Lagos, Portugal, is a stunning coastal town brimming with charm, history, and natural beauty. One of the top things to do in Lagos Portugal, is exploring the Ponta da Piedade, where dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters create breathtaking views. For beach lovers, Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are must-visits, offering golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Another of the top things to do in Lagos Portugal, is taking a boat tour to explore sea caves and hidden beaches along the Algarve coastline.
Things to Do in Lagos Portugal
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Old Town, with its cobbled streets, vibrant squares, and landmarks like the Mercado de Escravos, the former slave market museum. For adventure seekers, kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are exciting ways to explore the coastline. As one of the top things to do in Lagos Portugal, dining in local restaurants offers a taste of fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, the top things to do in Lagos Portugal promise an unforgettable experience.
1. Explore Ponta da Piedade
Ponta da Piedade is a masterpiece of nature. This breathtaking coastal rock formation is one of the top attractions in Lagos. The rock features towering golden cliffs, sea caves, and natural arches. The crystal-clear waters of the cliffs contrast with the golden cliffs, creating a picture-perfect backdrop.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Ponta da Piedade, you should aim to explore it by both land and sea.
You can take any of the boat tours, allowing you to navigate through the caves and arches. Options include private or group boat tours, SUP tours, or kayaking.
On land, you can walk along the coastal trail for panoramic views. This trail actually starts in the city of Lagos, and you can walk the entire thing - it's one of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal.
As you approach the coast, you'll follow a fairly even wooden walkway from which you'll get a bird's eye view of the stunning scenery.
2. Enjoy water sports
Ponta de Piedade is definitely one of the most incredible Lagos Portugal points of interest. To truly experience it, you have to take a boat trip.
One of the things that makes the Algarve truly special is its rock formations. They are the result of centuries of erosion by the Atlantic Ocean, wind, and rain. They are mostly made of limestone and sandstone and have been shaped by natural forces over time.
The result? The Algarve coastline is famous for its spectacular cliffs, sea arches, hidden grottoes, and huge sea stacks that rise majestically from the turquoise waters.
In my opinion, the best way to explore all that these magnificent rock formations have to offer is to rent a kayak or take a boat trip. It is one of the most fun things to do in Lagos Portugal.
Kayaking
Why kayak? Kayaking is great for physically fit travelers looking to experience the hidden nooks and crannies of Ponta da Piedade. Its small size allows access to tight spaces and grottos that are otherwise inaccessible by larger boats.
Kayaking is one of the most popular activities in Lagos Portugal. It is one of the best things to do in Lagos Portugal in September (when the water is at its warmest).
Additionally, guided group tours reveal hidden spots, which provides a unique exploration opportunity. I highly recommend this 3-hour long kayak trip.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding gives you the freedom and flexibility to get up close and personal with the Algarve rock formations. It can be a bit tricky in terms of balance, but it is still great if you want to explore the coastline at your own pace.
If exploring on a SUP is more your thing, check out this rental, which includes pick-up/drop-off at any beach in Lagos.
Boat Tours
Boat tours in Lagos Portugal are one of the best ways to explore the coastline of Lagos (and beyond). If you’re not interested in doing any physical activity, a boat tour is a great way to explore Ponta da Piedade. Most boat tours around Lagos are on small boats, which allow you to get up close to the rocks.
3. Get a bird’s eye view in a hot air balloon.
This sunrise hot air balloon ride is an absolutely amazing way to see the stunning scenery of the area. You’ll be able to get a bird’s eye view of everything from the rolling hills of the countryside to the golden cliffs of the coastline.
And beyond that, you can see the sparkling blue of the Atlantic. You’ll probably even get a chance to look down on the city of Lagos.
Although the exact route depends on the wind, you’ll float in the sky for about an hour and have plenty of opportunities to pass by some of the best sights in the region.
4. Enjoy a Wine Tasting Experience
This small group wine tasting allows you to sample wines from local wineries while taking in the region’s countryside.
Looking for something to do near Lagos Portugal? This small group wine tasting is a great option.
At the winery, you’ll tour the production and barrel rooms. Your guide will tell you about the winemaking process before serving you your samples. You’ll try three different wines and enjoy some light tapas of meat and cheese.
After visiting the winery, the tour will take you out into the countryside. You’ll visit orange groves and cork forests. You can also spend some free time taking photos and exploring the beautiful Moorish village of Silves.
