Why Visit Lagos, Portugal?
Regardless of how many days you choose to stay in Lagos, you’re bound to fall in love with this charming coastal town. Located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, Lagos is famous for its golden beaches, stunning cliffs, historic old town, and vibrant food scene.
Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic escape, a family with kids, a group of friends, or a solo adventurer, Lagos has something for everyone. This 4-day Lagos itinerary offers the perfect mix of sightseeing, relaxation, local food, and adventure. And if you have more time, you can easily stretch these activities or add more by checking out my Things to Do in Lagos post.
✨ Need ideas for where to eat? Don’t miss my Where to Eat in Lagos, Portugal guide with up-to-date info on restaurants and prices.
Lagos Portugal Beaches The most beautiful beaches in Lagos including locations.
Day 1 in Lagos – Markets, Caves & Marina Vibes
- Visit Fish Market and Old TownStart your Lagos adventure by visiting the local Mercado Municipal – the town’s fish market. Most people check out the ground floor for the fresh seafood, but the real hidden gem is the first floor. Here you’ll find an array of locally made gifts: jams, liqueurs, cheeses, and Algarve honey. Stroll through Lagos Old Town, admire the tiled facades, pop into boutique shops, and take in landmarks like the Church of St. Anthony and the Slave Market Museum.
- Lunch at Churrasqueira Praça d’Armas -Enjoy a hearty lunch for under €10 at Churrasqueira Praça d’Armas. Their half chicken with chips and drink combo is unbeatable — a filling, delicious Portuguese meal to fuel the rest of your day.
💡 Tip: Get there before the lunch rush, as it’s a favourite with locals and travellers alike. - Book a boat tour -Book a Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching tour — one of the most unforgettable experiences in the Algarve. Departing from Lagos Marina, this boat trip includes dolphin spotting with commentary from a marine biologist, followed by a visit to the spectacular Benagil caves.
4. Drink at Alina’s Bica bar – After your adventure, unwind at Alina’s Bica Bar with a cold drink or a light snack. It’s budget-friendly, and its laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for early evening chill-outs.
5. Finish your first day with a sunset walk along the Lagos Marina.
6. Have dinner at Adega de Marina. Their piri piri chicken is legendary, but the menu also features grilled fish and seafood at reasonable prices.
Day 2 in Lagos
- Abigail’s Cafe – Start your day with a coffee and a light breakfast at Abigail’s Café. They serve great smoothies, toasts, and acai bowls — perfect for a healthy start.
- Walk along the cliffs and visit beautiful beaches – Take a scenic cliff walk from Ponta da Piedade, arguably the most iconic viewpoint in Lagos. You can follow coastal trails that lead to beaches like Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana, and Praia dos Estudantes.
Pack a picnic or grab snacks from a local bakery and enjoy lunch at one of the viewpoints or beach coves.
📸 Instagram tip: The stairs at Praia do Camilo make for stunning photos! - Cool off with a traditional sweet from Taquelim Gonçalves a family-run dessert shop famous for their Dom Rodrigo cake — a must-try Algarve treat.
- Enjoy the sunset at the beach – ideal one is Praia de São Roque located on the other side of the marina.
- Dinner at Nah Nah Bah – best burgers in Lagos, VOTED TOP BURGER JOINT WORLDWIDE & KING OF THE ALGARVE. You will not regret it, and I promise it will be the best burger you have ever tasted. 🙂
Day 3 in Lagos
- Breakfast at Coffee & Waves
- Jeep Safari – this is an activity that will take most of your day. It’s worth it as they will take you off road, talk about the cork, introduce to locally produced alcohol, honey and jams. Typical Portuguese lunch is included as well as pick up and drop off. I enjoyed it so much, that I have done it 4 times… 🙂 It’s a really relaxing trip, and considering how much walk you would have done the day before, this is the great way of resting but still enjoying beautiful off road views.
3. After a full day, enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Garden, an outdoor oasis serving hearty meals in a laid-back setting. Great for groups, couples, or anyone who loves al fresco dining under fairy lights.
Day 4 in Lagos – Wine, Sunshine & Seafood
- Have breakfast Black and White Coffee Shop Their coffee, pastries, and chill vibe will help you ease into your last day in Lagos.
- Treat yourself to a half-day Wine Tasting Tour. You’ll get picked up from your hotel and taken to a local vineyard to sample Algarve wines, often paired with traditional tapas. The peaceful setting and local flavours are the perfect way to end your trip. Click below to book.
3. Take one last stroll along Meia Praia or relax with a book on the sand. Lagos has a way of slowing down time, and this is the moment to just soak it all in.
4. End your trip with dinner at Berlim a beachfront restaurant with lovely views, fresh seafood, and house wine. Sit outside if the weather allows and toast to a wonderful holiday in Lagos.
Tips for Visiting Lagos
Best Time to Visit: April to October for warm weather and beach days.
Getting Around: The town is walkable, but tours often include hotel pickup.
Packing Tip: Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a reusable water bottle.
Where to Stay: Check out Where to stay in Lagos post for great value options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Lagos, Portugal
Is 4 days enough in Lagos, Portugal?
Yes, 4 days in Lagos is enough to explore the highlights — including beaches, boat tours, cliff walks, and great local food. It allows time for both sightseeing and relaxing. If you have more time, you can explore more of the Algarve coast or take day trips to nearby towns.
What is the best time to visit Lagos?
The best time to visit Lagos is from April to October, when the weather is warm and perfect for beach days and outdoor activities. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, so visit in May, June, or September for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
Do I need a car in Lagos, Portugal?
If you’re staying within Lagos and doing guided tours, you don’t need a car. However, if you want to explore more of the Algarve region (like Sagres, Silves, or hidden beaches), renting a car is a great idea for flexibility and convenience, however you can still manage by public transport.
What are the top things to do in Lagos?
Some of the top things to do in Lagos include:
- Visiting the Benagil caves by boat
- Walking along the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade
- Relaxing on beautiful beaches like Praia do Camilo and Meia Praia
- Exploring the historic Old Town
- Tasting Portuguese cuisine and local wine
- Taking a Jeep Safari into the countryside
See the full Things to do in Lagos Portugal in Lagos guide for more.
Is Lagos, Portugal good for families or solo travellers?
Absolutely! Lagos is very safe and offers something for everyone:
- Families love the calm beaches, day tours, and walkable town.
- Solo travellers enjoy the social vibe, hostels, and outdoor activities.
- It’s also popular with couples for romantic cliff walks and wine tastings.
Are the Benagil caves worth visiting?
Yes — the Benagil caves are one of the most famous natural wonders in the Algarve. They can only be accessed by boat, kayak, or paddleboard. A guided boat tour is the easiest and safest way to see them, and many also include dolphin watching.
Where should I stay in Lagos?
Lagos offers a range of accommodations, from affordable guesthouses and hostels to boutique hotels and beach resorts. For budget-friendly options, check out my Where to stay in Lagos post.
More Lagos Travel Resources
🚘 [Car Hire in the Algarve – Tips & Deals (Coming Soon!)]
🏖️ Best Beaches in Lagos, Portugal
🍽️ Where to Eat in Lagos, Portugal
📸 [Instagrammable Spots in Lagos (Coming Soon!)]
