Lagos is no longer a hidden gem – it’s firmly at the top of many travelers’ lists when visiting Portugal’s famous Algarve coast. Yes, it can get busy and undeniably touristy, but for good reason. Let me take you on a short journey to show why Lagos remains one of the most rewarding places to experience the spirit of the South West Algarve.
With around 35,000 permanent residents, Lagos is no longer a small fishing village – yet it has managed to preserve its laid-back small-town charm. During the high season, the number of people in town rises significantly, as visitors fill its beaches and narrow streets. Keep on reading for com (c)alma’s travel guide for Lagos Portugal.
🏰 Highlights within the old town walls of Lagos
The walled old town of Lagos dates mostly from the 16th century, though its foundations go back to Roman and Moorish times – over two thousand years of history in one small coastal town.
When strolling within the old city walls, don’t miss these highlights:
🕍 Museu de Lagos Dr. José Formosinho
A small and charming museum dedicated to the history of Lagos and its surroundings, beautifully integrated into the baroque church Igreja de Santo António. A great stop also for families with kids.
⛪ Praça Infante Dom Henrique & Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos
One of the town’s main squares, often hosting local festivals and events. Here you’ll also find the elegant Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos, another landmark worth a visit.
🪶 Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
Currently closed for renovations, but usually the only part of Lagos’ castle and walls open to visitors. From here, you’d enjoy sweeping views over the sea, the old town, and the beautiful city beach Praia da Batata. Definitely worth a photo stop when exploring Lagos’ historic centre.
🚶 Rua 25 de Abril
The main pedestrian street lined with cafés, shops, and restaurants. It’s lively and pleasant for a stroll, though many stores are no longer locally owned and often sell imported souvenirs rather than genuine Portuguese crafts.
🏠 Praça Luís de Camões
Take a moment to admire the architecture and the pastel-colored façades around this charming square. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the green-tiled traditional house on the corner — one of Lagos’ most photogenic details.
Compact as it is, the old town still offers more than most visitors expect — if you give it a bit of time.
(c)alma approved: Best places in Lagos old town
Best place for an ice cream
Gelícia – artisanal gelato right next to Praça Gil Eanes, creamy and not overly sweet.
Best place for a coffee
Café Gil Eanes – this is for you if you are into enjoying your coffee in the middle of a main square while watching the surroundings and soaking up the sun. For coffee speciality lovers, other spots might be better suited (e.g. Black and White coffee).
Best place for a a Cataplana
Restaurante Reis – famous for a reason, but go early or book ahead; their seafood cataplana is a classic and comes in two variations.
Best place for Petiscos
Atasca-te - Thanks to its central location within the old town, this spot is steadily gaining popularity. The tapas-style dishes are among the best in Lagos, blending traditional Algarve flavours with a modern twist. A favourite not only with visitors but also with locals.
Best activity with kids (indoors and outdoors)
Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos – interactive science museum that even features a play-in submarine and a nice garden with playground.
Best drink with a view
Maré Lagos - It's a proper restaurant, but I prefer to go here just for drinks as the terrace has the nicest view over the canal and the dunes of Meia Praia.
View of old town Lagos from the Marina side
Praça Infante Dom Henrique, Lagos
Padaria Central, famous for it's delicious homemade bread and pastries
Jacaranda beauty in the pedestrian zone
Pedestrian zone of Lagos on a sunny Sunday morning
Delicious petiscos - tapas-style food, the Portuguese way
Photo motives like this on every corner of Lagos old town
Street Art - make it a challenge to discover more
Bit of a different angle of Lagos famous green tiled house
Shot from road towards Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo
View towards the old city walls and the park beyond
🧭 Beyond the city walls
Lagos isn’t just about the charming old town. Once you step outside the city walls, you’ll discover a more local and relaxed side of the West Algarve — from its lively marina and coastal promenades to beaches where surfers and families mingle. Don’t miss the everyday spots that locals love, and look out for the separate story about famous Ponta da Piedade.
⚓ Lagos Marina
A modern waterfront lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques. Perfect for a sunset stroll or to watch the boats come and go.
🧺 Mercado Levante (Local Market)
Open Wednesday afternoon and Saturday mornings — a vibrant spot for local life, fresh produce, and regional flavors. As most products are organic, prices are a bit higher. Often with live music and sometimes special events. Great spot with kids!
