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Lagos – The Ultimate Guide to Lagos Portugal [2024]

Lagos is one of the Algarve’s top destination cities. Boasting a historic oldtown, modern marina, cultural attractions, with some incredible beaches and scenery it really combines much of what the Algarve is famous for. In fact, it’s probably got so much to do that a day trip to Lagos really doesn’t do it justice. It’s a perfect place to spend a long weekend, or longer holiday. With a wide variety of bars, pubs, and restaurants it’s a lively place that doesn’t suffer the same seasonality that some of the smaller resorts and towns in the Algarve suffer from.

How to Get to Lagos?

Lagos is easily accessible and by road it’s around 1 hour from Faro airport. It also has a well-located train station and central bus station. Its train station is on the Regional Algarve line travelling east-west across the Algarve, with connections to Lisbon in Tunes or Albufeira. Coaches are again available from most major towns in the Algarve and Lisbon too!

What to See and Do in Lagos

With its traditional centre and historic core, Lagos has plenty of culture and attractions to explore. It’s more than easy to lose yourself amongst its winding cobbled streets and architectural sights. However, for a full guide on the best things to see and do in Lagos, continue reading!

Lagos Marina

The modern marina is perhaps the best place to start. If you are arriving from Lagos’s trainstation you’ll have to cross the bridge here too! From the bridge across the marina its easy to follow Lagos’s palm tree and calçada lined promenade to the coast and it really sets the scene as an introduction to Lagos. After a short walk taking in the sounds and the sights of the marina, head back over the bridge to discover some of the local Lagos that really makes it tick.  

Municipal Market

A short walk down Avenue dos Descobrimentos will lead you to Mercado Municipal de Lagos. This large building built on the waterfront in 1924 holds the municipal market and is a key part of local life here. It’s mostly known for its daily fish market and if it’s your fist time visiting a market like this can be a tourist attraction in itself. If you’re interested in this, then its essential you arrive early, the market usually wraps up by around midday with most of the sellers having sold their stock! You’ll find these types of market buildings all over the Algarve and it’s our favourite way of buying local fish and produce!

Lagos Historic Centre and Streets – Praca de Gil Eanes and Praça Luís de Camões

Leaving the market and following Rua da Porta de Portugal will lead you into the historic centre of Lagos. This is the more pristine and commercial area, the pedestrianised calçada streets are lined with an array of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. During the summer season it offers a buzzing hectic atmosphere with alfresco diners mixing with street performers and buskers. This atmosphere is perhaps greatest on two busy plazas Praça Gil Eanes and Praça Luís de Camões, but the side streets leading to them are equally busy. Praça Luís de Camões is also the location of the famous ‘green tiled building’, you’ll see this building on much of the media and photos of Lagos.

However, there are secrets to be discovered on its less pristine and commercial streets so don’t be afraid to explore in any direction from these lively squares! Praç a Gil Eanes is also where you’ll find the city’s municipal tourist office – the Posto de Turismo de Lagos. If you’re looking for more activities and information, then it might be worth stopping here for a friendly chat! They’re relatively impartial and don’t push anyone to the commercial tours unless that’s what you ask for!

Praça do Infante D. Henrique – Prince Henry the Navigator Square

Perhaps it’s time to delve into Lagos’s important history and no better place to start than on Praça do Infante D. Henrique. If you hadn’t quite realised yet, Lagos had a large role in the Portuguese Age of Discoveries and the period that would follow. This is a large public square dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator, the central figure of Portuguese expansion during the Age of Discovery. In this square you’ll find a statue of him, Lagos’s main church, and the Slave Market Museum.

Former Slave Market and Museum – Mercado de Escravos – Núcleo Museológico Rota da Escravatura

In the early era of the slave trade, Portuguese ships would head to West Africa where they would enslave, trade for, or simply purchase slaves. Those slaves would originally be brought back to Europe to be sold. Although in later centuries the ships of the era would depart the African coast sailing to the New World directly.

In 1444, this location would become the first slave market in Europe, when a Portuguese expedition returned from West Africa with 235 slaves. Although the building today is dated to around 1691 . Its dark past was confirmed in 2009, during renovations a large number of human skeletons would be discovered alongside other urban waste from the time period. Testing confirmed their west African origins and it’s believed they passed away due to illness caused by their living conditions while waiting for the market.

The museum attempts to reconcile this past with education and acknowledgement of the Portugal’s role in the slave trade. It’s a great and worthwhile museum for anyone looking to learn more. It’s open from 10.00-12.30, and 14.00-17.30. Entrance costs €3 for adults but half price for students, youths, and over 65s.

Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos

Watching over the main square is the impressive Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos. It dates to around 1498 although like many historic buildings in the Algarve has gone through much expansion, rebuilding, and restoration. It was severely damaged in the 1755 earthquake, although not quite as badly as the nearby Igreja de Santa Maria da Graça. That church was completely destroyed during the earthquake and Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos would become the parish church of Lagos.

Today, you’re faced with a large Neoclassical building comprising of a single nave and three side chapels. Compared to many churches in the region, it’s white washed front facade is understated. With its grand front facing the Praça do Infante, it is heavily symmetrical, featuring overlapping central elements, the entrance door, the large bay window, and an image niche. The symmetry is reinforced by its two matching bell towers. The interior is enriched with altarpieces from the second half of the 18th century. Behind the church, you’ll find the walls to the Castelo dos Governadores.

Castelo de Lagos Castelo dos Governadores

Up until this point you might have noticed the absence of walls, fortresses, and castles. Much of the more modern city has hidden them so far, but amongst the palm trees of Jardim da Constituição you’ll find the grand entrance and twin towers of The Castle of the Governors, also known as Castelo de Lagos.

Originally, the entire medieval town was encircled by walls known as the Cerca Medieval. These walls – up to 7m thick – can still be visited on the western side of Lagos. Alongside the river, only small sections remain, and the grand portal or entrance known as Porta de São Gonçalo. Walking through the archway will lead you along a small back street behind the castle. You’ll also find here the district hospital, equally historic located in former residences of the governors.

Forte da Ponta da Bandeira – Fort of Lagos

Continuing along the castle walls to the coast will lead you to Forte da Ponta da Bandeira . The fort dates to around 1640 and was built in an effort to secure the Algarve from coastal raiders and pirates. Although it seems like it was built quite close to the city’s castle, this was deliberate, and its main function was to modernise the defence of the mouth of the river and cities quayside.

Its location meant it could both protect access to the banks of the river and the south-eastern and eastern sides of the city walls. Anyone attempting to take the gates of the city would have to take the fortress first and vice versa. Don’t let its relatively squat walls fool you, at the time it was considered one of most advanced military structures in the Algarve and built with artillery fire in mind. Interestingly, the four sentry posts are now believed to be more modern additions to the original fortress.

Today it is still considered the best-preserved 17th century fort in the Algarve. Inside you’ll find an exhibition on the Age of Discoveries and a small art exhibition of sculptures on its roof top. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00-12:30 and 14:00-17:30 and costs €2 to enter, but combined tickets with the city’s other museums are available.

Ponta da Piedade and the Grottos

One of the standout natural attractions of Lagos is Ponta da Piedade and its historic lighthouse Farol da Ponta da Piedade Lagos. It’s a small natural headland that’s about 3km from Lagos city centre. On approaching the lighthouse from the road it’s difficult to see what all the fuss is about. However, a short walk, and several steps down reveal its secrets.

Beautifully clear turquoise water laps the typical golden cliffs of the Algarve. Rising out of the water are limestone pillars in the typical golden Algarve colours. You’ll find an array of arches, caves, and sheer cliffs. Keen eyed visitors will also be able to spot birds circling and nesting on the many pillars. It’s a stunning feature and well worth a visit to take it all in. A steep staircase of 180 steps takes you to the waters edge, while several winding paths will take you east or west to see more scenery along the coast.

It’s possible to walk from Lagos and will take around half an hour, alternatively a taxi or uber will cost around €5-7 for a one way trip. During the summer season the tourist train also stops at the Ponta de Piedade approximately every hour.

Boat and Kayak Trips to Ponta de Piedade and the Grottos

The question we always get asked! Do you need to visit the grottos by boat or kayak? In our opinion you really don’t need to. Visiting by boat is a great experience to go further, through the caves, and experience many other caves that you can’t see by taking the steep steps. But this is not an essential part of the experience. Also, at the high season you will find so many boats doing the same thing that this actually makes the experience worse.

You also can not leave the boat, so don’t expect to be allowed to swim around or through the caves! Kayaking is a slower paced way of visiting the caves and grottos , but once again suffers from the same fate. Large groups of kayaks and lots of boats visiting the same spots. These trips can be an expensive novelty – for an hour-long boat tour is around €20 for an adult and €10 for a child. Kayak tours taking around 2 hours cost around €30-40. All these trips can be booked in Lagos city centre or at the marina where they depart from. Or you can book online in advance of your visit!

The Best Beaches in Lagos

One of the best things about Lagos is its easy access to a variety of beaches. Trying to decide on the best beach to visit? Keep reading!

Praia dos Estudantes

Being the closest beach to Lagos this is one of the most popular. It’s famous for its caves, carved tunnels, and the so-called Roman Bridge – Ponte Romana de Lagos. The beach is relatively small and split into two halves by long cliffs. The cliffs give this small beach a sheltered and secluded feel. One important thing to consider is that this beach is not life guarded and doesn’t have the usual beach facilities – toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Due to its small size, tight access and lack of facilities the beach never gets too busy.

The first section of the beach is the wider area, but if you head through the caves on the righthand side you’ll find an even smaller beach and the famous Roman Bridge. It’s not actually Roman and is named after its style – similarly to the Roman Bridge in Tavira! Isolated on the cliff you might be wondering what the bridge is for, it originally linked to a small fortress on the cliff that has long since collapsed. You can still see one of its walls, and the bricks that made it on the southern side of the cliff. At low tide Praia dos Estudantes links to Praia do Pinhão through the small caves at the right-hand side of the beach. From the main access stairs of Praia dos Estudantes you can also head left to Praia da Batata.

Praia do Pinhão

One step further, and even more secluded is Praia do Pinhão. It’s just slightly further away from Students beach and with even less facilities – there’s no restaurant or bars nearby and it’s slightly less popular. You can walk or paddle to it and for the adventurous its very rewarding. It offers calm waters, and those scenic cliffs Lagos is famous for.

Praia de Dona Ana

Although located further out of town than both Praia dos Estudantes and Praia do Pinhão, this is actually the most popular and busiest of Lagos’s beaches . On its cliff tops are a wide array of hotels and apartments which funnels many, many more people to this beach. For us, this is the busiest and most packed of Lagos’s beaches. For some people a packed beach is an essential part of their holiday, for others they want a bit more space and relaxation. If you fall into this last category then it might be best to avoid Praia da Dona Ana.

At 300m the beach is the biggest in the Lagos area, with cliffs that extend out into the water at either end it forms a protective bay. Making it relatively calm and great for swimming. The rock formations also make it a great and protected area to try a little snorkeling to! It’s also life guarded and you’ll find sunbed and parasol rental available. This is Lagos’s most resort like beach!

It is possible to walk to Praia da Dona Ana from Lagos, but it will take around 20 minutes. It is also served by the regular bus line (Linha 2 – the blue line), and during the high season the tourist train. With limited parking above the beach it’s not really recommended to drive to the beach as it gets full quickly.

Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is Lagos’s most internet famous beach. Whether it’s the most instagrammed location in the Algarve, or being voted TripAdvisor’s No.1 activity in Lagos. Praia do Camilo attracts a lot of attention.  A dramatic walk down 200 wooden steps will lead you to a seriously impressive beach. The car park is small and quickly gets overcrowded so it’s best to get here early. At the top of the wooden steps there is a small restaurant.

Meia Praia Beach – Praia de São Roque

If being stuck between sheer cliffs sounds claustrophobic to you, you’re not the only one. Lagos’s beaches are all relatively small and require access though steep stairs and cliffs. Fortunately, it has one very different beach on the opposite side of its river – Meia Praia. Meia Praia stretches for 5km from Lagos all the way to Ria de Alvor. It’s a stunning stretch of sand backed by sand dunes instead of cliffs. Different sections of the beach are life guarded, and you’ll find the full beach facilities. Towards it’s more empty stretches it’s also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing. In fact, multiple operators offer water sports hire and lessons for all abilities! In Lagos, you really are spoiled for choice as to which beach to choose.

The Best Day Trips from Lagos?

Lagos is perfectly positioned in the West Algarve to offer a great base to explore the wider region. Your choice of day trips and excursions will only depend on how you want to enhance your Algarve experience.

Sagres – Sagres defines the western Algarve . It’s here the scenery is at its most dramatic, you’ll find sheer cliffs, wind swept beaches, and lots of surfing and wind sports. The town of Sagres is overlooked by the impressive Fortaleza de Sagres, and further west is the Farol do Cabo de São Vincente with a lighthouse that marks the far south western tip of Portugal. Between these two points you’ll find some impressive and deserted beaches, as well as popular spots for surfing. This is the Algarve at its wildest and most dramatic. It’s also easy to fit these activities into a day trip from Lagos. Prices start from around €45 for a small group tour!

Monchique – If dramatic, and extreme don’t quite fit your day trip needs then perhaps it’s a good idea to take a step into the slower paced and traditional Algarve. Monchique is a delightful town positioned at the heart of a small mountain range called the Serra de Monchique. You’ll find a focus on relaxation, hiking, and a slower paced life. It’s charming streets and small squares are a lovely place to try some of the traditional Portuguese ‘mountain food’ and the local speciality Medronho . A fearsome spirit made with local fruit. A car rental is a great way to explore this area at your own pace. However small group tours can be organised for around €45 a person.

Silves – Silves is the historic capital of the Algarve and retains much of its history and culture. It has one of the best examples of a 13th century castle and its town retains many of its historic features from its long past. Balancing the history and culture are the usual features of Portuguese life. A lively market, arts and crafts, café culture and booming restaurant scene resulting in some of the best food you can find in the Algarve too. If you’re looking for some cultural and historical sites Silves is well worth making the trip to! Tours are available which include a full day trip to Monchique and Silves if you’d like to combine and make a full day out of it!

Read the full guide of the 12 Best Day Trips to make from Lagos for more ideas!

So, how Touristy is Lagos?

Despite what many people will say, Lagos has clearly been affected by mass tourism. The outskirts of the city are now lined with modern apartment blocks and hotels, and it can be hard to walk around town without having any number of tourist activities shoved in your face.

Multiple stands and touts will try to get you to book tours, boat trips, and try to convince you to head to their bar or restaurant. Once the sun goes down, many of the bars, pubs and clubs open up. It’s growing reputation for nightlife is both good and bad. That said, it’s still a thriving city with a good mix of locals, seasonal residents, and tourists that stays quite busy year round.

Somewhere to Stay in Lagos?

Lagos is a large enough city that it caters for every budget, from backpackers and surf hostels to 5 star resorts.

For a luxury stays then one of the best option’s is Tivoli Lagos . The city centre hotel has a fantastic location, and during the summer offers a free shuttle to its private beach club. If you’re looking for a little exclusivity and luxury it’s a great choice. For a more family friendly options with a focus on activities and great pools take a look at the 3 star IberLagos . For the full list of hotels check this list here .

Should You Visit Lagos?

Lagos is a fantastic destination in the West Algarve . Blending so much of what the Algarve is great for, beaches, history, food, culture, it really has it all! With some of the region’s best beaches within easy reach it’s perfect for any summer trip. Year round, its culture, streets and shopping attract a good mixture of people which keep it lively. What do you think of Lagos? Let us know in the comments below!

Affiliate disclosure . Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links. What this means is we get a tiny percentage of the booking fee if you do click the links and book something. This costs no extra for you and helps support the site.

5 thoughts on “Lagos – The Ultimate Guide to Lagos Portugal [2024]”

hi there, thanks for the very informative site!! I’m a single woman travelling to Portugal and planning to spend a couple of days in Porto, three in Lisbon and maybe 3 days in Algarve (August) Was hoping to do beach time with actual swimming, some local exploring/walking etc. No car, so relaying on public transportation. Would you recommend Lagos or Faro as a base? Lagos has those beautiful beaches but seems quite busy. Faro seems to be a direct train trip from Lisbon and not as busy, but has Rio Formosa Natural park islands (that I just read about :). If you had to choose, which one would it be?

That’s a tough decision and you can do no wrong with either location, they are both fantastic places to base yourself. For me, I have a soft spot for Faro and the Ria Formosa . The beaches might be less dramatic, but you can’t beat the white sand and deserted island feel of some of the islands. For swimming as well, the waters in the East Algarve and the lagoon tend to be warmer and calmer than those around Lagos! However, Lagos has beaches you can walk to from the town, so heading to the beach is possible at any time. In Faro, you’ll need to rely on the bus or taxis to Praia da Faro, or ferries to the beach and various islands. It’s a tough decision, but for three days, with beaches and swimming being the focus I’d pick Faro. Let me know if you have any further questions!

I would recommend that you base in Olhao, actually. A less touristy place than Lagos and much more amenable and with easier public transport to great beaches than Faro.

Thanks a bunch for sharing your knowledge.

I live in the Los Angeles area and I hope to visit Lagos to visit the Slave Trade Museum in early August. I don’t see anywhere to buy tickets. Any advice?

Much appreciated.

Hello Jay, tickets can be bought directly at the museum entrance for €3!

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17 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal (+ Nearby!)

Visually stunning and packed with history, the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal are bound to captivate you both on and off the water.

Located in the western part of Portugal’s famous Algarve region, Lagos is the perfect base for exploring the best things to do in southern Portugal.

Let me put it like this: if you’ve seen photos of Portugal’s coastline, you’ve almost certainly admired grottos, beaches, and cliffsides located within a short drive–or in some cases, walk–of Lagos.

We are completely smitten with this laid-back Portuguese beach town, and can’t wait to enjoy the best activities in Lagos again and again.

Planning a trip soon?

Here’s what to do in Lagos, Portugal!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal

More stunning attractions near lagos, where to stay in lagos, portugal, getting around when visiting lagos, when to visit lagos, portugal.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Marvel at the beauty of Ponte da Piedade from above.

This picturesque headland is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs featuring grottos, arches, and more–and it is one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve.

Walking along the top of Ponte da Piedade features stunning view after stunning view, each more gorgeous than the last.

And, even better, you can climb down a steep staircase to admire the view from the water level, too!

This is one of the most famous attractions in Lagos, and it was our first stop as we drove into town.

We couldn’t bear to even check into our hotel before stopping to admire it!

… and take a grotto tour to appreciate the formations from below.

Want even better views of the stunning Ponte da Piedade–say, from on the water?

Ponte da Piedade boat tours like this are incredibly affordable and one of the most popular activities in Lagos!

As a bonus, you’ll get excellent views of some of Lagos’ most famous beaches as you cruise from town to Ponte da Piedade as well.

Book your Ponte da Piedade boat tour today!

Step inside the magnificent Igreja de Santo Antonio.

Gold, gold, everywhere: the glittering Igreja de Santo Antonio is one of those churches that is simply jaw-dropping.

Dating to 1707 (though it was rebuilt in 1769), this baroque church is absolutely stunning.

Featuring 18th-century azulejos on the bottom half of the walls, and incredibly detailed, gilded woodwork on the top half, this church is one of the most memorable Lagos attractions.

A small museum is attached to the church, and a 3 Euro fee covers access to both.

Climb down to the gorgeous Praia do Camilo.

One of the most picturesque beaches in all of Portugal, the small but gorgeous Praia do Camilo is easily one of the best attractions in Lagos.

To reach it, you’ll need to climb down about 200 wooden steps, but it’s absolutely worth the work.

(If you need to rest a bit once you climb back up, though, Camilo Restaurante is located right at the top of the steps and gets good reviews).

Once you reach the sand, be sure to turn left and head through the small tunnel for yet another beautiful (and even smaller) beach.

Explore Lagos’ historic center.

Colorful buildings, laid-back seafood restaurants, small museums, cobblestone streets: there are plenty of reasons to spend some time exploring the center when visiting Lagos, Portugal!

Lagos is one of the best towns in the Algarve not just for its natural beauty (which is of course magnificent), but also because of its charming center.

We’ll cover some of the top attractions, such as the Igreja de Santo Antonio mentioned above, throughout this blog post, but slowly meandering through town and seeing what you find is a fun Lagos activity in its own right!

Learn sad but important history at the Slave Market Museum.

While Lagos is primarily known for its beauty today, it does have dark stains on its history–most heartbreakingly, for being the location of the first slave market in Europe.

The market dated to 1444, though the current building mostly dates to the 17th century.

Today, it holds a small museum discussing the history of the trade and of the people enslaved in Lagos.

Check out the city’s stone walls at Jardim da Constituicao.

This small, shady park is the perfect place to rest your feet while exploring Lagos.

It’s also bordered by Lagos’ historic stone walls and across the street from the Fort Ponta da Bandeira, making it an incredibly picturesque place.

Spend a day on the stunning Praia de Dona Ana.

As the biggest beach at Ponte da Piedade and one of the most popular beaches in Lagos, you can expect big crowds here in the summer–but they’re worth it to enjoy this gorgeous spot!

Tour the waterfront Fort Ponta da Bandeira.

Located where the river meets the ocean, this 17th-century military fort is a memorable addition to Lagos’ coastline.

You can tour the fort, and the views from the upper terrace are beautiful!

Relax on the sand at Meia Praia.

As the undisputed biggest and easiest-to-access beach in the Lagos area, it’s no surprise that Meia Praia is a popular place to stretch out on the sand!

Stretching for 4 kilometers, you’ll find that the crowds at Meia Praia are densest close to the Lagos Marina, as it’s the easiest walk from town.

The further you walk, though, the more space you’ll have.

Set off on a dolphin-watching cruise.

Want to appreciate the beauty and playfulness of dolphins in the wild?

Add a dolphin-watching cruise to your list of what to do in Lagos!

This popular dolphin cruise is run by a company with 30+ years of local experience and is bound to offer an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Book your Lagos dolphin cruise today!

Check out the rock tunnels.

Many of Lagos’ beaches are connected to each other via small, manmade tunnels in the cliffs.

These make it all the better to save you the extra energy spent climbing up and down wooden stairs (though prepare to do lots of that when visiting beaches in Lagos).

These tunnels are mostly utilitarian, but they’re also quirky and extremely memorable!

Stroll along the Bensafrim River from the Lagos Marina to the fort.

This beautiful walk along the river is a fantastic way to appreciate Lagos at a leisurely pace, perhaps with a scoop of gelato in hand.

During the summer, you’ll see plenty of souvenir stands and tour operators out here, and in the winter , you can expect to have it mostly to yourself.

Kayak to Portugal’s famous Benagil Cave.

This absolutely gorgeous cave is an iconic spot in the Algarve, and experiencing it yourself is one of the best things to do near Lagos!

In order to access Benagil Cave, you’ll need to do so from the water–and kayaking (or SUPing) the 200m required is the perfect option.

Don’t want to kayak or SUP?

You can still visit Benagil Cave, but here’s the catch: regulations prevent boat tours like this popular one from letting participants disembark in the cave.

If you want that iconic view of Benagil Cave from standing on the small beach inside, you’ll have to sweat a bit to get it!

However, a boat tour has its benefits as well, including more time to visit several other sea caves in the area.

Book your Benagil Cave kayaking tour or small boat tour today!

Hike the stunning Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

Often considered one of the best hikes in Portugal, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail stretches 6 kilometers each way and runs from Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes.

This out-and-back trail is absolutely stunning and one of our favorite places in Portugal!

Featuring absolutely magnificent views all the way through, every step of this moderate trail is a delight.

You’ll even hike right over the Benagil Cave, though a fence prevents you from being able to see into the cave very well.

Visit Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

As Praia da Marinha is one of the endpoints of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, you’re sure to admire it from above if you complete the hike.

The beach is worth acknowledging separately, though, because frankly, it’s just that gorgeous.

Countless publications, including the Michelin Guide, have ranked Praia da Marinha as one of the most beautiful beaches on Earth over the years, and to see it in person is to fully understand why.

Admire the Algarve’s landscape on horseback.

Ever wanted to ride a horse on a beach?

Here, you can!

We’re big proponents of admiring stunning landscapes on horseback, and where better to do so than the wild and rugged Algarve?

This horseback riding tour is incredibly popular and makes a memorable addition to your trip to Lagos!

Book your Lagos horseback riding tour today!

Head to the end of the world in Sagres.

The tiny town of Sagres, Portugal is located at what feels like the end of the world–and once upon a time, that’s what it was known as!

Cape St. Vincent is the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe (not to be confused with Cabo da Roca near Lisbon, the westernmost point of mainland Europe), and it alone is worth visiting Sagres for.

Beyond its history, Sagres is primarily known for the variety of surfing available on its gorgeous beaches, but even if you don’t plan to surf, it’s still worth a quick half-day trip from Lagos, Portugal!

While you can have an amazing trip to the Algarve by renting a house or apartment outside of town, since this blog post focuses on Lagos itself, our hotel suggestions will too!

