Lagos
Lagos
Lagos is a beautiful coastal town in Portugal's sunny Algarve region. With its impressive limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and golden sandy beaches, it's no wonder that Lagos has become one of Portugal's most popular vacation spots. The town is known for its picturesque coastline featuring unique rock formations and hidden grottoes that can be explored by boat tour.
Beyond the stunning beaches, Lagos has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The town was once an important port during Portugal's Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries. Prince Henry the Navigator based himself here while sponsoring voyages along Africa's coast. The old town still preserves much of its historic charm with cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and remnants of the ancient city walls.
Lagos offers a perfect blend of history and coastal beauty. The town center is lively yet relaxed, with plenty of seafood restaurants serving fresh catch daily. The local cuisine highlights Portuguese flavors with an emphasis on Atlantic seafood - don't miss trying cataplana, a traditional seafood stew. During summer months, the town buzzes with energy as visitors from around the world fill its streets, beaches, and bars.
Meia Praia, Dona Ana Beach, and Ponta da Piedade are just a few of the natural wonders that make Lagos special. The region enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal destination almost year-round. Whether you're interested in water sports, historical exploration, or simply relaxing by the sea, Lagos delivers a quintessential Portuguese coastal experience.
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Things to do in Lagos
Top things to do in Lagos by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Lagos
Best hotels in Lagos:
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Olinda’s Rooms (homestay)
Olinda's Rooms location is hard to beat - you're just steps away from the main attractions, beaches, restaurants and shops. The rooms are simple but comfortable, with air conditioning to keep you cool on hot summer days.
One of the best features is the shared kitchen and lounge area, perfect for meeting other travelers or preparing a quick meal. Most rooms have balconies too, so you can enjoy some fresh air and city views. The owner Olinda is super friendly and helpful, always ready with local tips and recommendations.
While the bathrooms are shared, they're kept clean and tidy. Overall, it's a great budget-friendly option if you want to be in the middle of the action in Lagos. Just keep in mind it's up a few flights of stairs, so pack light!
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Lagos Avenida Hotel (luxury hotel)
Lagos Avenida Hotel is steps away from the marina and a short walk to the old town and beaches. The rooftop infinity pool is a real highlight, with amazing views over the water.
The rooms are modern and comfortable, with nice touches like balconies overlooking the city or marina. The breakfast gets rave reviews from guests, with a great spread of fresh options to start your day. The staff are super friendly and helpful too.
While it's not a huge hotel, Lagos Avenida has everything you need for a relaxing stay. The central location makes it easy to explore Lagos on foot, but you can also rent bikes if you want to venture further. All in all, it's a great choice if you're looking for a stylish place to stay right in the middle of the action in Lagos.
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Tivoli Lagos (medium range hotel)
Tivoli Lagos is a 4-star hotel that has a sweet setup with three pools, a spa, and some tasty restaurants on-site. The rooms are comfy with balconies and all the usual amenities you'd expect.
One of the best things about this place is the location - it's an easy walk to the marina, old town, and beaches. The breakfast buffet is pretty epic too, with tons of options to fuel up for a day of exploring.
While some parts of the hotel are a bit dated, the staff really make up for it. They go above and beyond to make sure guests have a great stay. The hotel even runs a free shuttle to their private beach club in the summer months, which is a nice perk. Overall, it's a solid choice for a stay in Lagos.
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Belmar Spa & Beach Resort (resort)
The Belmar Spa & Beach Resort in Lagos is a stunning getaway right on Porto de Mos beach. With its prime oceanfront location, you can easily stroll down to the sand or take in breathtaking sea views from the resort's outdoor pools and terraces.
The rooms and apartments are spacious and modern, with fully-equipped kitchens that let you feel at home. After a day of sunbathing or exploring Lagos, you can unwind at the resort's spa, which offers an indoor pool, sauna, and various treatments. For dinner, grab a table at the on-site restaurant to sample some delicious Portuguese cuisine while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
With its mix of apartment-style accommodations and resort amenities, the Belmar is ideal for both couples and families looking for a relaxing beach vacation. The friendly staff and convenient location just a short drive from Lagos town center make it easy to enjoy all the Algarve has to offer.
book now on booking.com
Best hostels in Lagos:
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Topcity Hostel & Suites (hostel)
Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos is a great spot for travelers looking to soak up the sun and meet new people. The place has a laid-back vibe with an outdoor pool where you can lounge and chat with other guests. The rooms are clean and comfy, with air conditioning to keep you cool after a day at the nearby beaches.
The staff here are super friendly and always ready to help you plan activities or give tips on the best local spots. There's a shared kitchen if you want to cook your own meals, plus a terrace for hanging out. The location is perfect - you're just a short walk from restaurants, bars, and some of Lagos' top beaches.
If you're traveling solo, this is an ideal place to connect with other backpackers. They organize fun group activities like bar crawls and walking tours so it's easy to make new friends. Overall, Topcity offers good value in a prime spot, with a social atmosphere that solo travelers will love.
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Olive Hostel (party hostel)
Olive Hostel in Lagos is a great spot for travelers looking to soak up the local vibe. Located in the old town, it's just a short walk to beaches, restaurants and all the main sights. The hostel has a really laid-back, social atmosphere with plenty of spaces to hang out and meet other guests.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, with options for dorms or private rooms. There's a well-equipped kitchen if you want to cook, plus a cool rooftop terrace that's perfect for relaxing with a drink in the evening. The staff are super friendly and always happy to give tips on things to do in the area.
One of the best things about Olive Hostel is how it feels like staying at a friend's place rather than a generic hostel. The decor has lots of character and there are nice touches like free yoga classes and movie nights. It's a great base for exploring Lagos and experiencing the chilled Portuguese lifestyle.