5. Visit Lagos Castle
Lagos Castle was historically used for maritime defense against pirates. The castle (also known as Forte da Ponta da Bandera) was built in the 17th century and combines Moorish and Renaissance architectural styles.
Now, the castle is a museum. You can see battlements, dungeons, and a small chapel intricately decorated with blue azulejos (Portuguese tiles). There is also a small museum dedicated to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
The castle is privileged by the sea, which means you can enjoy amazing panoramic views of the coastline. For the best experience, aim to fit in a visit during sunset.
Keep in mind that opening times can change unexpectedly, so be sure to check the official website before you visit.
6. See animals at Lagos Zoo
If you’re traveling with kids, Lagos Zoo is a great option. The zoo is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, chimps, and exotic birds. You can wander through the African Savannah, a tropical rainforest, and visit the Reptile House.
Aim to plan your visit around feeding times. Pelicans, otters, and penguins have daily feeding schedules open to ticket holders. You can also join in on the lemur feeding, a special but paid activity.
One of Lagos’ best family attractions, Aju also has a snack bar where you and your family can stop for a bite to eat or a drink.
7. Take a Sagres Sunset Tour
Sagres is on the southwestern tip of the Algarve, at the tip of the peninsula. This far west location means the area offers breathtaking sunsets. From the viewpoint of Cabo de São Vicente, you can get a panoramic view across the Atlantic. Watch as the sky darkens into deep, rich reds and pinks.
This sunset jeep tour from Lagos allows you to enjoy the prime sunset viewing. To add to the amazing experience, you’ll also get some wine and a small selection of tapas.
8. Relax at Praia da Batata & Praia do Pinhao
Praia da Batata and Praia do Pinhao are very convenient beach options for your trip to Lagos.
Praia da Batata is very close to downtown Lagos. In addition to its easy accessibility, this beach is dog-friendly — 🐶 a wonderful bonus if you’re traveling with your four-legged friend in tow.
Praia do Pinhao is a more secluded cove but still within walking distance of downtown. Here, you can nestle in the sand along the cliffside. The cliffs are great for when the wind is strong or for some shade. You can also explore natural archways carved by wind and waves over centuries.
9. Enjoy a Lagos Food Tour
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be in heaven eating in the Algarve. A food tour is the best way to explore the food and ensure you don’t miss out on any of the specialties.
This food tour takes you to four local businesses and showcases the best of Lagos’ cuisine. You’ll enjoy around ten different dishes throughout the tour. But more importantly, you’ll learn all about the history and culture of the region and its cuisine as well.
Drinks, including alcoholic options, are included in the tour. If you’re looking to eat something in Lagos Portugal, look no further.
10. Go dolphin watching
The waters off the coast of Lagos are teeming with dolphins. There are actually 26 different species of dolphins living here, including the classic bottlenose, which is the most common one to see on a trip.
Pods in the area can sometimes be as strong as 200 dolphins. Needless to say, then, your chances of seeing dolphins are much higher.
Most tours leave from Lagos Marina and include live commentary from your experienced guide on the boat. Some tours also offer the option of paying extra to guarantee a dolphin sighting. This means that if you’re not successful, you can either get a refund or reschedule for a second time.
11. Scuba dive at Ocean Revival Park
One of the most unique Lagos Portugal attractions is diving at the incredible Ocean Revival Park.
Ocean Revival Park is considered one of the best dive sites in Europe. You’ll need an advanced open water diver certification to dive here. But if you haven’t dived in a wreck, this half-day experience is a must, as it’s one of the most fun places in Lagos for adults.
The Ocean Revival Park features a unique artificial reef made up of four decommissioned Portuguese Navy ships. It’s the largest single artificial reef structure in the world.
🤿 I personally went on this dive, and although the visibility wasn’t the best, the experience of diving to the depths and squeezing through the opening of the sunken ship was exhilarating. I have to admit, my heart was pumping. We ended up diving in two different places and I would 100% recommend the experience.
Although this dive site is only for advanced divers, novice divers can still experience diving in Lagos. WeDive offers other dive sites; the instructors will choose one that suits your level.
12. Visit Praia de Dona Ana
Praia de Dona Ana is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. While the stretch of sand is quite wide, it’s not very long.