Each of these properties boasts excellent reviews and a prime location within walking distance of many of the top things to do in Lagos.

Dream Lagos B&B — A fantastic included breakfast, private room, and free parking are all waiting for you at Dream Lagos B&B–and as the rave reviews indicate, you won’t be disappointed.

The trade-off?

To stick with a smaller budget, this property is a bit further out than the others, though still walkable–you’ll need about 20 minutes to get to Meia Praia and 25 to get to Igreja de Santo Antonio.

Check rates & book your stay at Dream Lagos B&B!

Hotel Lagosmar — Featuring excellent reviews and a perfect location right across from the Lagos Marina, Hotel Lagosmar makes an excellent base in Lagos!

An included breakfast comes with some packages, and the rooftop terrace features beautiful views of the water and town.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Lagosmar!

Tivoli Lagos — We adored our stay at this 4-star resort, and would be thrilled to return to enjoy the beautiful property, gorgeous pool, restaurants, and delicious included breakfast again.

With free parking (almost) on-site, comfortable rooms, and incredibly easy access to Lagos’ attractions, Tivoli Lagos is a fantastic place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay at Tivoli Lagos!

Lagos itself is a fairly compact place, and you can easily walk from centrally located hotels, the train station, and the bus station to just about any of the historic attractions in town.

With enough time (a bit under an hour each way), you can even walk to Ponta da Piedade!

Part of the joy of visiting the Algarve, though, is road tripping along the beautiful coastline to all of the other small towns, gorgeous beaches, exciting hiking opportunities, and more that you can find.

For that reason, we highly recommend renting a car when visiting Lagos if you hope to get beyond the town itself.

However, if you would rather not drive, you can still explore all of the Lagos attractions discussed in this blog post with a combination of lots of walking, some bus travel, and some guided tours.

If you plan to rent a car, we highly recommend searching through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

Shop rental cars for your trip to Lagos today!

As a beach town on Portugal’s southern coast, Lagos thrives during the summer.

The summer months bring hot, sunny weather perfect for enjoying the beaches (though if you’re from a hot climate like us, the water may still be a bit cold for you–think about 66°F/18°C).

Unsurprisingly, summer is also when you’ll find both town and the beaches packed with crowds, and hotels and restaurants offering their highest prices.

For better rates, especially if you don’t need to swim, consider a shoulder season trip in April/May or September/October.

While Lagos can get (comparatively) cold and rainy in the winter, temperatures are still extremely mild and the region does get plenty of sun in the winter, too!

We enjoyed a magnificent winter trip to Lagos with full sun, no crowds, and temperatures around 62°F–in other words, absolute paradise when it comes to exploring the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “17 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal (+ Nearby!)”

Enjoyed reading about your travel destinations. We are visiting Portugal (Lisbon and Lagos) soon! I sent you an email about what to do in Lagos in January with our daughter who is recently studying in Lisbon. Most activities are geared more toward summer months and we have limited time there so wanted to see some sights without major walking (my husband had knee surgery earlier this year). Wondering if you have any recommendations for us! We will be in Lagos 1/23-25. Lisbon the rest of the days. Thank you.

Hi Kristen,

You guys will have a great time! Many of the photos in this blog post were taken during a January trip to Lagos, if that gives you an idea of what to expect.

Ponta da Piedade is a delight year-round, and if you drive out there, should be fairly easy on your husband’s knee. I believe boat tours of the grotto from the bottom also run year-round, if that appeals to you guys.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail probably isn’t the best idea in your situation, but you can park very close to Praia da Marinha, and that’s worth heading over to if you enjoy beautiful views.

We really appreciate this informative article. We are looking at two weeks in September, with the time split between Lagos and Lisbon. Thoughts on flying into Faro, renting a car and departing from Lisbon?

There’s no reason why you can’t do that, just be prepared to pay a one-way drop off fee for returning the car to a different location!

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Lagos Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Home to just over 30,000 people, during the summer Lagos becomes the center of partying for backpackers in Portugal, boasting endless bar crawls, booze cruises, and fun in the sun. It’s not only one of the most visited cities in the region — it’s one of the most visited in the country.

Even if partying isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to do here. The city makes a great base of operations to explore neighboring towns, coves, and beaches. There is also a ton of history to explore here as well. Europe’s first slave market was built here and the Portuguese explorer Henry the Navigator lived much of his life in Lagos (Henry launched the Age of Discovery with the development of his lighter caravel ships and his explorations in West Africa).

In short, Lagos has something for everyone no matter their interest or budget.

This travel guide to Lagos will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this laid-back coastal paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Lagos

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lagos

1. See the city castle

Built by the Moors (Muslims from North Africa that invaded Europe and conquered parts of Spain and Portugal) in the 10th century, this small castle has been restored and turned into a museum. Known as Castelo dos Governadores, the castle and walls were extended and improved over the centuries, with the walls eventually expanding around the entire town. Don’t forget your camera because once you’re at the top there are breathtaking views of the sea.

2. Explore the historic churches

Originally built in 1498, the Church of Santa Maria became the parish church of Lagos after the 1755 earthquake (one of the biggest earthquakes to ever hit Europe, killing upwards of 50,000 people). The interior isn’t particularly ornate, but the historic building is worth seeing up close. Another church worth visiting is the 18th-century Church of Santo António just off the waterfront. Like most buildings in Lagos, it was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake and rebuilt in 1769. Its altar is decorated with some of Portugal’s most iconic Baroque gilt carvings and the gilded woodwork is extremely detailed and ornate. There are lots of 18th-century azulejo tiles here as well. Just remember to dress respectfully when visiting as these are religious places of worship.

3. Check out the grottos

Just a few miles from Lagos is the famous Ponte de Piedade, where you’ll find some cool coastal rock formations. This secluded area makes for a wonderful day trip, during which you can relax in the sun and swim in the clear water. It’s just 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles) from the city center. Boat tours from Get Your Guide that explore the caves along the coast last just over an hour and cost 23 EUR.

4. Lounge at the beach

One of the main reasons to visit Lagos is to laze at one of its many picturesque beaches. The beaches range from the long, broad Meia Praia on the eastern edge of town (it’s usually crowded in summer with volleyball and beach bars) to the secluded coves beneath the towering cliffs of the Ponta da Piedade. Other beaches worth visiting are Praia do Camilo, Praia do Pinhão, and Praia da Dona Ana.

5. Hit the waves

The Algarve is a popular spot for watersports, especially surfing, kayaking, and kitesurfing. It’s easy to rent equipment (there are a ton of shops) and if you’re a newbie, you can take lessons. Surf lessons cost 55 EUR while renting a board is just 25 EUR. Kite surfing lessons cost 155 EUR while rentals (including a wetsuit) are 80 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Lagos

1. go scuba diving.

Boasting some 850 kilometers (528 miles) of coastline, this region of Portugal is home to numerous underwater caves and shipwrecks. It’s one of the best diving spots in Europe. Pedra de Ancora is home to a fabulous reef filled with lobsters and drum fish while swarms of fish can be found in Porto de Mos. Arriefes and The Cave are perfect dive spots for beginners. A single-tank dive starts at 45 EUR per person while two-tank dives cost around 75 EUR.

2. Visit the fish market

Mercado Municipal is a three-story market known for its freshly caught fish. Get here early (6am-7am is best) to see fishermen unload their catch and locals vie for the freshest fish. While the fish vendors can be found on the ground floor, you’ll also find local produce, cheese, butcher shops, herbs, nuts, and oils spread throughout the market’s three floors. This is a cool place to spend a morning taking in the local pace of life.

3. See the Old Slave Market (Mercado de Escravos)

In one corner of the Praca da Republica, under the arches of the old customs house is the original home of Europe’s first slave market. The market opened in 1444 and it is said that within a century up to 10,000 slaves were being shipped annually from Africa. Today, this area is a museum. Exhibits include displays that detail the lives of slaves, as well as artifacts like manacles, weapons, maps, and the complete history of the port and slave market in Lagos. It’s a sobering but important visit. Admission is 4 EUR.

4. Walk along the town walls

The town ramparts and fortification walls originally date as far back as the Roman era. They were expanded to accommodate the town’s growth during the period of Arab rule and then again during the Christian annexation a couple of centuries later. The walls as seen today date to the 16th-century when Barbary pirate raids were common and Spain was threatening invasion. The walls still circle the entire city so walking them in their entirety may be more exercise than you want but you can easily check out sections of it. Don’t miss the Porta de São Gonçalo, which is flanked by Albarran towers, and the fort of Ponte de Banderia. These are the most well-preserved sections of the wall.

5. Tour the Municipal Museum

Located in a Baroque church annex, the Municipal Museum is next to St. Anthony’s church and houses a collection of archaeological artifacts and religious art. The museum was founded by Dr. José dos Santos Pimenta Formosinho in 1932. Here you can learn about the history of Lagos and the surrounding region. It’s a good way to spend a couple of hours when you tire of the beach. Admission is 3 EUR.

6. Visit the Science Center

If you need a break from the sun, the Ciencia Viva Science Center is a neat place to spend a couple hours. It offers hands-on interactive exhibits focusing on ancient Portuguese seafarers. There are three themed areas: orientation and navigation, life on board the ship, and distance communication. Learn about the sea route to India, old-world navigation techniques, Morse code, and more. It’s super fascinating! Admission is 5 EUR.

7. Take a food tour

One of the best ways to get to know a new culture is by its food. Food Tours Algarve offers a food and wine tour that visits restaurants in Lagos and includes around a handful of tasty traditional dishes. The tour is 3.5 hours and guides you through local neighborhoods, offering interesting history, architecture, and cultural insights. If you’re a foodie like me, this is a must! Tickets are 75 EUR. You can also take just a wine tour around Algarve. Tours from South Explorers last 4 hours and cost 55 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in the Portugal, check out these guides:

• Lisbon Travel Guide
• Porto Travel Guide

Lagos Travel Costs

Camping is available outside the city for those who have a tent (and a vehicle). Prices start around 22 EUR for a basic plot without electricity for two people.

Budget hotel prices – There aren’t many budget two-star hotels in Lagos, but the ones you can find cost between 50-80 EUR per night. For a three-star hotel, expect to pay around 90-115 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi, TV, and AC are standard while some also include free breakfast.

On Airbnb, private rooms start around 40 EUR but average closer to double that if you don’t book early. Entire homes/apartments start around 75 EUR per night, though they average around 140 EUR. Book early for the best deals.

Average cost of food – Fish and seafood form the backbone of Portuguese cuisine (Portugal eats the most seafood per capita in Europe). Cod, sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), sea bass, and shellfish are some of the most common staples. Other popular dishes include cozido à portuguesa (boiled stew), peixinhos da horta (breaded and fried vegetables), and cured ham. Be sure to also try the prego (beef sandwich) or the bifana (pork sandwich). You can find them at local cafes for just 5 EUR.

You can find snacks in bakeries for under 5 EUR while light meals and sandwiches cost 7-10 EUR. Try a bifana, sautéed pork seasoned with garlic, spices, and white wine, served on a roll. Dried octopus ( polvo seco ) is good, and bolas de Berlim (doughnuts filled with doce de ovos) is another tasty choice as well.

If you want a nice three-course meal with table service and drinks, you’re looking at spending closer to 20 EUR. For a more casual dining experience, expect to pay closer to 10-15 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 12-15 EUR while Chinese food is 8-11 EUR for a main dish.

Beer costs around 2 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is just under 2 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

For a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay between 35-40 EUR. This gets you basic staples like pasta, vegetables, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Lagos Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 40 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free activities like swimming and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking and partying, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 115 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for a few meals and cook the rest, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting some museums and going scuba diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 215 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Lagos Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

If you find cheap accommodation, cook your meals, and stick to mostly free activities, you’re going to easily be able to keep your budget intact here. Just be aware that prices increase during the summer and that excessive partying can break the bank faster than you think. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you save money in Lagos:

• Use Airbnb – Because this is such a popular tourist destination, many hotels raise prices substantially during the summer months. There also are not a lot of budget two-star hotels here either. However, many locals rent out apartments or run small guest houses on sites like Airbnb. These can be significantly cheaper or will at least offer you better value for your money. Just be sure to book early to get the best price!
• Say “no” to bread – When eating out, a selection of bread and olives might be brought to your table before your meal. These aren’t free so just say no if you don’t want to pay for them.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host for your stay. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice. just make sure to send your requests early!
• Cook your own meals – Restaurants are cheap here but eating out all the time adds up. If you’re on a tight budget, save yourself some money by cooking your own meals.
• Get a bus pass – While you can walk everywhere in Lagos, if you’re going to take the bus around buy a one-day or three-day bus pass. It’s much cheaper than buying single fares if you plan on taking the bus a few times.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Lagos

Lagos has lots of hostels, but keep in mind they fill up fast in the summer. Here are my suggested places to stay in Lagos:

• Top City Hostel & Suites
• Rising Cock Party Hostel
• Boutique Taghostel
• Olive Hostel Lagos
• Sol A Sol Hostel
• Cloud 9 Hostel
• The Stumble Inn

How to Get Around Lagos

Bicycle – Bike rentals start at 10-15 EUR for a full-day rental. Coast Supply Co. and Lagos Bike Tours are the best places to rent in the city.

Taxi – Taxis in Lagos start at 3 EUR and go up 1 EUR for every kilometer. Most drivers speak English but showing them the address on your smartphone will help. If you’re on a budget, skip the taxis. At these prices, they get expensive fast!

When to Go to Lagos

Peak season in Lagos is during the summer months of June-August. Temperatures during that time hover between 24-27°C (75-80°F). This is also the busiest time to visit the city so expect prices to increase as well. The overall atmosphere during this time is lively and there are lots of places to swim or relax on the beach so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

If you’re on a budget, the best time to visit Lagos is during the shoulder season. April-May and September-October are still warm so you can enjoy the outdoors without as many crowds. Temperatures during this time hover between 12-22°C (53-71°F). Prices are cheaper too. It may be a bit rainy (bring a raincoat just in case) but you can still enjoy the city without much inconvenience.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and most everything has closed up shop so you won’t find much going on if you visit during the winter. Temperatures vary but generally hover around 15°C (59°F). I wouldn’t visit in the winter if you can avoid it as the rest of the year is much more enjoyable. That said, if you’re already in Europe and need to winter somewhere, southern Portugal is one of the warmest places on the continent!

How to Stay Safe in Lagos

Lagos is very safe. Violent attacks here are uncommon and petty crime is rare. Pickpocketing can occur so always be aware of your surroundings when you’re in busy markets, using public transportation, or in touristy areas. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight just to be safe and avoid flashing any cash.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the city but read this article on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

Young backpackers here may be approached and offered drugs as Portugal has decriminalized drug use. Always decline the offer politely but firmly and continue on your way.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Lagos Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Lagos Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Portugal and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Lagos, Portugal

The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon

Where to Stay in Lisbon: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Lisbon

When Three Days Is Not Enough Time

Lisbon: Even Better the Second Time

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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

© Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

As tourist towns go, Lagos (lah-goosh) has got the lot. The port town, which launched many naval excursions during Portugal’s extraordinary Age of Discovery, lies along the bank of the Rio Bensafrim. Its old town's pretty, cobbled lanes and picturesque squares and churches are enclosed by 16th-century walls. Beyond the walls is a modern but not overly unattractive sprawl and some truly fabulous beaches.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Lagos. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Ponta da Piedade

Protruding 2.5km south of Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is a dramatic wedge of headland with contorted, polychrome sandstone cliffs and towers, complete with a…

Museu Municipal

The town museum holds a bit of everything: swords and pistols, landscapes and portraits, minerals and crystals, coins, Moorish pottery, miniature…

Centro Ciênia Viva de Lagos

Young adventurers will especially love this science museum devoted to Portuguese seafaring in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its main exhibit covers the age…

Museu de Cera dos Descobrimentos

Unlike typical celebrity-filled wax museums, this one has 22 historic wax figures representing 16 different points in time during Portugal's Age of…

Arcing in a 4km-long crescent, this vast expanse of golden sand has water sports outlets, and laid-back restaurants and beach bars.

Igreja de Santo António

A baroque extravaganza, this little church bursts with gilded, carved wood and beaming cherubs. The dome and azulejo panels were installed during repairs…

Castelo dos Governadores

Built by the Moors, Lagos' castle was conquered by Christian forces in the 13th century. It's said that the ill-fated, evangelical Dom Sebastião attended…

Antigo Mercado de Escravos

Set in the building believed to be Europe's first slave market, when slaves from the west coast of Africa were brought here in 1444, this small museum…

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Lagos, Portugal: 11 BEST Things to Do & Places to See (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2023

Lagos is one of the coziest and most charming towns in the Algarve, Portugal. Whenever you ask locals where to go for sightseeing in the region, you’ll hear Lagos recommended time and again.

But what to expect and what is there to see and do in Lagos?

In this guide, we cover all the best things to do in Lagos for first-time visitors . Please note that this article is primarily focused on the sights and activities in the town of Lagos and its immediate vicinity.

Of course, there is much more to see and do near Lagos and the stunning coast of the Algarve than we cover here. But that would require a few additional articles and that’s not the focus of this article. That being said, we include a short overview and a few recommendations for some of the very best things to do nearby at the end of this guide.

Good to know: Lagos is a small town and you can just walk through and see everything in a few hours. If you want to visit all the best places in Lagos mentioned on this list and spend some time at the beach, take a boat tour, or go kayaking, you can easily spend an entire day here.

To help you plan your visit and get a better idea of where everything is located, we also created a map of the best places to see in Lagos . You can find this map at the end of this post, together with some practical information on where to stay.

But first – top sights and best things to do in Lagos. Find out!

Top Experiences in Lagos:

• Ponta da Piedade boat tours .
• Benagil Cave boat tours .
• Food tour .

Here are the best things to do in Lagos:

1. Old Town

Without a doubt, the best thing to do in Lagos is simply to explore the old town . With cozy squares and a labyrinth of narrow streets, Lagos has a nice mix of very touristy and more local areas.

Just like in pretty much any of Portugal’s best cities , the old town of Lagos has typical Portuguese pavements with a variety of different patterns. You’ll also find traditional buildings, most of them white or with colored windows and doors, but I also spotted a few houses with traditional azulejo-tile facades.

Most streets in the heart of Lagos old town are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. But there are also some residential areas, with laundry hanging through the windows, and locals chatting on the streets.

There are a couple of nice town squares that you shouldn’t miss: Plaza Infante Dom Henrique with the Church of Santa Maria de Lagos, Praça Gil Eanes and adjacent Rua da Porta de Portugal with colorful houses, and the cozy Praça Luís de Camões . I indicated all these places on our map further below, but Lagos old town is quite small, so you can’t really miss them.

Good to know: The main touristy part of Lagos’ old town is rather flat. But if you turn away just a block or two to explore deeper, you’ll encounter more hilly areas. In any case, comfortable footwear is recommended for sightseeing in Lagos!

2. Lagos Museums

There are a few small museums in Lagos. Depending on your interests and how much time you have, visit one or all of them. Here’s a brief overview:

Museu de Lagos

Probably the most interesting to see is the town museum, which is called Museu de Lagos (or Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho). It’s located adjacent to the Church of Santo Antonio, and this stunning church can only be visited with a museum ticket.

This lavishly decorated chapel of Igreja de Santo António is awe-inspiring and is probably one of the most noteworthy landmarks of Lagos. It’s actually the main highlight of this museum and the main reason to visit.

In addition, Lagos museum has a mix of exhibitions related to the town’s history, but also regional artifacts, religious art, etc.

Good to know: You only need 15-20 minutes here, the entrance costs just a few euros, and it’s absolutely worth it! The museum is open every day except Mondays. For more practical information for your visit, please check the official site of the museum .

Slavery Route Museum – Slave Market

Just around the corner from Lagos Museum, on the Infante Dom Henrique square, you’ll find the Slavery Route Museum – Slave Market (Mercado de Escravos).

This museum is located in one of the oldest buildings in Lagos, where around the 15th century, African slaves were brought by boats to Europe and sold. A visit here gives you a view into this sad chapter in Portuguese history. However, the museum is really tiny and – in my opinion- not as interesting as the Lagos Museum. But if you want to see everything that Lagos has to offer, check it out.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except on Mondays. See the official website for up-to-date information and opening hours, or just check it out when passing by and visit if it’s open. Also here, 15-20 minutes should be sufficient for a visit.

Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos – Science Center

If you are looking for something fun to do in Lagos with kids, then definitely check out the Science Center . This is a colorful hands-on museum that’s fun for the whole family.

The Lagos Science Center is also rather small, but it contains an indoor and an outdoor section and can keep your kids busy for a while. It has all kinds of scientific exhibits presented in a kid-friendly way. You can learn some basic laws of physics, but also different kinds of sailing knots, see old navigational instruments, maps, etc.

Good to know: Lagos Science Center is normally open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. See their website for more information.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Best Things to Do in Algarve with Kids

3. Lagos Fortress

One of the best-preserved fortresses in the Algarve, Forte da Ponta da Bandeira is another nice place to see in Lagos. This 17th-century fort was built to protect the region from pirates and now serves as a museum. One of the highlights is a small chapel lined with traditional Portuguese tiles.

Normally, you can visit the fort and also climb its roof for a nice view. However, when we were there, the museum was closed due to staff shortages, so you could only see it from the outside.

Good to know: Check the official website for up-to-date information if the fort is open. Either way, it’s worth coming here, even if only to see the fort from the outside.

4. City Walls & Lagos Castle

When researching what to see in Lagos, I stumbled upon Lagos Castle on the map. In reality, it’s just city walls , which can only be seen from the outside.

The nicest and best-restored part of the city walls can be found on the waterside, opposite the Fortress, at Porta de São Gonçalo . So if you come to see the fortress, you can’t really miss the city walls. It’s just a quick photo stop.

You’ll also find the remains of the city walls encircling the old towns in the other locations. It’s nice to see if you stumble upon it, but not something to go out of your way for.

5. Lagos Market

Mercado Municipal de Lagos is a bustling food market and is a really nice place to visit in Lagos town center. Inside, you’ll find colorful fruit and vegetable stands, and lots of fresh fish and seafood straight from the sea.

The ground floor is mostly dedicated to seafood, whereas the first floor is where you’ll find vegetables, fruit, olive oil, and all kinds of local produce. There is also a nice rooftop restaurant here that serves traditional food.

Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s well worth paying a visit to this local market, even if only to soak up the atmosphere. And if you are looking for some edible souvenirs to take home, you’ll find plenty of local delicacies here.

Good to know: The market is normally open in the mornings, from 8 am to 2 pm, daily except Sundays. You can find public bathrooms here as well.

6. Waterfront & Lagos Marina

The waterfront area and Lagos Marina also deserve a mention among the best things to do in Lagos.

The wide pedestrian waterfront promenade lined with palm trees offers a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of the old town. In high season, you’ll find some places selling ice cream, drinks, etc. Closer to the market, you’ll also find some places selling clothing and souvenirs.

A pedestrian bridge connects Lagos town center to Lagos Marina. This is where most boat tours depart, and you’ll also find several restaurants, cafes, and pubs. It’s a great place to sit down for a relaxing drink and do some people-watching.

7. Ponta da Piedade

No trip to Lagos would be complete without exploring some of the beautiful coastlines just outside the city center. An absolute must-see is Ponta da Piedade , a stunning coastal area with caves & grottos.

There’s a historic lighthouse here, but it can’t be visited. However, you are free to explore the stunning surroundings around it. The cliffs are unbelievably picturesque and the scenery is breathtaking! Just be careful where you walk as the area isn’t fenced and the drops are steep!

You can also take a steep staircase down to the sea grottos. It’s nice to see, but not an absolute must if the stairs look intimidating to you. The best views are definitely from the top of the cliffs or from a boat. And yes, a boat tour around Ponta da Piedade is really a must in Lagos. You can find more info about boat tours further below.

Good to know: The entire area around Ponta Piedade is crisscrossed by walking paths and boardwalks. You could spend hours walking around here and exploring some of the nicest beaches nearby too. And talking about beaches, there are a few you shouldn’t miss – see below!

Practical information: There’s a big parking area at the lighthouse of Ponta da Piedade. In the low season, you can just drive up here and park without any issues. However, in the summer, it can be very busy. If you have time and don’t mind some exercise, you could also walk to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos town center in about 30-45 minutes. Lagos tourist train also makes a stop here.

LEARN MORE: Best Ways to Visit Ponta da Piedade

8. Lagos Beaches

The area around Lagos has lots of beaches. You could easily spend a week or two sunbathing and swimming on a different beach each day. But also if you’re mainly interested in sightseeing, you’ll be glad to know that several of the most beautiful beaches of Algarve are located here.

Best beaches close to the town center

The easiest beaches to visit in Lagos are Praia do Cais da Solária and adjacent Praia da Batata right next to the city walls and the fortress. There is a seasonal cafe here and in season you can take sailing lessons or also kayak tours to Ponta da Piedade. For example, this kayak tour starts right next to the fortress.

