Lagos (Portugal) – Discover one of the most beautiful cities in the Algarve

1. The old center of Lagos

The old town of Lagos is a timeless place full of small boutiques, cozy restaurants and traditional cafes. Here you can enjoy delicious local specialties, such as the famous pastel de nata : a sweet puff pastry that you should definitely try, or the slightly spicy piri piri chicken dishes that will tickle your taste buds.

But besides Portuguese dishes you will also find delicacies from other countries such as Mexican, Hawaiian (poké bowl!) and Italian. You can dine out in a fancy French restaurant with four courses or visit an affordable all-you-can-eat sushi buffet for less than €20.

Because most of the area is car-free, it feels safe and quiet, allowing you to enjoy the architecture and atmosphere without potentially getting run over. Don’t forget to also stop by the many small shops with handmade products (for example made of cork) or delicacies from local entrepreneurs.

2. Ponta de Piedade

The Ponta de Piedade is a spectacular stretch of coastline just outside the centre of Lagos. The area is known for its breathtaking views and playful rock formations that rise from the clear blue ocean. Over the centuries, waves, wind and rain have eroded the rocks into countless shapes, creating impressive arches, caves and coves for you to explore.

Below you can see a small video of the Ponta da Piedade that I made with my drone:

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Ponta de Piedade is to take a boat trip along the coastline. From the water, you will have an unparalleled view of the rock formations and caves, and you can even moor in some of them to see them up close. If you are not a fan of boats, you can also take a walk along the cliff paths that stretch along the coast. Here you will enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the ocean and the rugged coastline.

The Ponta de Piedade is not only impressive during the day, but also in the evening when the sun goes down. During sunset, the warm colors in the sky provide a beautiful contrast with the cool blue water of the ocean.

3. Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

The Forte da Ponta da Bandeira is a historic fort in the centre of Lagos, built in the 17th century to protect the city from attacks from the sea. The fort is named after the wooden post that once stood here and served as a marker for the harbour of Lagos.

Today, the fort is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Within the walls of the fort, you will find a mini exhibition on the maritime history of Lagos and the fort itself, focusing on the construction and use of the fortifications.

From the top of the fort you have a beautiful view over the city and the ocean, which makes the visit more than worthwhile.

4. Praia de Porto Mós

Just a short 2.5 kilometre walk from the centre of Lagos lies the inviting Praia de Porto Mós . This wide beach is a popular destination for sun worshippers and is surrounded by high cliffs that protect it from the fresh northern wind. In the summer months it is wonderful to relax on the sand, while in the other seasons you will see many novice surfers trying their luck on the waves. The Algarve is internationally known as a surfing destination for all levels and is therefore the ideal place to take a first surf lesson

Along the beach you will also find two restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious fish meal, made from fresh catch from the ocean. A real recommendation is Campi Mar , where the fish is on ice at the entrance. It is filleted for you at the table. Make sure to book in advance, because you will not be the only one who wants to try their delicious dishes.

5. Igreja de Santo António & Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho

Igreja de Santo António is a beautifully decorated church located in the heart of Lagos. The church was originally built in the 18th century and has undergone several renovations over the years, making it a beautiful example of Baroque architecture in Portugal.

An entrance ticket (€3.50) also gives you access to the adjacent Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho . There you will find a treasure trove of religious art objects and decorations such as statues of saints and decorated ceilings.

One of the most striking features of the church is the wood carving of the altarpiece, which was handmade by master Ambrosius Lopes . In high season there is often a queue outside the entrance, so come early in the day if you don’t fancy waiting.

6. Praia dos Estudantes and the Ponte Romana

A few minutes walk from the historic centre of Lagos, you will find the small Praia dos Estudantes . This beautiful sandy beach is surrounded by the typical cliffs and rocks that the Algarve is rich in and is therefore the perfect place for a nice holiday photo. The beach is not large, but inviting with its calm waters and soft sand. This makes it a popular place for locals to enjoy the sun and the sea.

On the west side of the beach you will find a tunnel through the rocks that leads you to a small neighboring beach. From there you can see the Ponte Romana in the distance , a Roman bridge that connects part of the protruding rocks to the mainland. The bridge dates from the 4th century AD and at that time there was a fort here. This makes it one of the oldest sights in Lagos.

Unfortunately, it is on private property, so you can’t walk above it. You can swim or sail underneath it though!

7. The Port of Lagos (Marina de Lagos)

The Lagos Marina, also known as Marina de Lagos , is a pleasant place opposite the old town centre. You can reach it via the pedestrian bridge or by car to drive over the bridge.

As this is the starting point for many water activities, you can feel the adventure in the air. Stroll along the quay or sit down in one of the many restaurants or bars until your boat trip departs.

Discover on this page the best boat trips off the coast of the Algarve.

