Lagos Travel Guide

Stretching along the stunning Algarve coast, Lagos offers a charming blend of history, culture and natural beauty. With its golden beaches, rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters, it's a paradise for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. Visitors can explore the town's cobbled streets, which are lined with whitewashed buildings and lively cafés, and discover its rich maritime history at the impressive Forte da Ponta da Bandeira. Lagos is also home to the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, where visitors can take boat tours through sea caves or enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic.

Shopping

Besides an ongoing flea market that sprawls through the streets, Lagos boasts numerous fascinating shops and boutiques, especially in the pedestrianised old city. Browsing is as pleasurable as buying in the well-stocked shops that are bristling with attractive local wares, from wickerwork to filigree jewellery, copperware and leather goods to wine and pastries.

Restaurants

Eating out is part of the pleasure of a holiday on the Algarve, and Lagos offers the best choice of establishments in which to indulge. Seafood lovers will be ecstatic, but no one, even vegetarians, will be disappointed. A good choice would be to visit the marina, where restaurants serve waterfront breakfasts, lunches and dinners seven days a week. For creative international cuisine, visitors should try some of the establishments in town, which cater to almost everyone, including vegetarians. Truly gourmet local specialities such as pork chops with figs, savoury shrimp and succulent shellfish are enjoyed at upper-class spots all around Lagos, with many boasting big wine cellars as well.

Nightlife

The centre of Lagos comes alive in the evenings with buskers and street entertainers, and the nightlife can compete with any holiday resort in the Algarve, with several energetic dance clubs and character-filled bars strewn through the main part of town. Most establishments have live music, darts, pool tables and Sky TV sports channels, and stay open late until 2 or 4am.

Holiday activities

Activities include sailing, wind-surfing, fishing, para-sailing, microlight flights and scuba diving. Golf is a major attraction here as it is throughout the Algarve, with the Palmares and Alto courses nearby offering a round with sea views. There's also the challenge of the Penina Championship Course, site of many a Portuguese Open. Those who hire a car will be well-rewarded in exploring the adjacent coastline and seeking out villages and unspoilt beaches. There are also a few sightseeing opportunities in the town, including an interesting museum.

Any negatives?

There isn't much for children to do but there's a zoo and an excellent water park not too far away.