Things to do in Lagos
Nestled towards the western corner of Portugal’s south coast, Lagos has a reputation for beautiful beaches with dramatic rock formations and azure waters that are perfect for swimming. It is one of the most popular areas of the Algarve, and was founded in around 2000BC by the Cónios tribe. Its rich history dates back to rulings by the Moors, Romans, Carthaginians and Christians, with some buildings and churches even dating all the way back to the 13th century. Now a bustling hub of activity, this former fishing village boasts plenty of historical sites, romantic town squares, a vibrant marina and plenty of day trips and activities to keep the whole family entertained on your villa holiday. Here’s our guide to popular Lagos things to do.
Spend the day at the beach
Stunning beaches and rugged cliffs offering fabulous views is the main reason why Lagos is so popular with world travellers. If you feel like spending the day away from your private pool and gardens in your Villa Daisy, why not spend a day at one of the many Blue Flag beaches in the area? All beaches are well-catered, featuring lifeguards and toilets. We recommend Praia Dona Ana, which has been consistently rated as the poster beach for the Algarve. Staggering rock formations and jagged cliffs harmonise with deep turquoise waters for Instagram-worthy snaps. Cave kayaking and diving lessons also operate from this beach. Another good beach for families is Meia Praia – an open stretch of vast white-sand shoreline, warm waters for swimming and a local bar. It’s an ideal place for the whole family to play in the water due to its gentle waves. Also worth visiting is Praia dos Estudantes, which is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rock stacks and natural caves that are popular with travel photographers. These waters are excellent for surfing and paddle boarding. If you’re an experienced surfer, head a little further west to Sagres, where the waves are more energetic.
Enjoy a boat trip
Sailing along the Algarve in a catamaran is the perfect way to create holiday memories with your loved ones. Many catamaran day trips include stop-offs for swimming, dolphin watching and snorkelling. Children in particular will love spotting dolphins in their natural habitat, and dolphin sightseeing trips can be organised using speed boats to ensure that you have the best chance of seeing these amazingly intelligent creatures. Other boat trips cover the famous Ponta da Piedade caves, which feature luminous waters and epic rock formations.
Visit a theme park
If you have children to keep occupied, one of the best things to do in Lagos is to visit its zoo, where you can learn more about the region’s wildlife, as well as other animals from around the world that are far more endangered, such as the Lynx. If you’d rather get stuck into something adrenaline-filled, Lagos Adventure Park features high ropes and a treetop obstacle course and is fun for both kids and adults. Or why not try Pro Putting Garden – an 18-hole crazy golf circuit that will test the whole family’s putting skills!
Tour historical ruins
History buffs are well catered for in Lagos, which boasts a very rich and diverse heritage. Explore the Forte Ponta da Bandeira – an ancient 17th century fortress that once defended the harbour and was considered the most advanced structure in the region because of the strength of its walls. You can cross the moat through the drawbridge, which leads to a small chapel containing beautiful tiles. Also worth visiting is the Castelo de Lagos, which looks like something out of Game of Thrones. It is unknown exactly when this castle was constructed, but it has been suggested that it also dates back to the 17th century.
Now that you know some of the best things to do in Lagos, it’s time to book the holiday villa of your dreams close by. Browse our selection of quality holiday villas in Lagos.