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

Should you visit Albufeira or Ravenna?

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

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

Ravenna

Ravenna is a charming, authentic, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Ravenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Albufeira than Ravenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Albufeira is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ravenna is more popular for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Albufeira is more touristy than Ravenna and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Also, Albufeira is famous for Praia da Falesia. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Albufeira different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ravenna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Ravenna 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.

Ravenna has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Albufeira is a world class party destination. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Ravenna?

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

Ravenna offers some nice shopping areas. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

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 Ravenna Better for Families?

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

Ravenna is a very kid-friendly town. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

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 Ravenna Better for Couples?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Ravenna frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Albufeira or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

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

Ravenna 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 Ravenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

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 Ravenna a more walkable city?

Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is a very walkable town. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Ravenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Ravenna?

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

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

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

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.

Even though Ravenna is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ravenna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Ravenna?

Ravenna has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Ravenna, 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 Ravenna?

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Ravenna. 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 Ravenna because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Albufeira is a little warmer than Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Ravenna. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Ravenna in the Autumn?

Both Ravenna and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 small town atmosphere are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Albufeira is a little warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Albufeira in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Ravenna in the Winter?

Both Ravenna and Albufeira during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ravenna. In January, Albufeira is generally much warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 11°C (52°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Albufeira usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Ravenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Ravenna. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ravenna in the spring for the small town charm.

Albufeira is a little warmer than Ravenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Albufeira