Best of Lagos

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Lagos (Algarve)
One of the liveliest towns in the Algarve, Lagos is a prime destination for all manner of outdoor adventures. It’s a short hop by ferry across a narrow channel to the lovely Meia Praia, a long beach of golden sands with little development. You can reach even more stunning coastline just a short drive or boat trip out of Lagos. The town itself is a wanderer’s delight, with a handsome cobblestone center dotted with tile-covered buildings. You’ll find stylish guesthouses, fabulous restaurants and the Algarve’s best bars, with well-placed terraces for watching the evening street scene unfold. 

Day trips from Lagos take you to some of the most stunning scenery in the Algarve. Previous kimkim travelers have taken memorable catamaran trips to cinematic spots along the coastline, with stops for snorkeling along the way. You can also get active on kayaking excursions, visiting the wondrous Benagil Cave, an atmospheric grotto reachable only by sea. Sailing is another memorable way to experience the Algarve, and you can head off on sunset trips or a gourmet lunch cruise. The overlooked interior offers its own rewards, including hiking trips, birdwatching and visits to off-the-beaten-track villages. You can also take a cooking class and dine on a traditional Algarvian farm.
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Photo courtesy of Cascade Wellness Resort
The Best Boutique Hotels in Lagos

The key to a stay in the city of Lagos is easy access to the sea. If you want to stay within the city, a spot along the marina will give you water views and easy walking access to shops and restaurants, or go just a bit farther along the cliffs to immerse yourself in a wellness retreat.

Soak up the golden light and clifftop views of Portugal's Algarve coast
Map of  Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days
Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days

Savor the best of Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal's southern coast, with this luxurious weeklong adventure. This luxe itinerary steps it up to make your Portugal escape extraordinary, with stays in 5-star hotels and plenty of private experiences, from an exhilarating e-bike tour of Lisbon's historic streets to a boat excursion to the famous Benagil Cave. Discover the hidden coves of Ponta da Piedade while kayaking, relax by the beach, or play golf with plenty of free time.

Beach paths along the Algarve's southern coast
Map of Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days
Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary covers Portugal's biggest metropolis and its southern coast for a city-beach combo that's hard to beat. Kick off in Europe's hottest capital—Lisbon—for a guided introduction to the 'City of Seven Hills', including nearby highlights like Sintra and Cascais. Then, take the train south for several days of glorious beach-hopping while based in a charming old city surrounded by stone walls: Lagos.

Spend some time on the pristine beaches of the Algarve
Map of Coastline & Culture in Portugal & Morocco: Lisbon to Casablanca - 10 Days
Coastline & Culture in Portugal & Morocco: Lisbon to Casablanca - 10 Days

Combine two continents in 10 days with this scenic itinerary that follows the wild Atlantic coast south from Portugal to Morocco. Sample custard tarts and sightsee by iconic yellow tram in Lisbon, then head south to the golden beaches of the Algarve. Jet over to Marrakesh for a whirlwind tour of its culture and cuisine, spend a night in the laid-back coastal retreat of Essaouira, and end your trip strolling the seafront promenades of Casablanca.

Ponta da Piedade
Map of Portugal: Lisbon City & Lagos Coast - 5 Days
Portugal: Lisbon City & Lagos Coast - 5 Days

Discover Portugal's dynamic capital and explore the country's sunny south on this trip plan, which takes you from Lisbon to Lagos in the Western Algarve. Soak up the sun, take delicious and authentic cuisine, and lose yourself either wandering through historic streets or eating through the waves. If you're passionate about beautiful beaches and capturing stunning landscapes, this itinerary is for you!

Take two days to explore historic Faro in Portugal's popular Algarve
Map of Portugal: The Algarve Region - 5 Days
Portugal: The Algarve Region - 5 Days

Spend five days exploring the stunning Algarve region, Portugal's southernmost area that sweeps westward to the Atlantic. You'll spend quality time in the region's two main cities—Faro and Lagos—and discover beautiful churches in Tavira, gorgeous beaches, phenomenal cliffside panoramas, and incredible food. Plus, you'll have plenty of time to lounge on the sand, cruise along the coast, and unwind amid urban charm and natural splendor.

A bougainvillea-lined walkway in the Algarve
Map of Lisbon & the Algarve - 10 Days
Lisbon & the Algarve - 10 Days

This 10-day trip splits time between Portugal's exciting capital and its southern coast while moving at a relaxed pace. Kick off the adventure in up-and-coming Lisbon for a guided introduction to the "City of Seven Hills," including nearby highlights like Sintra and Cascais. Then, choose your own day trip before taking the train to Lagos for several days of golden beaches and picturesque villages in the Algarve.