8. Meia Praia

Just outside the marina, on the south side, you will find the extensive sandy beach and dune area of ​​Meia Praia . It is one of the largest beaches in the Lagos area and offers more than enough space for the many visitors who come to this beach to enjoy the weather. The further east you walk, the fewer people you will encounter.

Along the beach there are several restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a snack and a drink while looking out over the ocean.

A wooden deck has recently been constructed, so you can walk through the dunes without damaging them!

9. Gil Eanes Square

Gil Eanes Square is a charming square in the historic centre of Lagos, named after the famous Portuguese explorer Gil Eanes. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and here you will find several restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy local Portuguese cuisine and a wide range of international dishes.

In addition, the square is one of the two main locations for events and festivals in Lagos. In high season, there is often live music. Don’t forget to look down at the Calcada Portugesa .

10. Calcada Portuguesa

Calcada Portuguesa is a traditional Portuguese paving style found throughout Portugal, but especially in historic cities such as Lagos. It is a mosaic pattern of small square stones artistically arranged to create unique and colorful patterns.

The technique was first developed in the 15th century and is still used today to beautify pavements, squares and public spaces. In Lagos, Calcada Portuguesa can be found in many places, especially in the historical centre of the city such as Gil Eanes Square. It gives the city a unique look and contributes to the rich history and culture of Portugal.

Besides being beautiful to look at, Calcada Portuguesa also has practical advantages. The stones are non-slip and durable, making it a safe and reliable paving style

11. Jardim da Constituição & Plaza Infante Dom Henrique

The Jardim da Constituição (Constitution Park) and the adjacent Plaza Infante Dom Henrique are the hotspots where the city’s biggest events take place. For example, the Medieval Festival, the Discovery Festival, the Christmas Market and New Year’s Eve are all celebrated here.

Even when there are no events on, it is a nice place to walk along and see the old city walls, the fountain and the adjacent Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos .

12. Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos

The Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos is a beautiful little church in the centre of Lagos that is still very much in use. However, visitors are also welcome to take a look inside to see the decoration, the altar and the sacred art.

Besides the church being used for religious ceremonies and services, weddings are also regularly held here. During Christian events such as the Assunção de Nossa Senhora, there are processions that start and/or end in this church.

Entrance is free, but if you want you can light an (electric?) candle.

1. Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is a breathtakingly beautiful beach just outside the centre of Lagos. To get there, you will have to descend a wooden staircase of about 150 steps, but it is definitely worth the effort.

Once you get down, you will see how the beach, which is less than 20 metres wide, is surrounded by eroded rocks.

During high season it can quickly feel busy, so come in the morning or at the end of the day.

2. Praia de Dona Ana

Praia de Dona Ana is often described as the most beautiful beach in Lagos and it is not hard to see why. It is surrounded by steep cliffs and off the coast there are beautiful rock formations rising out of the water which you can swim around or jump off on calm days.

From the parking lot on top you first come to the viewpoint where on the side the stairs take you to the beach. On the east side there is a restaurant, but you better skip this.

3. Praia dos Estudantes

Praia dos Estudantes is a small beach on the east side of Lagos and is easily accessible on foot from the centre.

You reach this sandy beach via a stone staircase, where you can enjoy shelter from the wind on a windy day thanks to the surrounding cliffs.

Through a carved out (or dug out?) tunnel you reach the neighbouring beach, from where you can see the famous Ponte do Antigo Forte do Pinhão . In the summer, an unofficial party is sometimes held here in the evening for and by young people.

4. Meia Praia

Meia Praia is the largest beach in Lagos with about 4 kilometers of sand and dunes. You can reach it on foot via the pedestrian bridge that connects the center with the harbor, but in high season a ferry also leaves from here to cover the 50 meters by boat for €1.00.

Spread out in the dunes you will find a number of restaurants and beach bars, where you can go for lunch, dinner or a cocktail. In the winter most are closed.

Meia Praia is popular with surfers and as soon as the current comes from the east, you will find many surfers braving the waves around the pier.

5. Praia de Porto Mós

Praia de Porto Mós is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded on both sides by impressive high cliffs. Thanks to the huge parking lot behind the beach, you can always find a parking spot on a sunny day.

If you’re hungry, you’ll be happy at either of the two restaurants located on the beach. Although this is a popular beach with visitors and locals, even in the summer you can find a quiet spot if you walk far enough towards either end.

In the autumn, good waves for beginning surfers can regularly be found here.

1. Boat trip from Lagos along the Ponta de Piedade

One of the most popular activities in Lagos is taking a boat trip along the beautiful coastline of Ponta de Piedade .

While there are many boat trip companies, this one stands out as best reviewed and most adventurous of them all.