So while it’s great for sunbathing, it can get busy. You should arrive early to secure a prime spot. If you want a break from the sun, head closer to the cliffs, which create beautiful shade.
The beach was carved by nature and is perfectly slotted into huge rock formations. Be sure to walk along the shore and explore the hidden caves. You’ll find them even more accessible at low tide.
The waters of Praia de Dona Ana are clear and calm. The rocks create a sort of inlet, keeping the waves to a minimum.
🏨 If you want to stay within walking distance of this beautiful beach, check out Carvi Beach Hotel and Villa Doris Suites.
13. Go shopping
If you want to bring home ceramics, cork products or hand-painted tiles, you will find them in Lagos.
A guide to Lagos Portugal is not complete without mentioning the city’s amazing shopping opportunities.
At Mar d’Estórias, you can find a really nice selection of items from local artisans (it’s also a really nice restaurant and bar). Along Rua Infante de Sagres, you will find many traditional souvenirs.
If you need fresh ingredients or a bottle of wine, head to Mercado do Levante. You will also find a small selection of local artisans and some goods that you can take home, such as jams and other preserves.
14. Explore Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo is another picture-perfect beach. You reach the beach by a dramatic flight of wooden stairs. From the very first step, you have spectacular views. And you continue down these 200 steps until you hit the sand.
The crystal-clear waters here are great for snorkeling. There are plenty of fish, which you can easily reach from the beach.
15. Discover Porto de Mos Beach
Porto de Mos Beach is the second largest in the region. It has a long coastline. The surrounding hills are tall and deep orange.
This beach tends to be busy, so you’ll want to arrive early on a sunny day to get a spot on the sand. It’s also a great place to visit on a windy day. It’s a bit quieter, and the hills will protect you from the wind.
You can also rent boats and go paddling out into the sea. The beach has a few facilities, including showers, restaurants, and sunshade rentals.
16. Explore Infante Dom Henrique Square
Infante Dom Henrique Square is dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator. It’s located in the heart of historic Lagos. The square is a charming public space.
The square honors the Prince’s maritime legacy. He was an important figure during the Age of Discovery. It also honors the significance of Lagos at that time. The city was one of the last ports of call for ships exploring the ‘New World’.
17. Visit the churches of Lagos
Visiting Lagos is not complete without a visit to the iconic Igreja de Santo António and its magnificent gold-covered chapel.
The Igreja de Santo António is a prominent landmark in the city center. The church is known for its Baroque architecture and extensive use of gold leaf decoration inside. It was originally built in the 18th century, specifically in 1707, and stands out for its historical and artistic significance, including intricate woodwork and painted tiles (azulejos) depicting religious and historical scenes.
The church has been classified as a national monument since 1924, reflecting its cultural and architectural importance in the region.
Nearby, you can visit the Igreja de Santa Maria. This medieval church combines Gothic and Manueline architectural styles. Its origins date back to the 15th century, although it underwent significant reconstructions in the 16th and 19th centuries.
18. Relax at Jardim da Constituição
Jardim da Constituição is a great escape without leaving the city. Established in the 19th century, it is a lush garden with manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and shaded paths. The garden is surrounded by the walls of the old city of Lagos.
These are the walls of the old city of Lagos Portugal that surround the garden — one of the best things to do in Lagos Portugal.
There are many large trees providing shade. You can stop for a break from the sun or even a picnic on the grass. You can also get great views of the ocean from here.
19. Visit Praia do Barranco do Martinho
Praia do Barranco do Martinho is a secluded beach outside the city, not far from Ponta da Piedade. The beach is bordered by the Abra Thebra Mountains.
The easiest way to get to this beach is by boat. So be sure to look for a tour that includes a stop here. But you can also access it on foot. There is a steep path down from the footpath to the top of the mountain.
Praia do Barranco do Martinho is smaller than other Lagos beaches. Facilities are limited here, so pack food and drinks. But the unspoilt nature is usually quite peaceful and worth the trek out.
20. Relax at Meia Praia
Lagos tourist attractions in Lagos Portugal include Meia Praia, the largest beach in the area. And one of the best things to do in Lagos Portugal is spend time on the beach.
Meia Praia is located east of Lagos and is the largest beach in the area. It is an almost endless stretch of golden sand, totaling 4.5 km (just under 3 miles). The vast expanse of the beach is very inviting for sun worshippers.
