According to forum posts, the Old Town in Albufeira is a popular spot for bars with live music, particularly around the old square. Venues like the Rock Cafe and Vertigo are recommended for rock music enthusiasts.

Travelers have called out that Albufeira hosts a wide range of bars catering to different preferences, including those suitable for celebrating significant occasions like 50th birthdays. The main square in Old Town is highlighted as an active area with numerous bars.

Some users suggest specific bars such as Matt's Bar on the lower strip for livelier nights out, particularly suitable for stag dos. For a quieter vibe, the Cavern Bar in the Old Town is mentioned for its affordable drinks and live sports broadcasts.

According to forum posts, many travelers looking for self-catering options have recommended the Parque da Corcovada apartments, Mirachoro apartments, and Natura Algarve Club apartments due to their comfort and proximity to local attractions. For families, apartments like Paraiso and Ondamar have been suggested for their child-friendly facilities.

For those preferring hotels, some travelers mentioned Vila Gale for its proximity to the old town and beach, and its slightly better standard compared to Brisa Sol. The Sol e Mar hotel has also been recommended for its beachfront location and quiet atmosphere, suitable for older visitors or those seeking a peaceful stay.

For luxury accommodations, the Albufeira Palace B&B has been praised for its stunning views and great location. The Rocamar and Sol e Mar hotels were suggested for their central locations in the old town, offering easy beach access and proximity to local amenities.

Travelers have called out that accommodation options should be checked for their specific location within Albufeira, as the town is extensive and some areas may be far from central attractions or the beach. Recommendations largely depend on personal preferences such as proximity to the old town, beach, or specific facilities like kids' pools or luxury amenities.

For New Year's celebrations, travelers have mentioned that the old town in Albufeira hosts major events including live music and fireworks. It is noted for being very busy, attracting large crowds to the main outdoor free event by the pier.

During Halloween, Albufeira has some bars, especially those frequented by British residents and tourists, that organize parties. Notable mentions include the Arte Bar, which hosts a fancy dress party with prizes and a charity raffle, and the Fat Cats bar known for its festive Halloween party.

Concerning Christmas dining options, travelers have recommended various restaurants like the King Carvery in the old town and the Yorkshire Tavern, which might require advance booking. These places are known for offering a traditional Christmas dinner experience in Albufeira.

Regarding Mardi Gras, it was mentioned that Albufeira does not have major celebrations. However, nearby towns like Loulé and Carvoeiro host notable parades and family-friendly events.

According to forum posts, Albufeira offers inflatable water parks such as the one on Peneco Beach. Travelers can also find water activities like UFO, Banana, and Wakeboard at Praia da Oura. These activities can be checked and planned via local beach websites like skimolhado.com.

Some travelers mentioned No Solo Agua as a beach club in Albufeira, providing music and atmosphere. Another option mentioned is Puro Beach in Vilamoura, known for its glamorous setting, though it is a bit farther away.

For general amenities, forum posts indicated that Albufeira beaches have bars and restaurants with services extending to sunbeds, and some beaches even offer jacuzzis on rooftops. The availability of these services can vary seasonally, with some closing by the end of October.

According to forum posts, the Aerobus offers a direct route from Faro Airport to Albufeira for €10, but services are limited to two per day off-season, increasing to six per day from May 1. Local buses 14 and 16 connect to the Faro terminal, where travelers can catch a direct bus to Albufeira for around €5.

Many users recommend private transfer companies such as Funny Orange Transfers and Yellowfish Transfers for direct and reliable services from Faro Airport to Albufeira, with prices around €40 for a four-seater vehicle. Funny Orange Transfers was highlighted for offering competitive rates, with a return journey cited at €70.

Travelers have also discussed the availability of Uber and Bolt in Albufeira, with typical charges between €35 and €50 depending on the time and specific location in Albufeira.

According to forum posts, the typical weather in Albufeira varies by season. During early May, daytime temperatures usually range from 22 to 25°C, cooling down to 15 or 16°C at night with minimal rainfall. In mid-January, weather patterns show a mix of sunny days and rainy days, with temperatures slightly colder than in other months.

Travelers have pointed out that the weather in late September to early October is generally warm and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 23 to 27°C and night temperatures between 16 and 20°C. However, late April can be unpredictable, with possibilities of hot days around 25°C or cooler rainy days around 20°C.

Posts indicate that from mid to late November, the weather can still be mild enough for shorts during the day, with temperatures around 15 to 20°C, but cooler weather and rain are possible. Early October also tends to be pleasantly warm, but the chance of rain increases as the month progresses.

According to forum posts, Quinta Pedra dos Bicos is an apartment complex close to amenities and the beach, offering the flexibility of an apartment with a location convenient for exploring Albufeira. However, it lacks the typical security features of a hotel, which might be a concern for some travelers.

Some travelers mentioned that upon arrival at Quinta Pedra dos Bicos, guests are required to pay a significant deposit of 300 euros per room or have a block placed on their credit card. This deposit is intended to cover any potential damages and is refunded or unblocked upon departure if there are no issues.

Travelers have noted that the apartments are somewhat basic and dated, yet they are kept very clean and provide all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Despite its simplicity, the location's proximity to bus stops and restaurants makes it a convenient choice for visitors.

It was mentioned that the apartments are often used for stag and hen parties, which suggests that it might occasionally be a noisier environment. This could be a consideration for those seeking a quieter holiday experience.

Quinta Pedra dos Bicos is described as an apartment complex that offers reasonably comfortable accommodations but lacks the security features typical of a hotel. It is situated in a prime area with easy access to amenities such as buses.

The complex is located very close to a beach, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy seaside activities. It is also noted for being near the strip, a hub for nightlife, though some areas along this strip might not be suitable for all family members.

For larger groups or families, Quinta Pedra dos Bicos offers apartments with multiple bedrooms. One post mentioned a three-bedroom apartment with a sofa in the lounge, which was available for a group size of seven, indicating the flexibility of accommodation options at the complex.