Albufeira Tightens Rules: Night-Time Alcohol Ban and No Bikinis on the Streets
The municipality of Albufeira has just approved a set of new regulations aimed at curbing disorderly behaviour and improving public safety, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Starting August 6, the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on public streets is banned between 11 PM and 8 AM in specific parts of the city. The decision follows several incidents of public disturbance, some of which went viral on social media.
Alcohol sales banned in nightlife hotspots
The new restriction applies to various streets around Avenida Sá Carneiro — including Rua Vasco Santana, Travessa Sá Carneiro, Avenida dos Descobrimentos (between the "minhocas" roundabout and the globe roundabout) — and throughout Albufeira's Old Town, such as Praça dos Pescadores, Rua 5 de Outubro, Rua dos Telheiros and Avenida da Liberdade.
According to Mayor José Carlos Rolo, the goal is to ensure residents' peace and promote a safer environment at night. Any business that violates the rule may be shut down immediately, and owners could face legal action for disobedience.
Public behaviour also under strict control
The measures don't stop at alcohol. A new rule now prohibits people from walking the streets in bikinis or shirtless — exceptions apply to the beach, hotels, and their respective parking areas. This also includes outdoor terraces and commercial spaces.
Other acts such as sleeping in public, simulating sexual behaviour, spitting, urinating or defecating in public spaces are now explicitly banned. Fines range from €300 to €1,800 depending on the severity of the violation.
Albufeira follows Porto's lead
These rules mirror those already in place in Porto since June, where bars, cafés and nightclubs are banned from selling alcohol for street consumption after 9 PM. Interestingly, supermarkets and wine shops are exempt from the rule in Porto.
What tourists need to know
If you're visiting Albufeira, take note: drinking on the streets after 11 PM is no longer allowed, and strolling through town in swimwear could now get you fined. The city is aiming for a cleaner, safer and more respectful environment for both residents and holidaymakers.
These new measures reinforce Albufeira's commitment to maintaining order, particularly during the busy summer season when thousands of tourists flock to the area.