Enjoy a varied break in the Algarve's Albufeira

For most, Algarve hotels conjure up images of an idyllic holiday location - sun-drenched beaches, warm cobbled streets and that wonderful feeling of luxury. Cheap hotels may not be the first thing that spring to mind; however, there are some excellent options available in this holiday paradise.

Cheap hotels in the Algarve can - perhaps surprisingly - be found in its tourist capital of Albufeira. Starting its life as a humble fishing village, Albufeira now hosts an increasing amount of tourists each year. Like the rest of the Algarve, its population often doubles in its peak months.

Albufeira's popularity can be attributed to many things - its heat, beautiful beaches, and water sports, to name but a few. However, perhaps its main draw is the sheer variety it offers to its visitors, making the town an attractive destination for families, singles, couples and groups.

It makes a wonderful holiday location for families precisely due to the wide range of sights and activities on offer. Albufeira is home to beautiful beaches, as well as exciting days out for children such as Zoomarine - a marine life-based theme park with shows and pools.

The town of Albufeira has two beaches of its own: Praia dos Pescardores, or Fisherman's Beach and Praia do Tunel, or Albufeira Beach. Both are great for any type of visitor and the town's tourist-ready facilities bestow a good number of eateries and bars in close proximity to each.

Albufeira Marina is a must for all its visitors. Located on the western outskirts of the town, it houses numerous cafes and restaurants to recharge in. However, it is most famous for its brightly coloured buildings in hues of pink, yellow, green, orange and blue.

For those who enjoy water sports, the town has lots to offer. From quiet days spent fishing to exciting experiences such as diving, the town also offers boat tours to complete its range of water-based fun.

For more laid back, leisurely holidays, the Old Town would be the best location to stay in. With its cobbled streets and seemingly endless restaurants and bars, it holds a nigh on infinite number of places to relax and unwind.

It also boasts an excellent selection of shops just off the main square, as well as street stalls selling local produce.

Not to be outdone by its more leisurely side, Albufeira is also a champion of the other side of the holiday coin - nightlife. The town is rich in its bars and clubs, which are for the most part located a few kilometres from the Old Town in the nearby areas of Areias de Sao Joao and Montechoro.

The former is located close to the famous 'Strip' - a bustling centre of nightlife whose neon lights and scores of clubs barely sleep, attracting hordes of younger tourists each year.

Albufeira is possibly an equally good destination in its cooler months. The restaurants, bars and clubs stay open, making it an attractive location for those averse to either heat or crowds.

As a holiday destination, Albuferia could not offer much more. On the one hand, the Old Town offers a relaxed and beautiful setting showing you the best of Portuguese culture. On the other, there is a vibrant nightlife good enough to entertain even the most energetic clubbers until dawn. With plenty to entertain children too, Albufeira is a wonderful location for any holidaymaker.

Cheap Car Hire in Algarve