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Albufeira has been popular with holidaymakers since the 1960s, and its position on the beautiful coast of the Algarve has ensured the town has retained its popularity throughout this time. On your journey from the airport at Faro to Albufeira you will pass through some of the beautiful countryside and small towns and villages that have contributed to this popularity. Algarvian Architecture and Shopping On your journey from Faro to Albufeira you will pass close by the village of Saõ Louren?o, which acts as the cultural hub for the region of Loulé. It is worth venturing away from the beach to look at the beautiful architecture in this village. The church of Saõ Louren?o is a wonderful example of Algarvian architecture, with an interior covered with the blue tiles that define it. For music lovers, classical concerts are held in the Saõ Louren?o Cultural Centre at certain times of the year. If your interest in architecture goes back to the Romans, a visit to the Roman ruins of Cera de Vila should be on your itinerary. Located near to the marina resort of Vilamoura, they are the remnants of a Roman villa. Bronze-age graves have also been discovered in this area. A short distance inland from the route from Faro to Albufeira is the city of Loulé. Loulé is the second largest city in this region and its architecture reflects the Moorish origins, which are particularly evident in its Moorish-style Market Hall. Early in the morning on every day (except Saturday) the hall is filled with farmers selling their produce - which ranges from giant olives to local cheeses. Around the outside of the hall you will find interesting souvenirs in the form of antique glassware, painted tiles and copper pans; just make sure you remember your baggage allowance for the trip home. On Saturdays the more touristy gypsy market takes place here. Beaches The coastline from Faro to Albufeira is lined with beautiful beaches and you are truly spoilt for choice. Just to the east of Albufeira is the resort town of Santa Eulalia and the beach of Maria Luisa. This uncluttered beach is perfect for children with its golden sand just waiting to be formed into sandcastles. However if you prefer a livelier beach, Fisherman’s Beach is right in front of the Old Town of Albufeira and close to all the shops, restaurants and bars. It’s still used by the local fishermen and fish restaurants are plentiful here just off the beach. For the more active, water sports are available, and in high season open air concerts sometimes take place in the square above the beach. For those who like their beaches to be small and picturesque, Olhos d’Agua with its beautiful rock formations will be a favourite. Nightlife The nightlife in the town is lively and lasts all night. ‘The Strip’ is the name of the long street where many of the bars and nightclubs are situated. It’s about two kilometres from the Old Town and is the place to party if you're the type who likes to be getting back to your hotel or apartment as the sun rises! If you would rather spend the evening in a more sedate fashion, the Old Town offers plenty of choices of quieter bars and restaurants for you to enjoy. Wherever you visit on the beautiful coast between Faro and Albufeira you will find everything that you could want to make your holiday a special one. Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for Faro to Albufeira transfers Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.
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