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

Should you visit Albufeira or Giverny?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Giverny? 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.

Giverny

Giverny is a inspiring, picturesque, and peaceful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Albufeira and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Albufeira or Giverny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Albufeira than Giverny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Albufeira is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Giverny is more popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Albufeira is well known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Also, Albufeira is famous for Praia da Falesia. Giverny is well known for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet.

How is Albufeira different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Albufeira
Giverny

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

Giverny offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny 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 Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Albufeira has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Resorts?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a resort destination.


Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Beaches?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for the beache. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Hiking?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is a popular place for hiking. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Giverny?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is adequate for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Families?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Giverny 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."

Giverny is not the most family-friendly destination. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Couples?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Giverny 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.

Giverny is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.


Is Albufeira or Giverny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira
Giverny

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Giverny 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.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.

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

Albufeira
Giverny

Giverny 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 Giverny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.

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 Giverny a more walkable city?

Albufeira
Giverny

Giverny 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.

Giverny is a somewhat walkable place. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

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 Giverny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Giverny or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Giverny?

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

Families should spend more time in Albufeira than Giverny. 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 Giverny. 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 Giverny 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 Giverny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albufeira 3-7 
    Giverny 1-2

One day in Albufeira or Giverny?

In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Albufeira or Giverny?

In Albufeira, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Giverny. 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 Giverny?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the inspiring town of Giverny. 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 Giverny?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Giverny 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 Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Giverny 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 Giverny is €125. 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 Giverny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albufeira 74
    Giverny 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albufeira 148
    Giverny 120
Compare Hotels in Albufeira and Giverny

Looking for a hotel in Albufeira or Giverny? 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 Giverny


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albufeira 34
    Giverny 48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albufeira

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Albufeira:

  • Private Transfer From Algarve to Sevilha By 8 Seats Minibus: $513
  • Private transfer from Albufeira to Lisbon with 2 hours sightseeing: $283
  • Transfer Vila Real de Santo Antonio - Alto Golf Pestana (Alvor): $164
  • Transfer Vila Nova de Cacela - Alto Golf Pestana (Alvor): $151
  • Transfer Vila Nova de Cacela - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $140
  • Private Transfer from Vila Real de Santo António to Faro (FAO) Airport: $132
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $109
  • Transfer Alcantarilha - Benamor Golf (Conceição): $99
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $98
  • Transfer Galé - Benamor Golf (Conceição): $89
  • Transfer Albufeira - Benamor Golf (Conceição): $89
  • Private Transfer from Pera to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Albufeira or Giverny?

Prices for flights to both Giverny 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
    Giverny 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albufeira

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

  • A Portuguese Dinner and Cocktail Experience with pick up: $49
  • Portuguese Dinner and Cocktail Experience with Pick up: $52
  • Dinner at the Vineyards in Lagoa: $60
  • Algarve Bike and Food Tour with Sea Food and Wine Tasting: $61
  • Sunset Safari with Traditional Dinner : $65
  • 6-Hour Sunset Dinner Catamaran Cruise from Albufeira: $74
  • Half-Day-Orange Picking &Jam Cooking/Lunch with the Orange Farmer: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albufeira 39
    Giverny 26

Tours and Activities in Albufeira

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

  • Algarve Coast & Chapel of Bones ( Private Van Tour ): $52
  • Safari Experience with Traditional Tapas: $76
  • 3 Hour Cruise Experience from Vilamoura: $33
  • 70 Minutes Guided Secrets of Albufeira Walking Tour: $22
  • Albufeira 1 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $19
  • Albufeira 1.5-Hour Off-road Quad Tour: $44
  • Albufeira 2 hour Off-Road Tour Buggy Adventure Tour: $49
  • Albufeira 2 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $35
  • Albufeira 3.5 hour Off-Road Tour Buggy Adventure Tour: $65
  • Albufeira 6-Hour Off-Road Quad Tour: $202
  • Albufeira Algarve 4Hours Benagil Tasting Experience: $96
  • Albufeira Beach BBQ with Caves and Coastline Cruise : $65

Tours and Activities in Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $96
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $256
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $294

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albufeira 26
    Giverny 6.64

Sample the Local Flavors in Albufeira

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

  • Exclusive Wine Tasting Experience in Porches (Algarve): $49
  • Sunset Wine Tasting With BBQ in Porches: $49
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Algarve Winery : $58
  • Half Day Safari Tour with Wine Tasting: $58
  • Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $63
  • Small-Group Wine Tour & Silves Exploration (from Albufeira): $68
  • Wine Tour and Tasting - Semi-Private from Albufeira: $71
  • Albufeira Coast Tour w/ Wine tasting & Chicken lunch: $74
  • From Private Lagos Tour Whith Wine Tasting: $92
  • Lagos and Ponta Da Piedade Private Tour & Algarvian Wine Tasting: $107


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

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


Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Giverny?

Albufeira has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Giverny. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Giverny, 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 Giverny?

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 Giverny in the Summer?

Both Giverny 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 Giverny this time of year.

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

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Giverny. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Albufeira 25°C (78°F) 
    Giverny 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Giverny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Giverny. 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 Giverny for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In October, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Giverny. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Albufeira 19°C (67°F) 
    Giverny 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Giverny in the Winter?

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

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Albufeira 11°C (52°F) 
    Giverny 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Giverny in the Spring?

Both Giverny 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 Giverny for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In April, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Giverny. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Albufeira 15°C (60°F) 
    Giverny 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Giverny and Albufeira

Albufeira Giverny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)