Looking for a great place to visit in Portugal? If you enjoy beautiful beaches, rich history, and fun activities, Lagos is the perfect choice.
Choosing where to go can be tricky, but don’t worry – I’m here to help! This guide will show you the top things to do in Lagos.
You’ll find out about:
- Gorgeous beaches
- Interesting historical sites
- Local markets and more
Keep reading to discover the best places in Lagos and plan a trip you’ll never forget!
1. Must-See in Lagos: Ponta da Piedade
About the Place: Ponta da Piedade, one of the top places to visit in Lagos, Portugal, means “point of mercy” in Portuguese. It is a beautiful place near the town of Lagos in southern Portugal.
The area is known for its tall, golden cliffs that rise about 20 meters high. Over time, wind and waves have shaped the rocks into caves, arches, and towers. The views of the sea and the rocks are amazing.
Reasons to Visit: Ponta da Piedade is one of the best places to visit in Portugal. The cliffs, caves, and clear blue water are stunning. It’s a great spot to take photos, relax, or enjoy nature.
You can take a boat or kayak tour to see the caves and rock arches up close. These tours start in Lagos or at Ponta da Piedade.
There is also a small lighthouse built in 1913. You can’t go inside the lighthouse, but you can walk around it. Many paths and wooden walkways go through the area, so it’s easy to explore on foot.
If you want, you can also take a steep staircase down to the sea. The views from the top are just as beautiful, so you don’t have to go down to enjoy the scenery. There are also some lovely beaches nearby to explore.
2. Must-See in Lagos: Waterfront & Lagos Marina
About the Place: The waterfront area and Lagos Marina also deserve a mention among the best things to do in Lagos. The waterfront has a wide walking path lined with palm trees.
It’s near the old town and easy to get to. There’s also a small pedestrian bridge that connects the town center to the marina.
Reasons to Visit: The waterfront is a peaceful place to walk and enjoy the view. During the busy summer months, you can buy ice cream, drinks, clothes, and souvenirs from small stalls nearby. It’s a great break from the busy streets of the old town.
At the marina, you can watch the boats or sit at a café for a drink. It’s also the best place to book boat tours and explore the sea. Whether you’re a sailor or just want to relax, Lagos Marina is a great spot.
You can enjoy a meal by the water, shop for souvenirs, or just watch people and boats come and go.
3. Must-See in Lagos: Museu de Lagos
About the Place: Museu de Lagos is one of the must-see places in Lagos. It is located next to the Igreja de Santo António (Saint Anthony’s Church). The museum opened in 1934 and is housed in a beautiful building with a Renaissance-style entrance.
It has many collections, including items from the Neolithic, Roman, and Arab periods. There are also 18th-century religious paintings displayed in the church’s sacristy.
Reasons to Visit: The museum helps visitors learn about the history of Lagos and the Algarve region. It has important items like the Charter of Lagos, given by King Dom Manuel I, and the Key to the City.
One interesting display shows how people used to carry olive oil in the past, with a stuffed donkey to explain the process. The museum also has old coins from Portugal and its former colonies. You can also see exhibits about minerals and cultures from around the world.
The Igreja de Santo António is part of the museum and is very beautifully decorated. It is one of the main things to see. You can only visit the church if you buy a ticket for the museum. This visits a perfect mix of history, art, and culture.
4. Must-See in Lagos: City Walls & Lagos Castle
About the Place: The Castle of Lagos is one of the top attractions in Lagos, Portugal. It is a medieval castle that used to have walls that protected the whole town.
The best-preserved part of the city walls can be seen by the water, near the fortress, at Porta de São Gonçalo. You can also spot parts of the walls around the old town.
Reasons to Visit: The city walls are an important part of Lagos’ history. The best place to see them is by the fortress, where you can take a quick photo. It’s not something you would go specifically for, but it’s nice to find if you’re walking around.
The walls were built in a unique pentagon shape and used to protect the area around the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo. Later, new defenses were added for firearms, with three bastions and four towers. These old walls and towers help you understand how the town was once protected.
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5. Must-See in Lagos: Scenic Beaches
About the Place: Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are two beautiful beaches in Lagos, Portugal. They are very close to each other, just a short walk or drive from the town center. Praia do Porto de Mos is another large beach to the west of the town.
Near these beaches is Ponta da Piedade, a well-known rock formation with caves and small beaches. You can reach it by the same stairs that lead to the beaches. The best way to see Ponta da Piedade is from a boat, and there are boat tours that take you to the caves and small beaches.
Reasons to Visit: These beaches are perfect for taking in the stunning views with cliffs surrounding the sea. Be prepared for many stairs, especially at Camilo Beach. Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are close to Ponta da Piedade, so you can easily visit both.
In summer, it gets busy, and parking can be hard to find, but it’s only a 15-20 minute walk from the old town. Praia do Porto de Mos is large and beautiful, with tall cliffs.
Ponta da Piedade is a must-see with its unique rocks and caves. You can take a boat ride to get the best views and visit the caves and hidden beaches between the rocks.
6. Must-See in Lagos: Lagos Market
About the Place: Mercado Municipal de Lagos is a busy food market located in the center of Lagos. Inside, you’ll find colorful stands filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a wide variety of seafood.
It’s one of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal, whether you’re looking to shop for fresh local produce or just soak up the lively atmosphere.
Reasons to Visit: It’s a great place to experience the local vibe of Lagos. The ground floor focuses on seafood, while the first floor features fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and other local produce. There’s also a rooftop restaurant that serves traditional food.
Even if you’re not shopping, the market offers a lively atmosphere that’s fun to explore. Plus, if you’re looking for edible souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of local delicacies to take home.
Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal: A Recap
Lagos, Portugal, has something for everyone. Whether you want adventure, history, or a relaxing time, this town offers a lot. You can enjoy beautiful beaches, visit historical sites, or explore busy markets.
The best things to do in Lagos let you enjoy its culture and nature while making lasting memories.
You can relax in the sun, visit local markets, or see amazing views at Ponta da Piedade. Lagos has activities for all ages, making it a perfect place for families, couples, or solo travelers.