Just nearby, there is another nice beach Praia dos Estudantes , famous for the Roman bridge higher above that has become an Instagrammers’ favorite. This beach is accessible from the top of the hill, close to Mar restaurant a bit further south of the town center. The bridge itself can’t be accessed, but the view from the bottom is really nice.

A bit further, there is another nice beach, Praia do Pinhão . You can also explore some sea caves and rocks on foot here, especially when the tide is low.

In the other direction, close to Lagos Marina, you’ll find the biggest and the flattest beach in Lagos – Praia de São Roque .

This beach stretches for several kilometers and different parts of it have different names. It can be reached via a small ferry boat from the old town or by car, bike, or on foot from Lagos Marina.

You won’t find sea cliffs here and so this beach is not as scenic as the others. However, the sand dunes are quite nice, and if you are looking for a long stretch of sand for long walks, jogging, or sunbathing without it being too crowded, this is by far the best option.

There are also several restaurants on this beach and in season you can also rent beach chairs, do some water sports, etc. One of the best seaside resorts in Lagos – Villa Gale – is also located here.

Most scenic beaches

The most beautiful beaches that you really shouldn’t miss in Lagos are Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo . They are located next to each other, just a short walk or drive from the town center in the direction of Ponta da Piedade.

It’s here that you will find the picture-perfect Algarve beaches with the most impressive sea cliffs all around you. Just beware that reaching these beaches involves quite a lot of stairs, especially at Camilo Beach.

Good to know: Parking is limited and it can get very busy here in the summer. You could walk to these beaches from the old town in about 15-20 minutes. It’s also easy to combine a visit here with that of Ponta de Piedade.

In addition, check out Praia do Porto de Mos , west of town. This is one of the largest beaches in Lagos and also quite scenic, with a tall ‘wall’ of sea cliffs.

9. Kayak Tours & Boat Trips

If you are traveling to Lagos in the summer season, definitely consider booking a boat or a kayak tour to explore the beautiful coastline around Ponta da Piedade, one of the best places to kayak in Algarve .

Kayaking here allows you to get really close to the remarkable rock formations, pass under natural arches, and enter various sea caves. We did this kayak tour and I can highly recommend it, especially if you are visiting Lagos in the warm season.

Alternatively, there are also amazing small-boat tours that also bring you inside the grottos and sea caves at Ponta da Piedade. You get to see the same scenery as from a kayak but in a more relaxed way. Boat tours take just about 1 hour and don’t require any special clothing or gear, so it’s really easy to plan it in any sightseeing itinerary. We recently did this grottos tour and it was great.

Exploring Ponta da Piedade from the water is one of the best things to do in Lagos that’s worth a trip here in its own right!

In addition, there are also boat tours that take you further along the beautiful Algarve coast in the direction of the famous Benagil Cave . While it’s easier to visit Benagil Cave with a boat tour from Portimao or from Albufeira, you can also find plenty of boat cruises from Lagos .

Here you can find an overview of tours departing from Lagos . And here is our hand-picked selection of some of the best boat tours from Lagos:

• Best-value boat cruise to Ponta Piedade . We recently did this boat trip and it was great. I recommend going early in the morning!
• Most popular kayaking tour to Ponta Piedade . We did this kayaking tour to Ponta da Piedade and it was excellent. Also here, I recommend going early – the sea is calmer and there are fewer boats making it more enjoyable.
• Best-rated speedboat trip to Benagil Cave .
• Best-rated dolphin-watching tour .
• Relaxing catamaran excursion (sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, etc.)

READ ALSO: Complete Guide to Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade

10. Shopping & Dining

And finally, no visit to Lagos would be complete without spending some time exploring its many souvenir stores, doing some shopping, or sitting down for a nice meal at a local restaurant.

The best place for shopping and dining is, of course, the old town. But also the waterfront area and the beaches offer some very nice options, albeit mostly in the high season.

TIP: If you are looking for something nice and more authentic to do in Lagos, consider joining a food tour . It’s not just a great way to get acquainted with traditional cuisine, or discover some local restaurants away from the main tourist routes, but it’s also a fun way to get to know the place deeper, learn more about its history, local anecdotes, etc. This is one of the best-rated food tours in Lagos.

11. Excursions & Day Trips from Lagos

In addition to all the nice things to do in Lagos, there is so much more to see and experience in the Algarve region. If you have a car, you can spend weeks exploring the region and still not see it all.

Some of the nicest places to visit near Lagos include Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente , the most southwestern point of Portugal’s mainland. Also the wild beaches on the Atlantic coast , such as Praia da Bordeira are well worth a visit. See our guide to the best of Sagres for more information.

You may also like the mountains around Monchique and the stunning coast around Carvoeiro (don’t miss the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail ).

With kids (and if traveling in high season), you may want to plan some time at the best water parks in Algarve . The best option near Lagos is Slide & Splash water park about half an hour’s drive from the city. Lagos Zoo is also a nice place to visit, especially if visiting Lagos with younger children.

Another great option for families is the Zoomarine amusement park , about 40 minutes drive from Lagos (this one is a bit more convenient if you would be staying in Albufeira ).

But also without a car, you have many options for sightseeing trips. There is a railway station in Lagos, which gives you access to quite a few nice places in the Algarve. You can even take a train to Faro , Olhão, or Tavira , which are all among the most interesting places to see in the region.

And of course, there are also quite a few organized tours available. Here are some of the most popular (half) day tours and excursions from Lagos:

• Scenic Quad Tour (1.5 hrs)
• Sagres & Cape St. Vincent (3 hrs)
• Vineyards & Wine Tasting (4 hrs)
• Silves, Caldas and Monchique Wine Tasting (7 hrs)
• Eastern Algarve: Faro, Olhão, Tavira (7 hrs)
• Jeep Safari to Algarve inland + Monchique (7.5 hrs)
• Sagres, Cape St. Vincent & West Coast (8 hrs)

READ ALSO: Best Places to See & Things to Do in Algarve

Map of the Best Places to See in Lagos

To give you a better idea of where everything is located and to make it easier to plan your time, I created this map indicating all the main sights, landmarks, and attractions in Lagos.

As you can see, Lagos is a rather small town and everything is within walking distance. Just keep in mind that there are some hilly areas so a seemingly short walk can be a bit more demanding, especially if you are visiting in the summer and it’s very warm.

Good to know: In the high season, there’s also a little tourist train in Lagos. It can be a good way to see more of the area without having to walk far.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to Stay in Lagos

With the stunning coastal scenery, so much to see and do, and a rather central location along the Algarve Coast, Lagos is a good base location to stay for exploring Algarve.

If you decide to base yourself in Lagos, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of accommodation options in town and in the surrounding area. You can choose between some really nice beach resorts, but also city hotels with or without pools, smaller guesthouses, privately-rented apartments and villas, etc.

If you have a car, be sure that your accommodation provides easy parking. If traveling by public transport or if you want to be very close to shops and restaurants, stay in the town center, close to the Marina (this is also where the train station is).

Here are just a few of the best-rated hotels in Lagos for different budgets:

• €€€€ Cascade Wellness Resort (a bit outside the center, but close to a beautiful coast).
• €€€ Lagos Avenida Hotel or Hotel Marina Rio (best-rated very centrally located 4* hotels).
• €€ Tivoli Lagos (a very popular and excellent value 4* hotel in the town center).
• €+ Carvi Beach Hotel (a very popular hotel just next to Praia Dona Ana).

These are just a few examples and the price ratings are based on standard room prices in the shoulder season. Keep in mind also that prices can differ a lot depending on the season when you travel, room types, etc. Also, some hotels and accommodations have a minimum number of nights requirement, which might also differ depending on the season.

MORE INFORMATION: Where to Stay in Lagos: Best Areas & Hotels

TIP: Using the map below, you can also search for the best deals for accommodations in and near Lagos. Simply insert your travel dates and group size and you can see what’s available. Check it out!

So, this is our guide to some of the best places to see and things to do in Lagos.

I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of the Algarve. Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Beaches in Algarve

More inspiration and tips for your trip to Algarve:

• Top Places to See in Algarve
• Best Towns in Algarve
• Where to Stay in Algarve
• Best Things to Do in Faro
• Best Things to Do in Tavira
• Best Things to Do in Albufeira
• Best Beaches to See in Albufeira
• Best Restaurants in Albufeira
• Alte (one of the nicest villages in Algarve)
• What It’s Like to Visit Algarve in April
• What It’s Like to Visit Algarve in November

More travel inspiration all over Portugal:

• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• 1 Day in Lisbon
• Best Day Trips from Lisbon
• Best Things to Do in Sintra
• Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit
• Best Towns to Visit in Portugal
• Best Things to Do in Nazaré
• Portugal with Kids
• Portugal 10-day Itinerary
• Portugal in April
• Best Things to Do in Madeira
• Best Things to Do in Funchal
• Best Hikes in Madeira
• Best Things to Do in Sao Miguel (Azores)
• For more destinations, please see our Portugal travel guide .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Sunday 17th of September 2023

This blog was hugely helpful for us planning our holiday, thank you!

One thing I feel like a lot of algarve travel blogs don't mention is how shockingly bad the transport is there.

It took us around 4 hours to get from Faro to our hotel in Lagos - more than the flight to portugal - and longer to get back to the aeroport on the return journey. The journey is confusing and with little signage, with no access to toilets for most of it. The busses refuse credit cards and only accept cash, but don't tell you this until you're getting on board. And with at least an hour between busses it led many tourists to wait an hour, get sent away to an ATM, only to have to wait another hour or two for the next bus. We ended up walking a fair bit from the bus stop to the hotel as the bus that Google Maps suggested to us ended a fair bit away from the hotel. During our stay we noticed a bus stop right outside the hotel, who's bus didn't show up when planning the journeys with Google Maps - which again only came once a hour, so used it for the return journey (and wish we knew about it for the arrival journey!). This took us part way and then we were to use the ALSA coach from lagos Bus Terminal, the website says you can buy tickets onboard, but once we arrived there were were told preorder tickets only, so had to take a different route. There's also meant to be a train to the airport from there (which surprisngly takes the same amount of time for a journey and is very infrequent - no train between 12 and 4pm), but I don't know if it wasnt running during our holiday, but it didn't show up as an option planning for any of our journeys.

I now understand there are some private firms that do shuttle busses, as do some hotels. Definitely worth researching if anyone plans to stay at Lagos.

Monday 18th of September 2023

@Jurga, it was beautiful and we enjoyed it very much. It's just a pity we lost the majority of the first and last day traveling.

Advice to anyone: ask if your hotel offers or knows of a shuttle bus, otherwise pre-book and take the ALSA coach (unless you're taking a taxi or renting a car)

Hi James, thanks for sharing your experience, I'm sure it will be very helpful to others! But how frustrating indeed... We personally always rent a car in Algarve and we have taken private transfers and Uber/Bolt a few times, but we never use public transport. I have heard that it's not always optimal unless you research everything in advance and are very flexible with your schedule. This definitely explains why there are so many private drivers offering shuttle services in the region. Hope you had a nice trip nonetheless! It's such a beautiful area. Happy travels!

Friday 4th of August 2023

Thank you for this very helpful information. Planning a trip and this was very useful. Well set out, interesting places, small details re public conveniences was helpful. Well done and thanks for sharing.

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help, Anne. Enjoy Lagos and have a great time in Portugal!

Thursday 29th of June 2023

Hi Jurga, I just wanted to say thank you for this awesome guide!!! We just came back from a week in Lagos and used so many of your suggestions. Our favorite local experience was the food tour that you recommended. Thanks again.

Friday 30th of June 2023

I'm really glad to hear that, Jen. Sounds like you had a great trip. Happy travels!

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Things to Do in Lagos (Portugal)

15 Best Things to Do in Lagos (Portugal)

Lagos is a busy coastal town in the Algarve that has all the things people love about the region. There are beaches of all descriptions, from long sandy bays to tiny coves walled by ochre-coloured cliffs. These rocks create a breathtaking scene at Ponta da Piedade, where the bluffs and obelisks are riddled with caves and arches and the sea is a clear emerald colour.

Back in the centre of Lagos the old town is an exploring heaven, with Portuguese pavement in lovely patterns on its streets and sights that transport you to the Age of Discovery when explorers set sail from the port.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Lagos :

1. Ponta da Piedade

A Portuguese natural wonder awaits on a headland a few minutes south of the old centre of Lagos.

The Ponta da Piedade has cliffs, outcrops and stacks of red and yellow limestone rising to 20 metres, with gnarled walls and shimmering transparent water below.

If you come on a boat or kayak tour from the marina in Lagos you’ll get to pass under natural arches and enter caves.

But on foot is almost as memorable as you’ll descend a staircase cut from the cliff face, while at the top the view from this headland goes as far as the Cape St Vincent in the west.

2. Praia do Camilo

Not a typical day at the beach, Praia do Camilo next to Ponta da Piedade  is a fabulous cove at the foot of ochre-tinged cliffs.

It’s an adventure just to get there as you have to descend some 200 steps on a safe wooden stairway etched into the rock.

Before heading down, be sure to pause and take in the azure ocean golden sands and the captivating red and yellow hues of the rocks.

The water is as calm as it gets, and you can swim round or walk through a natural tunnel to a neighbouring cove.

And when the tide goes out you can walk out to the caves in the bay.

3. Meia Praia

Starting on the left bank of the Bensafrim is a beach that could hardly be more different to the rocky coves on the other side of Lagos.

Meia Praia is immense, curling gently around the bay for six kilometres to the Alvor Lagoon.

There’s a wide arc of luxurious sand that because of its sheer size never feels over-crowded.

This is edged by dunes and shelves gently to the water.

The currents are a little stronger, and the water is a bit cooler than in the coves, but is still fine for children.

4. Old Lagos

The historic core of largos has whitewashed houses on a warren of patterned streets still partially contained by its 16th-century walls.

These are best seen on the Jardim da Constituição by the water, protecting the seat of the Governors of the Algarve province when Lagos was capital between 1576 and 1756. Close by there’s a monument to a grim period of the city’s history; the Mercado de Escravos was Lagos’ slave market for about 250 years from 1444, and is a reminder that the Age of Discovery had a human cost.

One hero from that period was Henry the Navigator, whose expeditions departed from the harbour in Lagos in the 15th century.

He is commemorated with a statue at the Praça Infante D. Henrique.

5. Praia de Dona Ana

One of the closest beaches to the old centre of Lagos is also up there with the finest in the area.

Praia de Dona Ana is just up from Praia do Camilo and is framed by those enchanting cliffs, streaked with yellow and red.

There are also outcrops on the water’s edge and out in the bay, bringing some extra drama to the scenery.

Praia de Dona Ana is a spacious beach, with a slightly coarser blend of golden sand and shells.

And the waters are almost always tranquil thanks to the protection of the rocks and the eastern aspect.

6. Zoo de Lagos

Kids will get up close to animals from five continents at this zoo a few kilometres away from the city.

Birds make up more than half of the 350 inhabitants, and are kept in clean, well-presented and relatively large aviaries.

The parrot family is well represented here, with African greys, military macaws, parakeets and cockatiels.

As for mammals the park has a small farm where children can meet and pet the dwarf goats and sheep, and an enclosure where you can interact with playful lemurs for an extra fee.

There are also more than a dozen monkey species, several wild cats and a variety of turtles and tortoises.

7. Igreja de Santo António

From the outside you might wonder how this church could be listed as a Portuguese National Monument.

There’s an unadorned whitewashed facade crested by two bell-towers, but this gives way to a resplendent nave.

Every surface is coated with detailed gilded woodcarving, azulejos or paintings.

The frescos in the ceiling vaults are a standout, and the paintings on the walls depict the life of St Anthony of Lisbon.

The church was owned by the Portuguese military from the 18th century to 1929 when it was handed over to the government for urgent repair works.

Today there’s only one service a year here, to celebrate the patron saint on June 13.

8. Museu Municipal Dr José Formosinho

Despite its huge tourist infrastructure Lagos remains a city with an absorbing story to tell, so you might be keen to make the most of attractions like this.

The museum is in a side building for the Igreja de Santo António and was inaugurated in 1934. Every chapter of the area’s past is covered, from the Neolithic period, through the Luso-Iberians, Romans and Moors to the Age of Discovery.

There’s a scale model of the city, numerous coins, tools for traditional local trades like cork production and a sumptuous collection of religious art from the church’s sacristy.

9. Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos

If you’re holidaying with your family and want to escape the midday sun, there’s a neat science museum in the centre of Lagos.

This is in Casa Fogaça, an 18th-century manor house, and maps out all of the innovations that made the Portuguese Age of Discovery possible.

There are interactive displays that explain cartography, shipbuilding and astronomy.

These are combined with more general exhibits on science and technology, and curious children can find out how 3D printers work, use morse code, design their own radios and run wild in the educational playground in the courtyard.

10. Lagos Marina

It’s natural that you’ll be drawn to the ocean in Lagos, for watersports, trips to Ponta da Piedade and out on nature-spotting cruises.

The launchpad for all these activities is the elegant marina in Lagos, which is a short way in from the mouth of the Bensafrim.

If you’re on foot you have to cross a bascule bridge that traverses the entrance and you can look over the forest of masts belonging to sleek pleasure vessels and local fishing boats.

As well as being the place to go for water-based activities it’s also one of the city’s social centres, with bars and restaurants that do a roaring trade.

11. Dolphin Spotting

Although you’re never guaranteed to see dolphins in the waters off Lagos you’ll have a great chance on an expedition.

Most of the cruise companies in the harbour use are on quick and eco-friendly RIBs (rigid-hulled inflatable boats) and normally last for two hours.

You’ll don a wind-resistant jacket and power out to the open ocean with an skipper who will be relying on tips from other vessels, and expertise to track down pods of the porpoises, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins and Risso’s dolphins that live here.

Most companies claim there’s a 90% chance of seeing a dolphin, and you’ll know why you made the effort the second you glimpse one.

12. Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

This maritime fort is at the mouth of the Bensafrim, defending the harbour and former anchorage.

It dates to the end of the 17th century and is one of a line of forts, redoubts and batteries erected in the wake of the Portuguese Restoration War, which raged for almost 30 years between Portugal and Spain.

This building is from a time of sophisticated artillery, so has a low profile and not much decoration.

But to enter you have to cross a drawbridge, and there’s an endearing chapel inside with period tiles.

The roof has bartizans at each corner, and there are views of the rocky coast to the south and Meia Praia on the other side of the river.

13. Watersports

Nearly all the beaches near Lagos face east so are protected from the open ocean.

But on the other side of the Ponta da Piedade there are rolling waves, and novice surfers can learn the basics at Praia Porto de Mós.

On calmer days you could hire a stand-up paddleboard or body board for a few hours of fun.

East of Lagos is the Alvor Lagoon, which is the Algarve’s kite-surfing honeypot.

This is down to the lagoon’s calm and shallow waters, combined with the steady coastal breezes.

14. Other Cultural Venues

It helps to remember that Lagos isn’t just a tourist destination, but a healthy town with its own cultural scene.

The Centro Cultural (CCL) is an arts venue, with an auditorium seating 300 and an extensive temporary exhibition area with three galleries.

Check the listings when you arrive to see if anything takes your fancy.

There’s also a museum in the marina, documenting the Age of Discovery with 16 tableaux depicting pivotal events or typical scenes from the period.

One depicts the Battle of Aljubarrota with Spain, another the hold of a caravel, and you’ll encounter figures like Luís de Camões whose influence on the Portuguese language can be compared to Shakespeare for English.

15. Cuisine

Restaurants on the Algarve serve fish and seafood caught no more than a few hours before.

Lagos has a number of its own specialities like poached mackerel, goose barnacles, deep-fried squid, pork with clams and the old favourite, grilled sardines.

One seafood dish that always feels like an event is cataplana, which describes the cookware and the meal itself.

This is a large copper pot with an attached lid, and it’s to prepare a kind of seafood rice with clams.

Like a paella this will be served in the cataplana itself and is supposed to be shared by two or more people.

15 Best Things to Do in Lagos (Portugal):

• Ponta da Piedade
• Praia do Camilo
• Praia de Dona Ana
• Zoo de Lagos
• Igreja de Santo António
• Museu Municipal Dr José Formosinho
• Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos
• Lagos Marina
• Dolphin Spotting
• Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
• Watersports
• Other Cultural Venues

Lagos Guide: 10+ of the Best Things to Do

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Lagos, a captivating town in the Algarve, seamlessly blends historical significance with modern allure. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, its scenic coastline offers a myriad of golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and serene coves that are a sunbather’s paradise. Yet, the ocean’s allure isn’t the only thing that makes Lagos special. Dive deeper into the town, and you’ll discover a vibrant history dating back to the Age of Discovery, when Portugal’s daring explorers set forth to uncover new worlds.

The town’s architecture tells tales of its storied past. From the remnants of Moorish walls that once protected it to churches that stand as a testament to its religious heritage, every corner of Lagos offers a history lesson. Strolling through its cobbled streets, you’ll find bustling markets, lively squares, and a marina dotted with sailboats ready to venture into the horizon. It’s this mix of the old and new, the historic and the contemporary, that makes Lagos so enthralling.

It’s also a popular location due to its proximity to the West Coast and its location within the Western Algarve. This part of Portugal is considered one of the most beautiful and many people choose to stay in Lagos and use it as a base for exploring nearby towns like Sagres and Aljezur. 

Lagos attracts a mixed crowd, and you’ll see families, retirees, and surfers here. The town has a good mixture of family-friendly establishments as well as late-night pubs, so caters to all ages. It’s not quite a hidden gem (nowhere on the coastal Algarve really is) but it’s less developed than other Algarve towns like Albufeira or Praia da Rocha. 

In recent years, Lagos has also become a very popular destination for people to move to. It’s particularly popular with remote workers and digital nomads who use it as a base from which to explore the whole of the Algarve, particularly the surf-friendly West Coast. 

Fallen in love with this part of the Algarve? Take a look at these properties in Lagos. 

Useful Resources for Your Trip to Lagos

Here’s our top tips and tricks for getting the best deals for your trip to Lagos. 

• Accommodation: Booking.com and Airbnb are the two most comprehensive websites for finding hotels, hostels, apartments, and other types of accommodation in Lagos. 
• Car Rental: Discover Cars and Rental Cars are the two most useful sites for booking local car rental. 
• Airport transfers: There are taxis and Ubers at Faro Airport, but you can also pre-book an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups . 
• Tours & Things to Do: Both Get Your Guide and Viator list lots of local tours and activities in Lagos and the surrounding Algarve region. 
• Luggage Storage:  Luggage Hero and Bounce are two great sites for finding places to store your luggage in Portugal. More options can be found in our article about luggage storage in the Algarve . 
• Public Transport: Cp.pt is the main website for trains in Portugal. For longer distance buses, see Rede Expressos . Flixbus.pt often has cheap tickets between cities in Portugal. 
• Flights: Skyscanner and Google Flights are the two most useful websites for finding flights to Portugal. The nearest airport to Lagos is Faro Airport. 

What to See & Do

Mercado municipal de lagos.

The Mercado Municipal de Lagos stands as a vibrant testament to the region’s rich bounty and the importance of fresh, local produce in the Algarvian daily life. Housed in a modern building, this market is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike converge to procure the freshest of ingredients. If you’re self-catering during your stay in Lagos, a visit here is essential. From the day’s catch gleaming on ice to sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, fragrant herbs, and regional specialties, everything one needs to whip up an authentic Algarvian meal can be found under this roof.

Beyond its practicalities for shoppers, the Mercado also offers a unique cultural immersion. Strolling through its aisles gives visitors a firsthand look at the region’s gastronomic palette. 

Be sure to visit in the morning. The market tends to be busiest at this time and many of the sellers will have closed up by early afternoon. 

Mercado de Escravos

Situated in Lagos, the Mercado de Escravos, also known as the Núcleo Museológico Rota da Escravatura, stands as a poignant reminder of Europe’s early involvement in the slave trade. As early as 1444, Portuguese expeditions to West Africa resulted in the enslavement and subsequent trading of individuals, marking this site as the first European slave market.

Although the present-day structure dates back to approximately 1691, the location’s sinister history was solidified in 2009. Amidst renovations, numerous human skeletons were uncovered amidst urban detritus from bygone eras. Subsequent tests validated the skeletons’ West African lineage, suggesting that many might have succumbed to illnesses exacerbated by their inhumane conditions as they awaited their fates in the market.

Today, the museum at this historical site embarks on the crucial mission of educating its visitors about Portugal’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.

Get on your surfboard

Lagos, with its sunny climes and pristine shores, has steadily gained reputation as a budding surf hub in the Algarve. Whether you’re a novice hoping to catch your first wave or a seasoned surfer scouting for the next perfect break, Lagos has something to offer. For beginners, the town is replete with surf schools that provide lessons tailored to every skill level. Surf Experience, Algarve Watersport, and Future Surfing School are just a few renowned names that offer professional guidance to help you get started.

While there are some surfing opportunities close to Lagos, most surf schools prefer to transport their students to the more consistent waves of the west coast. Beaches like Praia do Amado, Praia da Arrifana, and Praia da Bordeira are just a few of the notable spots where both novices and professionals can experience the thrill of the Atlantic swells.

