Private car transfer from Lisbon to Albufeira

Along the ride, you’ll be passing Portugal’s prettiest landscapes and greenest scenes. As you leave Lisbon, you'll pass through rolling hills and agricultural landscapes; this part of Portugal is known for its wine production so you may see vineyards along the way. As you approach the Algarve, the scenery will start changing into dramatic cliffside coastlines and golden beaches.

The best thing about the drive is that you can pass through some of Portugal’s fascinating towns, vineyards, and historical sites. With Daytrip, you’ll get the chance to explore each stop you’d like to go to. Start discovering the fairytale-like fish town Sesimbra. The town is known for its castle, which was built up on the hill with a marvelous view of the sea, and also for its seafood, which is as fresh as it gets.

To dive into the history of Portugal, your next destination should be Evora. In this city lies the Chapel of Bones, decorated with the bones of 5000 bodies, ancient columns of Templo Romano, and Roman Baths. Make sure you don’t leave Evora before trying its wines in several local wineries.

The town's history dates back to the Roman era, evident in some archaeological sites and the old town's layout. After the Romans, it was occupied by the Moors, from whom the town gets its name; "Albufeira" is derived from the Arabic "Al-buhera," meaning "the Sea Castle," reflecting its maritime heritage and the importance of its coastal location.

Albufeira's old town is decorated with cobbled streets, traditional Portuguese houses painted in white, and squares filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. This part of the town retains much of its original charm and is centered around the main square, which comes alive in the evenings with live music and entertainment. The livelier part of the town, though, is called The Strip, which contrasts sharply with the old town. Here, most clubs do not get going till after midnight and stay open until the early hours of the morning. Therefore, this part is appealing to a younger crowd and party-goers.

Apart from its colorful nights, Albufeira also offers some of the finest beaches in Portugal, known for their clear and calm waters. You can enjoy a wide range of water sports and different beaches to try, including Praia dos Pescadores, known as Fishermen’s Beach, Praia da Oura, Praia de São Rafael, and Praia da Falésia.

Beyond the town's immediate attractions, Albufeira serves as a great base for exploring the Algarve region and its spectacular landscapes, golf courses, water parks, and cultural sites. The region's mild climate makes it a year-round destination, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, which attracts visitors seeking both summer beach holidays and winter escapes. Keep an eye on updates for the Algarve region.

Albufeira is like the dream city for a summer vacation, which can take place in spring or autumn. For days filled with fresh seafood and Portuguese wine, laying on the brightest golden sands, swimming in crystal blue waters during the day, and staying up until sunrise in the clubs, Albufeira is simply the perfect destination.

Plan your stops for the trip

Read about the stops waiting for you to explore along the way and add the ones that you decide not to miss. Turn your short car trip to Albufeira into an exciting discovery of the hidden towns, local restaurants, and nature walks. Make sure you add the stops you’d like to take before confirming your booking.

Communicate your preferences

Discuss anything you’d like to adjust during your trip with your driver. Feel free to ask about the stops, local tips, and any sort of help if you are in need. Ensure the vehicle meets your needs in size, comfort, and amenities, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. Call our customer service before, during, or after your trip should you have any concerns.

Pack essentials

Don’t forget to pack your essentials for your three-hour trip. Bring water to stay hydrated in Portugal’s warm climate, snacks, and any comfort items like neck pillows or blankets for a more enjoyable ride. Although the scenic drive is beautiful, having music playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts downloaded can enhance the experience, especially for longer stretches of the journey.

Ensure your safety and health

Always travel with insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances. Depending on the current situation, follow any recommended health guidelines, such as wearing masks or using hand sanitizer.

Lisbon to Albufeira by bus

Several bus companies are operating the route from Lisbon to Albufeira, including Rede Expressos and Renex. Buses depart from Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon. You can reach Sete Rios station by metro, bus, or taxi. The bus journey takes approximately two and a half hours to three hours, depending on the service chosen. Tickets can be purchased online, at the bus station, or sometimes directly from the driver. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Lisbon to Albufeira by train

Portugal's national railway company, CP (Comboios de Portugal), operates two main types of services from Lisbon to the Algarve: the faster Alfa Pendular (AP) and the slightly slower Intercidades (IC). Trains depart from Lisbon's Entrecampos or Oriente stations. The train journey to Albufeira takes approximately two and a half to three hours. Note that the train station in Albufeira is Albufeira-Ferreiras, located about seven km from the town center. You'll need to take a taxi or bus to reach the center from the station.

Lisbon to Albufeira by private car service

Book your private car trip with Daytrip and have by far the most comfortable journey from Lisbon to Albufeira. Without any stops and traffic delays, the trip takes around three hours, but with Daytrip, surely you’ll take many stops to explore. Add the destinations you’d like to visit to your itinerary, book your trip, and then just lean back and relax! Your local driver will help you with your luggage, take you from your door, and leave you at the exact place you desire. With Daytrip, you can explore as many places as you want without worrying about catching public transport.

Explore the beaches

Albufeira is crowded with tourists, especially because of its beautiful selection of beaches. Here are some of them which you shouldn’t miss;

• Praia dos Pescadores: The main beach in Albufeira is known for its wide stretch of sand and close proximity to the old town.
• Praia da Oura: Popular among younger visitors for its water sports and lively beach bars.
• Praia de São Rafael: Offers stunning rock formations and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
• Praia da Falésia: One of the longest beaches in Portugal, with beautiful cliffs as a backdrop.

Visit the Old Town and the Marina

Wander through the charming streets of mosaic cobblestones. The town managed to preserve its chill atmosphere regardless of its popularity, so you’ll have a great time walking the streets aimlessly and just exploring. Enjoy the local architecture integrated with the smallest corners of the city, and explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Continue towards the west side of the old town to reach Albufeira’s relatively new marina. With the colorful houses in the background, you’ll experience a different atmosphere here compared to the old town’s white scene. From here, you can continue to the boat cruises if you book any.

Enjoy the nightlife

Since Albufeira is partly famous for its vibrant nightlife, if you wouldn’t mind having some fun, then hit The Strip side of the city, where you can find numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Enjoy all things sea life

Join a boat tour to explore the Algarve coastline, visit beautiful caves, and maybe even spot dolphins. Engage in watersports such as jet skiing, parasailing, or windsurfing, which are available at many of Albufeira's beaches. Discover the underwater world of the Algarve through scuba diving or snorkeling excursions, exploring rich marine life and hidden underwater caves.

Experience the local cuisine

Taste the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants featuring fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes. The must-try dishes you need to add to your list are Frango da Guia, a delicious spicy chicken; Cataplana de marisco, a combination of shrimp, clams, lobster, and more. And Tarta de Alfarroba, a traditional Portuguese tart made of carob fruit. You can also go to local markets for fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits, as well as local crafts for souvenirs.

If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and for exploring the region's attractions without the peak season's hustle and bustle. Visit during winter (December to February) for the mildest crowds and cooler temperatures. It is suitable for those interested in cultural experiences and enjoying Albufeira at a more relaxed pace.