Lagos Travel Guide

Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most characterful towns, mixing history, nightlife, and a spectacular coastline. Inside its 16th-century walls, you’ll wander cobbled lanes lined with whitewashed houses, lively squares, and plenty of places to enjoy fresh seafood. Just beyond the center lie some of Portugal’s most celebrated beaches – from the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade to the golden sands of Meia Praia. This Lagos travel guide will help you make the most of your time here, if you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer stay to explore hidden coves, take boat trips to sea caves, or venture into the quiet countryside. With boutique hotels, creative restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere, Lagos is the kind of place that draws you in and keeps you coming back.

Where is Lagos?

Lagos is in southern Portugal, on the western edge of the Algarve coast. It’s about 300 km south of Lisbon and 90 km from Faro, the region’s main airport.

Often listed among the best places to visit in Portugal, Lagos is a key stop on many Algarve or southern Portugal itineraries. From here, you can explore the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, relax on the wide sands of Meia Praia, or take day trips to nearby towns like Sagres and Portimão. Its location makes it perfect for combining beach time with exploring the Algarve’s wilder, less-developed western coast.

How to get around Lagos

Lagos is compact and walkable, but reaching beaches, nearby towns, or the Algarve’s wilder coast is easier with a mix of transport options.

• Bus: EVA Transportes and local operators run buses from Lagos to nearby beaches, towns, and other Algarve destinations. The local network connects Meia Praia, Porto de Mós, and Praia da Luz, while regional routes reach Portimão, Sagres, and Faro. Fares start at about €1.60 for short local rides, €3-€6 for regional trips. In summer, buses run frequently; off-season schedules are reduced, so check timetables at eva-bus.com.
• Train: The train station is next to the marina, with services to Portimão, Albufeira, Faro, and beyond. Trains are slower than buses for short hops but more comfortable for longer journeys. A trip to Faro takes about 2 hours and costs around €7-€10 one way. Tickets can be bought at the station or online via cp.pt.
• Car: Hiring a car is the best option for exploring remote beaches, inland villages, and the dramatic Costa Vicentina. Daily rentals in summer start from €35-€50, cheaper off-season. Parking in the Old Town is limited, but there are paid lots near the marina and Meia Praia (around €1/hour). Driving also lets you visit hidden spots like Praia do Amado or Monchique without relying on bus timetables.
• Taxi/Uber: Taxis operate throughout Lagos and can be hailed on the street or at designated stands. Base fares start at about €3.50, with €0.50-€0.60 per km. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available and often cheaper, especially for short trips to nearby beaches or late-night returns from dinner.
• Tourist train: In summer, a small open-air tourist train loops between the marina, Old Town, and main beaches, including Dona Ana and Porto de Mós. It’s slow but a scenic way to get around without walking in the heat. Tickets are about €4 for a round trip, and you can hop on at various stops.
• Boat and kayak: The coastline is best explored from the water. Boat trips to the Ponta da Piedade grottoes start at around €20 per person, while sea kayak rentals cost €15-€20 for a guided tour. Departures are from the marina or Praia do Batata, and early morning trips are calmer and less crowded.

How long to spend in Lagos?

Wondering how long to stay in Lagos? Plan for at least three days to see the highlights – from strolling the Old Town and marina to visiting the dramatic cliffs at Ponta da Piedade and relaxing on beaches like Meia Praia or Praia do Camilo. This gives you time to enjoy a boat trip to the grottoes, sample fresh seafood, and catch a sunset from the lighthouse.

If you’re building a 10-day Portugal itinerary, Lagos is an ideal base for three to five days. That allows for day trips to Sagres, the wild Costa Vicentina, or quieter Algarve towns like Salema and Burgau. Staying longer means you can explore more beaches, try paddleboarding or surfing, and enjoy the slower pace that sets in once the day-trippers leave.

Where to stay in Lagos

Lagos has accommodation for every style and budget. Here’s where to stay, depending on your travel type.

