3 perfect days in Lagos
Take my advice: If you’re coming to the Algarve region, put a stop in Lagos on your itinerary. The seaside town is big on beauty, with golden-sand beaches, secluded coves, and cobblestoned streets that form a postcard-perfect backdrop. Add to that its 2000-year-old history and you’ve got more than enough to keep you entertained for three days.
The best part about Lagos is that you can reach almost everything on foot. This itinerary covers all the highlights, from historic landmarks in Old Town to the best sunset-viewing spots along the cliffs. I’ve also included plenty of advice from fellow Tripadvisor users, so you know these recommendations are the best of the best.
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DAY ONE
MORNING: Wander through the Old Town
While it’s tempting to head straight to the beach, get your bearings first by wandering around the Old Town. Take a walk along the waterfront promenade on Avenida dos Descobrimentos, catching a glimpse of the boats heading out into the harbor.
You’ll soon spot the crowds heading through the arched entrance to the Mercado Municipal de Lagos. This century-old market is where many locals go to stock up on fresh produce, especially early on Saturday mornings. Fishmongers take over the ground floor, while the stalls upstairs are filled with fruit and vegetable vendors. The Algarve grows some of the country’s sweetest oranges, and I always get some for myself here, along with organic honey and locally pressed olive oil. Don’t miss the colorful mural depicting the goods sold at the market next to the steps leading up to the rooftop cafe.
Travelers say: "[Mercado Municipal de Lagos] is a great place to observe the comings and goings of the local people as they go about their everyday business and to experience the atmosphere of a typical Portuguese market. Well worth a visit!" —@Jeff & Ka
After exploring the market, venture south towards the Museu Municipal Dr. José Formosinho. Founded by a Portuguese archaeologist, this museum is a mishmash of items, many dating from the Neolithic to the Roman era. But I add this museum to the list because it gives you admission to the adjoining Igreja de Santo António. Behind the church’s unassuming exterior is an impressive Baroque interior filled with gilded carvings, fresco ceilings, and brilliantly colored Portuguese tiles. It’s one of the most eye-popping spots in town.
AFTERNOON: Take a walk through history
Feeling hungry about now? Head a few doors down to Mar d’Estórias. Housed in a former Renaissance chapel (there are a couple of period details here and there), this pretty little restaurant focuses on seafood dishes like codfish cakes and octopus salad. For dessert, my favorite is the Dom Rodrigo, a regional sweet made with egg yolk, sugar, and almonds. More than a restaurant, Mar d’Estórias is also home to a gallery, gift shop, and a rooftop bar.
After lunch, walk a few minutes north to the Mercado de Escravos. In the 15th century, Lagos was home to one of Europe’s first slave markets. Now converted into a museum, this building with an arched stone entrance covers this dark chapter in Portugal’s history. The exhibits aren’t as illuminating as they could be, but I think the museum is a good introduction to this period.
Head back towards the waterfront, keeping an eye out for the olive trees lining the Jardim da Constituição. In the center is the Castelo dos Governadores, a medieval castle with what remains of the walls that once encircled the entire town. Look for a small, ornate window in one of the facades. Legend says that this is where Portuguese King Sebastião said his final prayers before heading off to battle in Morocco. (Things didn’t go well for him there, and the Spanish soon ruled Portugal.)
LAGOS OLD TOWN AREA TOUR OPTIONS
- Sign up for Brodie’s Historical and Fun Guided Walking Tour, which gives you more insight into the history and culture of the Old Town. Even better, it wraps up with a sweet treat from a bakery.
- If you’ve had enough of walking, hop aboard a private Tuk-Tuk Tour Around Lagos Old and New Towns. This tour earns a “best of the best” rating from Tripadvisor readers.
- Maybe the best way to experience the local culture is to join a Lagos Classic Food Tour. Seeing the Mercado Municipal de Lagos with a guide means you’ll understand more about the foods on display.
EVENING: Dinner, then some bar-hopping
If you want a sneak peek of the beach before dinner, head south to the sandy Praia da Batata. This is the beach where locals go when they just want to cool off. The closer it is to sunset, the prettier the views will be. Back in town, it’s time for dinner at No Pátio. The best tables are on the terrace beneath a trellis covered with bright pink bougainvillea. The grilled tuna and the caramelized goat cheese are among my favorite dishes.
No Pátio is located near Rua 25 de Abril, Lagos’s bustling nightlife strip. Kick off the evening (or wrap up a night) with a beer at Mynt Bar, where you’ll often catch live performances on the raised stage. From here, you have your pick of dozens of nearby bars.