Finish the trip with three nights in the Algarve, on the southern coast of Portugal
Map of Follow the Sun in Portugal: Azores, Lisbon & the Algarve - 14 Days
Follow the Sun in Portugal: Azores, Lisbon & the Algarve - 14 Days

Discover Portugal's sun-blessed landscapes on this relaxed 14-day adventure. Start in the far-flung Azores islands, where you'll hike among sparkling crater lakes, soak in steamy thermal pools, and stroll along black-sand beaches. Then fly to the mainland to enjoy Lisbon's cultural and culinary delights before touring the UNESCO-listed towns of Sintra and Évora. Your journey ends in the idyllic Algarve, where you'll laze on stunning golden beaches and explore whitewashed seaside towns.

Explore the coves and grottoes of the Algarve by kayak and private catamaran
Map of Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon, Lagos & Évora- 10 Days
Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon, Lagos & Évora- 10 Days

Experience the laid-back luxury of Portugal with this 10-day trip that takes you from Lisbon to the coast and countryside. Start in the capital, where you'll explore the city with private e-bike and Segway tours. Take a day trip to mystical Sintra, then venture south to the Algarve to sail through the stunning Benagil Caves and paddle around Ponta da Piedade. Finally, head inland to Évora and cap off the adventure with a hike along an ancient Roman aqueduct.

São Jorge Castle overlooks the rooftops of Lisbon
Map of Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 11 Days
Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 11 Days

Get to know the real Portugal on this immersive 11-day itinerary that blends culture, cuisine, and coastline. Savor world-class food and wine in Porto, then head south to discover Lisbon's authentic neighborhoods and traditional music. After a busy week of day trips and excursions, you'll trade the city for the coast and settle into a slower pace of life on the golden beaches of the Algarve.

Views towards Portugal's colorful skyline and castle
Map of Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 8 Days
Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 8 Days

Get to know three of Portugal's most iconic locales on this far-reaching but relaxed eight-day itinerary. Start in historic Porto, where you'll explore atmospheric riverside neighborhoods and go wine tasting in the nearby Douro Valley. Head to Lisbon to see the hilly capital by tram and stroll along the seafront in Cascais, then continue south to reach the Algarve—where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic along a coastline of golden beaches and towering cliffs.

Camilo Beach in Lagos
Map of Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days
Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days

Experience three of Portugal's most iconic destinations on this 10-day trip, starting in Lisbon, where you'll tour ancient ruins, cobbled streets, and a UNESCO-listed village in the forested hills. Next, head north to Porto—famous for wine production and colorful architecture along the Douro River. The hardest decisions fall at the end, where you can choose between spectacular beaches and whitewashed villages in the Algarve.

Roman Temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Évora
Map of Discover Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Évora & the Algarve - 10 Days
Discover Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Évora & the Algarve - 10 Days

See the highlights of Portugal's cities, beaches, and gorgeous towns on this fantastic itinerary that takes you through the country's must-see gems. Explore the urban centers of Lisbon and Porto with the help of experts, in-the-know-locals, and unique opportunities to see—and taste!—the incredible vibrancy of Portugal. You'll also visit tiny villages, imposing palaces, and picturesque beach towns off the beaten path. This trip plan is an excellent option if it's your first time in the country!

Discover the many beaches of the Algarvie, like this one in Sagres
Map of Portugal: the Algarve Region - 7 Days
Portugal: the Algarve Region - 7 Days

See the best of the Algarve with this week-long trip that explores the 93-mile-long (150 km) southern coastline of Portugal. This area is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rugged rock formations, hidden caves, picturesque sandy beaches, and charming whitewashed villages. Explore natural parks, visit off-the-beaten-path towns, and see the best beaches. Enjoy breathtaking views, wander cobblestone streets, or relax on the golden sands.

Sunset over Praia do Camilo in Lagos
Map of Relaxed Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & Lagos -  9 Days
Relaxed Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & Lagos - 9 Days

Forget timetables and logistics—on this nine-day itinerary, you can sit back and focus on the beauty of Portugal's cities, countryside, and coast. With a private driver to whisk you between locations, you'll get lost in Lisbon's authentic alleys, spend a night among the romantic palaces of Sintra, tour Porto's riverside wine cellars, escape to the cork forests of Peneda-Gerês, and finish up on the golden beaches of the Algarve.