It’s worth noting, however, that despite the sun-kissed beaches and balmy weather on land, the Atlantic waters can be surprisingly chilly. So, if you’re planning to spend a considerable amount of time in the water, it’s advisable to wear a wetsuit, and this will most likely be provided by the surf school. 

Have a beach day

Lagos is blessed with an array of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm, and you should visit the beach at least once (if not many, many times). Meia Praia is often at the forefront of beach recommendations and for good reason. As the largest beach in the area, it stretches impressively along the coastline, offering ample space for sunbathers and beachgoers, even during peak times. The vast sandy expanse provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day under the sun, with the shimmering Atlantic waters beckoning for a refreshing dip.

However, if you’re located closer to the cliffs or seeking a change of scenery, beaches like Praia do Canavial and Porto Mós are gems waiting to be explored. Nestled amidst imposing rock formations, these beaches create picturesque pockets of golden sand contrasted against azure waters. Praia do Canavial, with its craggy backdrop, offers seclusion and an almost ethereal beauty, while Porto Mós Beach, with its wider expanse, is a favourite with locals. 

Play a quick round of Mini Golf

The Algarve is famous for golf, but usually not the crazy kind. The 18-hole mini-golf course at Pro Putting Garden is designed to challenge and entertain players of all skill levels. Each hole presents its own unique set of challenges, with cleverly designed obstacles and contours ensuring that every round remains engaging. As the sun sets, the garden is illuminated with ambient lighting, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening play.

Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and breathtaking natural landmarks in Lagos, if not the entire Algarve region. A testament to nature’s artistry, this spectacular headland is adorned with a labyrinth of grottoes, caves, and dramatic limestone rock formations, all shaped meticulously over millennia by the relentless forces of wind and wave. As you navigate the weathered stairs and pathways carved into the cliffs, you’re treated to panoramic vistas of the azure Atlantic set against a backdrop of jagged cliff faces and golden sands. Boat tours are a popular way to explore Ponta da Piedade up close, allowing visitors to weave through the sea caves and tunnels, and marvel at the captivating formations with names like “The Cathedral” and “The Camel”. The beauty of this place is almost otherworldly, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the raw, sculpting power of nature.

Forte Ponta da Bandeira

Forte Ponta da Bandeira, or Fort of the Flag Point, is a sentinel from the past, standing guard at the entrance of Lagos’ harbour. This squat, square-shaped fortress, built in the late 17th century, served as a key defensive structure, protecting Lagos from potential sea invaders and pirates. Its strategic position, right where the Bensafrim River meets the Atlantic, highlights its pivotal role in the maritime history of the region. T

oday, this well-preserved fort invites visitors to journey back in time. As you cross the drawbridge and step within its thick walls, you’ll discover quaint chapels adorned with traditional azulejos (Portuguese tiles) and ramparts that offer stunning views of the surrounding seascape. The fort also houses a small museum dedicated to the Age of Discoveries, providing insight into the maritime adventures and endeavours that shaped the region.

Igreja de Santo António

The Igreja de Santo António is a stunning representation of the intricate baroque architectural style that thrived in 18th century Portugal. As you step inside, the church’s breathtaking interior captivates visitors with its richly decorated woodwork, gilded carvings, and vibrant azulejo (ceramic) tiles that narrate religious stories. Every inch of the space seems to shimmer with ornate detailing, from the elaborately designed altar to the ornate ceiling, a visual symphony that leaves many in awe of its craftsmanship.

Established in the early 1700s, the church is not only an emblem of the city’s spiritual life but also serves as an important cultural monument, bearing witness to the deep religious devotion and artistic heritage of the region. Nestled adjacent to the church is the Municipal Museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts, further solidifying the Igreja de Santo António’s status as a pivotal point of interest for those seeking both spiritual solace and a deep dive into Lagos’ historical tapestry.

Castelo de Lagos

Nestled in the heart of Lagos is the remnants of the Castelo de Lagos, a testament to the town’s rich historical tapestry. Though not as intact as other fortifications in the Algarve, this castle’s origins can be traced back to the Roman period, with significant enhancements made during the Moorish occupation. It played a crucial defensive role during the Reconquista, when Christian forces sought to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from the Moors. The castle’s walls have borne witness to countless sieges, battles, and historical events that shaped the trajectory of Lagos and, by extension, Portugal.

Today, while much of the original structure has succumbed to the ravages of time, the portions of walls and gates that still stand are evocative reminders of a bygone era. Visitors can meander around the ancient ramparts, taking in panoramic views of the city, and immerse themselves in the history of a place that once stood as a formidable bastion against invaders. Exploring the Castelo de Lagos offers a deeper understanding of the city’s resilience and the strategic importance it held in the broader narrative of Portugal’s history.

Lagos Marina

Lagos Marina, with its serene azure waters and array of gleaming boats and yachts, offers visitors a modern contrast to the historic charm of the town. Conveniently situated near the town centre, the marina is not only a haven for boating enthusiasts but also a bustling hub filled with vibrant cafes, restaurants, and shops.

During the summer months, you’ll also find a lot of tour companies selling boat trips to the nearby caves or to see dolphins and other sealife. 

Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho

The Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho offers a multifaceted exploration into the rich history and culture of Lagos and the wider Algarve region. Nestled in the heart of Lagos, this museum is housed in the Igreja de Santo António complex, showcasing a broad collection that ranges from archaeological artefacts to natural history specimens.

The exhibits trace back the area’s history from prehistoric times, through Roman and Moorish eras, and into the Age of Discoveries, reflecting Lagos’ significant maritime past. Additionally, there’s a dedicated section to the region’s natural history, displaying fascinating geological, botanical, and zoological specimens. 

Lagos Zoo, located just a short drive from the heart of Lagos, offers families a delightful opportunity to engage with a diverse array of animals from around the world. Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, this zoo has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that its inhabitants thrive in environments closely resembling their natural habitats. With a keen focus on conservation and education, Lagos Zoo provides an informative and interactive experience, aiming to raise awareness about the world’s unique wildlife and the importance of their preservation.

One of the standout features of the zoo is its commitment to creating naturalistic enclosures which promote animal well-being. From colourful parrots flitting about in aviaries to playful monkeys swinging through treetops, and even the majestic peacocks roaming the pathways, every corner of the zoo invites exploration. Children especially delight in the petting farm, where they can get up close and personal with friendly farm animals.

What to Eat

A must-try for anyone is the piri piri chicken, marinated and grilled to perfection, boasting a rich, fiery flavour that pays homage to the region’s spice-trading history. Dine at one of Lagos’ seaside restaurants and you’re likely to be presented with the aromatic cataplana, a seafood medley stew cooked in a clam-shaped copper pan from which it gets its name. The fresh catch of the day might also include delicacies from the Ria Formosa lagoon, notably the succulent oysters, or the ever-popular grilled sardines, a staple in Portuguese seaside towns.

But the allure of Algarvian gastronomy doesn’t stop there. The sweet-toothed are in for a treat with the ‘Doces finos do Algarve’, almond-based pastries artistically shaped into various forms, often resembling fruits, and generously dusted with sugar. For a true taste of the region, don’t miss out on medronho, a potent local spirit distilled from the berries of the Arbutus tree, often referred to as ‘firewater’ by locals due to its strong kick.

Beyond these regional specialties, the wider Portuguese culinary landscape offers dishes that have enamoured food enthusiasts globally. The creamy ‘pastel de nata’, a custard tart topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar, is a heavenly bite to be savoured with a cup of coffee. For those craving hearty meals, various bacalhau (codfish) preparations beckon, showcasing the versatility of this beloved fish. Grilled meats, especially succulent pork and beef cuts, often make their way to the tables of local taverns and restaurants, providing a robust contrast to the region’s abundant seafood.

Getting Here

As it has both a train station and a large bus station, Lagos is very easy to get to from most destinations in Portugal. 

• Flying: The nearest airport to Lagos is Faro Airport, which is situated around an hour by car (90 km or 56 miles) away. From the airport, you can easily get to Lagos by taxi or Uber and there are lots of car rental companies at the airport as well. If you wish to travel by public transport, you will normally need to get a bus or taxi into Faro City Centre first and then get a bus or train to Lagos. 
• Train: Lagos is on the train line and is the last train stop on the West Coast. This means you can easily get here from other Algarve towns, like Faro and Portimão, as well as destinations that are further afield like Lisbon and Porto. For tickets and timetables, see cp.pt. 
• Bus: Lagos has a good bus hub that offers regional buses to nearby Algarve towns as well as destinations that are a little further away like Lisbon and Porto. For local buses, see Vamus.pt. For inter-city buses, longer distance buses, see Rede Expressos or Flixbus.pt. You can often find buses to Seville (often starting from Portimão) on both of these sites as well. 
• Driving: Driving to Lagos from Faro Airport is a straightforward journey, taking roughly an hour via the A22 motorway. For those traveling from further afield, such as Lisbon, expect a scenic drive of approximately three hours along the A2 and A22 highways.

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• The Ultimate Guide to Lagos
• Town & Resort Guides

Lagos is a city on the western part of Portugal’s south coast. The city is famous for its stunning beaches with beautiful rocky formations and steep cliffs. The superb beauty of this charming city has no equal in the Algarve and is the reason why hordes of tourists travel thousands of kilometres to visit it every year.

Lacóbriga, the city’s original name, was founded in 2000 b.c. by a tribe called cónios which were the first inhabitants of the Algarve and Baixo Alentejo (lower area of Alentejo). The city would later be disputed by Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and Barbarians, being only conquered by the Christians in the 13 th century. Due to its geographical location and economic importance Lagos became a pillar of the Portuguese Discoveries in the 15 th century and in 1577 it was awarded the statute of city and was named the capital of the Algarve by King Dom Sebastião.

With its beautiful churches and a fortress, a busy marina, an interesting zoo and gorgeous nature, Lagos is the perfect destination for the whole family, having something to offer to groups of all types and ages.

Where to stay?

Historical centre – The historical centre offers plenty of hotels, hostels and villas available for rent. This is a great area to stay due to its proximity with the pleasant squares, beautiful statues and churches. The narrow cobble streets will delight you as you walk by.

Marina de Lagos – The marina is the first thing you see if you arrive in Lagos by train and it prepares you for the beauty of Lagos. With its blue shiny water, Lagos’ Marina is definitely one of the most beautiful marinas in Portugal. There are hotels in the marina and villas and apartments for rent nearby. The marina is also located near the beach which means that many rooms of the hotels and houses have a view over the ocean.

Meia Praia – This beach with a vast amount of sand is one of the most popular places in Lagos and is surrounded by many hotels, hostels and houses for rent. The great advantage of staying in this area is that you will be able to wake up and go for a morning dive in the ocean since the sea is just a few metres away.

Santa Maria – This area of Lagos is a bit more inland, but still in walking distance to the sea. Prices for accommodation tend to be lower in this part of Lagos than in other areas, something which might be worth taking into consideration.

What are the beaches like in Lagos?

Praia Dona Ana – This is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The rocky formations and cliffs together with the marvellous blue water of the ocean make it seem like you are in an exotic island somewhere lost in the Pacific. There are many canoe and kayak rides around this beach precisely due to its unique beauty. Have fun exploring the underground caves and diving of the rocks.

Meia praia – Meia praia is the most popular beach in Lagos. It is vast, with clean white sand, translucent and warm water and has a bar that serves the entire beach. It is the ideal beach for a family day because of its safe waves, relaxing atmosphere and lots of space for kids to play.

Praia de Porto de Mós – This beautiful beach has thin sand, free parking spaces and two beautiful restaurants facing the ocean. Because of its sheltered location when the wind blows from the North the beach maintains its pleasantness like nothing is happening.

Praia da Luz – Praia da Luz is located in the small fishing village town of Luz, which belongs to Lagos. It is quite rare to hear Portuguese being spoken as this beach is traditionally visited by tourists all year long. The peaceful and serene sand will invite you to a walk by the sea.

Praia dos Estudantes – Like Praia Dona Ana this beach is famous for its rocky formations and stunning cliffs. It is a small and secluded beach ideal for a romantic getaway. It is also famous for photography enthusiasts due to the different shadows and colours that its caves create.

Praia do Pinhão – This a small and charming beach that has the power to make you forget about time and real life. All your problems seem to magically disappear once you step foot in this peaceful corner of Lagos. From this beach you can reach Praia Dona Ana through caves or swimming.

Which beaches next to Lagos have a Blue Flag?

All of the beaches in Lagos have a Blue Flag and lifeguards and, as you can see from the map below, there are plenty of other beaches located close to Lagos with a Blue Flag.

Blue Flag means that the beach has been assessed based on environmental standards, water quality and beach cleanliness, and also on important facilities including toilets and lifeguards.

In the Algarve, lifeguards usually work from July 1 st to September 30.

What is there to do in Lagos?

Lagos offers plenty of activities for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as playing golf in four different golf courses, parasailing, mountain biking,  surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling, windsurf, kite surfing, boat tours and many more.

Zoo de Lagos – An excellent choice for someone looking to spend a fun and different day. Bring the whole family to Zoo de Lagos and enjoy a relaxing day where you can learn more about the Algarve’s animals, among others from around the world, as well as the endangered and very rare Iberian Lynx.

Slave Market Museum – Lagos’ slave market was built in 1444. Slaves were brought from Africa by the Portuguese and then dispersed through Europe. Prince Dom Henrique would get one fifth of the selling price of the slaves since he was the main force behind the Portuguese conquests and expansions in Africa. This museum has various panels detailing the lives of the slaves as they were baptized and brought into European societies. The Slave Market Museum preserves the memory of a dark period of the Portuguese and European history.

Forte Ponta da Bandeira – Built in the end of the 17th century, this fortress defended the access to the harbour and the southeast and east side of the city’s walls. At the time it was built it was the most advanced defensive structure in the Algarve with its squared blueprint, small height and strong thick walls. The moat surrounding the building can be crossed through a drawbridge. In the interior there is a small chapel lined with tiles.

Castelo de Lagos – Also known as Castelo dos Governadores, the castle’s initial construction date is unknown. In the medieval ages it suffered renovations and enlargement as it did in 17 th century, contributing to turn Lagos into the most military and fortified city in the Algarve. Unfortunately the castle was severely affected by the tsunami of 1755 which devastated many coastal cities in Portugal.

Igreja Paroquial de Santa Maria de Lagos – The church was built in 1498 and went under renovations and enlargements in the 16th and 17th centuries. This small church stands right in the centre of Lagos and still has regular masses.

Igreja de Santo António – This is definitely one of the most beautiful churches in Portugal. The interior is all gold except for the ceiling where it is the emblem of Portugal. It was initially built during the realm of Dom João V and it was intended to serve as place of faith for the militaries in the city. It certainly deserves a visit.

Igreja de São Sebastião – The building features an altar, a body of three naves, separated by arches with gold columns and side chapels also decorated with gold carving. Attached to the church there is the Chapel of Bones, of small dimensions, in the Johannine style.

Discoveries Wax Museum – The exciting Discoveries Wax Museum tells the spectacular tale of the Portuguese Discoveries in sixteen different scenes, from the Battle of Aljubarrota, passing by the marriage of Dom João I and Filipa de Lencastre and the Treaty of Windsor between Portugal and England establishing the oldest diplomatic alliance, and focusing on crucial moments like the Conquest of Ceuta, the Discovery of Brazil or the arrival of Vasco da Gama to India. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Portugal’s part in one of the most important periods in world history.

What is the best time of the year to visit Lagos?

Summer – Lagos attracts thousands of tourists in the summer due to its perfect weather. A lively vibe is felt throughout the whole city with the hotels and hostels being fully booked, the beaches are busy and the bars packed with visitors until the early hours in the morning. Despite welcoming a lot of tourists between the months of June and August, Lagos still manages to conserve its authenticity and charisma.

Winter – Like the rest of the Algarve, Lagos is receiving more and more tourists every year during winter time. The lack of rain and the warm weather makes this one of the best destinations for people wanting to run away from the cold weather of Northern Europe. Because prices are lower and there are less people than during summer, this is a great time to properly explore the Algarve without facing massive crowds or waiting in line for the most popular attractions.

Autumn/Spring – Nowadays most attractions in the Algarve and Lagos are open during autumn and spring months due to the amount of tourists flooding the region even during these months. The weather warms up and there is even less rain, making it incredibly enjoyable to visit Lagos and walk by the sea far from people at work, and kids at school.

What is the weather like in Lagos?

Lagos has a warm and temperate climate.

The average annual temperature is 17.2ºC. The hottest month of the year is August with an average temperature of 23.3ºC and the coldest month is January with an average temperature of 12.1ºC.

July is the driest month of the year with the amount of precipitation being close to 0 mm and November is the month with the most amount of rain with 78 mm of precipitation.

The following graph shows the monthly average temperatures and the monthly rainfall average for 2017.

What are the best places to eat in Lagos?

Restaurant Vivendo – This delicious and sophisticated restaurant with a view over the ocean offers some of the best cuisine in the Algarve. The food is superb and doesn’t take long. The speciality is fish and the deserts are truly amazing. Because this is a high end restaurant it can be a bit expensive. Be advised that it is hard to get a table, so you should be prepared to call in advance and make a reservation.

Real Portuguese Cuisine – Visit the Real Portuguese Cuisine and taste some traditional Portuguese dishes. Try the cheese in the oven as an entrée and ask for the famous Portuguese bacalhau (cod fish) as the main dish and you will not be disappointed.

A Casa do Pintor – A Casa do Pintor is a small charming restaurant which conserves a familiar and cosy atmosphere due to the waitresses being the owners of the restaurant and their son. The food is really terrific and an excellent proof that Lagos’ cuisine can rival with any top restaurant in Europe.

Restaurante Calhou – This is a seafood restaurant with a delightful cataplana (another regional traditional dish). Restaurante Calhou has the added benefit of having live concerts of fado, the Portuguese traditional music style, during low season. For desert try the three chocolate pie.

What are the best places for a night out in Lagos?

Families – Families looking to go out in Lagos should head to the marina where there are lively cafes and delicious ice-cream shops.

Couples – If you are looking for romantic spots in Lagos we have you covered. Check out Restaurante dos Artistas for a romantic meal or try Restaurant & Bar Duna Beach and Bahia Beach Bar near the beach where the sound of the waves bursting against the sand and a star night will set the perfect mood for an enchanting evening.

Groups of friends – Lagos has some of the best nightlife in the Algarve. Dance all night long at places like Nox Club, Lendas Bar, The Star or MJ’s Bar.

How far is Lagos from…?

Faro airport – 90 km (approx. 1hr drive)

Albufeira – 60 km (approx. 45 min drive)

Portimão – 25 km (approx. 30 min drive)

Sagres – 35 km (approx. 35 min drive)

Vilamoura – 75 km (approx. 1hr drive)

Tavira – 115 km (approx. 1hr15 drive)

Lisbon – 300 km (approx. 2hr45 drive)

Seville – 300 km (approx. 2hr45 drive)

Spanish Border – 140 km (approx. 1hr20 drive)

All distances have been rounded up.

Where are the bus station and train station?

The bus station in Lagos is located at 645, Largo do Rossio de São João Batista 2, 8600-315 Lagos.

Lagos also has a train station which is placed at the following address: Estrada de São Roque, 8600-318 Lagos.

Both the bus and the train stations are quite busy stations where you can take a bus or a train to most cities in the Algarve and Portugal.

How much is a taxi from Faro’s Airport to Lagos?

The price of a taxi from Faro’s Airport to Lagos, for one passenger, is usually around 80€ each way (160€ return). In case you decide to pre-book the price drops to around 70/75€ each way (150€ return).

If it is a private taxi or a mini-bus the price will tend to be higher, however, depending on the number of people it carries it might end up being cheaper per person.

Please note that if the trip takes place during the night, the price will be higher because a special night rate is charged.

In case you are alone or just two people it might be cheaper to take a taxi from the airport to Faro train station (around 10€), take a train to Lagos train station (around 12€) and then if you need a taxi from the station to your address (around 10€). This whole trip would be around 35€.

Other articles you might enjoy:

Lagos marina, top 25 things to do with kids in lagos and the western algarve.

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The Best Lagos Travel Guide for Visiting Portugal in 2024

**This post contains affiliate links, which means if you buy something through those links I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Click here to view my legal page . Thank you for your support!

Visiting Lagos for the first time in 2024? Consult my Lagos travel guide for the best beaches, activities, views, nightlife, eats, and more in Portugal’s beautiful Algarve.

During the two months I lived in Portugal back in 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Lagos—one of the most beautiful cities in the Algarve. Although I love a good solo trip, my visit to Lagos was anything but solo. Did someone say girls trip? We rented a car, drove the 180 miles from Lisbon to Lagos, and got ready to party it up in one of the most beautiful places in Portugal. Don’t worry—I recorded everything for my Lagos travel guide. 

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or an ass-kicking girls trip, this guide is your checklist to making the most out of your trip to Lagos. From the sun-kissed beaches to the bustling nightlife and everything in between, I’m thrilled to share the secrets and travel tips that made my stay in Lagos truly magical. Join me (and my girls) as we explore the best of Lagos and ensure your visit is as fabulous and memorable as mine was!

Find what you need:

Protect Your Trip to Lagos

**I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Whenever I plan a trip, I always make sure to protect myself and my wallet with trip insurance. In the past, I’ve had very good experiences with World Nomads. During my trip to Chiang Mai in 2019, I had an unfortunate ankle-spraining incident that turned into a hospital visit with X-Rays, crutches and physical therapy. When I submitted my claim to World Nomads, I was reimbursed within weeks.

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world! Click below to get a quote for your next trip.

👉🏼 Get your quote for trip insurance here !

The Lazy Girl’s Lagos Travel Guide

🏡where to stay in lagos:.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY:

• WOT Lagos Montemar (⭐️ 9.1/10)
• Olive Hostel Lagos (⭐️ 9.7/10)
• The Island Hostel (⭐️ 9.5/10)
• The Salty Lodge (⭐️ 9.3/10)
• Villas D. Dinis (⭐️ 9.1/10)
• Carvi Beach Hotel (⭐️ 8.2/10)
• Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda (⭐️ 9.1/10)
• Lagos Avenida Hotel (⭐️ 9.1/10)
• Charming Residence & Guest House Dom Manuel (⭐️ 9.0/10)

👙 The Best Lagos Activities:

• Book a sea kayaking excursion 🛶
• Explore the world-famous Benagil Caves 👀
• Taste the local flavors on a food tour 🍤
• Go surfing on some of Portugal’s best beaches 🏄‍♀️
• Spot some dolphins (if you’re lucky) 🐬
• Sample the local nightlife scene 🍸
• Book a spot on a party boat! Or relax on a catamaran coastal cruise 🛥️
• Explore Old Town Lagos and shop for local souvenirs 🛍️
• Watch the sunset from Ponta da Piedade 🌅
• Pay your respects at the Slave Market Museum
• Eat your fill of fresh seafood at the best restaurants in Lagos 🦑

Things to do in Lagos

A trip to Lagos is guaranteed to offer a blend of adventure, charm, and leisure—making it an essential destination for any Portugal travel itinerary. The diversity of experiences to enjoy in Lagos means it’s the perfect vacation for any and all types of travelers.

Take us for example. We wanted a blend of all of the above, so we relaxed on the beaches, sea kayaked through caves and rock formations, and wandered around the old city. Leisure, adventure, and charm—it’s really that simple. Regardless of your travel style, in this Lagos guide we’ll uncover the top things to do in Lagos that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

Book a Sea Kayaking Tour

If you book one excursion during your time in Lagos, I urge you to book this one. Sea kayaking down the coast of Lagos, swimming in the clear blue waters, and observing the unique rock formations around every corner is an unparalleled experience and one you won’t soon forget after you leave. 

We booked a sea kayaking excursion to the famous Benagil Cave (next on the list), but there are plenty of other kayaking day trips available on tour sites like Viator and TripAdvisor. It’s a great way to get out on the ocean, take in the views, and stay cool in the legendary Algarve heat—just don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen. 

Did you know that sea kayaking is also one of the most exciting activities to do in Lisbon ? Although if you’re only going to kayak once, I recommend saving it for Lagos. Those rock formations are truly a sight to behold. 

👉🏼 Click here to  book your sea kayaking adventure in Lagos!

Explore the Famous Benagil Cave

Even if you didn’t know the name, you probably recognize Benagil Cave from countless Instagram posts, TikTok videos, and Pinterest pins all over the internet. There’s a reason it’s popular—because it’s so damn beautiful. 

Don’t get me wrong, it’s touristy. You see all these gorgeous pictures of the cave without a soul in sight, but let’s be honest—that photographer is just really good at photoshop. There are always a million people touring it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. 

Tours to the Benagil Cave are usually half-day or full-day trips, which means there’s a lot more on the itinerary than just one cave. You’ll stop in, marvel at its beauty, take a couple quick pics, go for a dip, and you’ll be on your way to equally beautiful and less-populated stops. As long as you know what to expect, I highly recommend adding a visit to Benagil Cave to your Lagos travel guide. 