🐟 Mercado de Santo Amaro
The true local market of Lagos — open Monday to Saturday mornings. Come early for the freshest fish, local produce, and seasonal fruit and vegetables at local prices.
🏖️ Praias da Batata & Estudantes
Right below the old town walls — small, central beaches ideal for a swim or a quick sunbath between explorations.
🌾 Meia Praia
One of the Algarve’s longest beaches, with soft dunes and a wooden boardwalk. Great for long walks or a lazy beach day with space to breathe. Even in crowded August there is plenty of space and possibility to park the car.
🌅 Praia Dona Ana
The postcard view of Lagos — golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and a must-see for photographers and beach lovers alike.
🍽️ Praia do Porto de Mós
A favorite among locals. Wide sands, surfable waves, and two lovely beachside restaurants perfect for lunch or sunset dinner.
🛹 Parque da Cidade de Lagos
A relaxing green park with a skate area, walking paths and the fun Pro Putting Garden for some casual mini golf surrounded by palm trees.
🧭 Ponta da Piedade & Praia do Camilo
The dramatic cliffs and grottoes of Lagos — but this one deserves its own story. Stay tuned for a dedicated guide!
(c)alma approved: Places to refuel & unwind
Non-Portuguese dinner with a little splash
Try Restaurante Casbah – serving excellent Moroccan-inspired dishes and featuring a small pool you can actually take a dip in. Great for kids and adults alike, and a refreshing change from typical Algarve cuisine.
Portuguese lunch/ dinner with harbour feeling
Head to Tasca do Kiko for fresh seafood and relaxed elegance by the marina. Loved by locals for its quality, service and authentic atmosphere.
Coffee & bistro with thoughtful design
On a rainy day or when you crave a quiet moment, BELO CANTINHO is your spot. Great coffee, comforting food and beautiful interior details.
Best rooftop for amazing food and drinks
Luca’s Rooftop Restaurant combines panoramic views with refined yet relaxed dining. Perfect for sunset dinners above the rooftops of Lagos.
Best boat trips in Lagos
Discover the coastline and grottoes with BOM DIA Boat Trips, a family-run company that’s as warm-hearted as their local skippers are passionate.
Best prawns in Lagos
At Bar Quim, enjoy your prawns with your feet in the sand — lunchtime only, relaxed and local. Simple, fresh and exactly what you want from a beachside meal in the Algarve.
Street Art spotted in Lagos skate park
Praia do Cais da Solária and Praia da Batata in the back are the closest beaches to Lagos city center
Impressive waves battering the iconic Forte da Bandeira de Lagos
Praia Dona Ana - loved by families (and everyone else) for it's protected shore
Even on a cloudy day, praia Dona Ana (view towards Ponta da Piedade) is a gem
Endless sand dunes and board walks - Meia Praia will never be too crowded
Impressive remaining bridge of the old fort at Praia do Pinhão
Nice area for walks, playground for kids or just for grabbing a drink - Marina de Lagos
Praia do Porto de Mós is one of the most popular beaches for locals and it's easy to see why
Together with Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Porto de Mós is also one of the most iconic sunset spots in Lagos, more so though in winter time
Yes, that is real and that is Praia do Camilo, but it can be really really crowded in high season
Teaser for more pictures in the own blog entry for Ponta da Piedade
🌿 (c)alma conclusion
Lagos offers more than its lively centre and seaside atmosphere. If you have time, explore the calm corners beyond the city walls — from quiet coves and coastal trails to local markets and family-run eateries.
Lagos also hosts a mix of local and national festivals, including the Festival dos Descobrimentos, which draws people from across Portugal.
Just one hour away by car from Faro airport, the town also makes a perfect base for discovering the southwest Algarve, with easy access to scenic coastal drives, surf spots, and peaceful inland villages. With its walkable city centre and wide sandy beaches, it’s perfect for families too — easy to get around, full of things to explore, and relaxed in atmosphere.
Coming soon: inspiration for Ponta da Piedade and some beautiful coastal walks in the southwest Algarve, plus insider tips for lesser-known beaches, local cafés, and things to do around Lagos.
You’ll also find ideas for hikes of different lengths and levels, more seaside villages worth exploring, and a guide to authentic inland communities that keep their original character.
Because travel — like life — feels better when it’s done com (c)alma.