Lagos is a beautiful coastal town in the south of Portugal’s Algarve region, well known for its historic tourist towns, beautiful beaches, natural formations and more. There is also an excellent range of hotels and restaurants, and the central location of the city makes it a perfect place to stay while visiting other towns, beaches and other attractions throughout Lagos and the Algarve. If you are thinking of travelling to Lagos for your next holiday, keep reading to find out everything you need to know before you go.
Things to see and do in Lagos
Whether you are looking for a city break or some time spent enjoying the sea and sand, Lagos has it all. If your preference is for golden sands and beautiful beaches, pay a visit to Meia Praia, the largest beach in the Lagos region – very popular with tourists, especially in the summer months. If you want somewhere a little more private, head to Praia Porto de Mos (the second largest beach in Lagos). It is one of the most visually stunning natural features in the whole Algarve and also home to some of the most stunning rock formations in Portugal.
The old town is also perfect if you are a fan of history and culture. One of the biggest attractions in Lagos, the old town is home to historic piazzas, churches and cobbled streets and is surrounded by walls dating to the 16th century. There is also the Santo Antonio church, Mercado dos Escravos (Europe’s first slave market), 17th century Bandeira Fort and much more to explore.
Cost of food, travel and accommodation
You will already know that hotels across the world can vary wildly in price, depending on where you stay and what rating the hotel has been given. In Lagos, a typical room in a three-star hotel will cost approximately €33 a night. For this price, you will tend to get pleasant, comfortable rooms with double beds, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi and free breakfast – ideal for relaxing after a long day of exploring Lagos.
If you are looking for something a little cheaper, there are many hostels throughout Lagos where you can stay. They will typically cost around €9 each night for a dorm in a centrally located hostel. If you want a bit more privacy, you can have a private room with twin beds for approximately €30 a night. Many hostels in Lagos offer free Wi-Fi and breakfast, although of course this will not be the same everywhere. Always check before you book your accommodation.
Food and transportation is readily available all over Lagos. Like hotels, restaurants will vary in price depending on where you go. If you are looking for fast food, snacks or light meals, you can easily find these for close to €7 (or just €2 for a snack). For eager tourists looking to get around the city, you can use the public bus system, or walk to where you are going if you feel up for some exercise.
How to save money in Lagos
There are plenty of ways to save money on your holiday… here are a few quick tips to help you out:
1 – Museums and attractions
Lagos is home to several excellent museums, most of which tend to charge throughout the week. If you are an avid fan of history and culture, but don’t have the time or money to go during the week, don’t worry: most museums in Lagos are free on Sundays. Take a look online before you go, or give them a call beforehand.
2 – Look for different forms of accommodation
Hotels and hostels are usually great places to stay, but if you are travelling in the summer months the prices will often increase. Lagos is a popular tourist destination, so it’s not unexpected for hotels to charge more during summer. If you are looking to save money, why not try alternative accommodation, such as Airbnb or another similar service? Local homes and apartments are usually listed, and often at a cheaper price than hotels in Lagos.
3 – Restaurant advice
If you are enjoying a meal out, we have a handy tip to help save you a little money. Bread and olives will often be brought to your table before the meal. Though this may seem like a wonderful gesture, they are not free! You can, of course, say no, saving you money on your bill.
Are you looking to find out more about Lagos? If so, click here to check out our handy area guide full of information on Lagos and the surrounding area. We have also put together several area guides on fantastic holiday destinations throughout the Algarve to help you plan your holidays.