Tour the Slave Market (Mercado de Escravos)

Another must on my Lagos travel guide is a visit to the Slave Market Museum or the Mercado de Escravos. This museum serves as a powerful reminder of Portugal’s dark history and participation in the slave trade. The building itself was Europe’s first slave market and was once used to auction off enslaved people as early as 1444. While it’s now been converted into a museum, it still holds the weight of its past. 

Inside, you’ll find exhibits detailing the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on Africa, Portugal, and beyond. It’s a somber, but important, stop to make while in Lagos. The museum also offers guided tours for a deeper understanding of the history and context behind each exhibit. 

Wander Around Old Town Lagos

During your trip to Lagos, you’d be remiss not to factor in some time to wander the cobbled streets, explore the city center, and get to know Old Town Lagos. It’s also the perfect time to shop for traditional Portuguese souvenirs and mementos to bring home with you.

While wandering the streets of Lagos, we stumbled upon an adorable art gallery called Atelier Galeria Corine Thinon. A local artist from Lagos, Corine paints beautiful pieces depicting the towns of Portugal. She offers a nice variety of large pieces (that would most likely need to be shipped home for international visitors) and smaller, easily packable canvases for a reasonable price. (I love exploring artwork by local artists in a new destination. I actually stumbled upon one of my all-time favorite galleries in Vietnam—the Precious Heritage Museum in charming Hoi An .)

Of course, no stroll through downtown Lagos would be complete without stopping at one of the many quaint restaurants tucked away in nooks and crannies. Cool off in the shade with a refreshing glass of vinho verde and a view of the sea 🙌🏼

Tour the Town Walls and the Castle of Lagos

Another quick stop (and photo op) on your Lagos itinerary is the city walls (the muralhas de Lagos) and the Castle of Lagos. These fortifications were built during the 16th century to protect against pirate attacks. Nowadays, they offer stunning views of the city and coastline.

To get an up-close look at the best-preserved section of the walls, head over to Porta de São Gonçalo. From there, you can follow the path along the walls to a few other lookout points.

Take a Food Tour

Food tours and cooking classes are one of my favorite activities to book when visiting a new city. We just took an amazing food tour in Sevilla (content to come!) and it was probably my favorite activity of the whole trip. 

There’s no better way to get a sense of culture and tradition in a community than by learning about the local food—bonus points if you learn how to cook it. There are plenty of top-rated Lagos food tours on Viator, like this classic tour that takes you to local Algarve taverns and restaurants around the city. 

👉🏼 Click here to  book your Lagos food tour !

Book a Party Boat

On our trip to Lagos, we were in the mood for a trashy party boat 😂, so we booked our boat tour through the Rising Cock Hostel (yes—that’s actually the name, but the mascot is a rooster if that makes you feel better). Sadly, as of March of 2024, the hostel is temporarily closed (fingers crossed it’s only temporary). 

Don’t fret—there are plenty of other boat tours to book in Lagos. Depending on your boat tour vibe, you could book a half-day sailing tour around the coast, a coastal cruise to Ponta da Piedade on a budget-friendly vessel, or a catamaran cruise that includes lunch . If a trashy boat party is more your vibe too, ask around at the local hostels—that’s really their area of expertise!

👉🏼 Click here to  book your catamaran cruise down the Lagos coast !

Regardless of what kind of boat you book, you’ll be treated to some truly spectacular views of the Lagos coastline. There’s nothing like chilling in the sun, enjoying an ice-cold beer, and cruising past gorgeous rock formations and hidden caves.

Explore some Beautiful Beaches

Lagos is known for its beautiful beaches, so make sure to enjoy your fill of beach days while you’re here. Pack your flip-flops and a good beach read, because it’s about to get beachy! (Consult the map below for an easy guide to my favorite Lagos beaches.)

Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo’s geography, tucked between towering cliffs and jutting headlands, makes it the perfect location for a windless beach day in the Algarve. Although getting to this beach is a bit of a hike—trust me, it’s well worth it.

You’ll be rewarded with golden sand, turquoise waters, and spectacular views of the Atlantic to enjoy while you nap in the sun, get lost in a good book, or enjoy a couple of cold ones with friends.

Praia Dona Ana

Located in between Praia do Camilo and Praia do Pinhão, Praia Dona Ana is another breathtaking spot to add to your Lagos itinerary. Sheltered from the coastal breeze by towering sandstone cliffs, Dona Ana is actually known as the most beautiful beach in the Algarve.

Keep in mind that, like many of Lagos’ beaches, Dona Ana is only accessible by a wooden staircase down to the coast—so get ready to climb on the way back up.

Praia dos Estudantes

If you have social media, chances are you probably recognize the photo below. This is Praia dos Estudantes—one of Lagos’ most beautiful beaches and the location of the famous stone bridge that’s been the star of thousands of Instagram pics over the years. When the tide is low, you can actually walk under the arch all the way to Praia do Pinhão.

Surprisingly, this beach was not as crowded as you’d think it would be! I highly recommend visiting during your trip to Lagos—even if it’s just for the pic.

Praia do Pinhão

We spent the last day of our Lagos itinerary relaxing on Praia do Pinhão and it was the perfect goodbye to an amazing trip to the Algarve. The view from the top of the path is incredible—all sandstone cliffs and turquoise waters.

Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with golden sand, plenty of sun, and very little wind. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, the Algarve rays are pretty unforgivable.

Also known as Praia de São Roque, Meia Praia is the largest beach in Lagos and the perfect spot for a full-day beach excursion. Divided into two sections by the Odiáxere River to the east, the beach is dubbed Meia Praia or “half beach.”

Both sea and sand here are pristine, making it the perfect spot for families, friends, and swimmers of all ages to enjoy a beach day in Lagos.

Take in the Views from Ponta da Piedade

You know I wouldn’t write a blog post without at least one spectacular viewpoint! Well—here it is. 

Make room on your Lagos travel guide for a visit to Ponta da Piedade. The cliff juts far out from the coast, affording visitors incredible panoramic views of the Lagos coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. If I haven’t already convinced you…check out the photo below. That doesn’t even do it justice—trust me. 

If you’re itching to hit the waves, there’s no better place than the Algarve. On a windy day, these waves can swell to almost 10 feet, but generally, the waves in Lagos are great for surfers of all experience levels. 

The two best beaches to surf in Lagos are Porto de Mos and Meia Praia. If you rented a car and you’re willing to drive, there are tons of other great surfing beaches within a 10-30 minute drive of Lagos, like Praia da Luz, Praia do Zavial, Praia do Tonel, and Praia do Beliche. If you’re not an experienced surfer, why not learn from the masters? Hire a surf guide during your Lagos trip! 

Sample the Local Nightlife

You know the girls’ group sampled plenty of nightlife during our time in Lagos 😜. Unfortunately, the best pub crawl in town is put on by our party boat operator— the Rising Cock Hostel . Sadly, as of March 2024, this hilariously named hostel is temporarily closed. Hopefully, they’re back open and partying before long! 

Until they’re back, try out some of the bars below to experience the best Lagos nightlife! 

• Three Monkeys Bar
• Black Cat Bar
• InsideOut Bar

Go Dolphin Watching

Although I was itching to go dolphin watching from the moment we arrived in Lagos, we were traveling Portugal on a budget, so we decided to wait until our trip to Madeira in September . However, if you don’t have a trip to Madeira planned anytime soon—I highly recommend booking a dolphin-watching tour in Lagos.

Enjoy 3-4 glorious hours on a catamaran cruising the Atlantic looking for majestic dolphins and swimming in the ocean on this top-rated Viator cruise . Honestly, there is no limit to how many times you can enjoy watching dolphins. I’ll definitely be booking this cruise on my next trip to Lagos! 

👉🏼 Click here to   book your dolphin-watching catamaran cruise in Lagos!

Where to Eat in Lagos

Where all my foodies at? 

If you love food, you’re going to adore Lagos—trust me.

Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Portuguese cuisine (bacalhau, sardinhas, polvo a lagareiro) or tasty international food (all-you-can-eat sush, bagels, North American brunch, etc.), you’ll find all of it and more at the best restaurants in Lagos. Don’t let the food FOMO get ya—add the yummy eats listed below to your Lagos travel guide.

Pom Pom Bagels

If you’re thinking, “but bagels aren’t Portuguese?”, you would be correct. However, this clearly didn’t stop us from visiting Pom Pom Bagels not once, not twice, but THREE times during our trip to Lagos. 

As a self-proclaimed bagel connoisseur, I’ll be the first to tell you that it isn’t easy to find a good bagel on the Iberian Peninsula. Bagels in Poland? Sure. Bagels in Portugal? Not so much. Pom Pom Bagels was exactly what our hungover, overtired, and sunburned bodies needed…so we took advantage. 

Pro tip: Try “The Favorite” with goat cheese, honey, pesto, and candied walnuts. 

Black and White

Another great option for a North American brunch in Lagos, Black and White was definitely worth the 30-minute wait. 

We ordered artsy hot lattes (which was maybe not the best call in that steamy Mediterranean climate), a breakfast sandwich with bacon, egg, and avocado, and a hearty breakfast burrito stuffed with scrambled eggs, potatoes, and more bacon. Everything was delicious and it was the perfect start to our day of exploring Old Town Lagos. 

Barbosa Bar and Kitchen

Getting to the actual Portuguese food, Barbosa Bar and Kitchen was my friend’s find—and boy were we happy she found it. 

Alicia had read that the Algarve is known for its flaming chorizo (A.K.A. chouriço à bombeiro), so naturally we had to find some. The chorizo was served as an appetizer, along with some fresh burrata and tomatoes we ordered, and lit on fire at the table. You let it burn for a while before eating to allow it time to get nice n’ crispy. 

Accompanied by some much-needed salads, our meal at Barbosa Bar left us full, happy, and itching to go back. 

Dragon Sushi

Although I pretty much get all-you-can-eat sushi in every city I visit (seriously—I’m addicted), I normally don’t include it in my blog posts. Dragon Sushi in Lagos is the exception because it was quite literally the best all-you-can-eat sushi of my life. 

At only €17.90 per person for dinner, we enjoyed so much sushi between the three of us that we didn’t look nearly as good in our going-out outfits as we had when we left the hostel. Honestly? Totally worth it. 

We also enjoyed a round of espresso martinis and a bottle of chilled white wine. Even though it wasn’t traditional Portuguese cuisine, it was honestly one of my favorite meals in Lagos. If you have plenty of time in Portugal to try all the best local Portuguese food, then make room for a Dragon Sushi dinner on your Lagos city guide. If you only have a few days in the country, maybe skip it in favor of a more culturally relevant option. 

Frango Dourado

On our second night in Lagos, we were a bit late heading out for dinner and found that many places around us were closed. Thankfully, we stumbled upon Frango Dourado . 

This local “chicken restaurant” served plenty of traditional favorites like pan-fried squid and Portuguese steak with fried egg on top. We ordered some chilled vinho verde to accompany our meal and headed back to the hostel very full and very happy. 

Restaurante A Forja

Sadly, we didn’t have time to make it to  Restaurante A Forja during our 4 days in Lagos. Before our trip, I had read that this is one of the best traditional Portuguese restaurants in town, so I’m sad we missed it. It’ll be our first stop next time! 

This appearance of the restaurant is a humble, no-frills, wooden structure. The food is where A Forja excels! However, their culinary excellence is no secret—and you’ll find both tourists and locals lining up for dinner as early as 7 o’clock (early by Lagos standards). I recommend making reservations or stopping by for an early dinner to make sure you’re not waiting forever for your meal. Try the ameixoas a bulhao pato (clams in vinho verde sauce), the rack of lamb, or the roasted chicken. 

How to Get to Lagos

Thankfully, getting to Lagos internationally or from other destinations in Portugal is quite straightforward.

We decided to rent a car and drive from Lisbon (after watching a glorious sunrise from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia ). However, renting a car is only really an option if you’re already in Portugal.

If you’re flying into Lagos, you’ll want to fly into Faro Airport (FAO). From the airport, you can either rent a car (which can be helpful if you want to explore far away beaches in other parts of the Algarve) or by taking a shuttle into Lagos. Bus #56 (Aerobus) departs directly from the airport and takes passengers into Lagos in about an hour and 20 minutes for 11 EUR per person.

The drive itself only takes about an hour, so if you’re in a hurry you could either book a private transfer or hire a car on Uber or Bolt. One of my best Lagos tips is don’t be afraid to hire Ubers and Bolts—they’re cheaper than you think!

Lagos Itinerary FAQs:

The best time to visit Lagos is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and perfect for beach days. However, if you want to avoid larger crowds, consider visiting in May or September.

Yes, Lagos has some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal—great for surfing, swimming, and relaxing with a good book. Some must-visit beaches include Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Estudantes, and Meia Praia.

Absolutely, Lagos is definitely worth a visit! Lagos is a charming and picturesque town with plenty to offer. From stunning beaches, historical sites, delicious food, and exciting nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Lagos. Hint: Lisbon is also worth a visit , and a trip to Porto is a must on every Portugal itinerary.

While Lagos does attract a fair amount of tourists, it still maintains its authentic Portuguese charm. The town has a lively atmosphere and plenty of local businesses, making it a great destination for both tourists and locals alike. Yes, Lagos can be considered touristy, but the abundance of outdoor activities makes it easy to avoid the touristy crowd. Additionally, visiting in the shoulder season can help you avoid crowds of tourists in Lagos.

Yes, Lagos is a very walkable city. Most of the main attractions, restaurants, and beaches are within walking distance from each other. This makes it easy to explore the town on foot and take in all its beauty. Plus, with the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, it’s a great way to get some exercise while sightseeing. For those who prefer not to walk, booking a ride on Uber or Bolt (a useful app to download for Portugal ) is both cheap and easy.

Lagos, Portugal can be considered a moderately priced tourist destination, with prices varying depending on the season and location. The peak summer months tend to see higher prices for accommodations and activities, while visiting during the shoulder season can offer more budget-friendly options. However, there are also plenty of affordable dining options and free activities in Lagos that make it accessible for all budgets. It’s always a good idea to do some research and plan ahead to find the best deals.

Final Thoughts

To be honest with you, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed my trip to Lagos. I had seen so many coastal towns—in Europe and otherwise—that the idea of visiting didn’t seem that exciting to me. I’m glad to say that I was 100% wrong. This stunning Portuguese town stole my heart and made me eager to come back for more. 

Whether you’re interested in boutique souvenir shopping, stunning panoramic views, water activities of all sorts, or anything in between—my ultimate Lagos travel guide is sure to offer the perfect Algarve itinerary for you. Get ready for amazing food, views, and nightlife, because Lagos has them all in spades. Happy travels! 

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Madison Krigbaum is the founder and sole contributor of Madison's Footsteps – a solo female travel blog started in 2017 with a focus on destinations in Honduras, Italy, and Thailand. Since her study abroad semester in Rome, Madison has traveled to 31 countries, many of which she visited as a solo traveler. She lived in Roatan, Honduras for one year, Thailand for three months, and spent over two years in Italy (in Florence and Rome). She just returned from three months in Lisbon, Portugal and is considering heading back to Central America next!

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Lagos, Portugal; a tourism guide for 2024

Lagos is a historic and fascinating city situated on the picturesque Western Algarve coastline. It is a city that boasts a rich seafaring heritage, pristine beaches and authentic Portuguese character, which has responsibly grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations of southern Portugal.

Lagos is the ideal holiday destination if you want more than just beautiful beaches and glorious weather for your holiday. The city offers a vibrant nightlife, outstanding restaurants, historical sights and exciting activities, along with day trips to Silves, Sagres or Praia da Luz.

Despite its popularity, Lagos has not succumbed to mass tourism, and still retains its distinctive character and Portuguese charm. Found along its cobbled streets of whitewashed buildings are trendy bars and restaurants that sit harmoniously next to traditional Portuguese cafes and family-run shops.

The many sights and activities to be found in Lagos make the city one of the best day trip destinations of the western Algarve. Your day trip could include exploring the historic quarter, a walk along the stunning coastline and a boat trip around the Ponta da Piedade headland. There is a lot to love about Lagos, and the city is a favourite with long-stay residents and remote workers.

This article will show why you must visit Lagos, either for your holiday or as a day trip, helping you get the most from this wonderful destination. Related articles: Sights of Lagos - Beach guide

Highlights of Lagos

The historic quarter – The rich history of Lagos is reflected by the many sights within its historic quarter, which include the extravagant interior of the Igreja de Santo Antonio, the ancient city walls and the Forte da Bandeira that once protected the harbour mouth.

Ponta da Piedade – The picturesque headland to the south of Lagos, formed of highly weathered limestone cliffs that have been carved into unique formations. There are sea arches, hidden grottos and precariously balanced stacks, which are best seen by boat tour.

The Praia de Dona Ana beach – A glorious, sandy beach that is considered one of the Algarve's finest. This beautiful beach nestles at the base of golden cliffs, is lapped by turquoise waters and is a magical setting for your day on the beach.

An overview of Lagos Portugal

Lagos is the largest city of the western Algarve, with a population of 31,000 - which almost doubles in summer with the influx of tourists. The city extends along the Bensafrim river, at the merger of two geological features: Ponta da Piedade headland and the sand dunes of the Rio Alvor nature reserve.

These two very different coastal landscapes are what makes Lagos such an amazing destination for a beach holiday. There is the surfing beach of Porto Mós with its huge Atlantic waves, the idyllic and sheltered beaches within the Ponta da Piedade headland, or the pristine Meia Praia beach that extends for almost 2km.

The Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

The sheltered Bensafrim estuary was also key to Lagos' seafaring history. It was here during the 14th century that Prince Henry the Navigator established his seafaring school, and later it became a major centre for sea trade.

The modern city of Lagos is the perfect blend of historic and progressive. It is home to a diverse range of nationalities and people, but has not lost any of its Portuguese heritage.

For visitors, the city is compact and easily walkable, with four key areas - the historic quarter, the marina, Porto de Mós, and Meia Praia. The historic quarter is the heart of Lagos and lies to the west of the Bensafrim estuary. The marina complex is the modern side of Lagos, situated to the north of the city. Porto de Mós is a calm, residential area to the far south of the city, while the sand-swept shoreline of the Meia Praia extends to the east of Lagos and is the location for many of the larger hotel complexes.

Lagos has a rich seafaring history

Lagos as a day trip

Lagos is one of the best destinations in the western Algarve for a day trip. It is a vibrant and historic city that provides a perfect blend of historical sights and interesting tourist attractions.

There are sufficient sights to easily fill a day of sightseeing, and a suggested day trip would be to spend the morning exploring the historic centre and the afternoon visiting the Ponta da Piedade headland and the beaches.

Lagos has excellent public transport connecting it to the surrounding region, and it is very easy to travel to Lagos from the other major towns of the central Algarve.

Below is an interactive map showing a suggested walking tour of Lagos that begins at the train station. The green line and markers is the tour of the historic centre, and the yellow line is the tour of the Ponta da Piedade coastline.

Sights along the route: 1) Lagos Marina 2) Municipal market 3) Gil Eanes plaza 4) Former slave market 5) Saint António Church 6) Santa Maria church 7) city walls 8) Saint Gonçalo city gate 9) Ponta da Bandeira Fort 10) Batata beach 11) Pinhão beach 12) Dona Ana beach 13) Camilo beach 14) Ponta da Piedade 15) Discoveries waxwork museum 16) Meia Praia beach

Insight: Instead of walking the yellow Ponta da Piedade route, you may wish to instead join a boat tour. We have worked with GetYourGuide for the last seven years, and some of their best tours of Lagos include:

Lagos for your holiday

Who should visit Lagos, Portugal? Lagos has a wide-ranging appeal due to its extensive facilities, activities, natural beauty and heritage. Visitors seeking a cultural holiday will be impressed by the number of historical monuments and the city's genuine Portuguese atmosphere, while younger couples will enjoy its lively nightlife, numerous exciting activities and liberal attitudes.

Families tend to visit Lagos during the school holidays (July-August) when the region basks in glorious hot weather. The summer will be hot, with relaxing days on the beach or around the pool, and evenings spent discovering the multitude of bars and restaurants. Families with teenagers will be impressed with the range of activities on offer, including water parks, boat trips and surf schools.

Being such a desirable destination, Lagos has a sizable population of remote workers who often work in tech or creative roles. This has resulted in a year-round, young and vibrant population that loves surfing and embracing local cultures, with an artisan, yoga and spiritual scene well established within the city.

Please note: Lagos is not suitable for groups wanting to drink and party excessively (typically stag or hen parties). For this, head to the Strip in Albufeira.

Lagos for 2024 Lagos is expecting a sell-out summer season for 2024, and during the peak months (June-September) there will be incredibly high demand for accommodation and flights to the Algarve. The airlines will put on more flights (and raise prices!), but hotel rooms will completely sell out as they did in 2023.

Due to this high demand, we strongly advise you to book your flights and accommodation as soon as possible before prices increase and places sell out. The map below shows the best hotels and rental rooms in Lagos. If you adjust the dates, it will display current prices and availability.

Insight: Many hotels allow for free cancellation. This is very beneficial for visitors, as it allows you to secure a low-priced hotel now, but continue browsing risk-free up until your holiday.

How long should I spend in Lagos? The ideal time to spend in Lagos can vary from 1 or 2 to 7 days, depending on how much time you have to discover the city and the surrounding region.

A brief, one-day trip will allow you to see the majority of the sights, as shown in the tour above, but you would miss Lagos' lively nightlife and food scene. If you have a touring holiday of the Algarve, plan at least two days to see Lagos, the first day for the city and the second day for the beaches and the Ponta da Piedade.

Lagos is ideal for a 1-week holiday, which allows time for enjoying the beaches and taking excursions to the towns of Sagres, Silves, Praia da Luz and Portimão. As Lagos is a major city, there is a wide selection of restaurants and bars, and it is easily possible to eat somewhere completely different every day.

A suggested itinerary for a 1-week holiday could be: Day 1 - Explore the historic centre of Lagos Day 2 - Boat tour of the Ponta da Piedade , and a relaxing beach afternoon. Day 3 - Day trip to Sagres and the Cabo de São Vicente Day 4 - Day trip to Silves Day 5 - Day trip to a theme park (Zoomarine) or waterpark (Slide & Splash) Day 6 - Day trip to Portimão and Praia da Rocha Day 7 - Day trip to Praia de Luz and Burgau (ideal for cycling) Note: A car is not needed for this itinerary, as there is an excellent public transport network. Related articles: 1 week in Lagos - 3 days in Lagos

The modern marina complex of Lagos, filled with social bars and restaurants

Lagos for a family holiday

Lagos is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. The city boasts a wide selection of family-friendly hotels, while restaurants, attractions and activities are welcoming of children. Lagos has a much more relaxed atmosphere than many of the other larger beach towns in the Algarve, such as Albufeira or Praia da Rocha.

The city's beaches are ideal for children, with golden sands and clean sea waters that are supervised by lifeguards during the summer. The western side of Meia Praia beach and beaches in the Ponta da Piedade headland are sheltered from the region's powerful waves and strong currents.

Lagos Zoo is a great excursion for younger children, and children of all ages will enjoy the dolphin-watching boat trips that depart from the harbour.

If you are on holiday with older children and teenagers, there are many activities designed for their age, including the Slide & Splash water park, the Zoomarine marine park and the 'high rope courses' at Parque Aventura. Lagos is also a great location to learn how to surf.

When to visit Lagos?

The peak season of Lagos is between June and September, but the weather is suitable for spending time on the beaches from May until mid-October.

July and August are the peak months for family holidays, while June and September are popular with visitors without children. The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) are ideal for activity-based holidays such as cycling, golf or hiking.

The low season is from November until Easter, but as Lagos has a large permanent population and is popular with remote workers, most restaurants and bars remain open year-round. Lagos should never be considered as a winter sun destination, but the Algarve will have some of the best weather of mainland Europe between November and February. Related article: When to visit Lagos

The average day time maximum and the nighttime minimum temperature for Lagos

The average hours of sunshine per day and monthly rainfall (in mm)

Does Lagos have great beaches?

Lagos has some of the finest beaches in the Algarve, and there are four beautiful beaches within walking distance of the town. The Meia Praia is a vast, sandy beach that extends for 4km, while the Praia da Batata, Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are more secluded beaches that are surrounded by golden-coloured cliffs and lapped by crystal-clear sea waters.

On the south-western side of Lagos is the Porto de Mos beach, an area popular with resort hotels and holiday homes - and a great choice if you prefer not to be in the centre of the busy city.

The sheer number of varied beaches within the vicinity of Lagos means that space can easily be found to enjoy a relaxing day under the glorious sun, even at the height of summer. Related articles: Beaches of Lagos

The Praia Dona Ana beach

The massive Praia de Porto de Mós beach

The Ponta da Piedade

The Ponta da Piedade is a series of highly-weathered cliffs that form the southern headland of Lagos. The powerful Atlantic Ocean has chiselled stone arches, grottos and sea caves into the colourful golden cliffs, and these cliffs are considered the best natural feature of the Algarve.