An iconic yellow tram on Lisbon's colorful streets
Map of Portugal Panorama: Lisbon, Lagos, Coimbra & Porto - 13 Days
Portugal Panorama: Lisbon, Lagos, Coimbra & Porto - 13 Days

This 13-day itinerary showcases Portugal's many faces with a combination of guided experiences and a choose-your-own-adventure road trip. See the Lisbon skyline by sailboat and hike to the hilltop palaces of Sintra, then strike out toward the Algarve coast for golden beaches, hidden coves, and spectacular sunsets. Turn north to end your journey in Porto, where you'll trade the car for a driver as you sit back and enjoy day trips into the Douro Valley and Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Get yourself to Lagos in the Algarve and explore Praça Gil Eanes (Gil Eanes Square)
Map of Lisbon, Porto, Lagos & Sintra: Best Itinerary Ideas
Lisbon, Porto, Lagos & Sintra: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most, 9 to 10 days is ideal for a Portugal trip, with stops in Lisbon, Porto, Lagos, and Sintra. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each location or a few days in another region, like Évora in the Alentejo. Read below for more inspiring Lisbon, Porto, Lagos, and Sintra itineraries.

The lighthouse at Cabo Sao Vicente on Portugal's Algarve coast
Map of Coastline & Culture in Portugal & Morocco - 14 Days
Coastline & Culture in Portugal & Morocco - 14 Days

This 14-day journey along the Atlantic Coast takes you from postcard-perfect Portugal to enchanting Morocco—with plenty of seafood, coastal drives, and picturesque beaches in between. Start in Porto and head south, ticking off Aveiro, Nazaré, Lisbon, Sintra, and Cascais. Sail along the Algarve coast, then cross the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco, where bustling Marrakesh awaits. Leave the city for the seaside and end this two-week adventure in Essaouira and Casablanca.

Porto's colorful riverfront
Portugal Relaxed Self-Drive: Lisbon, Porto, Évora & Lagos - 14 Days

This two-week Portuguese odyssey combines cities, countryside, and coast for a road trip to remember. Savor traditional cuisine in Lisbon, lose yourself in the riverside neighborhoods of Porto, explore vineyards and cork forests around Évora, and soak up some sun on the golden beaches of Lagos. Along the way, a series of guided tours introduce you to the culture and customs of each city, while plenty of downtown means you can cut loose and choose your own adventure on day trips.

Sunset over Lisbon's Alfama district
Map of Epic Portugal: Lisbon to the Algarve - 15 Days
Epic Portugal: Lisbon to the Algarve - 15 Days

From historic cities to rural countryside and rugged coastlines, you'll delve deep into Portugal on this 15-day grand tour. Hop between Lisbon and Porto for cosmopolitan cuisine and countless cultural highlights, then head south through Coimbra, Évora, and the Alentejo plains to reach the wild Algarve coast—where a relaxing itinerary of boat trips and beach time awaits.

Your 5-star accommodations include a waterfront Algarve resort (photo courtesy of Palmares Beach Resort)
Map of Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Porto & Cascais - 14 Days
Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Porto & Cascais - 14 Days

Portugal is the perfect destination for a luxurious and laid-back adventure. This 14-day itinerary takes you across the nation, from Lisbon to Porto via the Algarve coast and Alentejo countryside. Start in the capital with private e-bike and Segway tours, then venture south to the Algarve, where you'll sail and kayak around rock formations and sea caves. Head inland to ancient Évora for an ancient aqueduct hike, tick off Porto with a bridge climb and river cruise, and finish in seaside Cascais.

The rocky coast of Lagos in Portugal's Algarve region
Map of Portugal from North to South: Porto to the Algarve - 11 Days
Portugal from North to South: Porto to the Algarve - 11 Days

Mix vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and a dash of gastronomy for the ultimate 11-day Portuguese adventure. From the cobblestone alleys of Porto to the golden beaches of the Algarve, you'll wind your way south with an itinerary full of curated excursions. Sip world-class wines in the Douro Valley, browse the Baroque library of Coimbra, experience live fado music in Lisbon, and admire 2,000-year-old Roman ruins in Évora.

