The Top Things to See and Do in Lagos, Algarve

Ponta da Piedade
Ponta da Piedade | © imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo
Nina Santos

The Algarve is a bustling summertime hot spot, especially for ocean lovers and night owls, and the town of Lagos is among the most sought-after destinations in the region. Characterized by rich maritime history and stunning natural treasures, Lagos attracts tourists and expats from many walks of life. For anyone planning on spending any amount of time in one of the Algarve’s most beautiful towns, here is a list of activities and landmarks that should top to-see lists. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Schedule a grotto tour by boat

Arguably, one of the best experiences to have in Lagos is a tour of the seaside caves around Ponta da Piedade. Although a scheduled tour isn’t necessary to visit this natural landmark, it will provide visitors with an insider’s view and a chance to speak with a local guide. Boat tours last a bit longer than an hour and may include a stop to a private beach or two, in addition to cruising through the caves. Make sure to ask about visiting Elefante, or Elephant Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in the Algarve.

speech icon man in bubble

Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
speech icon man in bubble
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

Go kayaking

Since the coast is still Lagos’s most attractive feature, spending time exploring every corner is something most visitors will want to do. Despite the boat tours being an excellent way to navigate the caves, kayaking is the best way for adventurers to get some extra exercise. Either book a kayak tour or rent one and take your time to move at your own pace. Kayak Adventures Lagos is just one company that specializes in these special tours.

Visit the Lagos Zoo

Spending a day outside doesn’t mean you have to do it seaside, and the Lagos Zoo is a great way to enjoy the Algarve’s sun while experiencing something different. This conservation and educational landmark is 17 years old, inaugurated on November 16, 2000. Open all year round, it also provides families and nature lovers with something to do during the winter, and the zoo even gets “dressed” extra special for the holidays. From birds to mammals to reptiles and fishes, the Lagos Zoo lets visitors get up close to a number of native and exotic species.

Visit the Igreja de Santo António

The Church of Saint Anthony was built on the spot where the saint was born

This stunning Baroque church is certainly a must-see whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, photographer, or simply someone who loves beautiful landmarks. The structure, built in the early 18th century, is listed today as a National Monument. From the painted, vaulted ceiling to the ornate walls with intricate woodwork details and traditional azulejo tiles, this church is no doubt a feast for the eyes.

Visit the ancient Slave Market

The European slave trade was one somber event in history that happened as a result of the Age of Discoveries, and Europe’s first slave market was built in Lagos during the mid-15th century. Today, the location is a museum with exhibits that show the history of slavery in Portugal, including what happened in the market and how slaves were treated after being sold. Despite reflecting on a sad moment in Portuguese history, the museum is educational and may be particularly appreciated by history fans.

Visit the Lagos fish market

A unique Portuguese experience is walking through a local fish market with the fresh catches of the morning for sale. The Lagos market is extra incredible, situated across from the marina and boasting three floors filled with stalls selling products such as fish and seafood, along with unexpected items, including land-based meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, cheese, and homemade Portuguese sauces.

Enjoy a traditional Algarve meal

In Portugal, indulging in the national cuisine is a must, and Lagos is a great town to enjoy a variety of meals from the best seafood dishes to chicken piri-piri and even non-Portuguese and/or vegetarian cuisine. Those who like seafood and don’t mind paying a bit more should try the cataplana dish, a traditional recipe from the Algarve.

Go on a cliff walk

Camilo Beach, Lagos, Portugal

Like the caves, Lagos is known for stunning multi-hued cliffs that fringe the local beaches. Be careful because many cliffs lack protective barriers, but wandering among them is one favorite pastime for locals and tourists, especially photographers. Among the best spots are Camilo Beach, Ponta da Piedade, and Praia Dona Ana.

Go surfing

Surfing is perhaps the most popular water sport in Portugal, and the entire 1,800 kilometers (1,118.5 miles) of coastline offers plenty of opportunities to get in the water. While in Lagos, why not take part is this favorite activity? Not only is the weather (and the water) warmer than in other parts of continental Portugal, but the scenery will also add to the experience.

culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

X

Holiday Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

Edit article