There are scenic hiking routes along the top of the headland, but a more enjoyable experience is to hire a boat and navigate the unique rock formations from the water. Related articles: Ponta da Piedade guide

The Ponta da Piedade cliffs are best explored by boat

What are the best day trips from Lagos?

The two best day trips from Lagos are to the historic town of Silves and the surfing town of Sagres.

Sagres lies at the western tip of mainland Europe and is a region savaged by ceaseless winds and mighty Atlantic seas. The town is a popular surfing destination and is ideal for tourists who appreciate nature's raw power.

Silves was the ancient capital of the Algarve and remnants of this glorious past are found throughout the peaceful and relaxed town. The prominent feature of Silves is the massive red brick castle, while traditional houses and shops line the cobbled streets that lead down to the river.

Alternative day trips from Lagos include the peaceful resort town of Praia da Luz, the shopping town of Portimão and the hectic resort town of Praia da Rocha. All of these day trips can be reached by inexpensive public transport and there is no requirement to hire a rental car while on holiday here. Related articles: Day trip to Sagres - Silves introduction

Silves is a very scenic town in southern Portugal

Airport transfer to Lagos

The nearest international airport to Lagos is Faro Airport, which is 90km to the east of the city. There are infrequent train and bus services from Faro city to Lagos, but these routes do not pass close to the airport, so a bus or taxi is needed to travel from the airport to Faro city centre.

We strongly recommend organising a transfer from the airport to Lagos, as public transport is poor and a taxi hailed from the terminal will be very expensive (expect to pay €110 or even more). Two recommended options are private transfers (€75, 60-minute journey) or shared minibus transfer (€25, 100-minute journey). Related article: Faro airport to Lagos

Our most popular articles for Lagos

Home Page and introduction to wonderful city of Lagos

Best of Lagos

What are the best sights and activities in Lagos?

Lagos beaches

Discover the beautiful beaches of the Lagos region

3 days in Lagos

What to see and in a short stay to Lagos

1 week in Lagos

A suggested itinerary for a 1-week holiday to Lagos

Need a Hotel?

Find the finest hotels at the lowest prices!

Ponta da Piedade

The stunning cliff formations south of Lagos

Airport to Lagos

How best to travel the 92km from Faro airport to Lagos

Sagres day trip

A day trip to the surfing town at the far western tip of the Algarve

Ancient town with an imposing castle – great day trip from Lagos

Where to go?

What Algarve town is the best for your holiday?

Top 10 Algarve

What are the top 10 sights of the Algarve?

The largest and liveliest resort town of the Algarve

The most charming town of the eastern Algarve

Praia da Rocha

Exciting resort town set on a stunning beach

Praia da Luz

Where to escape the masses, to relax and unwind

The Algarve's slice of sophistication and exclusivity

V ila Nova de Milfontes

Authentic Portugal on the undiscovered Alentejo coastline

Family-holiday destination on a magnificent coastline

The finest resort town of the Lisbon coastline

All of our guides to the Algarve

Getting Started

Lagos Introduction Things to see and do Lagos Best Hotels 1 Week in Lagos 3 Days in Lagos Lagos Weather Lagos or Albufeira? Lagos or Portimao?

Lagos Transport

Lagos to Lisbon by Bus Lagos to Silves Lagos to Tavira by Train Lagos to Sagres by Bus

Algarve beaches

• Algarve's best beaches
• Praia da Falesia
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia de Sao-Rafael
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Faro beaches
• Portimão beaches
• Praia da Rocha beaches
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The best guide to Lagos

19 Best Things to Do In Lagos, Portugal

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: April 4, 2024

Get ready for plenty of excitement when you explore Lagos, Portugal . Lagos sits on the Algarve coast and is known for its famous beaches, lively nightlife, and natural beauty. Surrounded by a golden coastline filled with beautiful rock formations, there are plenty of sights to see and activities to do making it the perfect beach holiday destination.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Lagos

Lagos attractions are varied and plentiful. You could hike the Seven Hanging Valleys, visit a museum, or take one of the dolphin-watching boat tours. There are many things to do in Lagos, Portugal , and this guide will cover the absolute best.

1. Ponta da Piedade

If you’ve seen pictures of Lagos, the chances are that you’ve seen Ponta da Piedade. Ponta da Piedade is a headland of striking rock formations, with caves and grottos only accessible by water. From land, you can hike to the Ponta da Piedade scenic viewpoint, admiring the unique formations and snapping the postcard-perfect shot that has become so associated with Lagos.

Visiting Ponta da Piedade is easily one of the top things to do in Lagos. You’ll spot sea stacks and arches and catch glimpses of the caves when visiting Ponta da Piedade from the land. The burnt yellow rock makes Ponta da Piedade even more beautiful, and the orange look is characteristic of Portugal’s Algarve region. Even if you visit Lagos for just a few days, prioritize visiting Ponta da Piedade.

2. Take a boat tour from Lagos Marina

So, you could take a boat tour from Lagos Marina to visit the sea caves and spectacular rock formations of Ponta da Piedade. However, there are plenty of different boat trips that you can take, so venture down to the marina and pick whichever takes your fancy. A boat trip is one of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal. The sea breeze, gorgeous coastline, and friendly marine life are a winning combination and suit every traveler and their itinerary.

The dolphin-watching boat tours are extremely popular but make sure you choose wisely. We recommend this tour if you’ve never seen wild dolphins as it keeps a safe distance and does not stress the animals.

Other popular day trips include sunset catamaran cruises and longer, half-day cruises along the Algarve Coast. These longer cruises often include breaks for swimming and snorkeling and venture to natural attractions like the Benagil Cave .

3. Praia de Dona Ana

Praia de Dona Ana is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. The beach is located on the Ponta da Piedade headland and is surrounded by limestone formations with golden strata. Easy to reach, full of facilities like showers and toilets, and absolutely stunning to look at, visiting Praia Dona Ana Beach is one of the best things to do in Lagos.

You can reach Praia Dona Ana Beach in 20 minutes on foot from Lagos town center and then climb down from the headland via a set of long wooden steps. The beach has calm waters and is excellent for less confident swimmers and families. Praia Dona Ana Beach is your best choice out of the Lagos beaches for a relaxing beach day. Just get there early to beat the crowds, as it is one of the most popular beaches near Lagos.

4. Praia da Luz

Fancy exploring further afield? Praia da Luz is a coastal town just 10 km west of Lagos, and you can easily take a day trip by jumping on the bus for a twenty-minute ride. Praia de Luz has a massive beach with watersports, lifeguards, and cafes – yet it lacks the touristy atmosphere of Lagos’ beaches.

Visiting Praia da Luz is an excellent option if you want to experience gorgeous beaches outside of Lagos and enjoy a different, more resort-like atmosphere than the beaches in Lagos. It is straightforward to reach on public transport and is not a secluded beach – perfect for an easy day trip.

5. Parque Aventura

Parque Aventura is Portuguese for ‘Adventure Park’, which should speak for itself. Parque Aventura is where to go for an adrenaline rush and fun challenges in Lagos. The park has an extensive high ropes course that takes you through the tree tops. While if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can test your skill with a paintball game on the park’s paintball field.

We suggest heading to Parque Aventura later in the afternoon when temperatures are no longer sky high. The park stays open until 6 pm every day, so visiting out of midday heat shouldn’t be challenging.

6. Spend a morning in Lagos Old Town

For that cobblestone streets experience, you don’t have to venture far in Lagos. Lagos Old Town is full of cobbled streets and colorful buildings, and the historic center is surrounded by old city walls.

Spending a morning in Lagos Old Town is the best way to balance time on its best beaches. There are shops, bakeries, and small pubs to sit al fresco with a pint of Sagres. It is also an atmospheric place to try some traditional Portuguese cuisine too. If you are going to splash out on a meal, choosing a restaurant or cafe in the Old Town is a good idea. And, if you are stuck for choice, the fresh seafood is delicious.

7. Visit Mercado de Escravos

Mercado de Escravos is one of Lagos’ most beautiful buildings, yet it also holds some of Portugal’s darkest history. Mercado de Escravos was Europe’s first slave market, and the earliest dated slave market held there dates back to 1444.

The museum now educates visitors on the slavery tragedy. It reveals the harrowing details of the market’s events through engaging exhibitions. If you are interested in socio-political history or want to learn more about Portugal’s more troubling history, Mercado de Escravos should be on your radar.

8. Praia dos Estudantes

Praia dos Estudantes is another of Lagos’ best beaches, and you should visit it even if you are only in Lagos for a few days. The small beach is famed for its unique bridges and tunnels, which visitors use to access different areas of the beach. You can switch between the northern and southern sections of the beach by walking through a natural tunnel in the cliff face. While overhead, there is an old Roman bridge connecting the cliffs.

The layout of Praia dos Estudantes easily makes it one of the most interesting beaches on the Algarve. This is the best beach for you if you want a memorable beach day. Plus, it is within walking distance of Lagos town center.

9. Go kayaking to the sea caves

You can certainly take a boat trip to see these magnificent caves, but the more adventurous might be tempted by a kayaking trip. Exploring the sea caves by kayak is a different experience and certainly not for the fainthearted or unfit.

You can rent a kayak and head out independently or go on a guided kayak tour – it all depends on your confidence. Either way, you’ll be able to get up close with the beautiful formations along the coast and see marine life in their natural habitat. You can squeeze through tiny sea caves and tunnels that larger boats cannot fit through, giving you much more opportunities to explore. And, if you get lucky, a pod of dolphins might pop up around you.

10. Praia do Vale de Centeanes

Praia do Vale de Centeanes is one of the top beaches to take a day trip from Lagos. It takes around forty minutes to drive to and is easiest to visit if you have a rental car, rather than catching multiple buses. So, why make the trip?

Visiting Praia do Vale de Centeanes is the best on a windy day because it is backed by towering limestone cliffs. It is a dramatic introduction to the Algarve’s characteristic cliff-backed beaches. It is also much more spacious than the small beaches around Lagos. For a heavenly beach day, it is well worth a day trip.

11. Centro Ciencia Viva de Lagos

Family holidays can be difficult, especially when it comes to keeping little children entertained. The Centro Ciencia Viva de Lagos is entirely tailored toward families – providing engaging, child-friendly science exhibits and activities. So if you are traveling with children and want to keep them entertained, Centro Ciencia Viva de Lagos is a fun, reliable option.

The science museum is open from 10 am until 6 pm every day apart from Mondays. It is an excellent place to visit, escape the midday sun, or keep busy if the weather is terrible. The museum also has indoor and outdoor exhibits, making the experience enjoyable and varied.

12. Meia Praia

Meia Praia is the largest beach around Lagos and stretches over 4 km in length. On a busy day, visiting Meia Praia is a way to guarantee yourself a sunbathing spot. Lagos gets so busy in summer that Meia Praia becomes a bit of an emergency option.

Meia Praia is conveniently located just outside the Old Town and within easy walking distance of the town center. Visiting Meia Praia is a great idea if you want to squeeze a beach day into a busy day or just be close to many amenities.

13. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

If you like staying active, walking the Seven Hanging Valleys is one of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal. The coastal path is a 5.7km out-and-back trail that arguably covers the most scenic section of the Algarve coastline. The route starts at Praia da Marinha and ends at Praia de Vale Centeanes, taking around two to three hours to complete.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail passes stunning vistas, including many sea caves and spectacular formations. You could hike it one way, which would take about 2-3 hours, or walk the path as an out-and-back trail in around six hours. The choice is yours.

14. Praia do Camilo

Looking for a secluded beach? Praia do Camilo is the one for you. The small beach is accessed by a wooden staircase of over 200 steps – so prepare yourself for a workout. Praia do Camilo is totally worth the effort, though. The beach has crystal-clear blue-green water and the Algarve’s characteristic orange glow in its golden sand and cliffs.

Praia do Camilo also has a tunnel connecting two different sections of the beach. You can walk through the natural tunnel and pick your favorite (or the least busy if you’re visiting in peak season). Praia do Camilo is a fun, pretty place to visit near Lagos.

15. Visit Ponta da Bandeira Fort

History lovers, this attraction is for you. Ponta da Bandeira is a 17th-century fortress complex that now runs as a museum and art exhibition venue. Ponta da Bandeira overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and Praia de Batata Beach and was once a stronghold against enemies attacking the Algarve from the sea.

Heading over the drawbridge, you’ll have enough exhibitions to keep you entertained for at least an hour or two. Ponta da Bandeira is one of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal, to get a historical insight into the area.

16. Praia da Batata

So, you’ve visited Ponta da Bandeira. As we mentioned above, the fort overlooks Praia da Batata, which is a beautiful beach to visit near Lagos. And, if topping up your tan under a 17th-century fort sounds memorable, it is worth adding to your itinerary. The sands are famously soft and golden, and the waters are calm and perfect for swimming.

Visiting Ponta da Bandeira and Praia de Batata is an excellent combination. Start your morning at the fort, and then head to the beach to enjoy some afternoon sun.

17. Spend a day in Faro City

Lagos is full of things to do, but since you will probably travel to Faro for Faro Airport anyway, it is worth dedicating time to exploring Faro as well. You could even plan a day in Faro before you fly home.

Faro is easily the most famous city on the Algarve. In fact, it is considered by many as the gateway to the region. However, its city center is a great place to spend a couple of hours – which we highly recommend doing. Walk the Old Town to admire the cobbled streets and neoclassical architecture. Then visit the major attractions like the Arco de Vila, Faro Cathedral, and the Municipal Museum.

If you have not rented a car and want to explore Faro, this tour has you covered . You will also see other cool cities in the Algarve like Olhão, Tavira, and Cacela Velha.

18. Tour inside Igreja de Santo Antonio

Igreja de Santo is an ornate Catholic Church with Baroque architecture and a lot of history behind it. The church is located inside the Old Town and is easily added to a morning in the town center. Igreja de Santo is believed to be the birthing place of Saint Anthony of Lisbon – meaning it holds great religious significance, especially amongst the residents of Lagos.

The church interior is gorgeous, and you can walk through, admiring the sculptures and no-expense-spared decorations. There’s also a small museum, which contains exhibits and more information about the church and Saint Anthony of Lisbon. Allow an hour or two to experience Igreja de Santo thoroughly.

Now that we’ve covered the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal, let’s look at some common FAQs.

How to get to Lagos

Lagos is located in Southern Portugal on the Algarve coastline. The easiest way to reach Lagos is to fly into Faro Airport and then catch public transport to Lagos. You can take a shuttle bus straight from the airport or travel into Faro to catch the train to Lagos. Allow around three hours for both options.

Since Lagos sits on the Atlantic Ocean, there are multiple ferry routes if you fancy an adventure. You are best considering catching a ferry if you want to ferry hop down the Portuguese coast.

As it is also located in mainland Europe, you could take a road trip to Lagos from Spain, France, and even the UK if you are feeling particularly adventurous. Driving across Europe is popular, and you’ll just need to be comfortable adjusting to different driving styles. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need a much longer time frame for this, and we’d recommend allowing at least two weeks to road trip to and then enjoy Lagos comfortably.

Getting around Lagos

Lagos is a town and has everything available within walking distance. Some of the most picturesque beaches in the region are just a short walk from Lagos town center. Plus, there is Lagos train station where you can catch a train to nearby spots on day trips. You can easily get around Lagos and its surrounding area without driving a car. If you want to stay local and are only visiting for a few days, we suggest sticking to walking and public transport.

Of course, you could hire a rental car if you want the freedom to explore further afield. You’ll be able to head up the coastline and even out to the Valley of Guadiana Natural Park. If this is the case, you may wish to book a rental car to pick up from Faro Airport so that you can drive to Lagos instead of catching public transport.

Best time to visit Lagos

The best time to visit Lagos is in its shoulder seasons – early fall or late spring. The trick is to avoid the crowds but still get good weather. After all, why not make the most of Lagos’ beautiful beaches?

May and June are the best months to visit Lagos in spring, while September and early October are the best months in fall. Still, struggling to decide? The atmosphere tends to be slightly better in spring when local tourism is excitedly warming up for the peak season in summer. It is also usually a bit breezier in spring, which is good for outdoor activities.

Where to stay in Lagos

Last but not least, where should you stay in Lagos? There are loads of high-quality options to suit all budgets, but these are our absolute favorites.

Budget hotel: Old School Guest House

Lagos has hostels, but it is better to stay at the Old School Guest House for a little extra. It is the highest-rated budget-friendly option in Lagos, and each guest gets a double or twin room. It also has a central location in Lagos town center.

You’ll have a shared kitchen, free bikes, complimentary wi-fi, and even BBQ facilities. There’s also a paid airport shuttle to make your airport experience more relaxing.

Mid-range hotel: Fazenda Viegas

Fazenda Viegas is a privately run resort rather than a large commercial accommodation choice. The benefit of this is that there are thoughtful touches like on-site wine tasting sessions, a welcome drink, and fantastic sporting facilities like a football pitch and volleyball courts.

Guests can choose to stay in an apartment or villa, and when you aren’t swimming in the outdoor pool, you can head to the closest beach – about 2km away.

Luxury hotel: Boavista Golf & Spa

If you want luxury, say no more. Boavista Golf & Spa is a five-star property with all the indulgent facilities you could want. Guests choose between townhouses and villas, so forget about cramped hotel rooms or small apartment complexes. There is also a shared rooftop terrace, endless entertainment activities, and an indoor heated pool. While for extra pampering, you can head to the spa to enjoy a sauna, steam room, hot tub, and gym.

To Conclude

A trip to Lagos is one of the best beach holidays you could take in Europe. Between the stunning landscapes and vibrant Portuguese culture, there are so many things to do in Lagos, Portugal . We hope you get the chance to experience as many of these things as possible.

Once you’ve visited Lagos, you should explore the rest of the Algarve region. There are many amazing cities in Portugal , plus the Douro Valley and Obidos if you travel further up north. Trust us, you’ll need a return trip.

Plan Your Next Trip to Portugal with these Resources

• 20 Best Cities in Portugal to Visit in 2022
• How to Spend a Layover in Lisbon, Portugal
• 7 Fun Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal
• 7 Stunning Off The Beaten Track Places to Visit in Portugal
• Lisbon Portugal for Under 5 Euros a Day
• 17 Best Things To Do in Guimarães, Portugal in 2024

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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3 thoughts on “19 Best Things to Do In Lagos, Portugal”

I loved Lagos! I went in September and had the best seafood rice of my life!!

Thanks for providing a helpful information.

What beautiful places, I will add them to my travel list with my husband this vacation!

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lagos

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Melding a lively character with a cherished seafaring tradition, Lagos basks in its reputation as one of southern Portugal's favorite holiday destinations. In the western Algarve, about 90 kilometers from the regional capital Faro , this attractive resort town is celebrated for its scenic coastline of beautiful beaches and stunning natural rock formations.

The town has a young, cheerful vibe and a wealth of historic attractions and fun things to do, with facilities that include a modern marina, nearby zoo, and even a science center for kids. By navigating Lagos' old town visitors can also savor the hospitality of some excellent cafés and restaurants. Alternatively, amble the waterfront promenade or indulge in a sightseeing cruise and explore the fantastic sea caves and grottoes that have placed Lagos well and truly on the Algarve tourism map.

For more ideas on the best places to visit, read our list of the top attractions in Lagos.

See also: Where to Stay in Lagos

2. Ponta da Piedade

3. kayak tours along the coast, 4. igreja de santo antónio/museu municipal, 5. parque aventura lagos, 6. parque zoológico de lagos, 7. forte ponta da bandeira, 8. mercado dos escravos, 9. centro ciência viva de lagos, 10. marina de lagos, 11. igreja de santa maria-praça do infante d. henrique, where to stay in lagos for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to lagos, frequently asked questions, what are the best golf courses near lagos, what are the must-see destinations near lagos, map of tourist attractions in lagos.

Some of the Algarve's most celebrated beaches are located in the Lagos vicinity, with two easily reached on foot.

Two kilometers southwest of the town center, Praia do Camilo is the postcard favorite. Framed by outcrops of fantastic rock formations, this sheltered slither of sand is illuminated in spring by a mantle of colorful flowers that cling to the cliff edge above. Arrive early during the summer to bag a spot, and note that by late afternoon, the beach is cast in shadow as the sun starts to dip behind the promontory.

The vast Meia Praia starts its run behind the marina and stretches four kilometers to the east. Its name in English means "Half Beach" - a curious moniker given that this is the longest beach in the region. For sun-seekers, however, this translates as more sand, and there's ample space to relax and bronze up. It's an exposed beach, though, and popular with water sports enthusiasts. A number of restaurants line the dunes and a regular bus service from Avenida dos Descobrimentos serves its entire length.

Out of town lies Porto de Mós . A fabulous coastal footpath leading from the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse will take walkers to this lovely beach, but allow an hour to hike the trail.

One of the most recognized natural landmarks in Portugal, the mournfully named "Point of Pity" is a scenic headland that juts out into the sea on the western edge of Lagos Bay . The dramatic sandstone cliffs appear burnished with gold, such is the vivid brilliance of their burnt ochre hue.

Rising out of the transparent waters below are huge rock formations, some arched and contorted as if melted by the sun. Out of sight, tucked under the cliff face, is a series of caves and grottoes, their bellies carved out by restless Atlantic swells. These hidden caverns can be explored by boat on a fun-packed Ponta da Piedade grotto sightseeing cruise from Lagos , or an equally rewarding kayak tour .

Back on terra firma meanwhile, sightseers can follow footpaths that snake around the headland to reach a number of viewpoints with dizzying views over the gnarled stacks and craggy pillars - a bizarre and beautiful seascape.

For a romantic end of day finale, gather by the lighthouse that crowns the promontory and wait for the sun to set over the western Algarve coast.

The coastline west out of Lagos is straight out of a pirate adventure picture book. The scenic, honeycombed cliffs; weird chimneystack rock formations; and the dozens of hidden sea caves and ancient grottos at Ponte da Piedade make for exhilarating exploration and are tourist attractions in themselves.

One of the most exciting ways of charting a course along this incredible seascape is by joining a guided kayak and snorkel trip excursion . Paddle out over warm turquoise shallows for fisheye-views of this wonderfully evocative environment. Later, plunge into the Atlantic's alluring waters and marvel at the undersea world alive beneath you. Between forays, kayakers have the chance to soak up the sun on a deserted beach.

One of the Algarve's most inspiring cultural combinations is the coupling of Lagos' church of St. Anthony with the town's municipal museum . Together they represent one of the most rewarding sightseeing experiences in the region.

Visitors first enter the museum - an ethnographic miscellany of oddities, rarities, and curios. Artifacts on permanent display include a beautiful mini altarpiece, whittled from cork, and a collection of priest's vestments, one dating from 1578. A magnificent near-complete Roman mosaic is startling in its centuries-old detail.

Visitors can spend an hour or so absorbing this fascinating exhibition, going backwards and forwards through each gallery before entering the adjacent 18th-century church to gaze upon one of the most dazzling interiors of any religious site in the Algarve. The Baroque rhapsody of ornate gilded wood carvings and decorative tiles is impressive and a suitably ebullient way to end the tour.

Address: Rua General Alberto Silveira, Lagos

A radical activity attraction for all the family, the Lagos Adventure Park is all about following high ropes courses set at different heights and at various degrees of difficulty through a canopy of swaying, lofty trees.

Testing nerves and physical ability, daredevil patrons have to surmount a number of challenges along the way, such as traversing bridges, navigating rope nets, and riding giant ziplines. The ropes courses are set at three levels of complexity: Curious, Adventurous, or Fearless.

There's no need for any limbering up, just the will to overcome each obstacle. Fun lovers' safety is guaranteed under the watchful eye of highly qualified personnel, leaving you free to complete each circuit under your own steam. Afterwards, the sense of accomplishment will be palpable.

Address: Rua Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen, Meia Praia, Lagos

Official site: http://www.parqueaventura.net

Rubber-limbed gibbons, marble-eyed lemurs, and fur ball marmosets are just some of the animals waiting to greet visitors at Lagos Zoo . Joining the primates in this semitropical park, approximately eight kilometers north of Lagos, are other residents, like the sleek bobcat, and rare species such as Indian muntjac deer. Heading up the entertainment is a troupe of cheeky meerkats.

The variety of birdlife is impressive, and the colorful and exotic flocks include channel-billed toucans, rainbow lorikeets, and the wonderfully named chattering lory. Owls and assorted waterfowl can also be admired.

In addition, the zoo's countryside setting is an ideal showcase for its farm stock: animals like sheep, goats, and horses.

Near the "monkey lake" is a picnic area, where visitors can observe the primates' antics while enjoying an alfresco lunch. There's also a rustically-styled on-site restaurant. A playground for toddlers makes sure the entire family remains amused at this cheerful and engaging facility.

Address: Quinta Figueiras, Barão de São João

Official site: http://www.zoolagos.com

Built in the 17th century to defend the approaches to Lagos harbor, this square-shaped, pocket-sized fortress remains in remarkably good condition considering its age.

