Are you looking for the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal? You’ve come to the right place!
Located on the Algarve Coast – Lagos, Portugal is teeming with towering golden-toned rock formations, picture-perfect beaches, and dense fishing heritage.
Known as a hotspot for neverending water adventures, incredible seafood, and a fascinating and charming historic Old Town, you’re truly in for a few more surprises when visiting this stunning vacation spot.
Take a surf lesson, or dive to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean to discover the sea life that resides near Portugal’s Gold Coast. Check out the beautiful day trip ideas only a few hours away, from the Arabic architecture in Silves to the incredible artisanal works in Monchique.
A sight not to miss is the fascinating Benagil Cave, one of the most unique natural sights of the Algarve Coast. Look through the “eye” of the cave, as the sun and sky greet you, while your feet touch the sand and water of the cave beach.
Ready to go all in? Let’s see what Lagos has in store for you!
Take a scenic boat ride to the Ponta da Piedade
3 kilometers south of Lagos is the iconic Ponta da Piedade, a conglomeration of limestone rocks of different shapes and sizes, perfectly carved by the wind and sea.
Trek through the cliff-top footpath to explore the rocks, and get a close-up of the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse, and sweeping sea views from the Miradouro da Ponta da Piedade. To get there, take the 180-steps staircase (we promise it’s worth it!) from the base of the cove.
Or take a 1h15 boat trip, explore the caves, and learn about the history of Lagos. This is the number one activity I recommend to anyone arriving in Lagos. It is spectacular.
Dolphin watching
Hang out with a marine biologist to spot a few dolphins on an incredible boat tour! Learn about the extremely smart animals, their habitat, what they eat, and other amazing facts.
Be enchanted by the sight of the dolphins, near and far, while soaking up the amazing sun. Scenes of the beautiful coast of Portugal will also come into view, surely worthy of a few photos, so have your phone ready!
On your tour, you’ll be in the hands of expert marine biologists, equipped with safety jackets and all the safety precautions.
Suntan at the best beaches in Lagos
Best beaches in Lagos
Check out Estudantes Beach, Praia de Dona Ana, and Praia do Camilo, all located on the eastern coast of Lagos, enchanting visitors with extremely picturesque views of the sea, and with natural phenomena like man-made tunnels, and sheltered swimming.
Walk through the beautiful arches on the beach of secluded Praia do Pinhão, near Praia dos Estudantes. Enjoy a picnic and catch up on your suntan on the secluded beaches.
Book an invigorating sunrise beach yoga session at Porto Mós Beach, or head to Praia da Luz on the western coast with the perfect mix of peaceful and accessible.
Praia dos Três Irmãos is a secluded beach with stunning rock formations, and a cliff-top path to view the sea from above! Chill out at a cafe or bar at Meia Praia, and watch lazily at the sea.
Kayak to see the Ponta da Piedade up close
kayaking in Lagos
Take your Lagos adventures to the waters on a kayaking trip! Hop on a kayak, and paddle your way through the turquoise-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, circling the area of Ponta da Piedade.
Take in the scenic views of the Algarve coast, and get close to the Ponta da Piedade’s spectacular grottos and cliffs! Afterward, you’ll head to a secluded beach and take a moment to soak in the sun’s rays as your swim around.
And don’t be shy! This sightseeing experience is completely beginner-friendly.
Visit Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, Lagos
Visit the 17th-century Faro District of Lagos to view the impressive Forte da Ponta da Bandeira.
Renovated in the ’60s, the fortress holds art galleries, a delicious restaurant, and incredible views of the sea.
The symbol of Old Lagos is known as one of the strongest forts built, as well as for a local celebration known as the 29th Swim.
The tradition says that at the stroke of midnight on August 29th, the councilmen would go for a midnight swim for purification. The celebration is still held today, so make plans to attend!
Plan an exquisite day trip to Sagres
Sagres, Portugal
Visit one of the most remote locations in Portugal, and the most secluded in southern Portugal, Sagres.
Brimming with ample outdoor adventures to take on from surfing incredible waves to hiking through stunning and wild nature, make sure to book your trip from Lagos to ensure an effortless journey.
Visit the robust Sagres Fortress, take in the sea views at Baleeira Port, and stop by traditional bakeries for some sweet treats, or a glass of port wine.
On your way back, you’ll witness one of the most beautiful sunsets over the ocean.
Peek at the details inside the Igreja de Santo António
Igreja de Santo António, Lagos
Step inside the remarkable Igreja de Santo António, overflowing with incredible craftsmanship known to be some of the best in all of Portugal.