Porto's vibrant riverfront
Map of Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon, Évora & Lagos - 15 Days
Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon, Évora & Lagos - 15 Days

From the north's winding rivers and wine country to the stunning southern coast, this epic 15-day itinerary gives you an in-depth look at Portugal's many wonders. Sample local wines and gastronomy in Porto, see the cobbled streets of Lisbon by foot and tram, and head into the Alentejo countryside for ancient history and medieval grandeur in Évora. After a busy schedule of tours, day trips, and excursions, settle into a slower pace of life amid the golden cliffs and sweeping beaches of the Algarve.

Views over Odeceixe Beach near Aljezur
Map of Self-Drive Southern Portugal: Lisbon, Alcácer do Sal, Aljezur & Lagos - 6 Days
Self-Drive Southern Portugal: Lisbon, Alcácer do Sal, Aljezur & Lagos - 6 Days

Explore southwestern Portugal's stunning scenery on this six-day road trip from Lisbon to Lagos at your own pace. Set out from the capital to wind your way south through a land of sweeping beaches, whitewashed towns, and unspoiled countryside. Along the way, you'll stand at the edge of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca, cross the Sado Estuary by ferry, and explore the wild beauty of Costa Vicentina National Park.

The Algarve's golden beaches near Lagos
Map of Essential Portugal: Lisbon, Alcobaça, Évora & Lagos - 12 Days
Essential Portugal: Lisbon, Alcobaça, Évora & Lagos - 12 Days

In just 12 days, this action-packed Portugal itinerary introduces you to charming cities, unspoiled countryside, and world-class beaches. Get to know Lisbon in-depth with a series of walking, biking, and culinary tours, then set off on a road trip—winding your way south from medieval Alcobaça through the cork groves and vineyards of the Alentejo. Your journey comes to an end in Lagos, with boat trips and beach time on the stunning Algarve coast.

Wildflowers overlooking Praia do Camilo in Lagos
Map of Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 12 Days
Ultimate Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Lagos - 12 Days

With 12 days to spare, you can see Portugal from north to south at a pleasantly relaxed pace. Explore Porto's riverside neighborhoods by vintage car, sip robust reds in the Douro Valley, and discover the north's lesser-visited gems like Guimarães and Aveiro. Take your time in colorful Lisbon to experience the capital through a local's eyes, then catch a train south to Lagos for sunbathing and sailing on the Algarve coast.

Sunset from the Cabo da Roca near Lisbon
Map of Ultimate Portugal Tour: Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, Douro Valley & More - 14 Days
Ultimate Portugal Tour: Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, Douro Valley & More - 14 Days

This itinerary includes Portugal's two biggest cities, a slew of historic villages, and some spectacular beaches for an epic adventure to remember. Start in up-and-coming Lisbon to explore ancient ruins and trendy districts before going north to UNESCO-listed Porto (and its nearby wine region). You'll also get time in the university towns of Évora and Coimbra—each with its medieval attractions and dining scenes—before kicking back for a few days in the Algarve.

Marinha Beach in the Algarve
Map of Portugal Road Trip: Porto, Lisbon & the Algarve - 13 Days
Portugal Road Trip: Porto, Lisbon & the Algarve - 13 Days

Hit all the Portuguese essentials on this 13-day road trip. You'll start by driving to colorful Porto and the Douro Valley. Here, your adventures will be centered on wine and history. Make your way south to Lisbon for private walking tours of the capital and day trips to the country's most famous castles. Finally, spend some days in the untamed Algarve region, known for its unmatched beaches and seaside rock formations.

Explore the colorful houses of Largo da Pena Ventosa in Porto
Map of Authentic Portugal: Cities, Countryside & Beaches - 13 Days
Authentic Portugal: Cities, Countryside & Beaches - 13 Days

See the best of Portugal with this 13-day trip that ticks off Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve while also squeezing in lesser-known gems, nature reserves, and culinary experiences. Start in Lisbon with a walking tour, then explore Sintra by bike. Transfer north to Braga, explore medieval Guimarães, and hike through Peneda-Gerês National Park before reaching Porto. Join a cooking class here then transfer through the Alentejo countryside to Évora, and continue to Lagos on the southern Algarve coast.

Sunset in Aveiro
Explore Portugal's Coast: Porto, Lisbon, The Algarve, & Peneda-Gerês National Park - 14 Days

Explore Portugal's epic coast and spend time discovering city centers, tiny towns, and picturesque beaches on this 14-day trip plan. You'll enjoy guided tours of Porto and Lisbon and will hike through the stunning landscapes in Peneda-Gerês National Park. With the Atlantic at your side, you'll discover beautiful towns like Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Aveiro (whose Venice-like canals are sure to charm you). Make the most of the coast with stops in gorgeous Lagos and surfing hotspots like Vila Nova de Milfontes and Sagres. 

