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How Much is a Taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira?

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One of the most common questions asked by travellers landing in the Algarve is simple: how much is a taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira? Albufeira is a lively holiday destination, famous for its sandy beaches, nightlife, and family resorts. With Faro Airport (FAO) being the main gateway to the Algarve, visitors need to decide the best way to reach their hotel.

The distance from Faro Airport to Albufeira is about 36–46 km, depending on the route and final stop. By car, the journey takes around 35–40 minutes. Taxis and private transfers are the most popular options because they provide a direct, door-to-door service, unlike public buses, which only run at certain times and stop at the bus terminal.

In this guide, Airport Taximan explains the different taxi options, average fares, travel times, and why pre-booking a Faro to Albufeira transfer is often the smartest choice.

The Distance and Journey Time

Albufeira lies west of Faro and is part of the Western Algarve. The journey from the airport usually follows the A22 motorway, one of the region’s main routes. In normal traffic conditions, you’ll arrive in about 35 minutes. If your accommodation is on the outskirts of Albufeira, such as Olhos de Água or Salgados, expect a slightly longer ride.

This direct route is one of the reasons taxis remain the most popular choice. Unlike buses, which drop passengers at the central bus station, a taxi will take you directly to your hotel, villa, or resort,  no transfers, no waiting, no hassle. When people search “how long from Faro Airport to Albufeira”, the answer is simple: it’s under an hour, making it one of the quickest transfers in the Algarve.

Public Taxi Fares from Faro Airport

Outside the Arrivals Hall at Faro Airport, you’ll find the official taxi rank. The black taxis with turquoise roofs are available day and night, offering a metered service to destinations across the Algarve. For Albufeira, the average fare for a standard four-seater is between €45 and €50. Larger vehicles, which can accommodate up to eight passengers, usually cost around €62.

It’s important to be aware of additional costs. A starting fare of €3.25 applies, and if your journey involves heavy traffic, the meter will increase by €0.25 for each minute the car sits idle. Distance is also charged, with four-passenger taxis set at €0.94 per kilometre and larger vehicles at €1.21 per kilometre. Using the boot for luggage adds €1.60, and if you’re travelling at night, on weekends, or public holidays, expect a 20% surcharge.

While public taxis are convenient, these variable costs make it difficult to predict the exact fare in advance. A ride that should be €50 could easily become more, especially during busy periods when traffic is heavier.

Why Pre-Book a Private Transfer?

Because of the uncertainty around public taxi fares, many travellers choose to pre-book their transport with companies like Airport Taximan. A private transfer works in much the same way as a taxi — you’ll still enjoy a direct, door-to-door service,  but the key difference is that the price is fixed before you travel.

With a pre-booked transfer, you don’t have to worry about luggage charges, idle time in traffic, or late-night surcharges. The driver meets you in the Arrivals Hall holding a sign with your name, helps with luggage, and takes you straight to your hotel. For families, baby and booster seats are included free of charge, and larger groups can choose vans, minibuses, or even full coaches, depending on their needs.

Prices for most taxis start from €36–€39 for up to four passengers. A spacious van for eight passengers is available from €47, while a 16-seat minibus costs €130. For large groups, small coaches for 24 passengers are €335, and full-size 49-seat coaches are €358.

Comparing Taxis and Buses

Some visitors may wonder whether a bus might be a cheaper alternative. While there are bus services from Faro Airport to Albufeira, they aren’t always practical. The Rede Expressos coach service operates several times a day with tickets starting at €8 per person, while the Vamus Aerobus 56 costs €11. Both take around 40–45 minutes, but only run at scheduled times, meaning you could be waiting up to four hours depending on your flight.

Even more importantly, buses don’t take you directly to your hotel. They stop at the Albufeira bus terminal, which is about a kilometre from the main tourist areas. From there, most passengers still need to take a taxi to their final destination.

When you add this extra leg of the journey, along with the waiting time and crowded conditions, the bus often becomes less attractive. For many travellers, particularly those arriving with children, carrying luggage, or landing late at night, the convenience of a taxi far outweighs the small saving a bus might provide.

Taxi vs Private Transfer: The Key Differences

While both public taxis and private transfers will get you to Albufeira in roughly the same time, the experience is very different.

  • Price: Public taxis usually cost €45–€50, while private transfers can start from €36 with no hidden fees.

     

  • Convenience: Both are direct, but public taxis may involve waiting in long queues during the summer. With a private transfer, your driver is waiting when you land.

     

  • Group size: Public taxis are limited to four or eight passengers. Private transfers offer vans, minibuses, and even large coaches for bigger groups.

     

  • Added services: Pre-booked transfers include meet & greet, free child seats, Wi-Fi, and luggage help. Public taxis charge extras and don’t guarantee these services.

For these reasons, many repeat visitors to Albufeira now choose private transfers as their preferred option.

Travel Tips for Taxi Users

If you’re planning on taking a public taxi, carry enough cash, as card payments are not always accepted. Always check the meter is set to the correct tariff (Tariff 3 for destinations outside Faro). Be prepared for possible waiting times during peak summer months, as queues can grow quickly when multiple flights arrive. If you are travelling with more than four people, don’t rely on larger taxis being immediately available,  you may need to take two cars.

For those who prefer certainty, booking a private transfer with Airport Taximan avoids these concerns entirely. Your price is agreed in advance, your vehicle size is guaranteed, and your driver will be ready the moment you exit Arrivals.

How Much is a Taxi from Faro to Albufeira?

So, what should you expect to pay for a taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira? A standard public taxi costs around €45–€50, but extra fees and surcharges can push that higher. A pre-booked transfer with Airport Taximan, on the other hand, starts from just €36, offering not only a cheaper fare but also added convenience, fixed pricing, and a more personalised service.

For individuals, couples, and families, pre-booking guarantees peace of mind. For groups, it’s the only cost-effective option, as minibuses and coaches aren’t available through public taxis.

If you’re planning your next Algarve getaway, start it the right way. Book your taxi from Faro Airport to Albufeira with Airport Taximan and enjoy a comfortable, stress-free, and affordable journey from the moment you land.

FAQs – Faro to Albufeira Taxis

Around 36–46 km, taking 35–40 minutes by taxi.

 Public taxis cost €45–€50; pre-booked transfers with Airport Taximan start from €36.

Yes, public taxis and Airport Taximan private transfers operate all day, every day.

Buses cost €8–€11, but only go to the bus terminal. For hotel drop-off, a pre-booked taxi is the best option.

You get fixed prices, no hidden charges, free child seats, luggage included, and guaranteed availability.

Airport Taxi Man offers 24/7 Manchester Airport taxi transfers with fixed fares, professional drivers, and a range of clean, comfortable vehicles. Whether you’re heading to the airport or returning, we make every journey simple and stress-free. With fast booking, real-time tracking, and flexible options, you can count on us for reliable and efficient airport taxi services every time.

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