Located in Lagos Old Town, step inside to view stunning 18th-century blue and white azulejos, detailed woodwork and engravings, specific prints on the walls, and other fascinating details that seem to move with you as you walk inside.
You’ll also find tons of gold details throughout the church, symbolizing the patron saint Elói. Inside you’ll see a “rare” statue of this saint.
Entry into the church is free.
Enjoy the sea views on a Sailboat
Get ready for a relaxing cruise along the western coast of the Algarve on a Catamaran cruise! Enjoy unobstructed views from the sea, toward the recognizable rock formations, impressive sea life, and the picture-perfect coast.
During this experience, you’ll also get close to the beautiful Ponta da Piedade, as well as have the chance to swim, paddleboard, or recline into the sunbathing net to catch some rays! The cruise departs from Marina de Lagos, and also makes a pit stop in Praia da Luz.
Pro tip: bring protective sun gear and a windbreaker.
See tools used by Portuguese explorers at the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos
Check out the exhibits inside the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos, offering insight into the discoveries of Portuguese explorers using “caravels” a specific type of boat from the 15th century.
Blending history, with science and technology, this museum takes you on an immersive journey back in time, learning about the equipment, thought-process, and actions that the explorers took while out in the middle of the sea.
Learn about (and try out) the antique communication methods, walk out into the Lighthouse Garden, and Boat Garden, for replica examples of the vessels, and much more!
Cool off from the heat on a jet boat tour
Hang on for the water ride of your life on a jet boat tour! Doing spins, jumps, and more, a jet boat tour will give you some long-lasting memories of discovering the famous sights of the Algarve coast in a fun way.
Departing from Marina de Lagos, you’ll receive a proper safety briefing, and then be seated securely in the jet boat. You’ll see the Ponta da Piedade from your seat and other iconic rock formations!
Worried that your stuff will get wet? The tour company offers safe lockers to store your valuables!
Explore the beautiful Castle of Lagos in a Walking Tour
Take a historical walk of Lagos, peeking at some of the most famous landmarks centered around Old Town Lagos. One of those impressive sights is the Castle of Lagos, also known as Governor’s Castle.
The 17th-century Medieval castle has changed throughout the years, especially after the 1755 earthquake. The castle was the setting of various historical events that shaped the country and holds art that describes the battle in which the King of Portugal was killed.
To see the Governor’s Castle and other beautiful sights around Lagos, be sure to book your walking tour!
Plan a day trip to the scenic Benagil Cave
Other than the Ponta da Piedade, exploring the Benagil Cave is one of the must things to do in Lagos.
Take a scenic boat tour to the Benagil Caves from Lagos, and see for yourself one of the most heavenly sights in Portugal. The boat tour will drop you off inside the cave, where the sandy beach is covered by golden-toned stone arches.
Soak in the bright sun that spills into the beach from the circular opening at the top, and swim in the turquoise blue water for an incredibly refreshing time.
A day adventure in the trees at Parque Aventura Lagos
Choose your adventure based on how you feel, whether that’s curious, adventurous, or fearless at Parque Aventura Lagos. An exciting game of high ropes course, combined with zip lines, net bridges, and more, takes place high in the trees at this fun park!
After some fun in the air, increase the adrenaline in a paintball war in the forest! Hide behind the trees and the other obstacles placed strategically around the forest, and aim at your target without getting caught first!
Check out the different packages including one or both games, with bonuses!
Take the road less traveled on a jeep tour
Explore the Lagos countryside to witness a side of Portugal that not many others see on an adrenaline-pumping Jeep tour.
On your journey through the backroads of the scenic countryside, you’ll also get the opportunity to have a traditional lunch at one of the quaint towns you’ll be passing by. Afterward, you’ll stop by a local distillery to sample some of the brews, including a local drink called “medronho”.
Get a little competitive mini golfing at Pro Putting Garden
Enjoy the sun outdoors and play some mini golf at Pro Putting Garden! Whether you’re in it to win it, or you’re looking for a little friendly game, Pro Putting Garden has you covered with the best mini-golf experience.
Only a 3-minute walk from Lagos city center, there are 2 different courses on offer so you can choose between the 9-hole junior course or the 18-hole full course.
Although the golf course is open every day, pay close attention to the specific month you want to visit, as the closing hours may vary.
Snorkel to see the vibrant sea life
Swim free like a fish in the sea when you book a breathtaking snorkeling tour in Lagos!