2. Kayaking along the coast of Lagos

Another fun sporting activity you can do on the water in Lagos is kayaking along the coastline . During this guided kayak tour, an experienced guide will take you along the impressive coastline and you will see the Ponta de Piedade from below as you paddle along the cliffs and through caves.

This kayak tour is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced kayakers, and is led by expert guides who can tell you all about the nature and history of Lagos.

3. Dolphin spotting off the coast of Lagos

The waters off the coast of Lagos are home to wild dolphins that you will spot on this boat trip. One of the best reviewed tours is on board the Discovery catamaran. This adventure takes you on a relaxing cruise along the coast of Lagos as you search for dolphins.

During this 3.5 hour tour there is also time for snorkeling and to enjoy the healthy snacks on board. This dolphin excursion is suitable for the whole family and is a fantastic way to discover the beauty of the Algarve from the water.

4. Visit the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos

A nice little museum to spend an hour or two with the whole family is the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos. Here you can learn all about the history of shipping and the techniques they used to navigate the oceans.

Although most of the experiments are aimed at younger visitors, adults can also learn a few interesting facts from one of the many interactive objects found in the museum.

The museum has two floors and a garden with some play equipment.

5. Boat trip to the Benagil cave from Lagos

One of the most spectacular sights in the Lagos area is the Benagil Cave , a natural cave on the Algarve coastline. To admire this cave up close, the best thing to do is to take a boat trip from Lagos.

This boat trip takes you along the breathtaking Algarve coastline, with its impressive rock formations and cliffs overlooking the ocean. After about 30 minutes you will reach the Benagil Cave, a huge cave with an opening in the ceiling that lets in sunlight.

The cave is only accessible by water and is an absolute highlight of your stay in Lagos.

6. E-bike excursion around Lagos

The Lagos area offers beautiful scenery to explore by bike. For the adventurous cyclists there is this guided bike tour with an E-bike along some of the beautiful sights in and around Lagos.

This excursion starts in Lagos, from where you will visit many highlights of the area such as the Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana, Porto de Mos and the viewpoint over Praia da Luz.

A bottle of water, insurance and helmet are included, as well as the always cheerful guide!

7. Classic Food Tour in Lagos

Foodies take note! The best way to immerse yourself in Portuguese cuisine is this classic food tour where you will visit 4 restaurants in 3 hours to taste 10 different typical Algarve dishes.

Think of flambéed chorizo ​​and grilled octopus, but also traditional sweets from the region.

At each location you will of course also receive a drink and information about the dishes. The morning variant includes a visit to the local market. Make sure you come with an empty stomach, because there is more than enough food!

8. Take surfing lessons in Lagos

One of the most favorite activities of visitors and locals who come to Lagos is surfing! Since there are often good waves in the area, you will also find many surf schools where you can book a surf lesson .

Whether you are a beginner or advanced, an introductory or advanced class is the best way to improve your skills.

If there are no waves on the south coast on the day of your surf lesson, they will take you to the west coast where there are always waves to be found

9. Visit the Zoomarine Algarve

The Zoomarine Algarve is a theme park and aquarium located just a short 30-minute drive from Lagos. This water park offers a range of activities for all ages and interests, from educational presentations about dolphins, sea lions and birds to interactive attractions such as the Ferris wheel, water slides and lazy river.

The park also has a swimming pool with wave pool and several restaurants and snack bars.

10. Offroad quad tour around Lagos

There are also various adrenaline-producing activities on land, such as this tough off-road quad tour through the interior of the Algarve.

Get on a quad bike alone or together and tear over hills and through valleys accompanied by a guide who shares his knowledge about the region and its history along the way. Children from 10 years old are allowed on the back, but every driver must have a driving license.

Naturally, the excursion starts with instructions on how to drive a quad and the most important traffic rules.

11. Animal watching at Zoo de Lagos

Lagos Zoo is a fun medium sized zoo just 10 minutes drive from Lagos city centre. Come and see all the diverse species that live here such as swinging monkeys, penguins, meerkats, tortoises and huge pelicans.

The zoo has a beautifully landscaped area, with lots of greenery and trees that provide shade on hot days. Make sure you come around feeding time, when the animals are most active.

The zoo also has a small pool where children can swim next to the penguins and a restaurant where you can get something to eat and drink.

12. Skydive over the beautiful Algarve coastline

Conquer your fears and step out of a plane at 10,000 or 15,000 feet on a  skydive in the Algarve . Check off this bucket list item as you free fall for 20 or 70 seconds, feeling the ground getting closer and closer. After your instructor deploys your parachute, you’ll slowly float toward the landing site, taking in the stunning Algarve coastline.

If you prefer to see the ground approach you a little more slowly, then take a paraglide and let the wind take you along the beautiful Algarve coast on a paraglider or paratrike.

