Algarve around New Year?

Flounder · 2025-09-03T17:12:50+02:00

Explore family-friendly activities, dining, and New Year's celebrations in Algarve. Get tips on weather and local attractions between Faro and Albufeira.

Flounder New member

Member since 03 September 2025

FlounderNew member03 September 2025 15:12:50

Hi Guys, I apologise for posting on your forum, but I was looking for an honest appraisal from expats. We are planning a family holiday in the Algarve, we are two adults and three boys 7, 9 and 11. We are looking around the area聽 inland between Faro and Albufeira. We are aiming to come just after Christmas for a week, so staying over New Year.

Will, there be plenty of stuff open, attarctions, restaurants, golf etc. Will there be a good atmosphere with lots of celebrations and how is the weather that time of year?

I apologise if you think I am聽 spamming your forum, but the Air BnB owners are not going to give us honest answers.

Thanks

Francis & Family 馃檹馃徎

SimCityAT Expert

Member since 08 April 2014

SimCityATExpert03 September 2025 17:38:31

12443

@Flounder

Welcome,

Spamming? Hell no, it's your first post, and this is what 海角乱伦 is all about, asking these kinds of questions. You're probably right, the Airbnb will give you any old answer to the booking.

The forum is very active, so it won't be long before you get an answer.

Regards

SimCityAT

海角乱伦 Team

JohnnyPT Portugal Expert

Member since 23 May 2020

JohnnyPTPortugal Expert03 September 2025 19:33:17

4964

Hi Francis, Welcome.

Weather

While the region is generally quiet in winter, the period between Christmas and New Year's sees a significant increase in visitors, especially in the larger towns.

Albufeira is famous for its large-scale, free public party on Fisherman's Beach (Praia dos Pescadores). It features live music, street entertainment, and a massive fireworks display.

Eg. New year's eve Albufeira 2025

I don't know if this New Year's Eve is suitable for small children, because there will be a lot of people there...

Faro also hosts a New Year's Eve celebration with free concerts and fireworks. While it's a bit more low-key than Albufeira, it still offers a great atmosphere with plenty of things to do.

Most restaurants, especially in the larger towns, will be open. However, many may have special menus for Christmas Day and New Year's Eve, and it is highly recommended to book a table in advance, particularly for those specific evenings.

Attractions: Many tourist-oriented businesses and attractions will be open. However, some seasonal attractions, like water parks, will be closed. Look for activities that aren't weather-dependent, such as:

Boat Trips: Many boat trips, including tours to the famous Benagil Cave and dolphin watching, operate year-round, weather permitting.

Mini Golf & Adventure Parks: Many of these are open all year. Look for "Adventure Golf" in places like Albufeira or Alvor.

Zoos & Theme Parks: Zoomarine (a marine life park) and Lagos Zoo are popular options, but it's crucial to check their winter opening hours as they may be limited.

Karting: This is a popular activity for families and often operates in the winter.

Golf courses are open year-round. The weather is actually ideal for golfing in the winter, as it's not too hot. You'll find plenty of courses to choose from.