Hop on a boat, and be taken to prime snorkeling spots in the ocean, from the Ponta da Piedade for a close encounter with secret caves, and other secret beaches not typically accessible by land.
Looking to amp up the fun? Choose a kayak and snorkeling tour, and hop on kayaks to paddle around some of the iconic rock figures gracing the coast of Lagos.
The tour comes with free locker access.
Waterpark day at Slide & Splash
Looking for the best family things to do in Lagos? Head to Slide & Splash waterpark for an abundance of waterpark fun, from curvy water slides to surfing, and relaxing!
Located 30 minutes from Lagos, Slide & Splash guarantees a fun time in the water for people of all ages. With over 10 different water park attractions, you can feel the adrenaline of the Boomerang, or go down the exhilarating Disco River.
Don’t want to get in the water? Chill out under a cabana, with a refreshing drink in hand!
Feed the cute animals at Lagos Zoo
Visit the more than 100 different animal species at Lagos Zoo, located 18 minutes north of downtown Lagos.
While looking at the different animals, you’ll also get a chance to see more than 200 varieties of plant species, many of which are local to Lagos. Check out other exotic animals like the Eurasian lynx, Lyle’s flying foxes, meerkats, and many more animals.
Visit during specific feeding hours to get a chance to feed pelicans, otters, primates, and even penguins! Make sure to pre-book your zoo tickets and beat the lines at the door.
Take photos with the Lagos Roman Bridge
On Praia Dos Estudantes, you can see the extraordinary Lagos Roman Bridge, only a few minutes away from Old Town.
Walk through the tunnels of the magnificent arch bridge, which used to be part of the Pinhão Fortress before it got destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.
The different tunnels of the bridge, lead to a few beaches near Praia Dos Estudantes, from Praia da Batata to Praia do Pinhão.
When the tide is low, you’ll be able to walk directly underneath the arch, but even in high tide, it’s an incredible photo op!
Take a few exciting surf lessons
Book yourself a few surf lessons while in Lagos! The western Algarve coast is known for incredible waves, and whether you’re a newbie, or you want to build up your skills, a surf lesson will not disappoint!
Learn from experienced and passionate surfing instructors all the basics from how to stand on your board, and keep your balance, to how to ride the wave with confidence and joy!
All equipment is provided to you when you book a lesson, including private transport to and from the beach and your hotel.
Appreciate the treasures inside the Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho
The Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho is an archaeological and religious museum located within the Church of Santo António. With items dating back to 1460, you’ll find a grand collection of artifacts and other items that form part of the regional and municipal identity of Lagos.
Check out art items like figurines made from metal, wicker, and pottery, natural science artifacts, and archeological finds in Lagos.
Look at the beautiful Roman mosaics, numerous examples of European weapons, even pieces of clothing that belonged to King Sebastião, and items from some Portuguese territories abroad.
Full-day trip to Monchique
Monchique is a charming municipality that sits 44 minutes north of Lagos and is known for producing numerous artisan works, including wooden chairs, wicker-made items, and lacework, as well as for its geothermal springs.
When you book a day trip from Lagos to Monchique, you’ll also get a chance to stop by Silves, a small city known for the most well-preserved castle of the Algarve region and its beautiful Arabic architecture.
Complete the experience, and enjoy a wine tasting in Monchique too, surrounded by a beautiful historical ambiance, as you sample regional wines.
Golf with the best natural backdrops in Lagos
Enjoy the spectacular golfing opportunities at Boavista Golf & Spa Resort, filled with tropical plants and beautiful gardens. This golf course has a few challenging plays due to the natural grooves of the area.
Visit Espieche Golf S.A. and enjoy the beautiful countryside landscapes as you golf to your heart’s content. With various layouts, the plays are considered medium-range.
Located right beside the ocean, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf is a spectacular 27-hole golf course, where you’ll see people of all ages, and skill levels playing. Pro tip: View the dress code before visiting.
See all of Lagos from a hot air balloon ride
Get swept away from all the beauty that Lagos has to offer on a hot air balloon ride!
Book yourself for a 1-hour hot air balloon ride that will take you to new heights, as you fly over the stunning sights of Ponta da Piedade, the numerous beaches, stunning rock cliffs, and charming Old Town.
Choose between a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon experience, both offering exquisite vibes and golden light.
The activity includes a detailed safety briefing, ground transportation, and even a certificate to complete the magnificent experience!