DAY TWO
MORNING: Hidden caves and rock formations
Lagos is the jumping-off point for many boat tours across the coast. Make your way to the Marina de Lagos, where you’ll find boats heading to nearby sea caves like the spectacular Algar de Benagil, with its ceiling open to the sky.
You could also cruise out to the dramatic headland of Ponta da Piedade, famous for rock formations jutting out of the ocean. The curious shapes formed by the waves and the wind over the years have earned themselves nicknames like “The Elephant” or “The Titanic.” If you’re lucky, you may even spot a dolphin or two on your way here. Whichever tour you choose, you’ll most likely return in about an hour and a half.
Travelers say: "Our guide was a legend, telling us all the juicy deets about Ponta da Piedade’s rock formations. If you're up for some thrills, try kayaking or paddleboarding." —@Kirro S
MARINA DE LAGOS AREA TOUR OPTIONS
- To see the Algar de Benagil in all its glory, you have to reach it by boat. Dolphin Seafaris takes you through the caves, sailing past sandstone cliffs and secret beaches along the way. Mornings are especially mesmerizing when light pours into the cave from above.
- Big boats can only take you so far. If you want a close-up view of those secluded coves and rock formations, you’re best off signing up for a Kayak Adventure to the Ponta de Piedade. These tours are available mostly in the summer.
- Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins as you set sail with a marine biologist on a Dolphin-Watching Cruise. You can even choose your ride: a feel-every-wave inflatable boat or a slightly smoother catamaran.
AFTERNOON: Barbecue lunch and dreamy beaches
Back on dry land, take a stroll around the marina before grabbing a bite at one of the surrounding restaurants. I recommend Tasca da Lota for the delicious grilled fish. In the summer, the large glass doors are flung wide open so that you can smell the fresh sardines from miles away. The charcoal grill is right by the entrance, so you can watch the staff at work. Order the fish of the day, then kick back in the casual dining room under a tangle of fishing nets.
Cross the bridge to the other end of the stream, then take a 10-minute taxi ride (or 15-minute bus ride) to Praia Dona Ana, one of the best beaches in Lagos. Sheltered by sandstone cliffs, it has calm turquoise waters and soft golden sand. It’s a popular spot for families because of the seasonal lifeguards, convenient parking, and nearby cafés.
You can also continue a bit further south to Praia do Camilo. (There’s a path along the cliffs, but it can occasionally be closed). Be sure to wear sunscreen, as most of this stretch is exposed. Camilo Beach is a much smaller cove accessible via a long wooden staircase. Standing at the top, you get a great view of the water below. It’s best to head here at low tide, when there’s more space. Camilo Beach is also a prime spot for snorkeling, as the sea is fairly calm.
EVENING: A toast to the sunset
Keep walking south for another 15 or 20 minutes to reach the Ponta da Piedade. You may have seen it from a distance on your morning boat trip, but this headland is even better close up. It’s among the best spots to watch the sunset in Lagos. Stretch your towel along the top of the cliff and watch the golden rays take over the sky. Pack a bottle of wine (you can pick up a Portuguese wine, like Fiuza or Herdade do Peso, for less than a fiver at the supermarket) and a sweater, because it can get windy as soon as the sun goes down.
Then return to Praia do Camilo to grab a seafood dinner at O Camilo. A favorite of mine, this restaurant has been in the same family for over 40 years and is still going strong. Order clams and oysters harvested from the nearby Ria de Alvor as a starter, then move on to the grilled golden bream or sardines (when in season).
DAY THREE
MORNING: Coastal adventures along the cliffs
Kick off your third day with breakfast at Black and White, near the Old Town. This minimalist space is known for its specialty coffees, so I like to start with a flat white while I browse through the menu. If I’m in a savory mood, I usually go for the brioche stuffed with fried eggs, avocado, and hash browns. But if I’m after something sweet, I always go for the stack of pancakes with streaky bacon.
You’ll need all the energy you can to tackle today’s hike along the coast. Pick up where you left off yesterday near Ponta da Piedade, then make your way along the cliffs to Praia do Porto de Mós, one of the longest beaches in Lagos. Surrounded by a tall headland, this beach stretches as far as the eye can see. On a clear day you can see all the way to Sagres, on the western tip of the Algarve. The farther you are from the center of the beach, the smaller the crowds will be in summer.
Alternatively, you can skip the hike and hop on the train east to Meia Praia and spend the morning relaxing by the beach. This is also a prime spot for surfing, and there are a couple of schools here that can hook you up with lessons if you feel like chasing the waves.