Optionally you can have photos or a video taken of your adventure so you have evidence for the home front! The departure point is the small airport at Alvor, which is a short thirty minute drive from Lagos.

1. Henri’s Apartments

The nicely decorated Henri’s Apartments are located in the heart of Lagos, within walking distance of Praia da Batata. Each room has a different theme, such as music, art, sports or Portuguese traditions.

From the roof terrace you have a view of the old town and Meia Praia and if you don’t feel like salt water, you can take a dip in the outdoor or indoor pool.

The friendly host ensures that you lack nothing and is always available. Each apartment is fully furnished and complete with kitchen & living room.

2. Villa Zawaia B&B

Villa Zawaia B&B is a beautiful villa in the center of Lagos with free parking at 5 minutes walk from the hotel. The spacious rooms are nicely decorated and every morning a breakfast buffet is ready in the breakfast room.

In the small pool in the courtyard you can relax after a day of walking through the old city center.

3. Olive Hostel Lagos

At the homely Olive Hostel Lagos you will find a cozy backpacker atmosphere for your solo or couples adventure. For extra privacy (and a better night’s sleep), curtains have been installed at the beds and each bed has its own small fan.

You will hardly find a cleaner hostel: they clean it 2 to 3 times a day so that it always looks spick and span. On the patio you can chat with other backpackers and in the garden yoga sessions are regularly organized.

The dormitories consist of 4 or 6 beds, but private rooms are also available.

4. Quinta do Baía

Just outside the centre of Lagos lies the beautiful Quinta do Baía . Here you can book a holiday home with one or two bedrooms that are fully furnished with a living room, open kitchen and spacious bathrooms.

Unwind from a day of adventure on the terrace or take a dip in the large outdoor pool. Take a stroll through the garden and then stretch out on a cabana.

Lagos is approximately a 5 minute drive away, meaning you can be in the city in no time but stay in a quiet, rural setting.

5. Dom Manuel I Guest House

Be pampered during your Algarve adventure at the authentic Dom Manuel I Guest House in Lagos.

Beautifully decorated rooms in Portuguese style, a lovely small swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and an extensive breakfast buffet in a nicely decorated breakfast room.

For colder days there is a Turkish steam bath and in the evening you are welcome in the bar for a nice cocktail or cold Super Bock. This guesthouse is exclusively for adults.

6. Villas D. Dinis

In the small-scale Villas D. Dinis you will find only a handful of rooms, which makes it feel homely. This accommodation is located on the edge of Lagos near Praia do Camilo and the impressive Ponta da Piedade.

On a hot day, jump into the cooling pool or sit on your balcony as the sun sets and the sky turns orange. In the morning, an extensive breakfast buffet is served in the breakfast room and since the accommodation is located outside the center, you can always park your rental car right outside the door.

1. From Faro Airport to Lagos by rental car

The most popular option to get from the airport to Lagos is by rental car . This way you have your own means of transport during your entire stay, which is not an unnecessary luxury in the Algarve. Since the region is more than 150 kilometers wide and the sights are not in one place, it is advisable to rent a car if you want to visit more than just the big places.

In high season most companies sell out quickly, so it is advisable to book a car (2 to 3 months) in advance. See here which company I recommend

In low season a rental car costs between €160 – €200 per week, in high season between €240 – €340 per week.

Read further down the page about parking in Lagos and where it is free.

2. Faro Airport to Lagos by taxi

The second most chosen option to go from Faro Airport to Lagos is by taxi . At Faro Airport there is a taxi rank from where one of the many drivers can take you and your party to Lagos.

Please note that during high season it can be very busy, so booking in advance is a more relaxing option as you are guaranteed a ride. Especially if you arrive late at night, it is nicer to know that a taxi driver is waiting for you.

The cost is around €80 for a one-way trip and it takes just over an hour.

3. Faro Airport to Lagos by bus

Another great way to get to Lagos from Faro airport is by bus . This is by far the cheapest option and you can get a bus ticket from €15.00. The bus leaves from the airport and arrives in the centre of Lagos. From there you can walk or take a taxi to your final destination. You can buy a ticket online here.

The bus ride from the airport to Lagos takes approximately 2 hours.

4. From Faro Airport to Lagos by train

It is possible to travel by train from Faro airport to Lagos , but unfortunately the train station is not right at the airport. So you will first have to take a bus or taxi from the airport to the train station. By taxi the ride to the train station takes about fifteen minutes and costs around €10.00. With the Próximo bus you will be on the road from the airport to the train station in 25 minutes and a ticket costs a few euros.

The train journey from Faro to Lagos takes, depending on which train you take, 1:30 to 2:30 and costs between €7.50 and €17.00.

Look here is the itinerary on the website of Comboios de Portugal.