The City Girl Travel Guide to Lagos, Portugal
Looking for the perfect balance between beach bliss, cliffside hikes, fresh seafood, and boutique charm? Lagos, Portugal is one of the Algarve’s most magical coastal towns — and it deserves a top spot on your European bucket list.
In this Lagos travel guide, we’ll cover everything a modern, curious traveller needs to know: where to stay, what to eat, and the absolute best things to do in Lagos, Portugal — all with a sprinkle of City Girl flair.
Photography by Reiseuhu
Where is Lagos, Portugal?
Located on the western coast of the Algarve, Lagos is a charming town known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant old town. It’s around 1 hour from Faro Airport by car or train, making it super accessible for a long weekend or a longer wellness retreat.
Top 7 Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal
Whether you're into spa days, sailing, or street photography, Lagos delivers big time. Here's what not to miss:
1. Visit Praia do Camilo & Praia Dona Ana
These iconic beaches are surrounded by towering rock formations and turquoise waters — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or snapping the perfect shot for your feed.
City Girl Tip: Head down early to beat the crowds and watch the sunrise over the cliffs. Bring water, SPF, and sandals for the stairs!
2. Take a Boat or Kayak Tour to the Benagil Caves
If you’re wondering whether the Benagil Cave lives up to the hype — it does. Join a boat or kayak tour from Lagos to explore sea caves, secret beaches, and hidden grottos.
3. Wander Through the Old Town
Lagos Old Town is full of cobbled lanes, colorful tiles, independent boutiques, and relaxed vibes. Don’t miss the Igreja de Santo António church and the cute local ceramics shops.
Best for: Street photography, shopping for cork handbags, and getting lost (on purpose).
4. Catch Sunset at Ponta da Piedade
These cliffs are Lagos’ crown jewel — think golden hour magic with panoramic views of the Atlantic. It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in Lagos.
City Girl Tip: Bring a light jacket and a wine tumbler — you’re welcome.
5. Try a Surf or SUP Lesson
Lagos is a low-key surfing hub. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to refresh your skills, you’ll find friendly surf schools with great instructors.
6. Reboot at a Wellness Spa
Lagos is perfect for wellness travel. Treat yourself to a spa day at Cascade Wellness Resort or book a holistic therapy session at one of the town’s alternative healing centers.
7. Go on a Day Trip to Sagres
Just 30 minutes west of Lagos, Sagres is a wild and windswept escape. Explore the Fortaleza de Sagres, eat at a clifftop café, and watch surfers ride huge waves.
8. Take a Coastal Walk to Praia da Luz
If you're craving some time in nature (with major postcard views), lace up your walking shoes and take the coastal path from Lagos to Praia da Luz. The hike takes around 2–2.5 hours each way, following rugged cliffs, wildflowers, and panoramic ocean views the whole time.
Once you arrive, reward yourself with lunch at a beachfront café or a dip in the calm waters of Praia da Luz — a serene little town that feels a world away from the buzz.
City Girl Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and your camera — this walk is stunning at sunrise or golden hour.
Best Restaurants & Cafés in Lagos, Algarve
Wondering where to eat in Lagos, Portugal? Here are our top City Girl picks for the best cafés, brunches, and beachside dinners:
Brunch & Coffee
Goji Lounge Café – Vegan brunch bowls, great coffee, and chill vibes
The Collab – City Girl fave! Coffee by day, cocktails and live music by night. Also a great place for digital nomads or solo travellers.
Abigail’s Café – Instagrammable and delicious (get the pancakes!)
Lunch & Dinner
O Camilo – Known for ultra-fresh seafood and epic views
The Garden – Hidden behind tall green gates, this boho garden restaurant is ideal for relaxed dinners
Casinha do Petisco – Local secret! No-frills, hearty Portuguese food
Best Hotels in Lagos, Portugal
Whether you're here for a wellness reset or a girls’ getaway, here are our top hotel picks in Lagos:
City Girl Recommended: Lagos Avenida Hotel
Chic, modern, and located right by the marina, Lagos Avenida Hotel is a stylish, adults-only stay with a rooftop infinity pool and minimal-meets-luxury interiors. You’ll wake up to views of boats and breakfast croissants. One of our travel experts, Peg, loved this hotel for its morning swim with a view of the marina (which she did in December), and really helpful staff.
Other Fabulous Stays:
Cascade Wellness Resort – For spa time, yoga classes, and sea views
Casa Mãe – A boutique eco-conscious hotel with local design and artisan touches
Boutique Taghostel – A cozy, friendly budget option near the action
What to Pack for Lagos
Here’s your Lagos Algarve packing list:
Lightweight dresses and cover-ups
Swimsuits
Walking sandals or white trainers
Light jacket for coastal evenings
A beach bag + water bottle
Travel journal or book for solo moments
How to Get Around Lagos
Lagos is super walkable, but if you want to explore further:
Car rental: Best for visiting nearby beaches or Sagres
Scooter hire: Fun and easy for quick trips
Public transport: Trains and buses connect most Algarve towns
Final City Girl Tips
When to Visit: May to October is best for sunshine, swimming, and open restaurants, but many City Girls have also visited out of season and had a brilliant time!
Travel Solo-Friendly? 100% – safe, friendly, and full of other travellers
Internet/Remote Work? Yes! Cafés like The Collab are great for remote work.
What have we missed?! Share your recommendations in the comments!
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