PortugalLagos is the Algarve at its most likeable: a walled old town of cobbled lanes and low whitewashed houses, wrapped around a working marina and fringed by some of the most photographed cliffs in Portugal. This was the launch port for Henry the Navigator's caravels, and the town wears its history plainly, from the sombre little slave-market museum on Praca do Infante to the gilded baroque woodwork inside the Igreja de Santo Antonio. But most visitors come for the coast. South of town the golden sandstone crumbles into the sea at Ponta da Piedade, a maze of stacks, arches and grottoes best seen from a small boat or kayak, while a string of cove beaches (Camilo, Dona Ana, Pinhao) sit at the foot of wooden staircases and switchback paths. To the east, Meia Praia unrolls four kilometres of open sand. The eating is generous and unfussy, built on grilled fish, cataplana stews, piri-piri and cheap vinho verde. Base yourself in or near the old town, walk everywhere, take a grottoes boat trip from the marina, and save a day for the wild capes at Sagres. Lagos rewards slow mornings and long, salty afternoons.
Day plans
Pick your trip length. The full 1-day plan is free, members unlock the 3 and 7-day plans.
Ease in like a local at the counter; the lanes are quietest and coolest first thing before the day-trippers arrive.
The plain white exterior gives nothing away; inside is a wall of baroque talha dourada. Your ticket usually covers both church and museum.
Small boats leave constantly from the marina and weave right into the sea caves and arches - the best way to grasp the cliffs. Around 60-90 minutes.
