10 Things to Do in Albufeira with Kids (Using Public Transport and Taxis)
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Whether you're relying on local buses or hopping into a taxi or Uber, Albufeira is easily accessible for families. You don’t need a car to enjoy everything this beautiful part of the Algarve has to offer. From beaches to boat trips, and everything in between, there are plenty of options to get around with ease. Here's your guide to the best family-friendly activities in Albufeira, plus details on how to get there using local transport or taxis/Uber.
1. Build Sandcastles at Praia da Oura
This wide sandy beach is ideal for families—gentle waves, rock pools at one end, and loungers with umbrellas for tired parents. It’s the kind of place where hours slip by easily, and there are plenty of cafés nearby for snacks or lunch breaks.
Transport tip: Praia da Oura is within walking distance from Albufeira's centre or can be reached by a short bus ride. The local bus costs around €1.50–€2 per person, or an Uber will cost roughly €5–€7 for a one-way trip.
2. Ride the Tourist Train Around Town
The novelty of a mini train never wears off, especially when it takes you through the buzzy streets of Albufeira. It’s a handy (and fun) way to get from The Strip to the Old Town without little legs getting tired.
Transport tip: The tourist train operates within Albufeira, and tickets can be bought at stops around town, costing around €3–€5 for adults and €2–€4 for kids.
3. Wander the Old Town
Full of colour, music, and winding alleys, Albufeira’s Old Town is a great place to soak up the local vibe. Grab an ice cream, listen to a street musician, or just let the kids roam in the pedestrianised square while you sip something cold.
Transport tip: The Old Town is within walking distance from most Albufeira hotels or can be reached by local bus for around €1.50–€2.
4. Spend a Day at Zoomarine
Just a 15-minute drive away, Zoomarine is one of the Algarve’s top family attractions. There are dolphin and sea lion shows, a mini water park, rides, and even a manmade beach with loungers and shade. A full-day out that’s always a hit.
Transport tip: Zoomarine is located a short bus or taxi ride away from Albufeira, approximately €15–€20 by taxi (for a one-way trip). An Uber ride will cost around €12–€16 one way. Alternatively, there are local tour buses available that can take you there for a set price (roughly €20–€25 per person, including entry).
5. Go on a Coastal Boat Trip
Albufeira’s coast is famous for its caves and cliffs, and seeing it from the water is unforgettable. Short trips are ideal for younger kids, and longer ones often include dolphin watching or a swim stop. A pirate ship tour is a fun option, too.
Transport tip: Most boat trips depart from Albufeira’s main marina, which can be reached by walking or a short taxi ride (around €5–€10). An Uber will cost approximately €5–€7 for a one-way trip. Expect to pay around €20–€40 per person for a boat trip.
6. Mini Golf and Arcade Fun
There are a few mini golf spots dotted around Albufeira, with brightly coloured courses and themed holes that little kids will love. Some also have arcades, snack bars, or trampolines for an extra bit of playtime after the game.
Transport tip: Mini golf courses are typically in or close to the town centre. These are easily accessible by foot or a short bus ride (€1.50–€2).
7. Visit Krazy World
If you’ve got animal lovers in the mix, Krazy World is a great half-day trip. It’s a small zoo with reptiles, birds, and farm animals, plus a splash zone, playground, and mini golf. It’s an easy drive from town and has something for all ages.
Transport tip: Krazy World is located about 20-25 minutes from Albufeira. While there are no direct public transport links, taxis will cost around €15–€20 one way. An Uber ride would be about €12–€18 one way. Alternatively, local tour buses may offer group trips, including transport for around €20–€25 per person.
8. Cool Down at a Waterpark
There are a few great waterparks within 30–40 minutes of Albufeira, including Slide & Splash and Aqualand. Both have big thrill slides for older kids and gentler splash areas for younger ones, so everyone stays happy (and cool).
Transport tip: Public buses to both Slide & Splash and Aqualand are available from Albufeira's central bus station. Bus fares cost approximately €3–€5 per person, with a 30-minute travel time. Uber rides to these parks will cost approximately €20–€30 one way.
9. Enjoy a Sunset Picnic
End the day with something low-key. Grab a takeaway or some simple local food, find a quiet beach like Praia dos Arrifes, and let the kids run wild while the sky turns pink. Sometimes those slower moments become the favourites.
Transport tip: Praia dos Arrifes is located a short walk or a quick taxi ride (€5–€7) from the town centre. An Uber would cost around €6–€8.
10. Catch a Street Show at Night
In the Old Town, summer evenings often come with live music, fire jugglers, and bubble-blowing street performers. It’s a fun, low-cost way to round off the day, and the atmosphere is always lively but relaxed.
Transport tip: The Old Town is within walking distance from most hotels in Albufeira or can be reached by a local bus for about €1.50–€2.
Bonus Day Trips to Explore Without a Car
If you’re keen on venturing a bit further but don’t have a car, these places are still easily accessible via public transport or taxi.
Visit Silves for Castle Adventures
A 40-minute drive inland brings you to Silves, a former Moorish capital with a huge red-stone castle. Walk the ancient ramparts, explore quiet cobbled streets, and stop for an ice cream in the main square.
Transport tip: Silves can be reached by bus from Albufeira in about 45 minutes, with tickets costing around €5–€6 each way.
Explore the Ria Formosa by Boat
Head east to Olhão or Fuseta and hop on a boat through the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It’s peaceful, full of wildlife, and a nice contrast to the busy beaches. Pack a picnic and enjoy a slower, nature-focused day.
Transport tip: Buses to Olhão and Fuseta run from Albufeira’s central bus station, costing around €4–€5 each way and taking about 40 minutes.
Head to the Village of Alte
For a totally different vibe, take a scenic drive to the traditional village of Alte. It’s got whitewashed houses, a little river to paddle in, and local cafés with homemade cake. A sweet, simple escape from the coast.
Transport tip: There is no direct public transport to Alte. It’s best accessed by car or taxi, with a taxi costing around €20–€25 one way. Alternatively, Uber rides are about €18–€22 one way.
Final Thoughts
Albufeira is one of those places that just works for families. There’s loads to do, plenty of sunshine, and a friendly atmosphere that makes travelling with kids feel easy. Whether you’re chasing dolphins, exploring castles, or just sharing chips on the beach, it’s the kind of holiday that leaves everyone smiling—without overthinking it.
