Want to visit Lagos in 1 week? Located on Portugal’s southern coast, it’s an ideal vacation destination for discovering spectacular beaches with golden cliffs and a charming historic heart. With its relaxed atmosphere typical of theAlgarve, we were seduced by this seaside resort that perfectly combines culture, nature and relaxation.
In this article, we propose a week-long itinerary for exploring Lagos, combining the must-sees, excursions to the surrounding natural wonders and suggestions for making the most of the region’s legendary beaches. A week of discovery and wonder. Optimize your stay and make up your own mind about this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for visiting Lagos in 7 days
What can you see in Lagos in a week? Is it long enough?
A week in Lagos is the perfect length of time to explore this Algarve gem in depth. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the must-sees of the historic center, the spectacular rock formations of Ponta da Piedade and the region’s most beautiful beaches. This timing will also allow you to include excursions to nearby villages such as Sagres and Ferragudo, while keeping a relaxed pace to take full advantage of the seaside resort’s relaxing atmosphere.
Map of must-see attractions
To help you find your way around our itinerary below, here’s our map of the main tourist attractions in Lagos:
Getting around Lagos
Getting around Lagos is easy and pleasant, especially in the city center, which is easy to get around on foot thanks to its pedestrian streets and low traffic levels. A car, on the other hand, is a convenient way to reach Ponta da Piedade and outlying beaches such as Praia do Canavial. Alternatively, you can opt for boat excursions from the marina. For a more fun way to get around, a small tourist train serves the city’s main sites – more info here. You can also use the city bus network or take a cab.
Where to sleep in Lagos?
WHERE TO STAY IN Lagos
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best Hotel in Porto de Mós –
Hotel Vivenda Miranda – See prices, photos and availability
Best Hotel in Ponta da Piedade –
Cascade Wellness Resort Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Best Hotel in Meia Praia –
Aparthotel Palmares Signature – See prices, photos and availability
Best Hotel in the Old Town –
Hotel Lagos Avenida – See prices, photos and availability
Our ideal itinerary: 7 days in Lagos
Day 1 – Diving in the heart of Lagos
Morning: Discover the historic center
Start your tour in the historic heart of Lagos. Narrow cobbled streets, white facades embellished with azulejos or colored earthenware, and lively little squares create a typical, friendly atmosphere. On the way down to the marina, we changed worlds with pleasure boats, modern cafés and the pretty promenade along the Ribeira de Bensafrim.
Take advantage of your exploration to enter the Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos overlooking Praça Infante Dom Henrique. Continue under the Arch of São Gonçalo, a medieval vestige of Lagos Castle. From the Ponta da Bandeira Fort, contemplate the magnificent view of the ocean and coastline. Finish off with a quick stop at the Lagos Municipal Market to whet your appetite just before lunch!
Lunch in the old town
For lunch, we recommend Restaurant A Petisqueira in the old town. You’ll love the elegant, contemporary setting, where you’ll find fine, gourmet dishes, enhanced by a fine selection of Portuguese wines. Otherwise, find more inspiration in our article on the best restaurants in Lagos!
Afternoon: Visit to the Lagos Museum and the Church of Saint Anthony
Immerse yourself in local history at the Museum of Lagos! With its cabinet of curiosities, handicrafts and sacred art, the museum’s collections offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural identity of the Algarve. Adjacent to the museum, the Baroque nave of the Church of Saint-Antoine, with its wealth of ornamentation, is a highlight of the visit. We were won over by the venue’s clarity, meticulous staging and accessibility. In our opinion, it’s one of the region’s most comprehensive and enjoyable museums for understanding its history and know-how.
Depending on your interests, you can also visit the Musée de l’Esclavage. It raises awareness of a major historical subject through an educational approach. Although small, it houses a collection of period objects and documents that bear witness to the slave trade in the region. The exhibition is enhanced by digital tablets that make the visit more interactive and fun.
Evening: Dinner in a traditional restaurant
In the heart of the historic center of Lagos, the Restaurant Real Portuguese Cuisine offers a true immersion in Portuguese gastronomy. The cuisine showcases the flavors of the Algarve through specialties such as cod confit in olive oil and garlic, served with braised potatoes, fleur de sel, broccoli and Portuguese cabbage. Vegetarians are not left out either, with dishes like zucchini moussaka with lentils. For lunch, indulge in their tapas menu of tasty dishes to share in a convivial atmosphere!
