Hotel Baltum has been in the center of Albufeira since 1968, but renovations in 2014 brought a bright, modern, and beachy look to the property. Interiors throughout are done in neutral tones with blue accents to give the spaces an airy, fresh feel -- think lots of wood, white and blue-patterned upholstery, and white walls. A highlight is the rooftop bar and solarium, with chic seating, lanterns, and a blue wooden accent wall. The restaurant, meanwhile, has a much darker look with lots of rustic wood, leather seating, and bottles lined along the walls. Although there's no pool, guests are primarily here for its central location within easy reach of all Albufeira has to offer. Visitors are mostly couples and the atmosphere is relaxed and quiet.

The main allure of Hotel Baltum is its prime setting in the center of Albufeira’s old town, a sprawl of pretty cobbled streets with almost everything that a tourist could want within a short stroll -- numerous shops, bars, and restaurants. Additionally, travelers are a two-minute walk away from Praia do Peneco, a wide and sandy beach. Expect about a 35-minute drive to Faro Airport. Lisbon and its airport are a little over two hours away by car.

The 51 rooms are all bright and modern, featuring white walls, light-wood furniture and floors, blue accents in fabrics, and beach-themed artwork. Rooms are quiet, despite many having furnished outdoor spaces overlooking the city, however, some lack balconies and have poor views. Economy Rooms are on the small side, but all units come with sitting areas, coffee tables and armchairs, and desks. Contemporary bathrooms come with small shower cubicles, bidets, hairdryers, and free toiletries. Standard amenities consist of free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, and kettles.

Given its location in the center of the old town, Hotel Baltum doesn’t have outdoor spaces for a pool. However, it has a lovely rooftop terrace housing a hot tub, loungers, and popular bar with ample seating. Plus, views here over Albufeira’s old town are lovely. Continental buffet breakfasts are sometimes included in rates, but they get mixed reviews. The breakfast restaurant doubles as Urban Pizza, which offers a largely Italian menu of pizzas and steaks for lunch and dinner. Note that there's no gym, unfortunately. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.