Things to Do in Lagos – Must-see & Hidden Gems

Do you dream of golden cliffs, azure waters, and sun-drenched beaches? Every traveler will find something exciting in the countless things to do in Lagos. From dramatic limestone formations to charming cobblestone streets, this coastal gem perfectly blends natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. 

What makes Lagos special is its diversity. Spend mornings exploring beaches like Praia Dona Ana, afternoons discovering historical landmarks from the Age of Discovery, and evenings savoring fresh seafood. The town combines relaxation with adventure—from kayaking through sea caves to exploring 16th-century city walls. 

Whatever your vacation preference, Lagos delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Get ready to enjoy Lagos effortlessly with our curated Portugal itineraries.

Top must-see attractions in Lagos

When planning your Lagos itinerary, these iconic spots should top your list. From dramatic cliff formations to golden beaches and historic landmarks, here are the must-see attractions in Lagos that showcase the best of this Algarve gem.

Ponta da Piedade

The crown jewel of Lagos’ natural wonders, Ponta da Piedade features breathtaking golden rock formations, caves, and sea arches sculpted by millions of years of erosion. This stunning headland offers some of Portugal’s most photographed views. 

Experiencing these magnificent formations from multiple perspectives is one of the top things to do in Lagos. Hike along clifftop boardwalks for panoramic vistas, then descend the 182 steps to sea level for a different angle. For a more immersive adventure, take a boat tour or kayak excursion to weave through grottos and see famous formations like “The Elephant” and “ The Cathedral” up close.

Praia Dona Ana

Often ranked among the best beaches in Lagos, Praia Dona Ana is a picture-perfect cove framed by dramatic golden cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The contrast between ochre rock formations and azure sea creates a truly magical setting. 

This beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with loungers and umbrellas available for rent. Visit during the morning hours to beat the crowds. The beach is accessible via a staircase, with views that make every step worthwhile.

Meia Praia

For those preferring wider beaches, Meia Praia offers 2.5 miles of golden sand—Lagos’ longest beach. This expansive shoreline provides plenty of space even during peak season, creating a more relaxed atmosphere than smaller crowded coves. 

Perfect for long walks, Meia Paia has ideal conditions for water sports. Consistent winds make it popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while gentle waves suit beginner surfers. 

Lagos Old Town

Step back in time wandering through Lagos Old Town’s charming streets. With well-preserved city walls, cobblestone lanes, and historic buildings, this district blends history with modern vibrancy.

Enjoy pedestrian-friendly streets lined with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and authentic restaurants. Don’t miss Santo António Church with its stunning gold-leafed baroque interior, and spend time in Praça Gil Eanes, the main square where street performers gather.

Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

This well-preserved 17th-century fortress at Lagos harbor’s entrance offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s maritime history. Built to defend against pirates and invaders, it now houses a small museum with exhibits on Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Cross the small drawbridge to enter the fort’s thick walls, explore the chapel dedicated to Santa Bárbara, and enjoy spectacular coastline views from the battlements. 

Lagos’ best outdoor & adventure activities

The Algarve coastline around Lagos offers the perfect playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers. From exploring sea caves to hiking scenic trails, here are the best outdoor activities that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Kayaking & boat tours to Benagil Cave

One of Lagos’ most popular adventure experiences is exploring the famous Benagil Cave with its natural oculus that creates magical light effects. Located about 35 minutes east of Lagos, many tours depart directly from Lagos Marina.

Choose between guided kayak tours for an intimate, physical experience or speedboat excursions to cover more ground. Book early morning tours when caves are less crowded and lighting is optimal for photos.

Dolphin watching tours

The waters off Lagos are home to bottlenose and common dolphins. Witnessing these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat creates truly memorable experiences.

Marine wildlife tours depart from Lagos Marina year-round, though summer months typically offer calmer seas and higher sighting rates. 

Hiking along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

This spectacular coastal hike runs nearly 4 miles (one-way) along dramatic clifftops between Praia da Mainha and Praia de Vale Centeanes. Many hikers start from Ponta da Piedade in Lagos.

The trail rewards with panoramic views of limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and the vast Atlantic. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and allow 3–4 hours to complete the trail at a leisurely pace.

Surfing in Lagos

Lagos offers excellent surfing conditions for all skill levels. Meia Praia is ideal for beginners with gentle, rolling waves, while more experienced surfers should head to Porto de Mós for more challenging conditions, especially during winter. 

Several surf schools offer lessons and equipment rental at reasonable prices.

Stand-up paddleboarding & snorkeling

For a more relaxed water activity, try stand-up paddleboarding in Lagos’ calm bays. Praia do Estudantes and Praia da Batata are perfect for beginners due to their protected locations.

Combine paddleboarding with snorkeling stops to discover colorful fish, starfish, and sea anemones, especially near rocky areas.

Hidden gems & unique experiences

While Lagos’ main attractions deserve their fame, the city also harbors lesser-known treasures that provide authentic experiences. Discover these hidden gems in Lagos to escape the crowds and see a different side of this captivating coastal town.

Praia do Camilo

Often overlooked in favor of more famous beaches, Praia do Camilo offers stunning beauty with smaller crowds. This picturesque cove nestles between towering ochre cliffs with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. 

The journey itself is part of the experience—descend 200 wooden steps carved into the cliff face, enjoying panoramic views along the way. At the bottom, a small tunnel carved through the rock leads to an additional secluded cove, creating a double beach experience.

Visit during low tide when more beach area is exposed, and arrive early to avoid midday crowds.

