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

Should you visit Albufeira or Ghent?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Ghent? 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Ghent?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Ghent are popular destinations, Albufeira has more sights and attractions for tourists. Albufeira is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Ghent attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Albufeira is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also well known for Praia da Falesia. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Albufeira different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ghent is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Ghent both to be superb 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.

Ghent has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Albufeira or Ghent has a better nightlife 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.

The nightlife in Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Albufeira for its luxury resorts. 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.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Albufeira offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Ghent?

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

Ghent is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Albufeira or Ghent.

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."

Ghent offers lots of family activities. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Couples?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Albufeira is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Albufeira or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is a world-class destination for students. However, Albufeira is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Albufeira is not popular with students.

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

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

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Albufeira and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Albufeira than in Ghent. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

Couples should spend more time in Albufeira than Ghent. 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 Ghent 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 Ghent?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Ghent?

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 museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Ghent?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Ghent. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Ghent?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this touristy 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.

Ghent 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Ghent. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ghent because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Albufeira is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 25°C (78°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Ghent. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Albufeira or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Ghent. The autumn months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

Albufeira is much warmer than Ghent in the autumn. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in October than Ghent. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ghent. In the winter, Albufeira is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the winter temperatures in Albufeira in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Ghent averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In January, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Ghent. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Albufeira or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Albufeira during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ghent in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Albufeira is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 15°C (60°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Ghent. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Albufeira