• First-time visitors: Old Town. Stay in the Old Town for cobblestone charm and easy access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You’ll be close to landmarks like the city walls, Praça Gil Eanes, and the marina. It’s lively in summer, with buskers and café terraces spilling into the streets, and everything is within walking distance. Perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action without relying much on transport.
• For couples: Porto de Mós. A scenic, cliff-backed beach area with a quieter vibe than the town center. Think morning walks along golden sand, clifftop trails, and seafood lunches at beachfront restaurants. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels with sea views to self-catering apartments. It’s a 5-minute drive or a 25-minute walk from the center, so you can dip into town life but retreat to peace.
• For foodies and nightlife lovers: Marina de Lagos. This modern waterfront area has a more cosmopolitan feel, with plenty of restaurants, cocktail bars, and cafés. From here, you can walk to Meia Praia beach, join a boat tour, or reach the Old Town in 10 minutes. Accommodation includes stylish apartments and contemporary hotels, making it a great base for those who want dining variety and evening entertainment close by.
• For families: Meia Praia. A long, sandy beach with calm, shallow waters that’s perfect if you’re exploring Portugal with kids. There’s plenty of space to play even in peak summer, and a few casual beach restaurants for easy lunches. The atmosphere is quieter than the Old Town, yet you’re only a short train or taxi ride from the center. Accommodation here leans towards resorts and spacious apartments, making it ideal for self-catering and longer stays with the family.

What to do in Lagos

Lagos blends coastal beauty with centuries of history: fortress walls, cobbled lanes, and a coastline carved into arches, grottoes, and hidden coves. You can spend one day here exploring the Old Town, and the next paddling through sea caves or lazing on golden sand. Many of the best beaches in Portugal are on Lagos’s doorstep, from dramatic cliff-backed coves to sweeping bays perfect for watersports. The town’s relaxed vibe means you can balance sightseeing with slow lunches, evening strolls along the marina, and sunset views from the clifftops. Here are some of the best things to do in Lagos.

#1 Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is one of the Algarve’s postcard views – a tiny cove tucked between cliffs, often listed among the best beaches in the Algarve. You reach it via a long wooden staircase, with each step offering a better view of the golden rocks and turquoise sea below. On calm days, the water is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The beach is split into two by a rock wall with a tunnel carved through – a quirky detail that makes it especially fun for kids to explore.

Because it’s small, space is limited in summer, so go early or late in the day for a more peaceful visit. There’s one restaurant above the steps, but no shops nearby, so bring what you need if you’re planning to stay for a while. From central Lagos, it’s about a 20-minute walk, or a short drive with limited paid parking nearby.

#2 Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is Lagos’s most dramatic natural attraction – a headland carved into cliffs, caves, and arches by centuries of Atlantic waves. From the lighthouse, paths lead along the clifftops with views over the coastline, while a steep staircase descends to a small cove where boat tours depart for the grottoes.

The scenery is spectacular at any time, but early morning or late afternoon gives you softer light and fewer crowds. Wear sturdy shoes if you’re walking the paths, and bring water – there’s little shade along the way. You can also kayak or paddleboard here for a more adventurous angle on the caves.

#3 Lagos Old Town

Inside its 16th-century walls, Lagos Old Town is a maze of cobbled streets, tiled facades, and leafy squares where café tables spill into the sunshine. This is where Lagos’s history comes alive – from the ornate baroque interior of Igreja de Santo António to the small museums telling stories of the Age of Discoveries.

It’s best explored slowly, without a fixed route, letting side streets lead you to hidden courtyards or shops selling local crafts. In summer, street musicians and market stalls add to the atmosphere. Evenings are lively but not overwhelming, with plenty of restaurants for all tastes and budgets.

Wear comfortable shoes – the stones are uneven – and try to catch the golden light just before sunset for photos of the old walls. The Old Town is small enough to see in half a day, but its charm might tempt you back more than once during your stay.

#4 Meia Praia

Meia Praia is the opposite of Lagos’s small cliff-backed coves – a sweeping four-kilometer stretch of golden sand that always feels spacious, even in August. The wide, shallow shoreline makes it one of the best beaches in Portugal for families, and its steady breeze attracts kitesurfers and windsurfers.

You’ll find a scattering of beach bars and restaurants, plus sunbed rentals and lifeguards in summer. The western end is closest to Lagos Marina, about a 15-minute walk from town, while the eastern side is quieter and more natural.

It’s a great choice if you want room to walk, run, or play without dodging crowds. Parking is easy along the road behind the dunes, and there’s a small train station nearby for those coming from further afield. Stay for sunset and you’ll see the whole bay glowing in warm light – a sight many visitors remember long after they travel to Lagos.

#5 Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

This compact 17th-century fort sits right at the harbor entrance, once guarding Lagos from pirate raids. Its thick stone walls enclose small exhibitions on maritime history, with occasional art displays in summer.