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Day 2 – Between golden cliffs and mythical beaches
Morning: Stroll along the panoramic paths of Ponta da Piedade
This morning will be dedicated to exploring Ponta da Piedade, one of Portugal’s most spectacular natural sites. We were amazed by the extraordinary views from the marked trails. These rock formations, sculpted by erosion, offer a unique view of the Atlantic Ocean. The many viewpoints are linked by wooden footbridges, well laid out to prevent falls, as the friable rocks and steep cliffs require particular care.
Lunch in a restaurant overlooking the ocean
For lunch, we particularly recommend Restaurant Luca’s Rooftop, with its exceptional panoramic view over Praia Dona Ana. We enjoyed their selection of fresh seafood, a perfect match for the idyllic setting. It’s the perfect place to take a gourmet break while contemplating the natural beauty you’ve just discovered from the cliffs.
Afternoon: Boat trip to the Ponta da Piedade sea arches
In the afternoon, discover the rock formations from a totally different angle with a kayak or boat trip. This perspective from the ocean offers an even more immersive experience than the morning visit from the top of the cliffs. We were fascinated by the opportunity to get as close as possible to these natural arches and sea caves sculpted by the centuries. The play of light on the limestone walls creates an absolutely magical spectacle!
>> Book your boat trip to Ponta da Piedade now <<
Evening: Enjoy the services of your hotel and dine there.
After this day rich in natural discoveries, we recommend that you take full advantage of your accommodation. The Lagos Avenida Hotel boasts a rooftop lounge with pool and bar, and a breathtaking view of the marina. It is also home to one of the city’s finest restaurants. – See prices, photos and availability.
TheAparthotel Palmares Signature, located on a golf course, offers an exceptional setting overlooking the Alvor Estuary and features a bistronomic restaurant and a Michelin-starred establishment for a memorable gastronomic evening. – See prices, photos and availability.
Day 3 – Life-size ocean
Morning: Dolphins in their natural habitat
Watching dolphins in the wild was one of the most moving moments of our stay in Lagos. We embarked from the marina for a sea excursion, accompanied by enthusiastic guides. We were soon lucky enough to come across a school of dolphins, which followed us for thirty minutes. It was magical to see them evolve in their natural habitat, without artifice. An experience we recommend with your eyes closed!
>> Book your dolphin-watching tour in Lagos now <<
Lunch on the beach
For lunch, we offer two options to suit your preferences. You can opt for a picnic on the beach, buying local specialities at the Municipal Market beforehand – remember to take a bag to collect your garbage, out of respect for the environment.
Alternatively, the beach restaurants will let you enjoy fresh fish with your feet in the sand, in a relaxed atmosphere typical of the Algarve. Head for Praia do Porto de Mós for its traditional restaurants or Meia Praia for its lively beach bars!
Afternoon: Swimming and lounging on the magnificent Praia do Camilo
The afternoon is dedicated to relaxing on the magnificent Praia do Camilo, Lagos’ most beautiful beach. Access is via a wooden staircase, adding to the charm of this exceptional beach. You can alternate between swimming in the turquoise waters and lounging on the fine sand, in an absolutely idyllic setting. Magnificent cliffs and wave-like rock formations sculpted by the sea stand side by side with picturesque arches. This beach is one of the must-see places in the Algarve.
Evening: Dinner in an exceptional Michelin-starred restaurant
After a well-deserved break at your hotel to shower and change into clean clothes, how about an exceptional gastronomic experience to round off a day of relaxation and epicurean delights? We warmly recommend Restaurant Al Sud, the best restaurant in Lagos, which offers refined cuisine in an elegant setting with, as a bonus, a view of the bay! This gastronomic evening is the perfect culmination to your ocean-focused day.