See the holy figures at Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos
Also known as The Main Church of Santa Maria, the church dates back to the 16th century and is a rather small church with tons of relics and architectural detail to take notice of.
The Renaissance-style church entryway leads you to see the holy figures inside, from Our Lady of the Assumption, Our Lady of Carmel, and Our Lady of Piety. You’ll also find a statue of Saint Goncalo, the patron saint of local fishermen.
The church is only a 5-minute walk from downtown Lagos and is free to enter.
Catch a motorsport race at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve
Feed your need for speed at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, with a riveting motorsport race!
Located only 25 minutes from Lagos inside the Algarve Motorsports Park, check out the upcoming meets on the race calendar to see what events are coming up.
The most famous tracks housed inside are the 4.65-kilometer Algarve International Circuit and the Motorsport track, which hosts a variety of motorsports events including the A1 Grand Prix.
Want to feel the speed yourself? Check out the Racing School lessons, and the go-kart opportunities for family and friends!
Paddleboard on Portugal’s southern coast
Work out your core with laughs and fun on a paddleboard experience out on the southern coast of Lagos.
Visit some of the most remote and beautiful beaches nearby, and feel like you have it all to yourself. Paddle into the water, and feel the gentle waves underneath you, and then afterward, go for a swim!
A wetsuit, SUP board, life jacket, and leash are included in your experience.
As you’re enjoying your time SUP on the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll be getting photos taken so you can later share them on your socials!
Sit in the scenic Lagos Tourist Train
Enjoy a fun train experience when you book your seat on the Lagos Tourist Train! With 9 different stops along its path, this hop-on-hop-off tourist train will take you from the quaint city to the stunning coast.
The 1-hour experience departs from these 9 different spots throughout Lagos, typically starting the routes at 10:00 AM and until 6:00 PM. The tourist train is only open during the summer months of July, August, and September.
Between July 27th-31st, the train operates additionally from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Go skydiving
Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you! Pump up the fun on a skydiving adventure through the skies of Lagos.
Get clear views of all of Lagos, from the Ponta da Piedade to the Old Town, and the waves crashing into the many beaches of the Algarve.
You and your skydiving instructor will fall back to the scenic earth for approximately 70 thrilling seconds until your parachute opens, and then you’ll glide down taking in the scenery in close detail.
Afterward, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and a few snacks to finalize the experience!
Market hop at the best markets in Lagos
Visit the Mercado Municipal de Lagos in the heart of the city center, and its three floors full of aromatic fruits and vegetables, and incredible views from the rooftop of the ocean.
Check out the local vibes at Vivo Mercado Lagos, and look out for the stands with the blue umbrellas, selling organic and local products, from craft beer, and honey, to zero-waste toiletries!
Meet the local sellers at Levante Lago Market, a farmer’s market. The small, yet efficient market has everything from local produce to homemade baked goods! Pro tip: bring cash!
Enjoy authentic Portuguese food at the best restaurants
Taste the best delicacies of sea and land at O Camilo, set in a stunning, recently renovated restaurant, with clear views out to the sea.
For a slightly fancier affair, head to Avenida restaurant, offering Portuguese delicacies in a modern and chic setting. If you’re looking for authentic Portuguese cuisine without no frills, check out Real Portuguese Cuisine.
Feel the passion and taste regional cuisine at its best at Tasca Jota, known for its homemade bread and exquisite dishes like the suckling pig belly.
Grab outdoor seating at the vegan-friendly Mimar restaurant in Old Town. Check out their wonderful wine list, as the live music livens up the ambiance.
Play with dolphins at Zoomarine
Can’t get enough of the animals? Check out Zoomarine – Portugal’s biggest oceanographic park, only 40 minutes from Lagos.
Swim with dolphins, learn about them inside the park’s “Encounter Programme” and even get a behind-the-scenes look at how the trainers work with the dolphins for their big show!
The park is overflowing with incredible opportunities to learn more about the local ecology, from tropical birds to sea lions and dolphins. You’ll leave Zoomarine with an enriched experience, having interacted with these incredibly intelligent creatures like never before!
Make sure to pre-book your tickets online!
Learn about the Portuguese slave trade at the Núcleo Museológico Rota da Escravatura
Learn about the 15th-century Portuguese slave trade and the difficult realities that many African slaves experience at the Núcleo Museológico Rota da Escravatura.
Located on what used to be the ancient slave market, the museum holds various interesting exhibits showcasing details of the cruel slave market.
