Lagos travel guide

Photo of sunrise at Camilo beach in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal.

Introduction to Lagos

Lagos, known for its incredible Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana, and Praia do Pinhão, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This municipality and city in Portugal, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 31 thousand people, Lagos is truly one of the main highlights of Portugal.

Travelers looking to experience the best of Portugal often choose to stay in Lagos.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Lagos below!

History of Lagos

Lagos, a stunning city located in the Algarve region, boasts a rich and captivating history. The area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, with the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans leaving their mark.

In the 15th century, Lagos became a significant hub during the Age of Discovery, where ships embarked on voyages to explore and trade with Africa and the Orient. The city's maritime heritage is on full display at the Mercado de Escravos, Europe's first slave market.

The 1755 earthquake significantly damaged Lagos, but the city was rebuilt with a charming mix of traditional and Baroque architecture. Today, Lagos is a vibrant city that beautifully interweaves its historical roots with modern tourism. Its picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and lively culture continue to draw visitors from around the globe.

Top services in Lagos

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Lagos, Portugal. Browse the 116 top-rated tours available to you in Lagos. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Lagos.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Lagos, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Lagos on your vacation in Portugal.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Lagos from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Lagos!

Best time to visit Lagos

The best time to explore Lagos, Portugal, is from March to June and from September to November. These periods offer pleasant weather conditions with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C, ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The summer months of July and August are usually crowded with tourists, hence, slightly off-peak seasons can provide a more relaxed experience. Moreover, Lagos hosts several annual events such as the 'Festa de São João' in June, a vibrant festival celebrating the patron saint of the town, and the 'Lagos Jazz Festival' in August. Visiting during these events can add a rich cultural touch to your experience. However, if you prefer a quieter, more serene holiday, the late autumn months offer tranquillity and mild weather, perfect for leisurely walks and exploring the historic town centre. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Lagos offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage throughout the year.

Local tip for visiting Lagos

One insider tip that could significantly enhance your experience in Lagos, Portugal, is to visit the local farmers' market held every Saturday morning. This bustling marketplace, often overlooked by tourists, is a vibrant hub of community life where you can sample a myriad of fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade bread. More than just a shopping trip, it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic Algarve lifestyle. Engage with the locals, learn about their farming traditions, and perhaps pick up a few Portuguese phrases along the way. Don't forget to try the figs and almonds, they're a regional specialty. This insider tip will not only allow you to taste the best of Algarve's produce but also give you a deeper understanding of Lagos's local culture.

Learn more about Portugal

There are many reasons to visit the city of Lagos, but a trip to Portugal needs no explanation.

Exploring Portugal, which spans 92,212 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Portugal offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana, and the Praia do Pinhão, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Portugal.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Portugal.

What to see in Lagos

Photo of beautiful rocky beach, Lagos, Portugal.

Lagos has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Lagos.

Top attractions in Lagos

Home to plenty of top attractions, Lagos is more than just a wonderful city in Portugal. Lagos is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Portugal.

One fascinating sight in Lagos is the unforgettable Ponta da Piedade. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Lagos.

Ponta da Piedade is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at 8600 Lagos, Portugal.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Portugal, check out our list of top attractions in Lagos below. Discover the best places to visit in Lagos, including the fascinating Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Pinhão, Igreja de Santo António, and Praia da Boneca.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Lagos.

Things to do in Lagos

Photo of Coastal cliffs (Ponta da Piedade)with beautiful beach, Lagos, Portugal.

Enrich your travel experience in Lagos by joining tours and activities. Lagos offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Lagos below.

Most popular experiences in Lagos

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Lagos.

Lagos offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Other Water Sports, Water Parks, and Water Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Portugal.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Lagos by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Lagos

Travelers in Lagos can choose from 18 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Sailing Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Lagos is the fantastic Ponta da Piedade Coastal Tour in Lagos, Algarve. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Lagos one of the best travel destinations in Portugal.

Lagos also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Brodie's Historical and Fun Lagos Walking Tour is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 15 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Lagos. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 87 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Lagos and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Lagos below.

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Search for things to do in Lagos

Discover the best things to do in Lagos. Choose from 116 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Lagos. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Lagos

Lagos, Portugal, a city that perfectly marries tradition with modernity, offers a culinary scene that is as rich and diverse as its history. Whether you're a food connoisseur or a street food lover, Lagos will not disappoint. The city's dining districts, such as the bustling Marina and the picturesque Old Town, are among the best places to eat in Lagos. Here, you can sample a wide array of traditional dishes, from the succulent seafood delicacy Cataplana, to the hearty Piri Piri chicken, and the local favorite, Pastel de Nata. Street food stalls lining the vibrant Rua 25 de Abril offer mouthwatering bifanas (pork sandwiches) and seafood tapas. For a more upscale dining experience, head to renowned restaurants like Dom Sebastião or Adega da Marina. With an impressive selection of local wines and the freshest catch of the day, these establishments epitomize the city's culinary prowess. Do not miss a visit to the local markets, such as Mercado de Escravos and Mercado Municipal, to immerse in the local food culture and get a taste of the regional produce. Remember, dining in Lagos is not just about food, it's an experience that embodies the city's spirit and tradition.