Day 4 – Immersion in the wild west coast
Full day: Visit to Sagres Fortress and Cape St Vincent
This day will be devoted to exploring the wild west coast and Europe’s “end of the world”. We offer two options to suit your preferences. Guided day trip with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Lagos, including:
- visit to the village of Aljezur and its panoramic castle
- the wild beaches of Montes Clérigos and Carrapateira
- lunch in an authentic village
- afternoon in Sagres to discover the fortress and admire the view from the steep cliffs
- the end of the day at Cap Saint-Vincent
We highly recommend this tour, as we think it’s one of the best from Lagos. If you prefer to explore on your own, however, you’ll need a car, as Lagos is about 40 minutes from Aljezur and the west coast, then another 45-minute drive to Sagres, and finally 35 minutes for the final Sagres-Lagos return journey.
>> Book your guided tour of the West Coast <<
Evening: Dinner in a typical Algarve restaurant
To round off your day exploring the wild coastline, we recommend Restaurant O Mexilhão, where you can discover the authenticity of traditional Portuguese cuisine. In this family-run establishment, you can sample local specialities in a friendly atmosphere. After immersing yourself in the grandiose landscapes at the end of Europe, you’ll enjoy the mildness of Lagos and a typical local meal. Find more inspiration in our article on the best restaurants in Lagos!
Day 5 – Treasures of the Algarve
Morning: Surfing lessons at Praia do Porto de Mós
Located in the south of Portugal, Lagos is without doubt one of the best surfing destinations in the Algarve. Its sunny climate, wild landscapes, spectacular cliffs and, above all, beaches with consistent waves make it a true surfer’s paradise. Whether you want to learn to surf, progress or push your limits, you’ll discover a wide range of options. The town itself has a relaxed atmosphere, typical of surf towns, which we loved.
>> Book your surf lesson in the Algarve now <<
Late and light lunch
After this sports session, we recommend that you keep up the momentum by eating healthily! We particularly recommend the Restaurant Goji Lounge Café for a healthy, gourmet break. This establishment offers simple, healthy and well-balanced cuisine, with many vegetarian options to satisfy your nutritional needs after exercise. The relaxed atmosphere of this café will help you recover gently from your morning’s sport.
Early afternoon: Stocking up on beautiful memories
The end of your trip is approaching and you’d like to take home some beautiful souvenirs? We suggest you take a tour of the small artisan boutiques, where you’ll discover magnificent pieces of colorful ceramic tableware. You’ll also be drawn to the shop windows of local artists, who offer original creations perfect for displaying at home as a souvenir of your stay. The Mar d’Estórias establishment is well worth a visit, combining a craft store, café-restaurant and rooftop bar. And don’t forget to visit the Municipal Market to pick up well-wrapped almond cakes.
Late afternoon: enjoy the exceptional setting of your hotel
Some hotels are ideally located just a few minutes from incredible beaches, as is the case with our two favorites. The Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda, perched on the cliffs of Porto de Mós, boasts a magnificent panoramic swimming pool with built-in jets and a charming garden overlooking the ocean – see photos, photos and availability.
The Cascade Wellness Resort overlooks the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, and we were amazed by its two spectacular pools: one with infinite curves overlooking the ocean, the other lined with fine sand like a beach. Take full advantage of these exceptional facilities – see photos, photos and availability.
Evening: Dinner in a French restaurant
After 5 days of Portuguese dishes, you’re in the mood for a change of flavour? We recommend Restaurant Amorizade, run by a young French couple. This address particularly appealed to us for its ability to blend French influences with local products. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere, for an evening of conviviality and gastronomy. This is one of our favourite restaurants in Lagos!
Day 6 – Between Portimão and Ferragudo
Morning: Head for Portimão and visit the city center
This morning will take you to Portimão, about a 30-minute drive from Lagos. We recommend you visit the tourist center and walk along the Zona Ribeirinha, which offer an authentic glimpse of this dynamic port city. Check out our article on the resort’s must-do activities for inspiration! It’s best to bring your own vehicle to visit Ferragudo on the same day, to simplify your travel arrangements.
If you don’t have a car, the Portimão train station is close to the center. The Lagos-Portimão train journey takes around 20min – find out more about the CP rail network here. Then take the local bus to Ferragudo and its beaches. Line 110 “Ferragudo (Largo do Regato)” serves the charming village of Ferragudo from downtown Portimão.
Lunch in Portimão or Ferragudo
Depending on how long it takes you to visit the city center in the morning, we offer two lunch options. You can have lunch directly in Portimão at Restaurant Mãe Terra for its healthy, vegetarian cuisine, or check out our selection of the best restaurants.
