Albufeira is a municipality and a Portuguese city in the Faro district of Algarve. Its name comes from an Arabic word that means "the lagoon". The population of the city proper is estimated at 13,646 while the municipality is about 35,281 inhabitants. This number accelerates in the summer and New Year, making Albufeira one of Algarve's leading tourist destinations.

Facilities guests look forward to in Albufeira include innumerable hotels, golf courses, restaurants, apartment blocks and a marina. This and the bustling nightlife of the city, showcases how commerce and tourism continue to grow in this city - especially since it's close to the Faro Airport. The most in demand are the authentic Portuguese fare clubs and Irish pubs.

Looking at Albufeira, you see a town filled with that typical Algarvian narrow street and lined up with pale white or tiled houses. There are also those that offer modern tourist developments. Guests who prefer the apartments close to the newly constructed Marina e Bryn adore the unique splashes of blues, yellows and pinks. In fact, the locals dubbed these apartments as "Legoland".

Gastronomic Side of Albufeira
The local specialty in Albufera is steamed shellfish or cataplana. It is a popular derived from Algarve. Then, there's fish stew or caldeirada and grilled sardines.

Restaurants here range from self service to fast food types. With the long tradition of Portugal on having good food, you can expect your meals to be served hot. Here are some food joints to check-out:

O Bom Garfo - This is located along the Oura zone.

Dream Wave - This is located by the Marina. You can call them at +351-962-003-885.

Teodosio - This is located in Guia. They specialize in Chicken Piri-Piri.

Aside from these eateries, there are also cafes and snack bars in Albufeira but it can be quite expensive.

More about the Nightlife in Albufeira
In Albufeira's Montechoro section, you'll discover an exciting nightlife on "the strip". This place is very popular in the summer time. Young tourists flock here to check-out popular bars like Matt's Bar, Erin's Isle, Cafe del Mar and Linekers. There's also BJ's, Mustang, La Bamba and Reno's as well as Garage, Wild & Co. among others.

Albufeira Accommodations
If you're looking for a place to stay in this charming city, here are some mid-range lodging facilities to consider:

Vila Gale Atlantico - This lodging facility is an ideal destination for a beach holiday. It is merely 300 meters from Praia da Gale while the heart of the city is merely 6 kilometers away. The address of this hotel is Praia da Gale Lote 7 Apartado 108 8201-902, Albufeira. For inquiries and reservations, call them at +351-289-570-800.

Vila Gale Alagoa - This is situated by the banks of Ria Formosa. Decorations of this accommodation feature an Arabian ambiance mixed with that past Southern Portugal style. Their address is Rua do Municipio Lote 26 8200-916, Albuferia. For inquiries and reservations, call them at +351-289-583-100.

Porto Bay Falesia - Although this accommodation is situated over red cliffs, it still offers direct access towards the beach. Its address is Quinta do Milharo Olhos d' Aqua, Albufeira. For inquiries and reservations, please call them at +351-289-007-700.