Situated over a wedge of sand overlooking a shallow bay, four turrets shaped like spinning tops set at each corner help distinguish the fort's squat profile. A narrow moat lends the stronghold an impregnable quality, and sightseers have to cross a drawbridge to reach the inner courtyard.

The visitor experience is limited to a small 18th-century chapel lined with pretty azulejos tiles, and exhibition space dedicated to Portugal's era of discoveries. From the ramparts however, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views over the water and back across the avenue towards the castle walls and fortifications that uphold the medieval character of the vicinity.

Address: Cais da Solaria, Lagos

The Slave Market in Lagos marks a less salubrious chapter in the town's history, and represents a darker side to Portugal's otherwise golden Age of Discovery . On this site in 1444, Europe's first slave market opened, selling slaves that were captured and transported from Africa. The arcaded building seen today dates from 1691 and served as a customs office.

Abandoned for many years, the small gallery now hosts a permanent exhibition charting Portugal's shameful trade in human cargo, and the role Lagos played in its proliferation. Displays include confiscated personal possessions and a skeleton of one of the hapless individuals, unearthed nearby. The exhibition is limited in scope but nonetheless sobering and rather moving - and the authorities have classified the building as a Monument of Public Interest.

Address: Praça Infante do Henrique, Lagos

The theme of this engrossing Live Science exhibition and cultural center is "The Portuguese Maritime Discoveries," and it provides a fun-filled and educational way of keeping children happy and entertained, especially if the weather is overcast and the beach is out of the question.

Portugal's seafaring heritage is brought to life by a series of games, puzzles, and interactive modules that bridges the gap between the discoveries of past and present, and youngsters are invited to embark on their own voyage of discovery. They can help crew a 15th-century caravel, or don an eye patch and join a pirate ship. Meanwhile, the submarine takes everybody to new depths of exploration.

The center is situated on the top floor of Lagos market , so naturally there's a lighthouse to visit, and kids can have great fun learning how to use semaphore flags to send signals. All the time they are finding out more about navigation, communication, and life on board various seagoing vessels. The concept is simple but hugely enjoyable, and a team of enthusiastic multilingual staff is at hand to offer advice and answer questions.

Address: Rua Dr Faria e Silva, Lagos

Official site: http://www.lagos.cienciaviva.pt

Yachts and motorboats of all shapes and sizes tie up at this first-class mooring facility, but Lagos Marina provides far more than just a safe haven for visiting watercraft. Anchored along the boardwalk are several very good eateries where customers can relax and soak in the seaside atmosphere. At night, some of these cafés host live music performances.

Numerous coastal cruise companies are based here, offering anything from exhilarating sightseeing excursions to the rock stacks, sea caves, and grottoes around Ponta da Piedade to fantastic dolphin "seafaris" that head out into the bay.

A swing bridge connects the marina with Avenida dos Descobrimentos , the town's main avenue. The 462-berth yacht basin is also within walking distance of the sweeping Meia Praia beach.

Address: Marina de Lagos, Lagos

Official site: www.marinadelagos.pt

Lending dynamic perspective to Praça do Infante D. Henrique is the late 15th-century church of St. Mary . Set in the northwestern corner of the square, the church still retains a Renaissance doorway, which fortunately survived the great earthquake of 1755.

The building was renovated during the latter half of the 16th century and considerably expanded in the 18th century, so what visitors see today is an interesting amalgamation of architectural styles.

Of note inside is a statue of São Gonçalo of Lagos, a fisherman's son born in 1360 who became an Augustinian saint. The square, embellished with water features, is named after Prince Henry the Navigator , who laid the foundations for Portugal's maritime expansion in the 15th century and became governor of the Algarve. He sits, cast in bronze, on a plinth in the middle of the concourse.

This is a wonderful area to relax in such noble company, but it's worth strolling across to the Castelo dos Governadores to admire the beautiful Manueline window set in the façade.

Address: Praça do Infante D. Henrique, Lagos

We recommend these great hotels in Lagos close to town and beaches:

• Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort : luxury resort, steps to fabulous beaches, sprawling outdoor pools, holistic spa.
• Villas D. Dinis : mid-range rates, short walk to beaches and town, imaginatively-decorated guest rooms, two lovely outdoor pools, rain showers.
• Hotel Marina Rio : great-value hotel, marina views, family-run, excellent breakfast, easy stroll to the old town, rooftop pool.
• Sollagos Apartamentos Turisticos : budget pricing, whitewashed Mediterranean-style buildings, apartments with kitchenettes, outdoor pool with ample sunbeds.
• Half-Day Lagos and Sagres Tour : Lagos is inexorably linked to the historical figure of Henry the Navigator (1394-1460). The town was an important naval center, a boatbuilding hub that supplied the caravels that spearheaded Portugal's golden Age of Discovery in the 15th century. Henry's fabled school of navigation was based at Sagres, 40 kilometers west. Tourists interested in learning more about this fascinating period in the country's history should consider joining a Lagos and Sagres Half-Day Tour , which explores both these destinations in vivid detail.
• Benagil Caves Tours from Lagos : Boasting one of southern Portugal's major marina facilities, Lagos is an obvious departure point for sightseeing tours setting sail for destinations farther along the coast. In fact, navigating the Algarve's scenic coastline by boat is an adventure in itself. By heading east and plotting a course to Carvoeiro, visitors can admire sensational sea caves and dramatic rock formations similar to those embellishing the headland at Lagos. One of these natural wonders is the stunning Benagil sea cave, and the most rewarding way to reach this extraordinary grotto is to embark on a boat tour of Benagil from Lagos .

Boavista : The nearest golf course to Lagos, the 18-hole par 71 Boavista layout follows the natural contours of an environment blessed with stunning views of the Bay of Lagos to the south, and the Monchique Hills to the north.

Designed by Howard Swan and integrated within the upscale Boavista Golf & Spa resort - located about five kilometers from the town center - the course offers players two very distinctive sections of play. The front nine holes gently climb to the highest part of the resort, with holes 6 and 8 requiring careful play over a tricky ravine. Pause at the 8 th tee and admire the exhilarating panoramic views of the coast and the Atlantic beyond before tackling the back nine.

Subsequent holes descend into a verdant and undulating landscape featuring streams and lakes, where accurate play is essential in order to avoid a water penalty. Long fairways and greens, defended by some deep bunkers, test club selection and skill as you approach and putt the final four holes. Afterwards, relax at the "19 th " while rounding up the scorecard.

Address: Boavista Golf & Spa, Quinta da Boavista

Official site: http://www.boavistaresort.pt

Palmares : Set 10 kilometers east of Lagos, Palmares is one of the most picturesque golf courses in the Algarve. A 27-hole par 72 layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Palmares comprises three 9-hole circuits: the Alvor course, Lagos course, and Praia course.

The first nine holes run through bucolic woodland and down towards the beach, all the time revealing lovely views of the Alvor estuary and the sparkling ocean. The Lagos nine are played through parkland and encroach farther towards the beach. The final nine are actually set in around some impressive sand dunes. These three returning nine-loops can be played in any sequence, with each offering a different golf experience.

Palmares Golf Course is part of the luxury Palmares Beach & Golf Resort. The clubhouse is set on the highest point of the layout and affords a spectacular panorama of Meia Praia beach and distant Lagos.

Address: Meia Praia, Lagos

Official site: https://www.onyriapalmares.com

From Lagos heading west there are some wonderful coastal towns and villages to explore. Just 15 minutes away is Luz, a family-friendly seaside resort that's fronted by a lovely bay-shaped beach flanked to the east by a towering black-rock cliff - an unusual volcanic feature and a favorite nesting site for peregrine falcons. The challenging hike to the top rewards sturdy legs with inspiring Atlantic Ocean views, and the coastal path continues all the way back to Lagos.

Farther west is Salema. Once a thriving fishing village, this delightful hamlet has managed to retain its yesteryear charm, despite the fact that many of the old fishermen's cottages are now converted into vacation lets. Salema's sandy bay and sheltered waters make it a favorite with local family groups and those wishing to escape the crowds.

Beyond Salema, the western Algarve remains relatively undeveloped until Sagres, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe. Henry the Navigator is believed to have set up his school of navigation here in the 15 th century. Today, though, it is surfers, backpackers, and the more adventurous traveler that chart a course to this isolated and windswept part of the world.

You can explore the Algarve on your own if you have time, but a convenient way of seeing the Algarve's wild and wonderful west coast is to join a full-day tour of the region , which besides Sagres also takes in the beguiling Cape St. Vincent headland.

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Top 10 Lagos Attractions and Things to Do

The must-see tourist attractions and top activities in lagos, algarve, portugal.

Ponta da Piedade

This headland with a series of magnificent rock formations is one of the highlights of the entire Algarve region, and therefore the most visited sight in Lagos. From the clifftop, from the scenic boardwalk or by the sea at the bottom of a long staircase, you have breathtaking views of the natural wonder, sculpted for thousands of years by the wind and the waves. For close-up views, many go on kayak or boat tours, which allow access to hidden caves and grottoes . This is also a stunning sunset spot, when the light gives the ocher rocks an extra yellow or golden tone.

See the Ponta da Piedade Guide .

Praia da Dona Ana Beach

One of Portugal’s most famous beaches , Dona Ana stands out for its golden rocks , high cliffs, and usually calm and clear waters. The cliffs protect it from the winds and currents (so it’s good for swimming and snorkeling) and there are breathtaking views from the top, on the northern and southern sides.

See the Praia da Dona Ana Guide .

Praia do Camilo Beach

Lagos' most beautiful beach is hidden down a steep cliff, but a long wooden staircase takes you directly to the sand. Everyone stops on their way down to take selfies, as there’s a picture-perfect view over the crystal-clear water and the different rock formations. It’s actually divided into two sections, separated by a cliff but connected by a tunnel. The clean, shallow and usually calm waters also make it the beach for snorkeling.

See the Praia do Camilo Guide .

St. Anthony Church and Lagos Museum

A plain church from outside hides a rich interior that’s considered one of Portugal’s finest examples of gilded woodwork . The golden carvings mix with blue-and-white tile panels and a beautifully painted ceiling, while in the former sacristy is a museum dedicated to the art, history and culture of Lagos . Its collection of pieces goes back thousands of years, from the city’s first Celtic and Phoenician settlers to the 20th century (it includes prehistoric standing stones, Roman mosaics and tiles).

See the St. Anthony Church and Lagos Museum Guide .

Slave Market

When Prince Henry the Navigator sent his men to map the coast of Africa in the hope of finding a maritime route to Asia, he ended up opening the way to European exploration and global trade. At first, the traded goods were spices, silk and gold, but after their colonization of the “new world,” Europeans realized that the slave trade would also be profitable. The Portuguese took Africans to Lagos and sold them to other European empires or sent them to Brazil. The building where these transactions took place is now a small museum, with displays in Portuguese and English explaining the trade routes , how the slaves were taken across the Atlantic in appalling conditions, how there were slave uprisings in as early as the 1500s, and how Lagos grew as a major port.

See the Slave Market Guide .

Meia Praia Beach

The biggest beach in Lagos stretches for over four kilometers (2.5 miles), and although its western side can get crowded with locals and tourists, to the east it’s calm, nearly deserted and even an unofficial nude beach. It offers a view of the city’s skyline and coast , and has a number of bars and restaurants. Depending on the tides and weather conditions, the water can be calm and good for swimming, or have waves good enough for surfing.

See the Meia Praia Guide .

Praia dos Estudantes Beach

This beach features a much-photographed arch connecting two rocks, so it has become one of the most popular with tourists. The central location also helps, as do its usually calm waters. It’s quite small so there’s often not much space to spread a towel, but the scenery makes it worth a visit.

See the Praia dos Estudantes Guide .

Ponta da Bandeira Fortress

The port of Lagos was protected by two major fortresses in the 16th and 17th centuries, and this was one of them. The other was completely destroyed by the great earthquake of 1755, but Ponta da Bandeira was soon restored. It preserves a small chapel covered in 17th-century tiles, and shows temporary and permanent exhibitions related to the history of Lagos . From the top, visitors can admire a view over the neighboring beaches.

See the Ponta da Bandeira Fortress Guide .

Lagos Castle

When Lagos became the capital of the Algarve region, a castle was built as the governor’s residence. It was connected to the town walls (whose origins go back to Roman times), and was defended by the Ponta da Bandeira fortress in front. Only a tiny section of the walls and the castle still stand. They’ve been restored over the years, and a gateway between two watchtowers (known as “São Gonçalo Gate”) is one of the entrances to the Old Town. What’s left of the castle became a hospital and isn’t open as a tourist attraction, but you may admire a Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) window from outside. It’s said that it was from this window that King Sebastião spoke to the assembled nobility in 1578, before joining Portuguese, Spanish, German and Dutch troops on a disastrous crusade to Christianize North Africa (he ended up killed in El-Ksar el Kebir in Morocco). The landscaped area around the castle has a statue of Gil Eanes , the local explorer who was the first European to navigate past Cape Bojador, a major breakthrough in discovering a maritime route to the East.

Day Trip to Sagres

Known as “Sacrum” or “sacred” to the Romans, Europe’s southwesternmost point is located to the west of Lagos. It was believed to be the edge of the Earth, and still has a betwiching “end of the world” feel. On the dramatic promontory is Prince Henry the Navigator’s fortress , but there are also wild beaches and breathtaking views (especially at sunset) from the top of the cliffs. They’re all reasons why a visit to Lagos isn’t complete without a trip to Sagres.

See the Sagres Day Trip Guide .

Algarve’s biggest and best-preserved castle is located in Silves, to the north of Lagos. It dates from when the now sleepy town was actually the capital of the region and a rich Moorish city. It’s visited by those looking to take a break from the beaches and experience inland Algarve.

See the Silves Day Trip Guide .

Santa Maria Church

It was completed in 1498, but like almost every other building in Lagos, this church collapsed in the earthquake of 1755. Most of it had to be rebuilt, but was later nearly destroyed once again, in a fire. It retains a Renaissance doorway, but almost everything else is the result of a restoration in the late 1800s. For this reason, it doesn’t have a rich interior like that of the church of St. Anthony, but many tourists still peek inside, as it faces the Slave Market, in the town’s main square. This is where most of Lagos’ religious services take place , attracting many locals on Sunday mornings.

Complete Lagos Guide

Where to stay.

Top 10 Hotels

Beach Hotels

Romantic Hotels

5-Star Hotels

Hostels and Budget Hotels

What to See and Do

Top 10 Attractions

St. Anthony Church

The Best Day Trips

Day Trip to Silves

Cruises and Boat Tours

The Best Beaches

Praia do Camilo

Praia da Dona Ana

Praia da Batata

Praia dos Estudantes

Praia do Pinhão

Praia do Porto de Mós

Praia dos Pinheiros

Praia do Canavial

Praia da Luz

Beaches Map

Transportation

Lagos Transportation

From Lisbon

From Faro Airport

Bus from Faro

Bus to Sagres

Other Algarve Guides

Algarve Tourism

Albufeira Tourism

Faro Tourism

Tavira Tourism

Other Portugal Destinations

Lisbon Beaches

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A guide to Lagos, Portugal

Updated On 9th March, 2024

‘I had only planned to spent 2, maybe 3, days in Lagos. I’m not sure what happened?’

Yep, I can confirm the rumours are indeed true, Lagos will  get you, in the best of ways . After 2 weeks and many failed attempts to leave, I have officially drawn myself away from this little pocket of paradise on the Algarve, here in the South of  Portugal  to continue my road trip around the country.

In this Lagos travel guide, I am going to share with you all the reasons I fell in love with this gorgeous town, the best places to see and the things you must add to your bucket list!

Lagos is one of the  best places to spend your time in Portugal . There are so many beautiful things to do and see in Lagos, making it very easy to fill your time (and lose track of it).

When  planning a trip to Portugal , many will have the Algarve and the likes of Lagos at the top of their list. Why? This region,  Portugal ‘s southern-most, is famous for its golden beaches, surf hotspots, coastal resorts and warm year-round climate. An incredibly sought-after location for obvious reasons, particularly in the late  European summer  months for that last squeeze of the summer sun.

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Sagres, Faro or  Lisbon  down to Lagos or planning a holiday here in Lagos itself, this Lagos travel guide will give you the best places to go in Lagos, the best places to eat in Lagos and the best things to do in Lagos. Including my favourite surf spots, restaurants, sunset spots and more.

Other travel guides and blog posts you may enjoy:

• A 2-week Portugal road trip itinerary
• A guide to driving from England to Portugal
• A guide to Lisbon, Portugal
• A guide to Nazaré, Portugal: Home to the biggest wave in the world
• Europe: The ultimate travel guide
• The best things to do in Europe: a Europe bucket list
• 22 top tips for travelling in Europe
• Hidden gems in Europe that you must visit

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A guide to exploring Lagos

How do you get to Lagos?

If you’re arriving internationally, by plane, into Lagos then you have two options…

• The nearest airport to Lagos is Faro (FAO), only a 86km / 1 hour drive away.
• Lisbon (LIS) is your other option, Lagos is a 2hr 46 drive if you’re flying into the capital!

I actually drove all the way from England to Portugal before making my way down to Lagos. So if you’re keen on planning a similar road trip to Portugal from the UK consider catching  the ferry from Dover to Calais.

Read my best things to do and see in Portugal  here.

Where’s the best place to stay in Lagos?

Lagos is a pretty small town so it’s very easy to get around to the main attractions. I’d decide your location depending on what you plan to do when you’re in town? If you’re looking for a…

• weekend break – stay in the Old Town!
• surf break – i assume you have a car to chase the surf so stay wherever!
• party break – stay in the Old Town
• van life campsite – the main campsite is Parque de Campismo da Trindade
• The Surf Experience – if you’re looking for the super cool surf hostel and lesson vibes!

The best places to eat and drink in Lagos

Oh gosh. So many. Here are a few of my favourite places to eat and drink in Lagos from experience.

• The Green Room – the BEST tacos and cocktails
• Black and White – Coffee lovers (get your Oatly fix)
• Restaurante A Forja – Local Portuguese food
• Natur’all – Healthy living cafe
• Mullen’s – Filled with character and Portuguese dishes (the Duck dish is AMAZING as was the fresh fish).
• Real Portuguese Cuisine – order the Portuguese bacalhau (cod fish)

The best things to do in Lagos

1. go surfing.

You literally cannot come to Lagos and not get in the water. When staying in Lagos you have access to so many beaches nearby including the main Lagos beaches and so many more on the south and west coast. There are waves suitable for all abilities so check the waves and hire yourself a board.

Some beaches to check out:

• Porto do Mos
• Praia Da Luz
• Tonel, Sagres
• Praia da Arrifana
• Praia do Amado

Looking for a surf school? I can highly recommend The Surf Experience in Lagos and Dream Sea surf camp on the west coast!

2. Explore the Old Town of Lagos

Filled with the colourful patterned tiles, buildings, cafes, doorways and houses that Portugal does so beautifully, the Old Town of Lagos is nothing short of charming.

You can spend an entire day here wandering through the cobbled streets and browsing the little surf shops, cafes and squares.

Lagos Old Town has an old romantic feel to it, almost like you’re in a movie. If you’re lucky enough to witness the sound of live music welcoming you as you step around the street corners, I have no doubt you’ll fall in love a little harder than before.

Should you wish to dive into the energy of the historic roots Lagos is grounded in, be sure to head to the Slave Market Museum, the Forte Ponta da Bandeira or Igreja de Santo António (to name a few).

Incase you’re looking for a tattoo… My gorgeous friend Ruby lives here and does incredible stick and poke tattoos. Check her Instagram here @rubytuesdayashh

3. Enjoy sunset or sunrise at Ponte da Piedade

It’s likely that you’ll have come across a picture of Ponte da Piedade if you’ve done any research on Lagos prior to reading this blog post. Gorgeous isn’t it?

Just a couple minute drive from Lagos centre, this famous headland shows off a group of rock formations consisting of yellow-golden clifflike rocks standing up to 20 metres high.

There’s a free car park right by the headland so it’s super easy to jump out if you’re pushed for time. I would also highly recommend exploring more of the coastline here, don’t just limit yourself to getting ‘that shot’ and leaving. It’s a gorgeous area to walk around and even more so at sunrise with a coffee or sunset with a bottle of wine!

4. Eat traditional Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante A Forja

Make sure you tuck into some traditional Portuguese dishes whilst you’re visiting Portugal. I actually never got around to eating at this restaurant but my Portuguese friends recommended this restaurant straight off the cuff when I asked him.

If it’s given the seal of approval by a local, you can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

5. Check out the local beaches

Change up your beach day locations and make sure you tick off a few of the gorgeous beaches surrounding Lagos including:

6. Have a Meia Praia beach day

Meia Praia beach is the largest beach in the Lagos region and is the perfect place to pitch up and relax for the day. The 4km continuous stretch of golden sand that makes up Meia Praia is so big, it never really feels crowded even on those summer days. The sand is super fine here and there are a few dreamy beach bars dotted along for a lunchtime refreshment/evening cocktail.

7. Coffee and brunch at Black and White

Part of me feels guilty for seeking out a western brunch spot when I travel because I guess I feel we should embrace the local way of doing things?

However, balance is the key to everything… right?

Oatly flat white and avo on toast for breakfast, Portuguese tarts for lunch? 

No, but seriously, the coffee and brunch are amazing here! I also went to  InLight yoga studio  around the corner for a Vinyasa class and sound healing after if anyone looking for some well-being options in Lagos.

8. Kayaking / SUP around the coastline

If surfing isn’t your thing, take to the water with a SUP/kayak. One thing you cannot leave Lagos without exploring is the coastline!

There are lots of tour desks by the marina so if you’re seeking to browse and find the perfect activity to you, I’d recommend heading there for some inspiration!

9. Take a day trip to the caves at Benagil

Possibly the most visited spot on the Algarve… but hey, there’s a very good reason for it.  See image below.

Located along the southern coast of the central Algarve (east of Lagos) between the popular tourist destinations of Praia do Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra, Benagil is a small fishing village made famous in recent years because of the caves it hosts on its coastline.

You can access the caves by boat, SUP or kayak, depending on your preferences.

We rented a double kayak from the beachfront at 9am for €40 (2 hours) and explored the caves and beaches in the first light. This is a great idea to avoid the swarms of tourists also!

10. Boat tour

Another incredible way to see the Algarve and its gorgeous coastline is by boat. You can jump on a boat tour / rent a boat to gain this stunning perspective of the rock formations. If you choose to take this option you can tick off two activities at once and get up close and personal with Ponte da Piedade.

Head to Marina de Lagos to chat with the tour / boat companies and to book your boat adventure!

Have you been to Lagos, Portgal?

What are the best things to do in Lagos, Portgal? Anything you’d add to this Lagos, Portgal bucket list?

Love as always and happy adventuring… 

Mollie Bylett

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Privacy overview.

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3 Get around
• 5.1 Beaches
• 5.2 Water activities
• 5.3 Vehicles
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Lagos is a city of 31,000 people (2011) in the Algarve , in the south of Portugal . It is dominated by up to 50 metre high limestone and sandstone cliffs. The city is located at the mouth of the Bensafrim river, and has a beautiful old town with narrow streets and many pubs and restaurants.

Understand [ edit ]

The settlement history of the region around Lagos ( LAH-goosh , /ˈɫa.guʃ/) goes back to the Neolithic Age. Evidence for this can be found in the numerous menhirs, such as the Menir da Cabeça do Rochedo.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the port of Lagos was the starting point for numerous expeditions. A slave market developed in the city. The slaves were transported to Portugal from the Nigerian city of Lagos.

During an earthquake in 1755, the city was devastated by a huge tidal wave.

Today the small town of Lagos is a district town, the district of Lagos also includes the smaller towns of Bensafrim, Luz and Odiaxere. Typical for this "rocky Algarve" are strong waves and strong winds coming from the Atlantic from the west.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

The nearest airport is Faro ( FAO  IATA ), about 75 km from Lagos. Or you fly to Lisbon.

By bus [ edit ]

• 37.10718 -8.67635 1 Bus station

Both intercity buses and regional buses go to the bus station. From several cities like Lisbon, Faro and Porto intercity buses operate to the town.

By train [ edit ]

• 37.1082 -8.6714 2 Train station

To get to Lagos by train from Lisboa , take the train to Faro and get off in Tunes, a few stops before Faro. Then take the train to Lagos. The schedules are timed so that you only have to wait a few minutes.

By car [ edit ]

To get to Lagos from Faro – to where many fly in from all over Europe - you take the A22 and it's about a 1-hour drive (rather fast). You also can take the 125 west, the older road, that takes you through about half of the western Algarve. The 125 brings you closer to some of the interesting towns and villages of the Western Algarve. These include Albufeira , Carvoeiro, Ferragudo, Porches — with the famous Porches Pottery — Alvor, Praia da Rocha, and then Lagos.

From Sagres (pronounced Sagresh) almost the most Western point in the Algarve you take the 125 east and drive through Salema , Burgau and Luz (pronounced Loosh ). These small towns are beach communities that are undergoing massive construction to house retirees from the UK and Germany and to a lesser extent from the rest of Europe. English is very common although the number of Americans is small. The drive takes about 30 minutes at reasonable speed.

