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

Should you visit Albufeira or Taormina?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Taormina? 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 activity-filled, high energy, and party hard resort town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Albufeira and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Taormina?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Taormina are both popular with visitors, Albufeira has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Albufeira is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Taormina is known for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Albufeira is more touristy than Taormina and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also home to Praia da Falesia. Taormina is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views.

How is Albufeira different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Taormina both to be excellent 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.

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Albufeira is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Taormina offers plenty to do in the evening. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Albufeira is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Taormina to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a great resort town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Albufeira is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is very popular for the beach. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

Albufeira is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a resort town with good options for hiking. However, Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Taormina?

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

Taormina offers some nice shopping areas. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

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 Taormina Better for Families?

Albufeira is a resort town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known 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."

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Couples?

Albufeira is very popular for couples. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Albufeira is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Taormina is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Is Albufeira or Taormina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Albufeira, as it is a very popular resort town for 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

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

Taormina 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 Taormina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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 Taormina a more walkable city?

Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very walkable town. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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 Taormina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taormina or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Albufeira or Taormina. 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 Taormina.

Families should spend more time in Albufeira than Taormina. 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 Taormina. 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 Taormina 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 Taormina?

The beautiful resort town of Albufeira offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Taormina is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Taormina?

Albufeira is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Taormina is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Taormina?

Albufeira is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albufeira, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Taormina 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Taormina?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Taormina is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Taormina?

Albufeira has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Taormina, 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 Taormina?

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 Taormina in the Summer?

Both Taormina and Albufeira during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Albufeira in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Taormina averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Taormina. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Taormina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Taormina. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Taormina because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 19°C (67°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Taormina. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Albufeira or Taormina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Taormina. The winter months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

Albufeira is cooler than Taormina in the winter. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Taormina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Albufeira usually gets more rain in January than Taormina. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Taormina in the Spring?

Both Taormina and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Albufeira in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Taormina averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives around the same amount of rain as Taormina. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Taormina and Albufeira