Sandstone formations at Camilo Beach (two beaches connected through a tunnel)
Map of Portugal: Lisbon, Évora & Lagos - 7 Days
Portugal: Lisbon, Évora & Lagos - 7 Days

This is the ultimate weeklong introduction to Portugal's southern half. The trip starts in the vibrant capital of Lisbon, where you'll tour the city—and nearby villages—with a local. From here, drive into the Alentejo region for a night in ancient Évora's inner-walled town. Finish the adventure with a train ride to coastal Lagos for fabulous beaches and stunning views in and around the Algarve.

Consider checking out the beach in Albufeira for a relaxing few hours
Map of Portugal Road Trip: Porto, Lisbon & the Algarve - 15 Days
Portugal Road Trip: Porto, Lisbon & the Algarve - 15 Days

Road trip through some of the most beautiful places in Portugal on this exciting 15-day tour. When you land in Lisbon, drive north to Porto and the Douro Valley. Spend multiple days enjoying wine and taking in riverside views. Then, return to the capital for guided tours and side trips to castles and beaches. Finish in the wild Algarve, whose coastline is flanked by tall sea cliffs and impressive caves.

Ponta da Piedade near Lagos
Map of Portugal Castles, Beaches & Vineyards: Lisbon to the Algarve - 15 Days
Portugal Castles, Beaches & Vineyards: Lisbon to the Algarve - 15 Days

Discover all four corners of Portugal in this epic 15-day road trip. Start in Lisbon, where the sounds of live fado music will lead you on a drive north to Porto and the wine country of the Douro Valley. Turn south and stop in historic towns like the Knights Templar-built Tomar and ancient Roman Évora on your way to coastal Lagos, where you'll beach-hop under the spectacular cliffs of the Algarve.

The glow of sunset along the canals of Aveiro
Map of Coastal Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days
Coastal Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days

Escape to the coast on this gorgeous 10-day exploration that includes ample time in Porto and Lisbon and stops through charming seafaring towns with fantastic beaches, delicious fresh seafood, and dramatic coastlines. Go hiking in the unparalleled beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park, hit the waves in the surfing hotspot of Sagres, and laze in the sand on the Instagram-worthy beaches of the Algarve. 

Marinha Beach in Portimão
Map of Best of Portugal, from Porto to Algarve - 8 Days
Best of Portugal, from Porto to Algarve - 8 Days

This tour mixes Portugal's vibrant cities with the incredible natural scenery of the Algarve region, starting with guided tours of Porto and Lisbon's hilly and historic neighborhoods. Enjoy a day trip to the Douro Valley for a tasting of the region's wine and port varietals, then head south to Algarve to explore its water sports, preserved coastal parks, and endless coastline filled with sandy beaches and rock formations. Spend hours relaxing on the beach, hiking along the coast, or meandering the historic fishing villages, all before watching dramatic sunsets and experiencing the area's exceptional nightlife.

Join a walking tour of Portugal's capital to see the sights
Map of Romantic Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Évora, Douro Valley & Algarve - 14 Days
Romantic Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Évora, Douro Valley & Algarve - 14 Days

Experience Portugal's beauty and romanticism in this two-week road trip that showcases the variety of the Portuguese landscape, from the city to villages and beaches. You'll experience the art and culture of Lisbon, see the fairy-tale town of Sintra, sip wine in Porto, and explore the wonders of Évora.

The Old Quarter in Seville, Spain
Map of Porto, Lisbon, the Algarve & Sevilla - 21 Days
Porto, Lisbon, the Algarve & Sevilla - 21 Days

See the very best of Portugal and western Andalucía with a perfect mix of highlights and the off-the-beaten-track treasures. Start in Porto, then continue down the coast through historic Lisbon to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve. Continue to Seville to soak in Andalucia's culture and gastronomy, then end your trip in metropolitan Madrid for stunning art museums and bustling city avenues.

Other popular travel destinations in Portugal
Lisbon · Porto · Algarve · Alentejo · Évora · Douro Valley · Sintra · Coimbra · Cascais · The Azores · Nazaré · Madeira · São Miguel Island · Tomar · Braga · Funchal · Óbidos · Tavira · Sagres · Ponta Delgada · Furnas · Marvão · Angra do Heroísmo · Guimarães · Peneda-Gerês National Park · Batalha · Mértola