Travelers say: “Get to Black and White early (like when it opens) if you want a table. Otherwise be prepared to wait. They turn over the tables quickly, but it’s very popular. They also have a takeaway cafe next door if you wanna grab coffee and a pastry to go.” —@anna_vannn
AFTERNOON: Seafood treats and a wine tasting
Head back to the center of Lagos and treat yourself to a seafood feast at Marisqueira O Perceve. Most ingredients on the menu come from this stretch of the coastline, including barnacles, oysters, prawns, and limpets (that last one is a snail with a conical shell). Take my advice and order one of the traditional dishes like cataplana do mar, a seafood stew cooked in a clam-shaped copper pan.
After lunch, consider a trip to Monte da Casteleja, a winery that specializes in organic wines. It’s a 10-minute drive from the center, but well worth the trip. There are guided tours from Tuesday to Thursday that take you through the vineyards and into the winery for a tasting. Be sure to book one in advance, as it’s a popular place.
EVENING: Dinner with a view
Return to your hotel to freshen up, then head back to the marina for a drink and some tapas at the waterfront Southwest Bistro. Take a seat on the terrace or beside the window for the best views of the boats in the distance. I like coming here with friends so that I can try several different dishes in one go. Some of my favorite small plates include the olive tapenade and the goat cheese gratin. They also have a great selection of burgers (including vegan options), plus mouthwatering chocolate brownies.
If you’re feeling homesick, head to Ol’ Bastard’s. The Brits have left their mark on the Algarve, and this fish-and-chips spot is proof of that. Order your meal British-style (with salt and malt vinegar), Australian (paired with a salad), or American (topped with cajun seasoning). If you’ve had your fill of fish, they also serve some mean tacos.
WINE-TASTING TOUR OPTIONS
- Feel like continuing your wine-tasting journey? This Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour takes you from Lagos to Quinta do Francês, a local winery located 30 minutes east. After visiting the estate you’ll have a quick break in Silves to tour the town and visit its Moorish castle.
- On the Lagos Wine and Tapas Tour, you’ll learn all about wines from different Portuguese regions, including reds, whites, and greens. (Didn’t see that last one coming, did you? Yes, they have green wine, and it’s delicious.) Between sips, you can enjoy some tasty tapas.
Know Before You Go
Although the weather in Lagos is relatively warm all year round, the peak season is between June and August. It’s the perfect time to hit the beach or join a kayak tour. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to look into spring or early autumn instead. Winter is slightly cooler, but you’ll get cheaper hotel deals. It’s a popular season for skilled surfers looking to hit the waves.
Many museums close on Sunday and Monday, while most restaurants take a day off on Monday. Smaller shops may close on Sunday, but the big chains are usually open all week long. The nightlife scene is pretty active for such a small town, with most bars open seven days a week.
Most museums open at 10 and close at about 6, with a lunch break in between 1 and 2. Shops don’t close for lunch and stay open a little later. The Portuguese like an early lunch, between noon and 1, though some restaurants will serve you as late as 3. Most locals have a quick snack before dinner, which is usually around 8 or 9.
Old Town: The Old Town is where you’ll find most of the historical attractions highlighted on Day One. Less than a 10-minute walk from here is the Casa Mãe, the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Enjoy a nap in a hammock on your private balcony or take a dip in the outdoor pool.
Marina de Lagos: If you want to be the first aboard the boat on Day Two, then you should stick to the marina. The Lagos Avenida Hotel—a favorite with Tripadvisor readers—has a great view of the waterfront, especially from the rooftop pool.
Praia Dona Ana: Staying at Praia Dona Ana gives you instant access to the coastline, making it easy to kick off the hike on Day Three. Conveniently located between Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo, Villas D. Dinis is an adults-only lodging. Splurge out on the suite with a private pool.
Public transportation: You can explore most of Lagos on foot. Some of the beaches can also be reached by bus, including Meia Praia (to the east) or Porto de Mós (to the west). A single ride costs only a few bucks. There’s also a hop-on, hop-off tourist train running from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana, and Meia Praia.
By bike: Several companies offer bike rentals, mostly around the town center. There are no designated bike lanes in town, but the roads are mostly flat (with the occasional cobblestones). Part of Lagos’s coast crosses the Ecovia do Litoral, a cycling route connecting the entire Algarve.
By taxi: Taxis are relatively affordable in Lagos, though many people opt for ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt.
Airport transfers: The closest airport to Lagos is in Faro. There is a direct bus between the airport and the town that runs several times a day in the summer, less often in the winter. The journey takes about 2 hours. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are a pricier option, but can help you shave off an hour.