13 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal + Must-Know Tips

Ready to visit Lagos, one of Southern Portugal’s most idyllic seaside cities?

There are so many incredible things to do in Lagos, Portugal. From exploring sea caves by kayak and watching dolphins play, to swimming in azure waters, hiking along beachside trails, lazing at pristine beaches, and indulging in fresh Algarvian seafood and Portuguese wine over epic sunsets, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this stunning coastal city!

Plus, with its enchanting Old Town, historic medieval city walls, sparkling turquoise coves, and dramatically rugged cliffs, you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful backdrop for a sunswept holiday. You’ll soon discover why so many travelers flock to the Algarve Coast!

After my trip to Lagos, I created this guide to help you curate your own dream Lagos itinerary.

Here, you’ll find the best things to do in Lagos, how to get there, where to stay, the best bars and restaurants in Lagos, and more!

Where to Stay in Lagos

Before we dive into the best things to do in Lagos, let’s get through the logistics… Here are the best places to stay in Lagos.

Lovely Luxe Stays in Lagos

• Lagos Avenida Hotel: A rooftop pool, fabulous marina views, and light, bright, comfy guest rooms. What more could you ask for?
• Lagos Atlantic Hotel: Located a stone’s throw from Porto de Mos Beach, this hotel features coastal-inspired guest rooms and a pool.

Mid-Range Stays in Lagos

• The Salty Lodge: A sweet little surf-inspired lodge with all you need for the ultimate beach apartment stay; swimming pool, ocean views, and fully-equipped kitchens for the win!
• Baluarte da Vila Apartments: Stylish apartments with sea views and a swimming pool, your home away from home in Lagos.
• Dom Manuel Charming Residence: The name says it all: this hotel’s charming guest rooms, pool, lush gardens, and rooftop terrace make for a relaxing stay in Lagos. Adults only! 

After Lisbon, Lagos is one of the most popular destinations to visit in all of Portugal. The best accommodations sell out well in advance in the high-season. You can find the best deals on Lagos hotels, apartments, and hostels on this website – and free cancellation is usually available, just in case, so don’t wait to book!

13 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal

Okay, let’s dive into all of the best things to do and see in Lagos, Portugal! 

1. Go on a Guided Kayak Tour

This kayaking tour was the best thing I did in Lagos!

Ready to get up close and personal with the wondrous rock formations that make Lagos, Portugal so famous?

On this Kayak Tour in Lagos (Visit the Caves & Snorkel), you can explore caves that larger boat tours simply can’t fit inside! You’ll make your way along the stunning coastline to the famous Ponta da Piedade, admiring the most gorgeous Lagos beaches.

As you get a workout in, your experienced guide will share their knowledge about Lagos’s abundant flora and fauna, and share the names of rock formations and caves.

Listen to the music of the rolling waves as you glide under naturally formed sea arches and into sea caves. At your beach pitstop, snorkel or soak up the warm Portuguese sun.

Finally, paddle back toward the Lagos marina – or take an optional tow to relax and enjoy the ride!

I recommend booking the morning trip for calmer wind and less water traffic.

This kayaking tour, by FAR, my top recommendation for things to do in Lagos.

Click here to book your kayaking tour.

2. Explore Lagos Beaches

Now that you’ve seen the most picturesque beaches (praias) of Lagos from the sea, spend an afternoon exploring them by land.

When you visit Lagos, there’s a stretch of beaches that you can’t miss!

Start at the Ponta da Piedade headland and wander down the short coastline to Praia dos Estudantes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana, and Praia da Batata – all are within walking distance!

Venture through hand-dug tunnels that are accessible along the sand during low tide. From the top of the cliffs, you can stroll down the broad wooden stairs to Praia do Camilo.

Each section of the golden coastline offers something different, make magical memories by exploring the best beaches in Lagos!

During the high season, these beaches are always packed with sun-bathers.

P.S. If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, take sturdy footwear and traverse down the gully to Praia da Balança.

