Beachgoers, sunbathers, and sand lovers, take note! Grab your tanning lotion and start packing. Are you prepared to travel to the top vacation spot? Lagos, Portugal, is an incredible place to go. Not only is the cost of living in this charming coastal town cheaper than a latte at Starbucks, but it’s also home to some of the most picturesque beaches in all of Europe. This charming coastal town is not just for retirees and retirees-at-heart! Trust me; it’s got plenty of thrills and spills for the young and wild-at-heart.
The Algarve region, where Lagos is situated, is renowned throughout the world for its numerous beaches. There are extensive stretches of golden sand, quiet coves encircled by cliffs, and beaches ideal for any activity you can think of, including proposing.
And let’s not forget about the delicious local cuisine, with fresh seafood and traditional dishes that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds, and fourths). But, if seafood isn’t your thing, don’t worry, the Algarve is also known for its olive oil, which is used in many traditional dishes.
So, pack your bags, bring your sunscreen and your appetite, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Lagos, Portugal! Just don’t blame me if you never want to leave. Let’s dive into your Lagos Portugal Guide.
Table of Contents
How To Get to Lagos, Portugal
There are several ways to get to Lagos, Portugal, depending on your starting location and preferred mode of transportation. Here are some options to consider:
- By air: The nearest airport to Lagos is Faro Airport, located approximately 90 km /56 miles away. The Faro Airport offers regular flights to and from a range of locations in Europe and the UK. (However, there are no direct non-stop flights from the US.) Once you arrive in Faro, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Lagos, rent a car and drive, or you may want to make your way to the train station for a more luxury experience to Lagos.
- By train: If you’ve arrived at the Faro Airport, you can catch a taxi or bus to Faro Central Station. The ride there will take about 10 minutes by taxi or 20 minutes on the bus line. (The Airport website states that a rail line to connect the airport and train station was planned for the end of 2022, however there is no information that it’s been completed yet.) There are eight train departures daily to Lagos on their high-speed Comboios de Portugal regional trains, and the travel time is on average 1 hour 40 minutes. It costs only $24 for a ticket, which includes a comfortable ride and all the amazing views of southern Portugal you can enjoy on the way. Check the schedules for changes on Sundays and holidays. https://youtu.be/EcJEZJ6rXT0
- By bus: Lagos is served by a network of regional and intercity buses, with regular services to and from other cities in the Algarve region and beyond. The main bus station in Lagos is located in the city center, near the train station and other transportation hubs. http://www.algarvebus.info/lagos.htm
- By car: Lagos is located along the A22 motorway, which stretches east and west along the Algarve and connects to many other roads. If you are driving to Lagos from elsewhere in the country, you can get onto the A22 and follow the signs to the city center. There are several parking options in Lagos, including paid street parking and public parking garages.
- Regional railways: If you are traveling regionally throughout the Algarve, you can look at the train options that connect cities and have hubs along the coast to reach Lagos, which is on the Algarve Line. https://www.portugalvisitor.com/portugal-travel/algarve-line
Regardless of how you choose to get to Lagos, use good traveling common sense by planning your route in advance, and allow plenty of time for your journey. This will help ensure that you arrive in the city smoothly and without any delays.
The Great Outdoors in Lagos Portugal
Put your hiking boots on before your flip-flops, first. The hiking trails will literally take your breath away and the cliffs surrounding Lagos are a sight to behold.
Lagos is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, that offer spectacular views of the coast and the countryside. Some of the most popular trails include the Vicentine Coastline, the Rota Vicentina, and the Monchique Mountains. Each trail provides a unique experience, with opportunities to see wildlife, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail in Lagos that’s perfect for you.
