This coastal Algarve city has golden beaches, 16th-century walls, and sea caves at Ponta da Piedade. Visitors can explore historic sites and enjoy fresh seafood dishes.
Lagos, a coastal city in Portugal's Algarve region, captivates visitors with its golden beaches and rich maritime history. You can walk along 16th-century city walls, sunbathe on Meia Praia beach, or take a boat tour to the sea caves at Ponta da Piedade. Lagos also serves as an excellent starting point for trips to nearby towns like Portimão and Sagres.
Exploring Lagos' Old Town
As you wander through Lagos' old town, you'll find narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings. The Igreja de Santo António stands out with its ornate gilded woodwork interior. A small museum, housed in the former slave market, provides insight into the city's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. For a panoramic view of the town and coastline, climb the steps to walk along sections of the ancient city walls.
Beaches and Coastal Beauty
Lagos has some of the Algarve's most stunning beaches. Meia Praia, a long stretch of golden sand, buzzes with activity as people swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. Praia Dona Ana, framed by ochre-colored cliffs, offers calm waters for swimming. For a quieter experience, visit the small cove of Praia do Pinhão. At Ponta da Piedade, you'll see towering rock formations that create a striking landscape. You can admire the cliffs from the clifftop walking trails or get up close on a boat tour through the grottoes and arches.
Water Activities and Boat Tours
The waters around Lagos provide opportunities for various activities. You can join a kayak tour to paddle along the base of the cliffs and into sea caves. To observe dolphins in their natural habitat, book a wildlife watching boat trip. Many visitors go surfing at nearby beaches like Praia do Amado. For a more relaxed experience, take a sunset sailing cruise along the coast.
Food and Drink
In Lagos' restaurants, you'll find many dishes that use local ingredients from the sea. Try fresh seafood like grilled sardines or cataplana, a seafood stew cooked and served in a copper pot. For dessert, sample the local almond-based sweets. The town offers many dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants. In the evening, visit one of the bars in the old town for a glass of local wine or a cocktail.
Getting There and Around
To reach Lagos, fly to Faro airport, about 90 km away. From there, you can take a bus, train, or rental car to Lagos. Within Lagos, you can walk to most places of interest. For trips to nearby beaches or towns, use local buses. Renting a car allows you to explore the wider Algarve region at your own pace.
When to Visit
Lagos has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. From June to August, the weather is hot and the beaches are crowded. For fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures, visit in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Even in winter, Lagos often has sunny days, though some tourist facilities might be closed.