*Note: In recent times, many Algarve beaches have unfortunately been plagued by invasive algae. Scientists ask that beachgoers fill out this form if they come across a beach with washed-up algae.

3. Peruse Lagos Old Town

Lagos’s Old Town will draw you in for an evening of café-chilling, wine-sipping, and gift-shopping. Let it! Old Town is near the city center, totally adorable, and just as historic as it is charming!

Follow the beloved calçada portuguesa (iconic Portuguese limestone tile) through the small streets of Old Town and spend a few hours getting lost.

For reference, use the tall white tower of the Igreja de Santo Antonio to guide you back down from the hills. You’ll likely pass by this landmark more than once, so why not pop inside? This baroque church is small, but quite marvelous inside with intricate gold leafing, and a small museum, Museu de Lagos, attached.

Once the sun goes down, Lagos’s lively nightlife really gets going. From pubs and bars to fancy restaurants and even a nightclub, take your pick and enjoy a night out on the town.

Some must-visit bars are Bon Vivant, Peppers Bar (closed on Sunday and Monday), Three Monkeys Bar, and Eddie’s Bar for a cold pint!

4. Take a Speedboat to the Benagil Caves

A quick Google search of Lagos and the Algarve will reveal photos of the extraordinary Benagil Cave, with its open ceiling of rock.

Standing in the center, as the sunlight shines down onto the crystal blue waters, is a radical sensation.

That being said, it can get crowded here, so don’t expect a person-free experience (or picture!) – and bring a hat because you’ll be in the sun for a bit!

Getting to Benagil Beach and the caves by land takes about 40 minutes from Lagos, so this Speedboat Adventure to Benagil Caves tour saves you time and offers a fun, high-speed transit to the magnificent rock formations.

Learn about the geographic history in a small group boat tour, and remember to keep an eye out for dolphins!

Click here to book your Speedboat Adventure to Benagil Caves.

5. Buy Too Much of Everything Cork!

On Avenida dos Descobrimentos, the main road in Lagos (just along the harbor and across from Old Town), there is an outdoor market with the BEST handmade cork goods.

This is your spot for snagging affordable gifts for loved ones (and something for yourself, too): sunglass cases and purses, makeup bags, wallets, passport covers, and coasters galore. I am OBSESSED with the cork goods I got here. (And you will be, too!)

Not to mention, there’s a great selection of breezy linen blouses and pants, as well as other cute clothes and accessories, like hand-crocheted purses and sun hats. Just make sure you have room in your suitcase!

6. Go Dolphin Watching

Dolphins love the Atlantic waters of the Algarve coastline, so spotting them is common.

If you’ve only ever seen dolphins in a zoo (P.S.skip the Lagos Zoo), it’s life-changing to witness these intelligent and playful creatures frolicking in the open sea, majestic and free.

When you visit Lagos, you should absolutely go on a dolphin cruise! Dolphin pods are found in the deep sea off the coast of Southern Portugal year round, but April through August is the best time. You’re basically guaranteed to see dolphins in large groups, or pods, which oftentimes like to swim alongside the boats.  

Book one of these Dolphin Watching Tours: 

• Small Group Sea Safari with Marine Biologist from Lagos: Learn about dolphins and Algarve wildlife from a certified marine biologist! Click here to book it.
• Dolphin Watching Half-Day Cruise from Lagos: Turn dolphin watching into a half-day delight on a comfy catamaran, take in sweeping views of the Algarve, and enjoy swimming in the Atlantic between dolphin sightings. Click here to book it.

Note: Both of these dolphin-watching tours usually sell out in advance, so don’t wait to book your favorite option!

7. Eat Algarve Cuisine

If you’ve read some of our other guides before, like our 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary, you already know how much our travels revolve around food.

So of course, we have to say: one of the best things to do in Lagos is sampling the freshest seafood and other local delicacies.

Get to know Portuguese culture through your tastebuds! This Classic Food Tour of Lagos is top-rated by travelers who want to savor the most authentic bites in Portugal and on the Algarve.