Learn about the harsh treatment of the first 200+ slaves that arrived in Lagos, the types of hard labor they were required to complete, and how Portugal came to be the biggest importer of slaves to the country, and their overseas territories.
Entry tickets are 3 euros.
Paraglide over the Algarve Coast
Glide through the sky on a paragliding experience through Lagos! Fly with the wind, as your skilled instructor takes the reigns and control of the paraglide and you chill out to see the impressive scenery all around you.
Get epic views of the magnificent Algarve coast, see the impressive Ponta da Piedade, see crowds of beachgoers hanging out from above, and the beautiful, expansive ocean as far as you can see.
Before taking off, you’ll be receiving a complete safety briefing and proper equipment, and then you’ll be off!
Learn about the Sculpture of Dom Sebastião
Check out the interesting statue of Dom Sebastião, located in the central square in downtown Lagos. The statue is said to honor the Boy King Dom Sebastião.
Due to his miscalculated attack on Morocco in 1578, the young prince died at 24 years old. Portugal also lost its independence from Spain for the next 60 years.
The statue which was created in the 70s shows a young boy wearing an ill-fitted adult military uniform. The statue is interesting to look at, and for this reason, causes a crowd to form around it.
Visit the largest beach in Lagos on a quad tour
Get on a quad tour and traverse through the beautiful Meia Praia beach just in time for golden hour, and a few photos with the incredible rock formations near the beach.
Considered the biggest beach in Lagos, Meia Praia will be where you kick off your quad adventures, as you make your way to a few other secluded roads in Vale da Lama.
Whether you’ve been on a quad tour before or not, this tour is extremely beginner-friendly and safety oriented. Before taking off on your adventure, you’ll get a safety briefing and gear.
Catch a show at the Lagos Cultural Center
See what’s happening at the Lagos Cultural Center, located in the heart of downtown Lagos. The Lagos Cultural Center hosts many great events and exhibitions, from dance performances to reading clubs, piano concerts, and much more.
Check out the center’s events calendar to see if any align with your travel dates, and be sure to purchase tickets on the site too. Some events are even free, so make sure to look out for those too!
While you’re there, grab a snack of coffee at the cafe inside, and enjoy the quaint central courtyard.
Enjoy a beer tasting at Beer & Co.
Taste the local beers as you learn about their creative process on a beer-tasting tour at Beer & Co.
Cultivate a new appreciation for the craft of making beer, located in the heart of Old Town Lagos, by making your way into the tap room of Beer & Co. for a crash course in Portuguese brews.
Utilizing high-quality and locally sourced ingredients, Beer & Co. also uses local history to create unique flavors and interesting names.
After your sample session, feel free to stay longer and bask in the fun vibes at the bar!
Take in the last sunshine rays on a sunset cruise
End your perfect day sightseeing in Lagos with the most immaculate sunset cruise. See the silhouette of the beautiful Ponta da Piedade, and other beautiful rock formations on the ocean, as the sun begins to set its last few rays.
Enjoy the sight of the beaches from the ocean, the cast of reds and yellows on the rocks, and the sparkling ocean.
Be sure to wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes in case you want to sneak in one last swim before the day is over!
Sunset at the Marina de Lagos
Located on the beautiful Bay of Lagos, the Marina de Lagos is a favorite destination for boat owners and tourists alike for its beautiful seaside restaurants, bars, and stunning walkway.
Enjoy a delicious meal pretty much any time of the day, or hit up a chic bar for afternoon or evening drinks as the perfect plan. This is the perfect place for cocktails & Sunsets
Walk the main promenade, the Passeio dos Descobrimentos, and stop to get your picture taken with the boats and yachts as your backdrop.
Taste a variety of wines on a wine-tasting tour
The best way to sip the best of Portuguese wines is to join a wine-tasting tour!
Whether you see yourself indulging in a few sips of wine inside an ancient medieval castle or you want to hop on a Jeep tour and explore the rugged countryside with a stop at a vineyard, it’s all possible.
Savor a small sampling of wines coupled with tasty tapas, as you learn about the wine-making process. Learn how to differentiate the different notes in the wine, as you decide on which one is your new favorite!
Explore the vibrant nightlife
Lagos is a town of parties. As from 22h bars will gradually fill up. Hop from to another and get lost in the small streets of the historic center.
Check out the Mellow Loco bar, the Muchacha, the rooftop at Bon Vivant or the fancier DH Café
After 2am the bars in the centre have to close and the if the ones that are not ready to sleep yet can continue at Grand Café, Stevie Rays or Nox until the early morning.