Hiking Trails in Lagos
The Vicentine Coastline, Rota Vicentina, and Monchique Mountains are some of the most popular hiking trails in Lagos, Portugal. Each trail provides a unique experience, with breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to see wildlife and historical landmarks. Here’s more information about each trail:
- The Vicentine Coastline is a scenic trail that runs along the southwestern coast of Portugal. It offers breathtaking views of the sea, cliffs, and beaches and is a popular destination for both hikers and birdwatchers. The trail is approximately 150 miles long and can be hiked in its entirety or in sections. You can find more information and maps of the trail at https://rotavicentina.com/en/
- The Rota Vicentina is a network of trails that runs along the southwestern coast of Portugal, from the town of Porto Covo to Cape St. Vincent. The trails offer panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside and pass through areas of great ecological and cultural importance. There are several different routes to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. You can find more information and maps of the trails at https://rotavicentina.com/en/
- The Monchique Mountains are a range of hills in the Algarve region of Portugal, located to the northeast of Lagos. The hills offer a cooler, more temperate climate and are home to several thermal springs, making them a popular destination for those seeking a break from the hot, dry Algarve coast. The hills are also popular with hikers, who can explore the many trails that lead through the hills and provide breathtaking views of the coast and the surrounding countryside. You can find more information and maps of the trails at https://monchique.info/.
These are just a few of the many outdoor activities available in Lagos, Portugal. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
If you’re looking for activities beyond hiking, Lagos offers plenty of other options. You can go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding along the coast, take a guided tour of the local caves, or go birdwatching in the wetlands. You can also visit the Zoomarine Algarve, a marine park that offers dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as a water park. Another popular activity is horseback riding, which is a great way to explore the countryside and enjoy the scenic views. So, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a relaxing day out, there’s something for everyone in Lagos, Portugal.
Cost of Living in Lagos
The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower than in other European countries, particularly in cities outside of Lisbon and Porto. The cost of living for a single person is about $1,250, including rent. If you compare Lagos to the United States, you will definitely appreciate the low cost of living anywhere along the Algarve compared to living on the US coast. Of course, the actual cost of living in Lagos will depend on many factors, such as your lifestyle and personal spending habits. https://livingcost.org/cost/portugal/lagos
More About the Beautiful Algarve
The Algarve is a region in southern Portugal known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and mild climate. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world, particularly during the summer months. The Algarve is known for its coastline, featuring diverse beaches, as well as several nature reserves and protected areas, such as the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Monchique Mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The Algarve is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic towns, museums, and landmarks to explore, such as the castle of Silves and the walled city of Lagos. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/things-to-know-before-traveling-to-algarve
Algarve Coast Cuisine
The cuisine of the Algarve, like the rest of Portugal, is known for its fresh seafood and flavorful, traditional dishes. Some popular dishes from the Algarve region include:
- Cataplana, a stew made with seafood, pork, and vegetables, cooked in a copper pot called a cataplana
- Arroz de marisco, a seafood rice dish similar to paella
- Sardinhas assadas, grilled sardines, often served with boiled potatoes and a simple salad
- Caldeirada, a hearty fish stew made with a variety of seafood, potatoes, and onions
- Carne de porco à Alentejana, a dish of pork and clams cooked with potatoes, garlic, and parsley
- Bolo do caco, a type of bread made with sweet potatoes and served with garlic butter
- Açorda, a soup or stew made with bread, garlic, and a variety of ingredients such as seafood, eggs, or vegetables.
In addition to seafood, the Algarve is known for its olive oil, which is used in many traditional dishes. The region also produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, almonds, and figs, which are used in local cuisine. https://www.portugalist.com/portuguese-food/
Popular Beaches in Algarve, Portugal
As I just mentioned, the Algarve region is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for any activity you can imagine, especially photography, beach strolling, and even popping the question. With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find one you adore, and that you can return to again and again. Some of the most popular beaches in the Algarve include:
- Praia da Rocha, a long, sandy beach in Portimão with a lively atmosphere and a range of facilities
- Praia do Vau, a sheltered beach near Portimão with crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of cliffs
- Praia da Falésia, a six-kilometer-long beach near Albufeira with red cliffs and golden sands
- Praia da Marinha, a secluded beach near Lagoa with dramatic rock formations and clear waters
- Praia do Carvoeiro, a sheltered beach near Lagoa with a picturesque fishing village and a range of restaurants and shops
- Praia da Falésia, a long beach near Vilamoura with red cliffs and golden sands
- Praia da Barretta, popular for windsurfing and sailing
- Praia do Ancão, a secluded beach near Quinta do Lago with clear waters and a range of water sports facilities.
These are just a few examples of the many beautiful beaches in the Algarve. The region offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a beach bar with a lively atmosphere, a secluded spot for tanning, or fishing and sporting activities. https://www.algarvefun.com/algarve-tips/top-beaches-algarve/
To read more about off-the-beaten-path beach cities in Portugal, check out Unique Beach Cities in Portugal.