Honestly, I prefer the Portuguese flavor palate to Spanish food; for me, nothing beats freshly caught fish and aromatic Portuguese spices!

This food tour also sells out, so if you want to taste your way through Lagos, don’t wait to book it!

Typical Algarve Food & Drinks to Try

Whether you take a guided food tour or not, some dishes you must try include:

• cataplana de marisco, a super flavorful and rich Algarve staple seafood dish named after the ancient pot it’s cooked in;
• arroz de marisco, a typical rice and seafood dish that’s more like a stew (pictured above);
• the celebrated Portuguese grilled sardines (and canned fish, in general); and of course, 
• pastéis de nata (but pretty much all Portuguese pastries are to die for!).

As for Portuguese drinks, of course, you’ll have to order a refreshing caipirão cocktail, made with Portugal’s most-consumed spirit, Licor Beirão. Another famous liquor is ginjinha, made from sweet cherries and often served up in a little chocolate cup! Yum.

Looking for something on the lighter side? Try Portuguese Sangria made from red, white, or sparkling wine, or order a glass of vinho verde, a spritzy white wine made in Northern Portugal.

With your dessert, sip on Portuguese Port wine, also exclusively produced in the northern region of Portugal.

In true Algarve spirit, cap off the night with an almond liqueur digestif, amêndoa amarga – it is absolutely delicious!

Click here to book your Classic Food Tour of Lagos!

P.S. Find my top Lagos food & drink recommendations toward the bottom of this guide!

8. Admire the Medieval Walls in the Lagos Marina

While in Lagos, there are a few important medieval sites to explore, from forts to castle ruins.

Forte da Ponta da Bandeira (Flag’s Mast Fort)

At the entrance to the Lagos Marina is one of the best-most preserved maritime fortifications in the Algarve: the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira. A historic coastal defense fort from the 17th century, this fort was built to protect Lagos and the Algarve from pirates and corsairs.

Lagos used to be the head of the military government for the Algarve. For just €2, you can climb to the top and be transported to this poignant time in history. It’s a great vantage point of the Ribeira de Bensafrim River outlet, Old Town Lagos, and the Atlantic Ocean, too.

If you want to learn more about Lagos’s military history, check out the on-site museum attached! There is also a small church on the ground floor with a lovely tile mosaic floor. This chapel is dedicated to the patron saint of artillerymen, Santa Barbara.

Castelo de Lagos (Castle of Lagos)

At the front of Old Town Lagos, you will see the Castelo de Lagos, which seems like it’s missing the castle… Because it is.

After the 1755 earthquake, tsunami, and fire that struck the country, the castle was destroyed and never rebuilt. However, the walls stand as a landmark and a reminder of Portugal’s past and resilience. It’s said that tsunami waters reached the height of these massive medieval walls!

It wasn’t until the 20th century that the walls surrounding the castle were rebuilt and preserved as a historical site.

Porta de São Gonçalo (Arch of São Gonçalo)

As you admire the Castle of Lagos, you’ll come across the Porta de São Gonçalo, or Arch of São Gonçalo. This arch pays respects to the Patron Saint of Lagos, and was built at the site of his birthplace in 1360.

This is the patron saint of fishermen, who is said to have miraculously multiplied tuna fish, as well as protected the Lagos fishermen. Pass through the arch from the front wall of the Castelo de Lagos, which doubles as a grand entrance into Old Town.

9. Off-Road Adventure to Secret Sunset Spot

After a kayaking excursion, a trip to the Benagil Caves, a dolphin-watching tour, and plenty of meandering the cobblestone streets of Lagos, you’ll be ready for a view that’s totally off the beaten path.

This off-road sunset trip will take you to an amazing secret sunset spot, nearby one of the most astounding places to watch the sunset in the world: Cape S. Vicente.

