Things to do in Vale de Parra

Activities, attractions and tours

  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Albufeira Old Town Square

Albufeira Old Town Square (Jardim Público de Albufeira) is the beating heart of the atmospheric Albufeira Old Town. This tree-shaded public space offers superb dining, entertainment, people-watching and shopping experiences. Visit Albufeira Old Town Square at any time of the day to witness a true essence of this ancient fishing village.
Learn more
Albufeira Old Town Square showing a city and a sunset

2. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
Learn more
Falesia Beach featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sunset

3. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
Learn more
Vilamoura Marina showing a bay or harbor

4. Faro Island Beach

Faro Island Beach is one of the area’s most picturesque and popular sandy stretches. Cafés, restaurants and watersports operators sit along the strand, which lines 3 miles (5 kilometers) of a narrow sand bar. Enjoy the unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Formosa River on the other.
Learn more
Faro Island Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

5. Rocha Beach

The beautiful Rocha Beach, known as Praia da Rocha in Portuguese, is one of the most well-known on the Algarve. Luckily, thanks to its vast size and length, it has ample room to accommodate sunbathers. Follow the wooden walkway that hugs the length of the beach to find the perfect spot.
Learn more
Rocha Beach showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and a city

6. Benagil Beach

Surrounded by blue-green waters and cliffs ranging in color from pale beige to gold, Benagil Beach is postcard material. Come here simply to sunbathe and swim, or take a boat trip to view the nearby caves, coastal cliffs and dramatic rock formations.
Learn more
Benagil Beach showing general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sandy beach

7. Sao Rafael Beach

São Rafael Beach (Praia de São Rafael) is close enough to Albufeira for a daytrip yet far enough away that it escapes the bustle of the city. São Rafael Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, some of which have been eroded over centuries into curious shapes. The beach sits in a sheltered bay and boasts safe, crystal-clear water and powdery sand that runs gently between your toes.
Learn more
Sao Rafael Beach showing rocky coastline, a sandy beach and general coastal views

What to do in Vale de Parra

Popular places to visit

Albufeira Old Town Square showing a city and a sunset

Albufeira Old Town Square

Framed by bars, galleries and shops, this leafy plaza is a great starting point for exploring the treasures of Albufeira’s historic center.

Albufeira Old Town Square
Falesia Beach featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sunset

Falesia Beach

Pine groves crown the scorched red-orange cliffs edging this long and wide beach, complete with comfortable amenities, watersports options and lifeguard patrols.

Falesia Beach
Albufeira Marina

Albufeira Marina

Explore the waterfront of Albufeira Marina and enjoy other activities such as golfing in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its lively bars.

Albufeira Marina
Fisherman\'s Beach showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and a coastal town

Peneco Beach

The eastern side of Albufeira’s main city beach is famous for its fishing boats, seafood restaurants and live entertainment shows.

Peneco Beach
Santa Eulalia Beach

Santa Eulalia Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Santa Eulalia Beach during your travels in Santa Eulália?

Santa Eulalia Beach
Arrifes Beach

Arrifes Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Arrifes Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água.

Arrifes Beach
Rocha Baixinha Beach

Rocha Baixinha Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Rocha Baixinha Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água.

Rocha Baixinha Beach
Praia dos Pescadores

Praia dos Pescadores

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia dos Pescadores during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água? Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this walkable area.

Praia dos Pescadores

The Strip

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at The Strip during your stay in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the area's beaches or simply enjoy its bars.

The Strip
Albufeira showing a sandy beach and landscape views as well as an individual male

Albufeira

Frequently asked questions

Is Vale de Parra worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor activities, there are many great things to do in Vale de Parra. Don't forget to discover the area's blend of cool sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Vale de Parra?
Praia da Falésia Açoteias and Praia da Falésia Alfamar are two great places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Vale de Parra while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Vale de Parra?
Praia da Falésia Açoteias is one of the top tourist attractions in Vale de Parra and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Vale de Parra?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Tomás Franco Beach, Praia da Balbina and Praia da Ponta Pequena with a three-day getaway in Vale de Parra. On average, most travelers book six days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so linger longer and check out Lagos.
Is Vale de Parra a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Vale de Parra. Several top attractions, like Tomás Franco Beach and Praia da Balbina, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Vale de Parra's neighborhoods, Guia is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Gale is 3 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Vale de Parra with kids?
Planning what to do in Vale de Parra with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Vale de Parra for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Vale de Parra. Whether you're into the arts, outdoor adventures or just love exploring new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Vale de Parra?
In Vale de Parra, Tomás Franco Beach is a top spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Vale de Parra.