Alternatively, cross the Ponte Velha to Ferragudo for lunch. In this charming fishing village, we particularly recommend Restaurant Benjamim Bistro or Restaurant TerraCotta Ferragudo for their tasty cuisine and authentic atmosphere.
Early afternoon: Stroll through the historic center of Ferragudo
The afternoon will be devoted to discovering the historic center of Ferragudo, a charming village that seduced us with its flower-filled cobbled streets and preserved authenticity. You’ll stroll through typical little streets where every corner holds a surprise, between traditional whitewashed houses and colorful gardens overflowing with bougainvillea. This peaceful stroll allows you to discover the true soul of the Algarve, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
Late afternoon: Hiking or lazing on the beach
For this late afternoon, we offer two options to suit your mood. If you’re looking for relaxation, the Praia Grande, located not too far from the center of Ferragudo, offers the ideal setting for lazing around with its calm waters and golden sand. If you’re in the mood for a bit of sport, we recommend the cliff-top hike from Restaurant O Molhe to Praia dos Caneiros, a coastal path offering exceptional views of the Atlantic Ocean and the destination’s finest beaches.
Evening: Dinner on the Praia dos Caneiros
To round off this day of discovery, we suggest two options on the magnificent Praia dos Caneiros. You can opt for a sunset picnic on this heavenly beach – just remember to pick up your litter for the sake of the environment.
Alternatively, Restaurant Rei das Praias overlooks the beach, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic and the rocky outcrop for which the site is famous. This ocean-facing evening will be one of the highlights of your stay, with the blazing colors of the sunset over the turquoise waters.
Day 7 – A beautiful end to your stay
Morning: Sea trip to Benagil cave
This final morning will be dedicated to discovering one of the Algarve’s most emblematic sites: the Benagil Cave. We were fascinated by this natural cathedral of impressive dimensions, accessible only by sea. This boat trip allows you to admire the coast’s spectacular geological formations from the ocean, offering a unique perspective on these wonders sculpted by marine erosion. The circular opening at the top of the cave creates an absolutely magical play of light.
>> Book your boat trip to the Benagil Grotto now <<
Lunch in downtown Lagos
Back in Lagos after this early-morning excursion, we recommend that you enjoy one last lunch in the friendly atmosphere of the city center. It’s the perfect opportunity to revisit your favorite addresses discovered during the week, or to indulge in a new culinary discovery.
This break in the heart of Lagos will allow you to take stock of your stay while savoring the last moments in this city that will certainly have seduced you. If you haven’t tried it yet, we suggest the Restaurant Mar d’Estórias. Perched on the roof of an old renovated building, it revisits local produce with a modern twist.
Afternoon: Last swim on a golden beach
For this afternoon, we recommend the Praia do Canavial for a memorable last swim in the crystal-clear waters of the ocean. This beach, with its golden hues typical of the Algarve, is the perfect setting for those final moments of seaside relaxation. Soak up the special atmosphere of Lagos’ beaches, with their sculpted cliffs and fine sand, one last time before preparing to leave.
Evening: Sunset at Ponta da Piedade and dinner
To round off this unforgettable week in style, we suggest you return to Ponta da Piedade to admire a final sunset over these emblematic rock formations. After contemplating the natural beauty for which Lagos is famous, enjoy the city’s nightlife one last time.
Restaurant Dos Artistas, located in the old town, will seduce you with its bold dishes that sublimate local products, its sophisticated artistic decor and its fine wine list for a gastronomic finale worthy of this exceptional week.
Alternative 1: Visiting Lagos with the family
If you’re visiting Lagos with children, we’ve put together a selection of activities to delight young and old alike. Here are our suggestions for family attractions:
Lagos Zoo
Located around 12km from Lagos, the zoo is a great day out if you’re traveling with the family. The area is well planted with trees, making it pleasant even in the hottest weather, with plenty of shade and picnic areas. What’s surprising is the layout: few cages, real proximity to the animals, sometimes within arm’s reach! There’s a great variety of birds, some mammals and a beach shared with turtles and penguins – swimsuits recommended. It’s easy to get to by bus from the city center, and reasonably priced for a great half-day out in nature. – book your ticket here!
