Lagos trips and vacations

Discover the city’s deep-rooted history with a visit to its 16th-century walls, the 17th-century ‘Forte da Ponta da Bandeira’ (Lagos Fortress) and the ‘Igreja de Santo Antonio’ (Church of St. Anthony). Take extra time to visit the ‘Mercado De Escravos’ (slave market), which highlights the harrowing injustices of the transatlantic slave trade.

Even on a short vacation to Lagos, there’s no better way to spend your time than enjoying the city’s Atlantic coast. With golden beaches, magnificent rock formations and water sports like kayaking, surfing and boating, you can experience plenty of outdoor fun. Hike from Praia da Luz to Lagos via Ponta da Piedade for amazing cliffside views of the coast.

Lagos’s privileged position on the Algarve coast makes it an ideal base for day trips. Visit nearby Ponta da Piedade, a cluster of incredible rock formations. Or take a bus to Sagres, known for its big waves perfect for surfing. With Cabo de Sao Vicente’s famous sunsets and great kayaking around Benagil Cave, even a short trip to Lagos guarantees adventure.

Surrounded by 16th-century walls, the Old Town is Lagos’s beating heart. Explore cobbled streets lined with shops, restaurants and bars, and take a stroll through ‘Parque da Cidade de Lagos’ (Lagos City Park). The Old Town is also within easy walking distance of Batata and Estudantes beaches, making it the best neighborhood to stay in Lagos for first-time visitors.

Good for: History, beaches, restaurants

If lounging on the beach all day is your idea of a dream holiday, head to Meia Praia, where you’ll find the largest beach in the city, with plenty of swimming areas and water sports. After soaking up some sun on the golden sands, stroll along the promenade to find a good selection of restaurants and casual beach clubs.

Good for: Beach, water sports, scenic walks

With its unprotected coastline attracting strong Atlantic waves, Porto de Mos is a surfer’s dream. When you’re not hanging ten, explore the neighborhood’s clifftop trails and admire the scenery from the Atalaia Viewpoint. Its location slightly further away from the city center makes Porto de Mos where to stay in Lagos to escape the crowds.

Good for: Surfing, hiking, clifftop views

Some of the best things to do with family in Lagos involve exploring the city’s coastline. Take a dolphin-watching cruise, go kayaking or book a surf lesson to make the most of the ocean. Prefer to stay on dry land? Have an afternoon of fun mini-golfing at Pro Putting Garden, or visit the Centro Ciencia Viva de Lagos, an interactive science museum.

A trip to Lagos isn’t complete without some retail therapy. Shop for fresh produce at the Mercado Municipal de Lagos, then hop across the street to Mercado Paseo Maritimo to buy locally made souvenirs. Shopping in Lagos for a new vacation outfit? The boutiques along Rua Candido dos Reis have you covered.

When you’re not making the most of the beautiful beaches, spend some time exploring the museums in Lagos. The Old Town’s Museu Municipal Dr. Jose Formosinho is the place to go to learn about Lagos and the Algarve region. Or visit the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira — this 17th-century fortress provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean.

Hit up the nightclubs and bars for an energetic night of dancing and partying in Lagos. Or head to one of Lagos’s beachside bars for cocktails and people-watching. Looking for a romantic evening or simply want to see Lagos from a different angle? Book a sunset cruise from the Lagos Marina on a catamaran or yacht.

You’ll find fresh seafood and Portuguese flavors are the order of the day in the restaurants in Lagos. Feast on Algarve favorites like ‘bacalhau a bras’ (salt cod, potatoes, onions and eggs) and ‘cataplana’ (a seafood and pork stew). Don’t forget to try authentic piri-piri chicken. Craving something different? You’ll find plenty of Indian restaurants in Lagos.

Lagos features a great choice of beaches along its shimmering coast. Join local surfers at Praia do Porto de Mos. Or descend the long set of stairs to snorkel in Praia do Camilo’s crystal-clear waters. Looking for the perfect photo op? Praia dos Estudantes is one of the most photographed beaches in Lagos thanks to its iconic Roman-style bridge.