A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Corfu for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Albufeira or Corfu?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Corfu? 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 hiking, nightlife, and food.

Corfu

Corfu is a breathtaking, striking, and relaxing island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Corfu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Corfu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Albufeira than Corfu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Albufeira is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Corfu is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Albufeira is more touristy than Corfu and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Also, Albufeira is famous for Praia da Falesia. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

How is Albufeira different from Corfu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Corfu is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Corfu is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Albufeira has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

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.

Corfu offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Resorts?

Albufeira and Corfu offer a relatively similar set of fantastic luxury resort options.

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.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Corfu is a perfect choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's very good scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Albufeira and Corfu.

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.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Albufeira and Corfu are fantastic choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Corfu is a very popular vacation destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Hiking?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Corfu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

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 Corfu?

Corfu is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Corfu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu Better for Families?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Corfu is a very family-friendly destination. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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."

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Albufeira and Corfu make for a fantastic place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Corfu has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Is Albufeira or Corfu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Corfu is a very popular resort town for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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

Corfu 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 Corfu can get you around easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu a more walkable city?

Corfu 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.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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 Corfu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Corfu or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Corfu?

Both Albufeira and Corfu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Corfu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Corfu than Albufeira. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 5-7 days is enough time in Corfu.

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

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

One day in Albufeira or Corfu?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this touristy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Corfu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Corfu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the breathtaking destination of Corfu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Corfu?

Albufeira is a fun place to experience. In Albufeira, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the striking island of Corfu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Albufeira or Corfu?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this high energy destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Corfu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Corfu, one week is sufficent for most. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Albufeira and Corfu, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Corfu.

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Corfu?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Corfu, 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 Corfu?

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 Corfu in the Summer?

Both Corfu and Albufeira during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Corfu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Corfu in the summer. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Corfu fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Corfu. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Corfu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Corfu. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Corfu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Albufeira in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Corfu averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Corfu receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Corfu. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Albufeira or Corfu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Corfu. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Corfu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Albufeira is generally a little warmer than Corfu. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 11°C (52°F), and Corfu fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Corfu. Albufeira usually gets less rain in January than Corfu. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Corfu in the Spring?

Both Corfu and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Corfu this time of year.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Corfu in the spring. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Corfu fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Corfu. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Corfu and Albufeira