The highlight is walking the ramparts for views over the harbor, Praia da Batata, and the Old Town walls. Entry is inexpensive, and you can easily combine a visit with a stroll along the waterfront or time on the nearby beach.

It won’t take more than 20-30 minutes to explore, but it offers a nice dose of history between beach visits. In the evenings, the setting sun reflects off the water, making it a lovely photo spot. The fort’s location means it’s impossible to miss if you’re walking from the marina toward the Old Town or heading to Praia da Batata for a quick swim.

#6 Praia Dona Ana

Praia Dona Ana is one of Lagos’s most famous beaches – a sheltered cove surrounded by tall golden cliffs and scattered with sea stacks. The sand is soft, the water clear, and the setting feels almost enclosed from the outside world.

It’s easy to reach from the center in about 15 minutes on foot, with stairs leading down from the cliff-top road. In summer, it’s popular with both locals and visitors, so come early if you want a good spot. Facilities include sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach café.

Swimmers should be mindful of cooler water temperatures here due to Atlantic currents. Still, on a sunny day, the contrast between the cliffs and the blue-green water makes this one of the most photogenic and relaxing spots in the Algarve.

#7 Boat trip to the grottoes

Lagos’s grottoes and sea caves are a highlight of the coastline, and boat tours let you see them from the best angle. Departing from the marina or Praia do Batata, small boats navigate between sea stacks, through rock arches, and into caves too tight for larger vessels.

Tours usually last about an hour and cost around €20. Morning trips offer calmer water and better light inside the caves. Guides often share local history and point out rock formations with playful names – from “Elephant” to “Cathedral.”

If you prefer more independence, kayak or paddleboard tours let you get even closer to the cliffs. Either way, this is one of those Lagos experiences that’s as much about the journey as the destination – a chance to see the coastline’s colors and textures up close.

#8 Mercado Municipal de Lagos

Near the marina, the Mercado Municipal is where locals shop for fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables. The ground floor is dedicated to seafood – you’ll see gleaming sardines, octopus, and clams laid out on ice – while the upper floor has produce stalls and a few small eateries.

It’s open most mornings, with Saturday being the busiest and most atmospheric day. Even if you’re not cooking, it’s worth a visit for the local color, the chance to chat with stallholders, and maybe pick up snacks for the beach.

The building itself is modern and functional rather than charming, but the products are fresh and authentic. Arrive early for the best selection, especially if you’re after shellfish. From here, it’s a short walk to the marina cafés if you want to continue your morning with a coffee by the water.

#9 Praia do Porto de Mós

Praia do Porto de Mós is a broad, breezy beach backed by cliffs, with soft sand and space to spread out. It’s less busy than the smaller coves closer to town, making it a great choice for a quieter day.

Waves can be stronger here, so it’s popular with surfers and bodyboarders, but there are also calm days perfect for swimming. Two beachfront restaurants serve fresh fish and chilled drinks, ideal for a long lunch.

The beach is about a 5-minute drive from the center of Lagos, with free parking along the road above. On foot, it’s a pleasant 25-30 minute walk, though uphill on the way back. The surrounding cliffs also have walking trails with fantastic views, so bring your camera if you want a mix of beach and light hiking.

#10 Kayaking around the cliffs

For an active way to experience Lagos’s coastline, join a guided kayak tour from Praia do Batata or the marina. You’ll paddle past sea stacks, into hidden caves, and stop at small beaches only accessible from the water.

Guides keep the pace manageable, and most tours last about two hours. Expect to pay €15-€20, often including snorkel gear. Morning trips are best for calm seas and clearer water, while afternoons bring stronger winds but also a livelier atmosphere on the water.

Kayaking gives you more time in each spot than a boat trip, and the quiet paddling lets you hear the echo of waves in the caves. It’s a must if you enjoy combining light exercise with scenery, and one of the most memorable outdoor activities you can do when you travel to Lagos.

Weather in Lagos

Lagos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The best time to visit Portugal’s south coast depends on the kind of trip you’re after – beach days, coastal hikes, or quieter sightseeing. Thanks to its location in the Algarve, Lagos gets more sunshine than most of the country, but coastal breezes can make evenings cooler. Average temperatures range from about 54°F (12°C) in January to 82°F (28°C) in August, though summer heatwaves can push highs above 95°F (35°C). For up-to-date forecasts, check IPMA.

