A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Bressanone for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Albufeira or Bressanone?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Albufeira or Bressanone? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a vibrant, touristy, and popular resort town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Albufeira attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Albufeira travel costs.

Bressanone

Bressanone is a picturesque, idyllic, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Bressanone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Bressanone travel costs.

Albufeira and Bressanone: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Albufeira or Bressanone?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Bressanone are both popular with visitors, Albufeira has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Albufeira is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Bressanone is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Albufeira is more touristy than Bressanone and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also home to Praia da Falesia. Bressanone is popular for its charming old town and its idyllic setting.

How is Albufeira different from Bressanone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bressanone and Albufeira. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albufeira or Bressanone?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Bressanone offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors simply enjoy soaking up the town's atmosphere, but sights around town include The Royal Palace, the cathedral, and Franzenfeste Fortress.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Albufeira or Bressanone? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Bressanone both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albufeira. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Bressanone has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite its small size, there are many family run restaurants that make use of ingredients from local farms. The town also hosts a few culinary festivals throughout the year.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

People head to Albufeira just to party. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

Bressanone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town with some quaint bars and pubs where you can enjoy a beer and chat with other visitors.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Resorts?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bressanone is not a resort destination.

Albufeira is a world class resort vacation destination. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Bressanone is not a resort destination.


Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bressanone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Albufeira is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

Bressanone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Beaches?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Bressanone is not a beach destination.

Albufeira is considered to be a world-class beach destination. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Bressanone is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for its Old Town?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a great destination for its old town. However, Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bressanone. The cathedral and beautiful old buildings make this a charming place to explore.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.


Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Hiking?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bressanone. There's a huge variety of hikes in the surrounding countryside. You can walk alongside the river, head into the foothills, or explore the nearby vineyards.

Many people include a hike when visiting Albufeira. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Bressanone?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Bressanone offers some nice shopping areas. The medieval streets are lined with family-owned shops, boutique clothing stores, and other unique local shopping opportunities.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone More Beautiful?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira and Bressanone are somewhat similar when it comes to the excellent scenery.

The beauty of Albufeira is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its golden beaches and beautiful setting, it's easy to see why the area is so popular.

With stunning beauty, Bressanone attracts visitors from all around. Surrounded by the mountains and home to historic streets lined with charming buildings, this is a picturesque town to visit.


Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Families?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a resort town with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

For families, Bressanone is not always the best place to visit. It's a great town to take a lunch break. The kids will enjoy wandering the alley-like streets. There's a river through town and great views of the Alps.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Couples?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Albufeira is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

Bressanone is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. This charming town is seeped in romance. The quaint streets and surrounding mountain setting make this an idyllic place to take a romantic trip.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Albufeira is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Albufeira is a very popular resort town to visit for backpackers. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bressanone. There's a couple of hostels and cheaper guesthouses in town, so backpackers can enjoy a few days in this picturesque alpine town.


Is Albufeira or Bressanone Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a popular place for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Bressanone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Bressanone a more walkable city?

Albufeira
Bressanone

Bressanone is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Bressanone is a very walkable town. The town is compact and small enough to explore on foot.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Bressanone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bressanone or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Bressanone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Albufeira or Bressanone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Albufeira than Bressanone because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bressanone.

Families should spend more time in Albufeira than Bressanone. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Albufeira, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Albufeira than Bressanone. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albufeira that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albufeira than Bressanone if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Albufeira.


  • How many days in Albufeira or Bressanone? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albufeira 3-7 
    Bressanone 1-2

One day in Albufeira or Bressanone?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the popular resort town of Albufeira, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Bressanone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bressanone has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Albufeira or Bressanone?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Albufeira, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Bressanone is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Bressanone?

Albufeira, a popular resort town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this resort town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bressanone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Bressanone?

Albufeira is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this resort town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bressanone is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bressanone or Albufeira?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Albufeira Prices
    Portugal Prices
    Bressanone Prices
    Italy Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Albufeira 183
    Bressanone 172

The average daily cost (per person) in Albufeira is €183, while the average daily cost in Bressanone is €172. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Albufeira and Bressanone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albufeira 74
    Bressanone 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albufeira 148
    Bressanone 144
Compare Hotels in Albufeira and Bressanone

Looking for a hotel in Albufeira or Bressanone? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Albufeira


Hotels in Bressanone


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Albufeira Hotel Prices and Bressanone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albufeira 34
    Bressanone 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albufeira

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Albufeira:

  • Albufeira - Faro Airport Transfers 4pax: $48
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $107
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer from Faro Airport to Vilamoura / Quarteira: $64
  • Private Transfer From Albufeira To Faro Airport By Minibus: $104
  • Private Transfer from Albufeira to Faro Airport (5 to 8 pax): $58
  • Private Transfer from Apartamentos Pescadores (Albufeira) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Cacela Velha to Faro (FAO) Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from Ferreiras to Faro (FAO) Airport: $81
  • Private Transfer from Monte Gordo to Faro Airport (1-4 pax): $86
  • Private Transfer from Olhos de Água to Faro (FAO) Airport: $78
  • Private Transfer from Résidence Pierre Vilamoura to Faro (FAO) Airport: $74
  • Private Transfer from Tunes to Faro (FAO) Airport: $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Albufeira or Bressanone?

Prices for flights to both Bressanone and Albufeira change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Albufeira 82
    Bressanone 81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albufeira

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Albufeira.

  • Portuguese Dinner and Cocktail Experience with Pick up: $52
  • Dinner at the Vineyards in Lagoa: $59
  • Sunset Safari with Traditional Dinner : $64
  • Sunset Tour - Champagne and Traditional Dinner: $70
  • 6-Hour Sunset Dinner Catamaran Cruise with Open Bar: $79

Typical Food Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bressanone:


  • Gelato
    2.20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albufeira 39
    Bressanone 20

Tours and Activities in Albufeira

Here are a few actual costs in Albufeira for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Authentic Algarve: Loulé Town Tour and Markets: $18
  • Old Town History Walking Tour with Tapas & Wine: $20
  • 3-Day & 5-Day Giro Albufeir Tourist Passes: $22
  • Albufeira 1 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $22
  • Algarve Wines Tasting Shared Experience at Mercado Municipal de Silves: $27
  • Caves and Coastline Cruise from Albufeira to Benagil: $29
  • Albufeira 1 hour Off-Road Tour Buggy Adventure Tour: $29
  • Caves and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Albufeira: $31
  • Albufeira 2 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $31
  • Catamaran Cruise: Caves and Coastline to Benagil: $32
  • Benagil caves's kayak tour: $32
  • Dolphins and Caves Tour: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albufeira 26
    Bressanone 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Albufeira

Also in Albufeira, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $62
  • Small-Group Wine Tour & Silves Exploration (from Albufeira): $67
  • Private Tour To Lagos a Ponta da Piedade with Wine Tasting: $91

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bressanone:


  • 1/2 Litre of wine
    9.00
  • 2 Glasses of Wine
    7.00


When comparing the travel costs between Albufeira and Bressanone, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albufeira Expensive? and Is Bressanone Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Bressanone?

Bressanone has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Bressanone, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.