Since Cape S. Vicente can get really crowded (we’re talking thousands of people), your guide will chauffeur you to a viewpoint where there won’t be another soul in sight. Just you, and the spectacular view of the sunset at the southwesternmost point of Europe. Then, relax as you ride back to Lagos in the comfort of your private jeep. What a treat!

P.S. Your guide may even surprise you with some sunset wine and pastel de nata. But it never hurts to come prepared and BYO (or extra) wine, cheese, and pastries along for the ride! Click here to book your Sunset Sagres & Jeep Off-Road Algarve Natural Park Secret Spot Tour.

Best Things to Do & See Nearby Lagos

10. Hike the Coastal Trail to Praia da Luz

If you like hiking, then embark on the final section of the Fishermen’s Trail (a multi-day hiking trail in the Algarve) from Lagos to Praia da Luz.

This one-way hike stretches almost 11 kilometers long (nearly 7 miles) and will take you 2-3 hours, including stops for gazing out on the horizon and studying all the spectacular rock formations and turquoise waters. The views are seriously amazing! It’s an easy hike (not steep), so it’s one of the best things to do in Lagos to get close to Mother Nature.

You can start from Lagos Old Town, or you can Uber to another Lagos starting point (like Praia do Camilo or the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse) if you want to shorten your hike a bit!

Wherever you begin, you’ll make your way over to neighboring Praia da Luz, a charming beach town, which is also designated as an eco-conscious “Blue Flag” beach.

Head out in the early morning to avoid the intense heat of mid-day. When you’re ready to return, simply hop on the bus or in an Uber back to Lagos. Or, if you’re feeling super ambitious, you can retrace your steps, hiking back to Lagos before sunset.

P.S. If you really love hiking, and want to embark on one of Europe’s best hikes, take a 40-minute drive east, over to Praia da Marinha. From there, set out on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. You’ll drool over the coastal views, of course, as well as pass by the red-domed Alfanzina Lighthouse, Benagil Caves, and end at the beautiful Praia do Vale de Centeanes. This one-way, 6-kilometer hike takes about 2 hours.

11. Visit Sagres

If you have a rental car, I highly suggest spending a day in the laid-back surf town of Sagres, about one hour west of Lagos. In Sagres, you’ll find a chill little town focused on waves, good eats, and cold beer (Sagres or Super Bok, that is the question!).

Definitely grab brunch at Laundry Lounge, and a late lunch and craft beers at The Hangout!

While you’re in Southern Portugal’s beloved surf spot, why not take a lesson or rent a board (and wetsuit!)? Spend a day earning that cataplana di pesce, then catch one of the most jaw-dropping sunsets of your life on the cliffs just outside town.

As part of my Algarve road trip, I decided to spend the night in Sagres. However, a day trip from Lagos is also doable.

HOT TIP: This is the website I use to find amazing deals on rental cars in Portugal and beyond. Click here to book your rental car!

READ MORE: Best Things to See & Do in Sagres, Portugal

12. Explore the Algarve Countryside (Silves & Monchique)

Nature, history, and wine, anyone? Book this Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique to visit the countryside towns of Silves and Monchique.

You’ll spend some time in Silves, visiting what once was the original Capital of the Algarve region, and marvel at beautiful views, historic castles, and cathedrals.

Then, near Monchique, unwind with a soak in the healing thermal waters of a natural hot spring!

Lastly, delight in a wine-tasting experience at a small, family-owned winery, Quinta do Francês Winery, before heading back to Lagos.

Click here to book your day trip to Silves and Monchique!

13. Take a Surf Lesson

What better place to learn to surf than the beautiful Algarvian West Coast?

This beginner surf lesson includes an expert instructor, high-quality surfboard, wetsuit, and transport to the best beginner surf beach (determined by the wind/tide conditions) on the day.

Your surf coach will choose between Arrifana, Monte Clerigo, or Amoreira beaches and ensure you have a fun, stress-free lesson.

Click here to book your surf lesson!