The secret grottoes of Lagos

While Benagil Cave gets all the attention, Lagos’ coastline features numerous smaller caves and grottoes that are equally magical but far less crowded. These hidden sea caverns showcase intricate rock formations, changing light patterns, and crystal-clear waters.

Book a specialized small-group boat tour focusing on these lesser-known caves, or rent kayaking equipment to explore independently. The areas around Ponta da Piedade and Praia da Dona Ana feature numerous secret grottoes accessible only from water.

Local Fado music nights

For an authentic Portuguese cultural experience, seek out an evening of Fado—Portugal’s soulful traditional music characterized by mournful tunes and poetic lyrics about the sea, life’s hardships, and unrequited love.

For a more casual experience, check out local taverns live Adega da Marina, which sometimes features impromptu sessions.

Mercado de Escravos (Slave Market Museum)

For those interested in Lagos’ complex history, this small but significant museum is housed in Europe’s first slave market, established in 1444. It documents Portugal’s role in the transatlantic slave trade through artifacts, informative displays, and multimedia exhibits.

Best day trips from Lagos

While Lagos offers plenty to keep you entertained, the surrounding Algarve region is filled with must-see attractions that make for perfect day excursions. Here are some of the best day trips from Lagos that showcase the diverse landscapes, history, and culture of southern Portugal.

Sagres & Cape St. Vincent

Journey to the edge of Europe at Sagres and Cape St. Vincent, Portugal’s dramatic southwesternmost point. Known as “the end of the world” during the Age of Discovery, this windswept headland offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the Algarve.

Start your day at the imposing Sagres Fortress perched on clifftops 196 feet above the Atlantic. This historical site features a mysterious wind compass and provides insight into Prince Henry the Navigator’s 15th-century maritime school.

Continue to Cape St. Vincent, where Europe’s most powerful lighthouse stands guard over the rugged coastline. Watch massive waves crash against towering cliffs and take in the vast ocean views that once marked the edge of the known world.

Silves

Steps back in time with a visit to Silves, the ancient capital of the Algarve during Moorish rule. This charming inland town is dominated by its impressive red sandstone castle, which offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside.

The well-preserved Silves Castle is the town’s crown jewel and the most impressive Moorish castle in the Algarve. Wander through its massive gates, explore the atmospheric cistern, and walk along the complete circuit of walls.

Monchique Mountains

Escape the coastal heat with a refreshing day trip to the Monchique Mountains, a lush green oasis in the Algarve’s hinterland. This verdant region offers a complete contrast to the beaches and cliffs of the coast, with dense forests, balling streams, and panoramic viewpoints. 

Visit Caldas de Monchique , a charming spa town known for its healing waters since Roman times.

Albufeira

For a change of pace, head to Albufeira, the Algarve’s most popular resort town. Begin your day exploring the picturesque Old Town with its whitewashed buildings and narrow streets, then relax at one of Albufeira’s stunning beaches. Praia do Túnel offers golden sands and calm waters, while Praia da Oura provides a more lively atmosphere with beach bars and water sports.

Where to eat in Lagos—Top restaurants & local delicacies

Lagos offers a vibrant culinary scene blending traditional Portuguese flavors with fresh Atlantic seafood. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, here’s where to find the best food and drink in this charming coastal town.

Best seafood restaurants

Given Lagos’ location, seafood dominates the local cuisine. These restaurants serve the freshest catches:

• Casinha do Petisco has earned its reputation as one of Lagos’ most beloved seafood spots. Known for exceptional house prawns and authentic seafood cataplana.

• A Barrigada offers an incredible “all you can eat” fish menu showcasing the day’s fresh catches grilled to perfection over an open flame. 

• O Pescador lives up to its name (“The Fisherman”) with a menu focused on the ocean’s bounty. Their seafood rice and grilled sea bass are standout dishes.

Local specialities to try

When looking for where to eat in Lagos, dig into these authentic local dishes to truly experience the town’s culinary culture:

• Cataplana is both a traditional copper cooking pot and the delicious seafood stew prepared in it with clams, prawns, chorizo, and vegetables. 

• Grilled Sardines are an Algarve staple, especially during summer months. Simply prepared with sea salt and served with boiled potatoes.

• Piri Piri Chicken has its roots in Portugal’s colonial history. Mullens restaurant is famous for its perfectly spiced version.
• Don’t forget to try pastel de nata, Portugal’s iconic custard tart with a crispy pastry shell and creamy filling.

Best wine & tapas bars

For a more casual dining experience or evening drinks:

• Casa do Prego creates a cozy atmosphere with rustic decor and outdoor seating. Their tapas menu excels with dishes like steak with piri piri sauce and fresh tuna steak.

Casual & budget-friendly eats

Lagos has plenty of options for quick, delicious, and affordable dining:

• Nah Nah bah has earned cult status for its creative burgers. While not the cheapest option, the quality and portion sizes make it good value.

• For the most authentic and budget-friendly experience, seek out small local tascas (traditional taverns). Here, you’ll find daily specials that typically include soup, a main dish, dessert, and a drink for around €10–12.

Your ultimate Portuguese adventure

Lagos captures the essence of the Algarve with its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From the magnificent rock formations of Ponta da Piedade to fresh seafood at local restaurants, this coastal gem offers unforgettable things to do in Lagos.

While Lagos deserves a central place in your Portuguese itinerary, it’s just one jewel in this diverse country’s crown. Portugal offers so much more—from Lisbon and Porto to the Douro Valley’s vineyards and charming medieval villages. 

Love Lagos? There’s so much more to see! Explore the best things to do in Portugal and take your adventure further.