de Água, Guia, Ferreiras, and Paderne.

Climate and transport: Albufeira has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city is served by Faro Airport and is connected by road via the EN125 coastal route. Rail service on the Algarve line provides regional connectivity to nearby towns and cities.