Where to Eat & Drink in Lagos, Portugal

Really, you can’t go wrong with food in Lagos. There’s a plethora of amazing dining options and cool bars here, but these are some of my favorites!

• Restaurante dos Artistas: Treat yourself to a five-star dining experience while you’re visiting Lagos. Bask in the ambiance and exceptional service, and dine on artfully presented, extravagant dishes.
• Casa Do Prego: Casa Do Prego is a crowd favorite for food, drinks, music, and the rooftop bar. As such, it’s wise to make a reservation, this spot fills up fast!
• Taberna da mó: A central location perfect for a shopping break. This Portuguese taverna has a great selection of tapas, wine, and desserts. Hint: Try the sangria!
• BARBOSA Bar & Kitchen: This Iberian restaurant offers an array of amazing international food. Come for the food, stay for the nice ambiance and cocktails!
• Pastelaria Algarve: My favorite Pasteleria in Lagos! They have amazing pastel de nata, as well as colorful sweet treats of all kinds, and a prime people-watching location.
• KISA’ Real Italian Food: Real authentic Italian food with gluten-free pasta dishes. The owner is celiac; no cross-contamination here! The wine, food, and service are all superb.
• Bon Vivant: Big, red, and loud; Bon Vivant is unmissable on a night out in Lagos. Come here for killer cocktails, and stay for the best rooftop view on the main street!
• Peppers Bar: More than just a swanky vintage-style cocktail lounge, you can come enjoy a lovely dinner at Pepper’s before your night out (Bon Vivant is a skip away).

What to Pack for Lagos, Portugal

• Flowy summer dresses
• Light scarf/shawl (for evenings, sun protection, and visiting churches)
• Light, breathable clothes for warm weather
• Cute, comfy sandals
• Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
• Quick-dry Turkish beach towel
• Daypack for day trips 
• Sunscreen (natural and reef safe)
• Floppy sun hat
• Insulated, refillable water bottle
• Universal or European travel adapter
• Carbon monoxide detector if you’re staying in a vacation rental that doesn’t have one; I travel everywhere with one. There are way too many tragic news stories online not to.
• eSIM for your phone, so you can connect to the local cell network with ease. You’re going to need your maps app!
• Travel insurance (Please, make sure you’re covered while abroad. Accidents happen.)

How to Get to Lagos, Portugal

The best way to access Lagos is to fly into Faro International Airport, 56 miles away. It’s a modern airport with a variety of transportation options…

Algarve Road Trip

After my incredible 3-day trip to Lisbon, I decided to go on a solo road trip around the Algarve. Renting a car is the most popular way to get to Lagos – and to explore the region. I highly recommend renting a car for your trip to Lagos.

When making your rental car reservation, remember to set Faro International Airport as your pick-up location, and select automatic transmission if you don’t know how to drive manual!

This is the rental car website I use to find the best deals in Portugal and beyond. Click here to book your rental car.

Private Transfer

If you’re planning your dream trip to Lagos during the peak season, it’s worth considering organizing a private transfer before you arrive. Especially if landing late at night! Booking in advance can save you some money but expect to spend around €90.

Here and here, you’ll find options for booking a private airport transfer.

Bus

From May to October there is an easy, direct bus option from Faro Airport to the downtown Terminal Rodoviário in Lagos. Look out for Aerobus route 56; the journey takes two hours and costs a reasonable €12. It typically operates from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM; view the timetable here. Click here to book your bus tickets online.

Train from Downtown Faro to Lagos

Want to catch the train? It’s a great option if the high-season Aerobus isn’t operating. You’ll need to find your way to the Faro City train station, about eight minutes from the airport, or about a ten-minute walk from the center city. The train ride from Faro to Lagos town center takes just over 1.5 hours and costs under €10.

Private Car/Taxi

Want to get dropped off at the door of your accommodation? I don’t blame you after your journey! Ubers are available for around €70.

Lagos, Portugal Travel FAQs

FIND MORE PORTUGAL INSPIRATION HERE!

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