Get around [ edit ]

Lagos is a small city; you can pretty much walk everywhere. Walk to the beautiful sandy golden beaches.

The schedules and prices of city buses are included in Google Maps. Tickets can be bought inside the bus. E-hailing is available by Bolt and Uber; other taxis are abundant.

A reasonable way to move along the main attractions is using the tourist hop-on/hop-off train , which completes round-trip around the city in about an hour. One ride is €4 and a day ticket €5 (Jan 2024).

See [ edit ]

There is a great variety of things to see; The city centre is sculpted with traditional architecture and colours from the region. Beaches vary in shape and style from long sandy beaches to almost private ones hidden by cliffs. Ponta da Piedade is a beautiful spot with a nice lighthouse from where you can make boat tours to the natural caves. The harbour in the morning is full of activity, if you like to wake up early don't miss it. Also the fish market is an interesting spot.

The old town and the small beaches around Lagos are worth seeing. You should also see the cliffs, either on foot from the cliff path or from the boat. The old fortress at the port entrance is also worth seeing. An exhibition is housed inside.

• 37.1039 -8.6736 4 Capela dos Ossos ( Bone Chapel ), Igreja do São Sebastiano . There is a small bone chapel on the side of this church, and one of several in the Algarve region (others at Faro and Alcantarilha). You may have to pay €2 to enter the chapel, the bell tower and the church, but the view from the bell tower is worth the price.  
• 37.099493 -8.671313 6 Museu municipal ( Museu de Lagos Dr. José Fermosinho ). A museum in an annex of a baroque church, showcasing archaeological and artistic exhibits of regional history.  

Do [ edit ]

Lagos has things to do for just about anyone, from the relaxing beaches to the exciting dolphin tours.

• The Mountain Bike Adventure , Rua Porta Da Vila . The Mountain Bike Adventure provides all types of guided mountain bike rides in the Algarve. All the guides are qualified mountain bike instructors and they have rides to suit every level and fitness. One of the most popular being a ride starting at the highest point of the Algarve (902 m) and descending nearly to sea level. They also provide a shuttle service on the mountain for the brave. From €30.  

Beaches [ edit ]

There is the 37.09769 -8.66797 2 Praia da Batata in Lagos (right across the main road) which is an absolutely beautiful location. Walking along Estr. da Ponta da Piedade a few hundred metres before the lighthouse (after passing a café and Camila beach on your left), find a concrete fencepost on your right decorated with a spray-painted eye, mouth, and two teeth. Enter the path it marks, which will take you to the edge of the cliff. A bit north (to your right) there is a cove accessible only by boat or by a rather narrow hidden mud slope with a rope pegged to the top. There are a number of beautiful, although perhaps dangerous, walks along the top of the cliffs.

Another fantastic beach is 37.1094 -8.6619 3 Meia Praia , just the other side of the Marina. It is a huge beach with a variety of beach bars to cool off in, and widely renowned as one of the best beaches in the Algarve.

Water activities [ edit ]

One of the more popular events in Lagos are the Dolphin Tours , with 3 companies offering tours to see dolphins. Whilst you might be unlucky and not see a dolphin, it's still worth it if you've ever wanted a ride on a high powered boat. All 3 of the companies are based in the Lagos Marina.

• Sea kayaks can be rented during the summer from quite a few different locations.
• Boat tours of the grottos leave from the harbour, and cost €10 per person. The grotto tours offered at the port are overpriced. If you go to the Farol da Ponta da Piedade lighthouse west of the city and then go down about 200 steps on the cliffs, so you come to a small pier where fishermen wait for passengers. For €20 per person you can take a 30-minute cave tour to Ponta da Piedade.

Vehicles [ edit ]

There are companies within Lagos that offer rentals of buggies and bikes, for a more exciting drive around town and a breathtaking way to take in the wonderful scenery of South West Portugal.

See Portimão for the Formula One racetrack to the north.

Buy [ edit ]

Southern Portugal is famous for its ceramics, and Lagos won't let you down. Ceramic dishes and tiles of all price ranges, styles, and colors are available. Some stores don't provide boxes for your goods, only newspaper wrapping, so ask before you buy, if it matters to you.

Portugal is also famous for its cork, in fact it's one of the largest cork producing countries on Earth. A short walk through almost any section of the town will reveal shops selling all kinds of cork products, from the usual coasters and placemats, right up to shoes, hats and handbags. Just as a note though, cork can be very expensive.

There is sometimes a small fair in front of the church near the harbor where unique clothing can be bought.

• 37.104208 -8.673087 1 Mercado Municipal , Avenida dos Descobrimentos . M-Sa, closed Sa afternoon and Su . The beautiful market hall from 1924, which has been modernized, offers fresh fish and seafood, among other things. ( updated Feb 2021 )

Eat [ edit ]

There are some wonderful family run operations in Lagos. Many of the restaurants are starving for business in the off peak time and will go way out of their way to make your visit to their restaurant a pleasurable experience. A regional speciality is chicken piri piri, barbecued chicken with the now famous piri piri sauce, truly delicious! Another local dish is the salted cod, which allegedly had 365 ways of being served, one for each day of the year. The sardines in the Algarve are of the best in the world and local people cook them on small barbecues on their doorsteps, creating a delicious smell which wafts through the streets!

Some restaurants get really busy that reservations are required several days in advance to get in when you want to. However, this generally applies to the best restaurants in Lagos and is a good sign of the restaurant's popularity, plus it ensures that you avoid disappointment.

Budget [ edit ]

All these are in the city center:

• 37.099427 -8.672304 1 Beats & Burritos , Tv. do Cotovelo 4 . Amazing build-your-own burritos and spiced pinto beans dip and nachos. A little funky but good. Nice music, nice vibe. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.100875 -8.6738 2 Casinha do Petisco , R. da Oliveira 51 . The kindest family owned restaurant, the cook is so sweet. The mixed Cataplana is amazing as are the desserts. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.100794 -8.674176 3 Arc da Velha , R. do Ferrador 22 . Personalized and delicious experience. The grilled tuna and pork rojoes in particular are great. The owner is busy but makes sure to make you feel at home. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.101861 -8.673997 4 Mimar , R. António Barbosa Viana 27 . Excellent tapas and very friendly service staff. Food is amazing. Very unique and flavorful. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.102984 -8.673678 5 Momo Express , R. Dr. António José de Almeida 14A . Delicious authentic Nepalese food. For a good price you get a solid portion of homemade noodles. Lots of choice of dishes and the kindest service. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.100364 -8.672074 6 Jukebox Tapas , R. Soeiro da Costa 40A . Small tapas bar, friendly service. The food is just great. The restaurant is owned by Luis who operates front of house and his friend who is the chef. They only have 6 tables and booking is the only form of entry available. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 37.0999 -8.672 7 Don Toro Angus Steak House , Rua Lançarote de Freitas 12 , ☏ +351 282 764 234 . Steak house that serves excellent cuts of meat, available in various sizes to suit all appetites. Perhaps the best place in Lagos for a steak. The restaurant is by no means big, so as a result it does get full, therefore it is recommended that you either book a table in advance or eat early on. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.0993 -8.6728 8 No Patio , Rua Lançarote de Freitas 46 , ☏ +351 282 763 777 . Tu–Sa 19:00–23:00 . Perhaps one of the best restaurants, if not the best, in Lagos. Diners sit in a romantic courtyard to the rear of the building and served fine food freshly cooked on the premises, with the menus changing on a regular basis. The owner is also on hand and talks to the customers to ensure everybody is having a good meal. A reservation in advance is recommended, and is pretty much essential in the high season, which highlights just how popular this place is - you will not be disappointed!. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.0986 -8.6726 9 Nah Nah Bah , Travessa do Forno 11 , ☏ +351 966 207 702 , [email protected] . Th–Su 10:00–21:00 . Fresh produce, bold flavors, comfy couches and an island atmosphere has made Nah Nah Bah a local & international favorite. Voted Top 50 Burger Joints in the world. ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ].

Lagos bars are quite fun, catering to the young back-packing crowds. Often one can find a Brit or American helping to serve drinks (for a little under the table wage). For a drink what packs a punch, try the traditional Algarve drink, Medronho, better known as fire water, another Algarve drink is the almond liqueur, delicious after a big meal!

Sleep [ edit ]

There is a large youth hostel in the centre of the city. However, if you arrive in Lagos by bus there will usually be people there asking if you need accommodation. These are generally cheap and small, and a great option. There is a campsite near where the N125 crosses Estr. da Ponta da Piedade

• 37.1029 -8.6753 1 Casa Mãe , Rua do Jogo da Bola 41 , ☏ +351 968 369 732 , [email protected] . Casa Mae is a lifestyle boutique hotel with much local crafts context. Spacious, with open kitchen restaurant and huge terrace, the design is a product of collaborations with Portuguese artisans and designers. An ambitious project with a casual and friendly atmosphere - Casa Mae publishes an in-house magazine, has its own farm feeding its farm to table restaurant, Orta, and curates a concept store with Portuguese design pieces. From €125 .  
• 37.0994 -8.6736 2 Gold Coast Hostel , Rua Gil Vicente 48 , ☏ +351 926 969 495 , [email protected] . Great hostel close to the town centre and beaches. Free internet, free breakfast, nice terrace. The staff is super helpful.  
• 37.1112 -8.6725 3 Marina Club Lagos Resort , Marina de Lagos 20 , ☏ +351 282 790 600 , [email protected] . In the Lagos Marina, the Marina Club hotel has some really excellent views, the rooms are clean and well presented, and the staff are all very efficient and friendly.  
• 37.0988 -8.6726 4 Rising Cock Hostel , Travessa do Forno 14 , ☏ +351 282 087 630 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The Rising Cock was the first private hostel of Lagos. Named one of the best party hostel in the world by the Off Track Planet, the hostel offers a family atmosphere. Different events are offered every day. €25 .  

Connect [ edit ]

Lagos and most of the Algarve coast has 4G from all Portuguese carriers. The city center also largely has 5G coverage.

Go next [ edit ]

If you want to get away from the backpacking tourists, head to Vila do Bispo, an hour away by bus. From the Vila do Bispo bus stop it's about 5 km to the beach. It's not a bad walk, and there are hiking trails that head off into the hills if you're interested too. The beaches are gorgeous and seem to never end. Beaches are clothing optional, but most people are clothed.

• Beaches of Salema and Luz, both outside the city.
• Monchique town/spa(mountain).
• City of Silves (moorish castle).
• Burgau, lovely example of a traditional fishing village and fantastic beach.
• Lagos is the western terminus of the longest train itinerary possible in the world (provided the services aren't cancelled); see Portugal to Singapore by train for details.

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• Jul 6, 2022

Lagos in Portugal: A Complete Travel Guide

Updated: Jan 19

Want to visit the Algarve but don't know where you want to base yourself from? Lagos in Portugal is the perfect choice for you. It is a charming port town that boasts dramatic natural scenery. Thanks to its proximity to beautiful beaches and the historic town center, it is not surprising that many travelers fall in love with Lagos. However, despite its popularity, this town has been able to retain its authentic Portuguese character.

Check out our video on Lagos to get a sense of what it's like there!

Where is Lagos and how to get there?

Lagos is situated in southern Portugal's Algarve region. The easiest way to get there if you come from outside Lisbon is by plane. You can fly to Faro airport and from there go to Lagos. From Lagos, there are direct busses and trains to both Faro and Lisbon, but there are only a few per day. Private transport is also an option, while being more expensive it is sometimes the easiest way to get from Faro's airport to Lagos. Here you can find more information on how to get from Lisbon to Lagos .

Important things to know before you go to Lagos in Portugal

The best time to visit Lagos is from May until June. In the summer it can get very warm so that's why spring is better. However, if you mostly enjoy staying at the beach and swimming, the summer might be best!

Lagos is a very safe travel destination, the only dangerous situations you might encounter are nature-related. Be careful in the water and especially when the waves are strong because there are lots of rocks.

Find more tips in the graphic below (and feel free to pin it!)

Where to eat and drink in Lagos

Portugal is known for its amazing cuisine. From delicious seafood dishes to pastéis de nata , there is something for everyone. Since Lagos is located along the sea, most of the local dishes are with fresh fish. It is a touristic city so there are a lot of restaurants but we'll show you our favorites.

Best restaurants in Lagos:

If you're a burger fan Nah Nah Bah will be heaven for you. It is named one of the best burger places in the world. Nah Nah Bah also has amazing sangria and some craft beers and wine.

Living the healthy life? Poké Lagos is the perfect place for you. They have a wide range of poké bowls or you can build your own bowl with all your favorite ingredients. Poké Lagos also has homemade drinks, elixirs, and smoothie bowls.

Want to try local dishes? You should go to Ala do Castelo and Dos Irmãos . They have excellent seafood and local dishes such as "Cataplana" which is like a Portuguese fish stew.

Best bars in Lagos:

Are you a cocktail fan? Black Cat has a 2 for 1 deal on cocktails. Everyone is very nice here and the music is great. If you want to have a fun evening with amazing cocktails this is the bar to be.

Three Monkeys is the most iconic bar in Lagos. Chilled afternoon happy-hours, early evening sundowners with live music and party until late with the friendliest crowd.

Where to stay in Lagos

Casa Augusta: this is where we stayed and loved it. The location is perfect, right in the heart of the town. It was also clean and affordable!

Uma Casa a Beira Sol : this guest house has a swimming pool but is a bit outside the city center of Lagos (a 5-minute drive)

Belmar Spa & Beach Resort : A bit more pricey, but this resort overlooks the beautiful beach of Porto de Mos and offers a wide range of luxurious spa treatments and an outdoor pool. Studios and apartments typically have a private kitchen with dishwasher and coffee machine.

Things to do in Lagos

We stayed in Lagos for a week and loved it. There are multiple things to do when you're visiting Lagos in Portugal but we will highlight our absolute favorites. If you want to learn more about other places in the country, you can also check out our Portugal Travel Guide .

6. Hit The Beach

Due to its year-round pleasant weather, one of the best things to do in Lagos is to hit the beach. Characterized by flanking rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and white sand, Lagos is home to many beaches that are perfect to relax and swim in. Our favorite beaches for swimming include the sandy Duna Beach , the beautiful Praia de Dona Ana , Praia dos Estudantes , Praia da Batata , and Praia do Camilo .

5. Explore Downtown Lagos

The downtown of Lagos is home to whitewashed houses and narrow cobbled streets, filled with cozy restaurants and cafés. This is all within partially-contained 16th-century walls. It’s just fun to wander around, have a bite or drink, and relax. But if you want to learn a bit more about Lagos’ past, you can also visit an old fort ( forte da Ponte da Bandeira ) , the iconic churches ( Santo Antonio or Santa Maria Church ) , or one of the museums, for example Museu de Lagos dr. josé formosinho . It’s also a pleasure to roam around the traditional houses and check out the pretty harbour .

4. Walk The Cliffs

Starting at Praia do Pinhao , you can walk 3 kilometers of coastal cliffs all the way to the famous Ponta da Piedade . Winding above eccentric limestone formations and through diverse flora and fauna, this trail is truly special. Adventure lovers will find joy in getting lost and then navigating their way back to the path throughout the route. Even though the trail is not well-marked, you can just keep walking south the whole time along the cliffs and you’ll make it to Ponta da Piedade. Don’t get too close to the cliffs, they are limestone and can erode easily. When hiking in the Algarve always make sure you have enough water with you, it can get very warm during the day.

Check out the hiking trail here

3. Watch the most beautiful sunset in Portugal at Ponta da Piedade

Sitting 3.5 kilometers from the city center of Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is one of the most amazing natural sites to see in the area. Jagged limestone cliffs and hidden caves take center stage while pounding waves make beautiful music in the background. There is a boardwalk as well as small cliff trails that line the edges, winding around the magnificent lighthouse. We recommend arriving at the point an hour or so before sunset. In this way, you can get a little exercise in before rewarding yourself with one of the most beautiful sunset spots in all of Portugal!

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2. Do a "grutas" boat tour or kayak tour

There are hundreds of caves and strange rock formations that go along the coast from Batata Beach to Ponta da Piedade . While it’s fun to walk along the top of the cliffs, it’s even more impressive to see them from the ocean level. You have a few options for guided tours of these special cliffs. You can either go on a guided kayak or boat tour that leaves from downtown Lagos. While the kayak is more adventurous, it can also be a little rough because of weather conditions! book your own kayak or boat tour to the caves.

1. Plan a day trip to Benagil cave

Located about 35 kilometers from Lagos, The Benagil Cave is an amazing natural attraction in the Algarve. You can get to the cave by rental car or by boat tour directly from Lagos. Keep in mind that if you choose the boat tour, you won’t be able to see the inside of the cave since the boat is too big. That’s why we recommend renting a car or scooter to get to the cave and then renting a kayak at the beach itself. This will allow you to enter the inside of one of the most beautiful caves you’ll ever see. If you prefer not being alone at sea, we recommend taking a guided kayaking tour . With three limestone openings that have been formed over millions of years, the Benagil cave is something out of this world!

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Did you enjoy our article on Lagos in Portugal? Make sure to download our free giveaway , which includes our summer travel packing list so you know perfectly what to pack when going to Lagos.

More Helpful Info About Lagos in Portugal

If you still need more information about Lagos, make sure to check out these other great articles below:

17 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal (+ Nearby!) by Our Escape Clause

18 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal by 7 Continents 1 Passport

15 Fun things to do in Lagos Portugal by Brainy Backpackers

Need more travel inspiration? Check out our other destinations and articles on Portugal:

Full Portugal Travel Guide

Sintra in Portugal: Day Trip From Lisbon Guide

Lisbon in Portugal: A complete travel guide

10 Amazing Places to Go To When Visiting the Algarve in Portugal

Ericeira Portugal: a complete travel guide to the surfing capital of Europe

Porto city guide: best things to do + travel tips

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Algarve, Portugal: 10 Amazing Places To Visit

Hi! We are Ine & Zac. An international travel couple from Belgium and the US. We created World Wild Hearts to inspire life-changing travel experiences like we've had. Use these tips, stories, and guides to inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

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9 Best Places to Live in Portugal, According to Local Real Estate Experts

Home to beautiful sun-drenched beaches, quaint fishing villages, and bustling cities, Portugal's allure among expats is undeniable.

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In the past decade, Portugal has transformed into one of the most popular European countries for expats — be it digital nomads or retirees — and it's easy to see why. The country has it all: nearly year-round sunny weather; golden-sand beaches ; warm and friendly locals; history that spans hundreds of years; fresh seafood; awe-inspiring landscapes that span rolling hills and vineyards, lush mountains, and scenic valleys; and a laid-back lifestyle.

Even better, that lifestyle comes at a more affordable price than any other western European country. Portugal is also an easy direct flight away from the East Coast, and it's connected to many other global destinations thanks to its three international airports: Lisbon, Porto to the north, and Faro to the south.

So, where in Portugal should you settle down? From charming fishing villages to vibrant Lisbon and Porto, we asked local real estate agents for the top markets and places to live in Portugal.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's enchanting capital is a sight to behold — set on seven hills (just like Rome), Lisbon is a treasure trove of historic and modern districts, many with waterfront views, historic landmarks, buildings clad in traditional azulejo ceramic tiles, small neighborhood restaurants, and coffee shops filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked pasteis de nata , Portugal's famous custard tarts.

"Depending on the desired lifestyle, there are neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique and Avenidas Novas where life can be lived 'entirely on foot' without the need for a car. If you're looking for a more sophisticated area, nothing beats the axis of Avenida da Liberdade, Chiado, Príncipe Real, and Amoreiras. On the other hand, if you prefer a more sporty lifestyle, the areas along the Tagus River — namely, Belém, Alcântara, 24 de Julho, Beato, and Parque das Nações — are ideal," Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate , told Travel + Leisure.

However, he explained, due to the high demand and low supply growth, real estate prices constantly increase, especially in central areas.

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This former quaint fishing village north of Lisbon is a luxury home destination that doesn't lack character.

"With cultural attractions such as the historic center and the Citadel Palace, along with recreational amenities like stunning beaches and the renowned Boca do Inferno, Cascais offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury," Marta Bettencourt, a broker with Modern , said. The area is especially popular with families because it's home to excellent international schools and many kid-friendly facilities and parks.

Cláudia Ferreira of Casaiberia explained that Estoril, Birre, and Quinta da Marinha are some of the most popular districts for single-family homes, while Monte Estoril, downtown Cascais, and Gandarinha are favored for apartments.

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Dubbed the " Hamptons of Portugal ," Comporta is a hidden gem, just an hour south of Lisbon and home to about 1,500 residents. 

"The history of the Herdade of Comporta dates to 1836, with the rice fields being an integral part of its landscape, but Comporta has recently gained renown for its breathtaking natural surroundings, including white-sand beaches, dunes, and expansive rice fields," Modern broker Filipa Melo explained. 

Stylish, modern villas, residences in new developments, and historic homes are all options for homebuyers here. And just like in any other beachfront location, the closer the home is to the ocean, the higher its price tag.

"The allure of Comporta lies in its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a magnet for individuals searching for a peaceful and exclusive retreat," Melo added. "The area offers upscale amenities, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops, further contributing to its reputation as a destination for those seeking an upscale and discreet escape."

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Portugal's second-largest city is known for its scenic riverfront dotted with wine-tasting rooms and vibrantly hued houses, but to its residents, the city is also a bustling economic hub with a burgeoning tech and startup economy.

"Living in Porto is embracing a distinctive blend of tranquility and liveliness. The city, maintaining a unique essence, offers a high quality of life, outstanding education, and a harmonious work-life balance," Lopes explained, also noting that Porto's winters tend to be cold and rainy, which "might challenge those unaccustomed to such climates."

According to him, a couple without children would need about €2,000 per month to live comfortably in Porto. 

In terms of neighborhoods, he recommended Bonfim and Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos for families and Foz do Douro and Cedofeita for those seeking a lively setting with bars, restaurants, and markets.

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You've probably seen photos of Sintra's Pena Palace, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. But this historic mountain town, full of sprawling villas and royal estates, also offers a quaint and picturesque home setting just about 30 minutes from bustling Lisbon.

"[Sintra] is divided into two facets: the historic old town — a tourist magnet — and the new town, pulsating with activity," said Lopes. "In the new town, modern conveniences thrive, including shopping malls, multinational companies, and leisure centers."

Another draw? The destination has a mild climate, so those not fond of Lisbon's hot summers will find solace here. Lopes added that Sintra has become a haven for remote workers "seeking a peaceful escape." Real estate prices hover around 2,258 euros per square meter (prices in Cascais, for example, are almost double that).

Silver Coast

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North of Lisbon, this breathtaking area, which stretches from Aveiro to Torres Vedras, is emerging as a more affordable, under-the-radar destination for expats. While the Atlantic waters here are much chillier, the region offers a wealth of natural, historic, and cultural attractions (including many UNESCO-listed sites) that keep its residents active.

"Choosing to reside on the Silver Coast is a fantastic decision for expats in Portugal, especially those seeking seaside views, more affordable living, and a peaceful environment,"said Lopes. "Small cities, friendly locals, and an undiscovered expat community create a unique atmosphere."

Aveiro, also known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its canals, is chock-full of architectural gems and art nouveau buildings. White-sand beaches frequented by surfers and fresh seafood add to Aveiro's allure among expats. Further south, Mira is home to one of Portugal's best beaches, Praia de Mira, according to Lopes.

Algarve Villages

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The notoriously scenic south of Portugal is home to many cities, towns, and villages, along with a vibrant, English-speaking expat community (especially retirees) hailing from the U.K. and U.S.

Alvor, for example, a former fishing village that has kept much of its character and historic charm, has a bustling main drag and a wide, white-sand beach that fills up with visitors come summer.

Just about seven miles east, Ferragudo has narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere, Lopes explained. "It has managed to maintain a more authentic and less touristy [vibe], and has been seen as the Algarve's little treasure," he added. 

Similarly, Carvoeiro and Lagoa attract those seeking small-town living and a quieter lifestyle.

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Algarve's capital blends city amenities like an international airport, a university, administrative institutions, and retail destinations with the region's signature laid-back lifestyle.

"Faro offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions. It has a charming old downtown and is a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park," explained Lopes. 

Before purchasing property here or in another town in the Algarve, Lopes recommends seeking legal advice from a local solicitor or lawyer specializing in real estate transactions in Portugal and exploring the various residency options available to non-European Union citizens. Remember that the popular Golden Visa program, which allowed foreigners to live in the country for five years after a real estate investment, underwent significant changes in 2023 .

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This beautiful city in the western Algarve, located along the Bensafrim River and Atlantic, is known for its rugged coastline dotted with caves, stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic downtown. Lopes pointed out two of its most well-known landmarks are the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and nearby Dona Ana Beach. 

In the Algarve, the median home prices have risen by six percent since October 2022, and a single square meter now costs $2,272, according to a report by GlobalPropertyGuide.com.

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