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant and sunny, with temperatures climbing from 63°F (17°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) by May. Wildflowers bloom along the clifftops, and beaches are quiet but warm enough for sunbathing. Mid-range hotels cost around €90-€130 per night, and coastal walks are at their best.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, averaging 79°F to 82°F (26°C to 28°C) with minimal rain. This is peak season, so expect busy beaches and higher prices – €150-€220 per night for a mid-range hotel. The sea is warmer than in northern Portugal, making it perfect for swimming, but popular spots like Praia do Camilo fill up fast.
• Autumn (September to November): September stays hot, around 79°F (26°C), gradually cooling to 64°F (18°C) by November. Early autumn is ideal for beachgoers who want summer weather without August crowds. Prices drop to €90-€140 per night. October and November can see occasional rain, but sea temperatures remain swimmable into October.
• Winter (December to February): Mild, with highs around 61°F (16°C) and lows rarely below 46°F (8°C). Rain is more frequent, but sunny spells are common. Hotels are cheapest at €70-€100 per night, and the town is peaceful. It’s a good time for sightseeing, coastal drives, and enjoying beaches without tourists, though the water is cool for swimming.

Where to eat in Lagos

Lagos has a thriving food scene – a mix of traditional Portuguese cooking, fresh Atlantic seafood, and modern cafés that wouldn’t be out of place in a big city. Here’s what to eat and where to eat in Lagos to make the most of your time here.

Must-try dishes

• Cataplana de marisco: A fragrant seafood stew cooked in a traditional clam-shaped copper pot. Packed with clams, prawns, and fish in a tomato, garlic, and herb broth. Best shared with friends and served with crusty bread.
• Grilled sardines: A summer staple across the Algarve, especially during the June Santos Populares festivals. Smoky, juicy, and eaten whole with bread or boiled potatoes.
• Percebes (gooseneck barnacles): Not for the faint-hearted, but prized by locals. Harvested from rocky shores, they’re briny, sweet, and taste of the ocean.
• Doce fino: Almond-shaped marzipan sweets decorated to look like tiny fruits or animals – a fun treat from Algarve pastry shops.
• Pastel de nata: Lagos has plenty of bakeries turning out excellent versions of Portugal’s famous custard tart – try them warm with cinnamon.

Top restaurants

• A Forja: A no-frills local favorite known for fresh grilled fish at fair prices. Expect paper tablecloths, quick service, and the smell of charcoal in the air.
• Restaurante dos Artistas: An upscale option serving refined Portuguese and Mediterranean dishes with artistic presentation. Great for a special night out.
• Casinha do Petisco: Famous for generous portions of cataplana and garlic prawns. It’s small and always busy, so book ahead.
• O Camilo: Perched above Praia do Camilo, this seafood restaurant offers grilled catch of the day with ocean views. Perfect after a beach visit.
• Goji Lounge Café: A laid-back spot for breakfast or brunch – smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and great coffee. Ideal for a light start before exploring.

Trips and tours to Lagos

Here are some unique experiences we can arrange for your tailor-made Lagos trip – all private, flexible, and designed by our local travel experts.

• Coastal Portugal trip: Lagos brings a laid-back finish to your coastal route. Kayak the sea caves at Ponta da Piedade, then stroll the historic center where Portugal’s Age of Discovery began.
• Tour of Portugal's cities and beaches: Discover Portugal’s vibrant cities and golden coastlines on this tailor-made trip. Explore Lisbon and Porto, unwind on Lagos’ beaches, and watch the sunset from the cliffs of Sagres, where the land ends and the Atlantic begins.
• Algarve wine and gastronomy tour: Visit family-run vineyards inland, sample regional wines, and enjoy a traditional Algarve lunch. Perfect for foodies wanting to experience the flavors of southern Portugal beyond the coast.
• Family-friendly Lagos day: Created for those exploring Portugal with kids – combine a visit to the Lagos Zoo with an easy coastal walk, a fun boat ride, and an afternoon on a calm, shallow beach like Meia Praia.
• Sagres and Cape St. Vincent tour: Explore the Algarve’s wild west coast, visit the historic Sagres Fortress, and stand at Europe’s southwestern tip at Cape St. Vincent. Dramatic cliffs, lighthouse views, and a sense of the “end of the world” make this a memorable day out.