Albufeira Hen Do on a Budget: Free & Cheap Ideas

Editor's Note (December 2025): This guide has been updated with the latest free and budget-friendly tips for 2025.

When planning a European Hen Do, you know you’re going to be splitting your time between planned activities and pure relaxation. But in this day and age, it’s important to make sure you aren’t pricing friends out of the chance to go.

The good news is that Albufeira is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe. Here are the best free and cheap things to do on your Albufeira hen do.

1. The DIY Beach Crawl (Free)

Going to the beach is high on the agenda, but did you know Albufeira has over twenty Blue Flag beaches? Instead of sticking to just one, do a "Beach Crawl". Walk from Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman's Beach) along the coast to discover hidden coves. It costs nothing and you’ll get amazing photos.

2. Explore the Old Town (Free)

Albufeira’s Old Town is built on a cliff and climbs down to the sea. Spend an afternoon wandering the cobbled streets, window shopping, and taking photos at the various viewpoints. It’s quaint, beautiful, and completely free to explore.

3. Visit the Municipal Museum (Cheap)

If any of the party are keen on history, visit the Museu Municipal de Arqueologia. Tickets usually cost around €1! You can see artefacts from Roman villas and Neolithic vases found right here in the city.

4. Sunset at Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira (Free)

For the best view in town, head to the Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira viewpoint. Located at the south-eastern corner of the Old Town, you can look across the bay at the white-washed houses and the ocean. There are even escalators to take you up there so you don’t have to walk in heels!

5. Eat Like a Local: Cataplana (Good Value)

You have to eat! Avoid the tourist traps and order a Cataplana. It’s a seafood stew named after the copper pot it’s cooked in, filled with clams, mussels, and shrimp. One pot is often huge enough to share between two or three people, making it a delicious and cost-effective dinner option.

6. Pre-Drink on Your Balcony (Cheap)

Alcohol in Portuguese supermarkets is incredibly cheap compared to the UK. Stock up on wine, beer, and snacks at a local *Pingo Doce* or *Continente* supermarket and have a pre-drinks party on your apartment balcony before hitting the town. It saves a fortune on bar tabs!

7. Explore the Castle Ruins (Free)

If you have a rental car or fancy a cheap Uber ride, visit the ruins of Castelo de Paderne. This 12th-century castle appears on Portugal’s coat of arms and is located in a beautiful landscape of olive groves. It’s a great spot for a rustic photo shoot.

8. Window Shopping on Rua 5 de Outubro (Free)

My favourite place to browse is Rua 5 de Outubro. It runs parallel to the main shopping street but has a better selection of local handicrafts and art. It costs nothing to look, and you might find a unique souvenir that fits your budget.

The Verdict

You don't need a massive budget to have an amazing time in the Algarve. By mixing these free activities with one or two big paid events (like a boat party), you can create the perfect itinerary.

Ready to book? Check out our Albufeira Hen Guide and create your own package which start from amazingly low prices.