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

Should you visit Albufeira or Chartres?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Chartres? 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 party hard, vibrant, and touristy resort town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Albufeira and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Chartres?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Albufeira than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Albufeira is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Albufeira is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Also, Albufeira is famous for Praia da Falesia. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Albufeira different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chartres 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 Chartres?

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

Chartres offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Albufeira is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Albufeira has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Albufeira is a world class party destination. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chartres is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Albufeira is a great choice. 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.

Chartres is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Albufeira. 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.

Chartres is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Chartres is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Albufeira. 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.

Chartres is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a popular place for hiking. However, Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Chartres?

Albufeira is adequate for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Albufeira has some nice offerings. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Families?

Albufeira is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Albufeira offers lots of family activities. 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."

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Couples?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Albufeira makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Chartres is a good resort town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Albufeira or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Albufeira is extremely popular 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

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

Chartres is a great destination for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Chartres can get you around easily. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres a more walkable city?

Chartres 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.

Chartres is a very walkable town. It's easy to see the sights around town 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 Chartres Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Albufeira or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Albufeira than Chartres 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 Chartres.

Families should spend more time in Albufeira than Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres 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.

One day in Albufeira or Chartres?

The beautiful resort town of Albufeira offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Chartres. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chartres has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Chartres?

Albufeira is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Chartres. 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 Chartres?

Albufeira is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albufeira, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spectacular town of Chartres. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Chartres?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Chartres is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Albufeira and Chartres, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. And not only is Chartres much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chartres would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chartres and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Albufeira would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Albufeira than you might in Chartres.

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Chartres?

Chartres has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Chartres, 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.

When is the best time to visit Albufeira or Chartres?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Albufeira or Chartres in the Summer?

Both Chartres and Albufeira during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

Albufeira is a little warmer than Chartres in the summer. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Chartres. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Chartres in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Chartres. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Albufeira is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Albufeira in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Chartres averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In October, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Chartres. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Albufeira or Chartres in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Chartres. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Chartres in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chartres can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Albufeira is generally much warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 11°C (52°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Albufeira usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Chartres in the Spring?

Both Chartres and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm during these months.

Albufeira is a little warmer than Chartres in the spring. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Chartres. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chartres and Albufeira