Best Shopping in Lagos

Lagos, Portugal, is a shopper's paradise offering a blend of modern malls, bustling markets, and historic streets lined with unique boutiques. The Rua 25 de Abril is the best place to go shopping in Lagos, known for its diverse range of shops offering local handicrafts, ceramics, and traditional Portuguese tiles. Don't miss the Mercado de Escravos, a vibrant market where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, taste freshly caught fish and buy locally grown produce.

For fashion enthusiasts, Lagos has a distinct sense of style which combines traditional Portuguese influences with modern trends. Boutiques like Mar d'Estórias and ComCor are well-known for their unique clothing and accessories.

If you're looking for souvenirs, Lagos has many shops selling cork products, a sustainable and iconic material from Portugal. From wallets to hats, these make for a unique memento of your visit. Lastly, do remember that most shops in Lagos observe a siesta in the afternoon, usually from 1pm-3pm, adding a relaxed pace to your shopping experience.

Best free things to do in Lagos

Visiting Lagos, Portugal on a budget? Fear not, as there are plenty of best free things to do in Lagos. Start your journey at the stunningly beautiful Ponta da Piedade, a natural wonder of towering cliffs and turquoise waters, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Visit the historic city center, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with colorful buildings and street art, that tells a tale of Lagos' rich history. Don't miss the Fort of Ponta da Bandeira, a 17th century fortress that guards the harbor entrance, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views. Spend an afternoon at Praia de Dona Ana, arguably the most picturesque beach in the region, and soak up the sun while admiring the dramatic cliffs that frame the golden sands. For nature lovers, the Lagos Zoo is a must-see, with its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, although admission is not always free. Finally, join the locals at the lively fish market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Lagos. With so much to offer, Lagos guarantees a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a penny.

Vacation packages in Lagos

Photo of the beautiful Camilo beach in Lagos, Portugal, with its magnificent cliffs and the blue ocean colorfully lit at sunrise.

The best and easiest way to visit Lagos is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Portugal.

Booking a vacation package to Lagos means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Lagos to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Lagos is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Lagos, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Lagos.

Top vacation packages in Lagos

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Portugal.

Get more Lagos vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Portugal that match your needs and budget.

Find vacation packages in Lagos

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Lagos.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Lagos get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Portugal. Your customized holiday package to Lagos is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Lagos

To get to the city of Lagos the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Portugal can travel by plane.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Lagos, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you.

Find cheap flights to Lagos

Photo of beautiful Dona Ana Beach (Praia Dona Ana) in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Lagos, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Portugal.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Portugal and the city of Lagos from your city of departure.

Where to stay in Lagos

Photo of beautiful sandy beach near Lagos in Ponta da Piedade, Algarve region, Portugal.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Lagos is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Lagos usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Lagos offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Lagos and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Lagos planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Portugal can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Lagos. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Lagos.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Lagos in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Lagos

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Lagos provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Lagos. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Search for accommodation in Lagos

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Lagos on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Lagos that match the information provided.

Car rental in Lagos

Photo of happy tourist girl looking out on the ocean. Lagos, Algarve Coast, Portugal.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Lagos. Lagos has 4 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Lagos start from 28.35 EUR per day or 198.45 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Citoren C4 Auto.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Lagos, starting from 23.96 EUR per day or 167.74 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Citroen C1.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Lagos, Portugal, below.

Search for car rental in Lagos

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Lagos. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Lagos, Portugal, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Lagos

Navigating Lagos, Portugal is both convenient and comfortable with a variety of transportation options available. The city's public transportation service is well-structured, with buses being a popular choice for both locals and tourists. The extensive network of bus routes covers the city and its surroundings, offering a cost-effective and efficient way to explore Lagos.

Taxis are also readily available, providing a quick and comfortable travel alternative. These can be hailed on the streets or pre-booked over the phone. For those who prefer to drive, numerous car rental companies operate in Lagos, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

For a unique local experience, try the traditional tuk-tuks. These motorized three-wheelers offer a fun way to get around and see the sights, and drivers often double as guides, providing valuable local insights. Whether you're venturing to the historic old town, heading to the stunning beaches, or exploring the bustling marina, Lagos' diverse transportation options ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Popular destinations to visit after Lagos

Photo of panoramic view, Ponta da Piedade with seagulls flying over rocks near Lagos in Algarve, Portugal.

The city of Lagos is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Portugal. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Portugal has it all.

Portugal is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Portugal that are as magical as the city of Lagos. The most popular travel destinations in Portugal are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Portugal

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Portugal. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Lagos

Photo of  tourist sitting on promontory of Ponta da Piedade, woman looking amazing views of iconic cliffs of turquoise sea of Lagos.

A taste of Portugal through a visit to Lagos can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Lagos to another remarkable destination in Portugal.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Lagos to other spectacular locations in Portugal, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Lagos

Traveling to another city or region in Portugal? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Lagos to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Portugal on the selected dates.

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