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

Should you visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure? 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 high energy, party hard, and vibrant resort town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a beautiful, scenic, and historic area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Albufeira and Finale Ligure: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Finale Ligure are popular destinations, Albufeira has more sights and attractions for tourists. Albufeira is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Finale Ligure attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and shopping. Albufeira is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also well known for Praia da Falesia. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food.

How is Albufeira different from Finale Ligure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

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

Finale Ligure offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Finale Ligure both to be high quality 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.

Finale Ligure has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is terrific for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Albufeira is a must-see 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.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Resorts?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is terrific for its resorts. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.


Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Finale Ligure 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.

Finale Ligure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Beaches?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is terrific for its beaches. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Finale Ligure is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Hiking?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

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 Finale Ligure?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

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

Finale Ligure offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Families?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Finale Ligure is a very kid-friendly area. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Couples?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is terrific for romance. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Finale Ligure is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.


Is Albufeira or Finale Ligure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Albufeira is terrific for backpackers. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Albufeira is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Finale Ligure is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.

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

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both trains and buses through the area.

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 Finale Ligure a more walkable city?

Albufeira
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.

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 Finale Ligure Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Finale Ligure or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

It's fun to spend time in either Albufeira or Finale Ligure. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Albufeira due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 2-4 days is enough time in Finale Ligure.

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

Couples should spend more time in Albufeira than Finale Ligure. 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 Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albufeira 3-7 
    Finale Ligure 2-4

One day in Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the touristy destination of Albufeira. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the area of Finale Ligure. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Finale Ligure?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and food around the relaxing destination of Finale Ligure. 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 area has to offer. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party hard destination of Albufeira. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic area of Finale Ligure. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful resort town of Albufeira. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Finale Ligure is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Finale Ligure or Albufeira?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Albufeira is €148, while the average daily cost in Finale Ligure is €143. 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 Finale Ligure in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Albufeira or Finale Ligure? 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 Finale Ligure


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 Finale Ligure Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albufeira 34
    Finale Ligure 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albufeira

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Albufeira:

  • Albufeira - Faro Airport Transfers 4pax: $49
  • Car or Van Transfer from Vilamoura Area to Faro Airport FAO: $29
  • Faro Airport (Algarve) Departure Transfer (Vilamoura Hotels to Faro Airport): $88
  • Faro Airport Private Transfer - Albufeira (Departure): $27
  • From One Way Private Transfer to Seville by Van: $426
  • From Slide & Splash Waterpark One-Way Transfer: $59
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $108
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $98
  • Private Faro Airport Transfer from Albufeira (up to 8 passangers): $76
  • Private Transfer From Albufeira To Faro Airport By Minibus: $74
  • Private Transfer from Albufeira to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Albufeira to Faro Airport (5 to 8 pax): $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Prices for flights to both Finale Ligure 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 48
    Finale Ligure 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albufeira

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

  • Dinner at the Vineyards in Lagoa: $60
  • Sunset Safari with Traditional Dinner : $65
  • 6-Hour Sunset Dinner Catamaran Cruise from Albufeira: $74
  • Sunset Tour - Champagne and Traditional Dinner: $75
  • Half-Day-Orange Picking &Jam Cooking/Lunch with the Orange Farmer: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albufeira 39
    Finale Ligure 28

Tours and Activities in Albufeira

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

  • From Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.79
  • Inflatable Waterpark Entry Ticket: $7.59
  • Castro Verde Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.85
  • Silves Scavenger Hunt and Sights Private Self-Guided Tour: $7.85
  • Algarve Wines Tasting Shared Experience at Mercado Municipal de Silves: $16
  • Albufeira 1 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $19
  • Quarteira Town & Gypsy Market Tour with Beach Bliss: $21
  • Authentic Algarve: Loulé Town Tour and Markets: $21
  • Albufeira History Walking Tour with Snacks: $21
  • Albufeira The Strip: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Albufeira Old Town: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Private Tuk-Tuk Tour of Albufeira: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albufeira 26
    Finale Ligure 6.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Albufeira

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

  • Sunset Wine Tasting With BBQ in Porches: $49
  • Porches Algarve Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting Experience: $53
  • Half Day Safari Tour with Wine Tasting: $57
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Algarve Winery : $58
  • Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $63
  • Small-Group Wine Tour & Silves Exploration (from Albufeira): $67
  • Wine Tour and Tasting - Semi-Private from Albufeira: $71
  • Albufeira Coast Tour w/ Wine tasting & Chicken lunch: $73
  • Albufeira Coast Tour with Wine Tasting and Chicken PiriPiri Lunch: $75
  • From Private Lagos Tour Whith Wine Tasting: $92
  • Lagos and Ponta Da Piedade Private Tour & Algarvian Wine Tasting: $106
  • Full day Tour in Silves with Wine Tasting: $131


When comparing the travel costs between Albufeira and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Finale Ligure?

Albufeira has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Finale Ligure. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure in the Summer?

Both Finale Ligure and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Finale Ligure this time of year.

In July, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 25°C (78°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Finale Ligure. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Albufeira 25°C (78°F) 
    Finale Ligure 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure in the Autumn?

Both Finale Ligure and Albufeira during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, many travelers come to Finale Ligure for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Finale Ligure in the autumn. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in October than Finale Ligure. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Albufeira 19°C (67°F) 
    Finale Ligure 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Finale Ligure. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Finale Ligure in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Typically, the winter temperatures in Albufeira in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Finale Ligure averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In January, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Finale Ligure. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Albufeira 11°C (52°F) 
    Finale Ligure 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Finale Ligure in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Finale Ligure. 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 Finale Ligure for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 15°C (60°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Finale Ligure. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Albufeira 15°C (60°F) 
    Finale Ligure 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Finale Ligure and Albufeira

Albufeira Finale Ligure
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)