If you are looking for classic beach activities, this is the place for them. You can go for a long walk along the sand. Or set up a sun umbrella and recliner. These are also available for rent.
You can also rent water sports and boats here. This beach has many facilities including restaurants, bars, public showers and toilets. Beach-hopping is one of the best free things to do in Lagos.
21. Have fun at Aquashow Park
Aquashow Park is a water and theme park. It is a great activity for families or those traveling with kids. There is an indoor and outdoor water park. Both have water slides of different sizes, wave pools, and a lazy river.
The park also has a roller coaster and a bird and reptile exhibit. There are attractions and rides for kids and adults of all ages.
Due to its popularity, the park can get very busy. Aim to arrive early to beat the crowds. Sunbeds are available by the pool. You also have a number of food options inside the park.
22. Adventure at Parque Aventura Lagos
Parque Aventura Lagos is one of the best things to do in Lagos for young adults. It has a high ropes course and a paintball venue. This is another great activity for families, especially older kids. But it is also suitable for adults looking for an alternative, adrenaline-inducing activity.
The high ropes course has three levels. It includes zip lines, balancing bridges, nets and more. If you want to play paintball, you can do so in the forest playground. Natural and artificial obstacles make the game even more interesting.
23. Learn at Mercado de Escravos
The Mercado de Escravos has a dark past as the site of the first slave market in Europe. The market was established in the 15th century. The first market was held here in 1444. The events of this place played a significant role in the development of the transatlantic slave trade.
The building still stands today as a monument to its history. It now houses the Slave Market Museum, where you can see detailed displays on the historical impact of slavery, the African diaspora, and Portugal's role in all of this. You can also see exhibits on the lives of enslaved people.
24. Get involved at Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos
Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos is a science center with interactive exhibits and educational displays. Its goal is to make science accessible and enjoyable for all ages, making it a great place to spend time with curious kids.
Wondering what to see in Lagos Portugal? Another unique Lagos tourist attraction is the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos. This is one of the best things to do in Lagos Portugal when it rains.
The main exhibit focuses on discovery and navigation, which leads to lots of experiments and activities. For example, you can try putting together a radio or learn a bit of Morse code.
Check the center’s schedule for special events or demonstrations. Temporary exhibits also change regularly.
25. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Looking to do some hiking in Lagos Portugal? The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail runs from Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Sentines. It is one of the best hikes in Portugal. The trail leads to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy amazing views of the mountains and coastline.
If you are looking for hiking in Lagos Portugal, one of the best hiking trails in Lagos Portugal is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
It is about six km (just under four miles) in total. The trail is moderate to easy and takes about 2 - 3 hours to complete one path.
If you are doing this hike in the summer, it is best to start as early as possible to avoid the brutal heat of the day. Alternatively, if you are visiting in the spring or autumn, the weather is suitable for hiking at any time of the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Lagos, Portugal, famous for?
Lagos is renowned for its stunning beaches, historic Old Town, vibrant nightlife, and dramatic coastal cliffs like Ponta da Piedade. It’s also a popular spot for water sports and boat tours.
What are the top things to do in Lagos Portugal?
Explore Ponta da Piedade, relax at Praia Dona Ana, visit the Old Town, take a boat tour to sea caves, enjoy water sports, and savor local cuisine in traditional restaurants.
What is the best time to visit Lagos, Portugal?
The best time is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Is Lagos suitable for families?
Yes, Lagos offers family-friendly beaches, calm waters, and activities like kayaking and dolphin-watching tours that appeal to all ages.
How can I get to Lagos, Portugal?
Lagos is easily accessible by train or bus from Faro and Lisbon. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Faro Airport.
Are there day trips from Lagos worth taking?
Yes, consider visiting nearby towns like Sagres, Silves, or Portimão for more Algarve charm.
Introduction
Lagos, Portugal, is a captivating coastal gem located in the Algarve region, known for its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. This picturesque town combines natural beauty with a laid-back atmosphere, making it a top destination for travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the golden beaches, dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, or the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, Lagos offers something for everyone. From thrilling water sports and boat tours to exploring historical landmarks and savoring delicious local cuisine, Lagos is a place where adventure and relaxation meet. Dive in and discover what makes Lagos, Portugal, unforgettable!
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