Parque Aventura de Lagos
Lagos’ Parque Aventura will appeal to intrepid children and adrenaline-seeking adults alike. With courses suitable for beginners to advanced riders, we particularly appreciated the balance between fun and challenge. There are also several picnic areas where you can enjoy a pleasant break in the shade of the tall pines. In our opinion, this is one of the best family activities in Lagos!
Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos
The Musée des Sciences Vivantes succeeds in making complex subjects such as navigation, exploration and marine science accessible to the public. It’s clearly designed with children in mind: the exhibits are interactive, fun and adapted to the youngest visitors, with lots of games, experiments to handle and even a large outdoor play area. The location is pleasant, even in midsummer, and ideal for an outing with family or friends. This is one of the best cultural activities in Lagos, and a must if you’re staying in the city for several days!
Alternative 2: With more excursions in the region
Nestled in the heart of the Algarve, Lagos is an ideal base from which to explore the region’s wonders. Here are a few additional suggestions to tailor your itinerary to your desires:
Taking in the sights at Monchique
Looking for fresh mountain scenery? Direction Monchique, a picturesque village nestled between 2 wooded peaks. Its colorful houses, thermal baths, fountains and artisan atmosphere provide a counterpoint to the coastline. We enjoyed the artistic touches that punctuated our exploration of the alleyways: original sculptures, brightly colored murals, charming little craft stores. From Mount Fóia, you can contemplate the Algarve’s most beautiful mountain panoramas.
>> Opt for a guided tour in a small group <<
Hiking between the wild beaches of the Costa Vicentina
Discover the spectacular landscapes of the South-West Alentejano and Costa Vicentina Natural Park. Here, one beach follows another, alternating between vast stretches of sand as far as the eye can see and intimate coves bordered by high cliffs of schist or limestone. This stretch of coastline is one of the most unspoilt in southern Portugal, with its dark cliffs, wave-beaten shores and untamed nature. From Praia do Amado, this hike takes you away from the hustle and bustle to breathtaking vantage points where you can feel the raw energy of the Atlantic Ocean!
>> Book a private guided tour <<
Enjoy the dynamic seaside resort of Albufeira
A 45-minute drive away, Albufeira seduced us with its golden beaches, picturesque historic center and lively atmosphere day and night. Once a fishing village, now one of Portugal’s most popular destinations, the town offers a fine balance of nature, relaxation, culture and entertainment. Here you’ll find magnificent beaches nestling at the foot of cliffs, whitewashed houses and a wide range of water sports.
Visit Faro and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
Located 1 hour 10 minutes by car from Lagos, Faro is much more than a simple arrival point by air. We were charmed by this capital of the Algarve, which skilfully blends historical heritage with a seaside atmosphere. You’ll discover a preserved historic center, interesting museums and a fascinating multicultural heritage. Its proximity to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and its fine sandy beaches make it a destination that is both urban and natural.
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What you need to know for your week in Lagos
The weather in Lagos
Lagos can be very hot in summer. We recommend that you visit us in spring or autumn. You can even look forward to winter, when temperatures remain mild. A more temperate climate means you can enjoy outdoor activities and beautiful scenery without suffering from excessive heat. This flexibility in choosing when to visit is one of the advantages of the region.
The crowds in Lagos
Lagos is a popular tourist destination not only in the high season, but also in the low season. We noticed that Ponta de Piedade, which is particularly well known, attracts a huge number of visitors. To make the most of your stay, you’ll need to plan ahead. The city’s growing popularity requires a certain amount of organization. A word of advice: book your boat trip to Ponta de Piedade now!
Adapt your itinerary when it rains
Although rare, rain can sometimes be a problem during your visit to Lagos. In this case, we suggest museums such as the Lagos Museum, the Slavery Museum or the Museum of Living Sciences. Historic churches also offer an interesting cultural haven. Take the opportunity to discover the stores of small local craftsmen, particularly those specializing in traditional Portuguese ceramics, a veritable treasure trove of regional craftsmanship. Or visit modern, welcoming places like Mar d’Estórias, a craft store, café-restaurant and rooftop bar in one!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
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What to do in the Algarve
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Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
Best excursions
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Lagos, Portimao or Albufeira
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