Lagos, Portugal Beaches
Lagos is located on the western end of the Algarve Coast in southern Portugal, and like the rest of the Algarve, it is known for its beautiful beaches. Some unique and popular beaches in the Lagos area include:
- Praia do Camilo, a small, secluded beach located near the city center, accessible via a steep staircase
- Praia Dona Ana, a popular beach near the city center with crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of cliffs
- Praia da Batata, a small beach near the city center with a laid-back atmosphere and a range of restaurants and bars
- Praia dos Estudantes, a small cove accessible through a rock tunnel for a unique experience and amazing photo opportunities
- Meia Praia, a long, sandy beach popular for swimming and water sports, located near cafes, hotels and bars
- Praia do Burgau, a small beach backed by rugged cliffs, located near the village of Burgau, known for its laid-back atmosphere and seafood restaurants.
These are just a few examples of the many beaches near Lagos. The city and its surrounding area offer a range of beach experiences, from secluded coves with rocky cliffs to bustling stretches of sand. https://www.7continents1passport.com/beaches-in-lagos-portugal/
Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal
As a popular tourist destination, Lagos of course maximizes the experience for its visitors and offers many activities in the city and the surrounding areas. If you’re looking for ideas, try these for starters:
- Visit Old Town, which features historic churches, museums, and quaint narrow streets.
- Take a boat trip to see the famous rock formations along the coast, known as Ponta da Piedade.
- Enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, such as Meia Praia, Praia Dona Ana, and Praia da Rocha.
- Go on a hiking or cycling tour of the nearby countryside and natural parks, such as the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Monchique Mountains.
- Visit the historic fort of Ponta da Bandeira, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Try traditional Portuguese cuisine and seafood dishes in one of the city’s many restaurants.
- Go shopping in the city’s markets and boutiques.
- Practice your swing a nearby golf course, enroll at a golf academy, or even take the whole family for mini golfing.
- Visit nearby towns and villages, such as Silves, Portimão, and Albufeira.
These are just a few examples of the many things to do in Lagos. The city and its surrounding area offer many options for visitors, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the local culture and cuisine.
Unique Things To Do in Lagos Marina
Lagos is a popular tourist destination, but there are still some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences to be found in the city and its surrounding areas. Some ideas for exploring Lagos “off the beaten path” might include:
- Visiting the Lagos Cultural Center, which offers a range of exhibitions, workshops, and events related to the city’s history and culture
- Taking a boat trip to the hidden caves and grottoes along the coast, such as the Benagil Sea Cave and the Algar de Benagil
- Going on a birdwatching tour of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is home to a diverse range of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and storks
- Visiting the historic town of Silves, located inland from Lagos, which features a castle, a cathedral, and a number of museums and galleries
- Trying some of the local wines and spirits at a vineyard or distillery in the Algarve region, such as the Adega do Cantor winery or the Lagoa distillery
- Going on a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding tour of the Lagos coastline, which offers stunning views and a chance to explore hidden coves and beaches
- Visiting the Lagos Environmental Center, which offers information and activities related to the local environment and sustainable living.
These are just a few examples of “off the beaten path” activities in Lagos. The city and its surrounding area have so much potential for unique experiences if you are willing to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions.
possible three-day itinerary for Lagos, Portugal:
Day 1:
- Start your day by exploring the historic center of Lagos, taking in sights such as the Old Town walls and the Lagos Castle.
- In the afternoon, head to Meia Praia Beach for a swim and some relaxation.
- In the evening, enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
Day 2:
- On the second day, take a boat tour to see the famous caves and grottoes along the coast, such as the grotto of Benagil and the caves at Ponta da Piedade.
- In the afternoon, visit the Lagos Maritime Museum to learn about the city’s rich maritime history.
- In the evening, enjoy some live music and traditional Portuguese food at one of the many bars and restaurants in the city.
Day 3:
- On the final day, spend the morning exploring the Lagos market, where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.
- In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby town of Sagres, where you can visit the famous Cape St. Vincent and the Sagres Fortress.
- In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the restaurants along the coast, with a view of the ocean and the beautiful sunsets of Lagos.
