Lagos, Portugal, is a captivating coastal town that perfectly blends stunning natural beauty with rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its picturesque beaches, such as Praia Dona Ana and Porto de Mós Beach, Lagos is one of the best places to visit in the Algarve. This guide to where to stay in Lagos will help you navigate the different areas, whether you want to be close to the historic center of Lagos or enjoy the best views along the coastline. With a variety of accommodations available, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you can find the perfect spot to make your trip memorable.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Cascade Wellness Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve
- 🏨 4-Star: Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Carvi Beach Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Pérola Branca
- 🏢 Apartament: Palmares Signature Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Ancora Park - Sunplace Hotels & Resorts
- 🏩 For Couples: Iberlagos - Casa LUNA
As you explore Lagos, you’ll discover that it is a great base for accessing the best beaches in Lagos and nearby attractions along the Algarve coast. Since the Lagos train station is conveniently located, you can easily venture to nearby towns like Silves or Albufeira for day trips. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sandy shores of Meia Praia Beach or delve into the town’s rich history, this guide on where to stay will help you find the best-rated hotels and accommodations to suit your needs. So, if you’re wondering where to stay during your trip to Lagos, let this guide will help you to find the best location for your perfect getaway.
The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide
- 🌅 For beach lovers: Meia Praia Beach
- 🏛️ For history buffs: Historic Center
- ⛵ For hiking and boat tours: Ponta da Piedade
- 🌿 For peaceful experience: Praia do Camilo
- 👫 For couples: Lagos Marina
1. Meia Praia Beach: Largest Beach in Lagos 🏖️
🌊 Beautiful Sandy Shores: Meia Praia Beach is largest beach in the Lagos characterized by its expansive sandy shores, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers. The beach’s wide expanse allows for plenty of space to relax, play beach games, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. The gentle waves make it suitable for swimming and other water activities, ensuring a fun day at the beach for everyone.
🏖️ Accessible Amenities: The beach is well-equipped with facilities, including beach bars, restaurants, and rental shops for umbrellas and loungers. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink while soaking up the sun, making it easy to spend an entire day at the beach without needing to leave. The convenient amenities enhance the overall beach experience, catering to the needs of all types of visitors.
🚤 Water Sports and Activities: Meia Praia Beach is a hub for various water sports, including windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Rental shops along the beach offer equipment and lessons for those looking to try their hand at these exciting activities. The beach’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the thrill of water sports, making it a lively destination for adventure seekers.
🌟 The Best Attractions
- Duna Beach Club: A popular beach club known for its lively atmosphere, music, and cocktails.
- Windsurf School Lagos: Offers lessons and rentals for those interested in trying their hand at windsurfing.
- Meia Praia Beach Trail: A scenic hiking trail that runs along the beach, offering stunning views of the coastline.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Duna Beach Club: In addition to its lively atmosphere, this beach club also serves up delicious seafood dishes and cocktails.
- Restaurante Praia Meia: A casual beach restaurant known for its fresh fish, grilled meats, and stunning views.
- Restaurante Boia Bar: A popular spot for breakfast and lunch, serving up tasty sandwiches, salads, and smoothies.
🚗 Getting Around: Meia Praia Beach is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots available along the beach. Visitors can also take a short walk or bike ride from the town center, as the beach is located just west of Lagos. Public transportation options are limited, so a car is recommended for those who want to explore the area more extensively.
🏨 Where to Stay in Meia Praia Beach
⭐ Best Hotels in Meia Praia Beach
- Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve: It is one of the best luxury hotels offering elegant accommodations with stunning views. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, multiple dining options, a spa, and various recreational activities, all set in one of the most beautiful locations in the Algarve.
- ”Palmares: These modern apartments provide a home-like atmosphere with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. The property features a golf course, outdoor pools, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for families and couples alike.
- Vila Palmeira Beach Resort: A charming resort located just steps from the beach, offering comfortable apartments with kitchenettes. The resort features lush gardens, a swimming pool, and easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing getaway.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Vista Meia Praia Apartment: This affordable apartment offers stunning views of Meia Praia Beach, with a cozy living space and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s a great option for budget travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
- Apartamento Meia Praia: A well-furnished apartment located near the beach, featuring modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for families or groups seeking a cost-effective stay in Lagos.
- Meia Praia Beach Apartment: This apartment offers direct beach access and a comfortable living space. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen and proximity to local shops and restaurants, making it perfect for a beach vacation.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Charming apartment at Meia Praia: A cozy hostel-style accommodation offering a friendly atmosphere and shared facilities. It’s a great place for travelers looking to meet new people while enjoying the beach.
- Dom Pedro Lagos: This hostel features comfortable dormitory-style rooms and private accommodations, with easy access to the beach and local nightlife. Perfect for young travelers and backpackers.
- Clube Meia Praia: A vibrant hostel located near the beach, offering a mix of dormitory and private rooms. Guests can enjoy communal areas and activities, making it a fun choice for social travelers.
2. Historic Center: Town’s History and Culture 🌇
🏛️ Rich History: The Historic Center is steeped in history, featuring landmarks that date back centuries. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture of the Igreja de Santo António, a stunning 18th-century church known for its ornate interior. The remnants of the old city walls and the Forte da Bandeira, which once protected the harbor, offer a glimpse into Lagos’ storied past.
🌆 Vibrant Atmosphere: This area is characterized by its lively atmosphere, with a mix of trendy bars, restaurants, and shops nestled among traditional Portuguese cafes. The vibrant plazas, such as Praça Gil Eanes, come alive with street performers and local events, providing a perfect backdrop for people-watching and relaxation. The combination of historic charm and modern amenities makes the Historic Center a delightful place to explore.
🛍️ Shopping and Dining: The Historic Center is home to a variety of shops and eateries, offering everything from local crafts to delicious Portuguese cuisine. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, discovering unique boutiques and artisan shops, while also enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The dining scene here is diverse, catering to all tastes and budgets.
🌟 The Best Attractions
- Mercado de Escravos: This historic slave market is now a museum, offering visitors a chance to learn about the town’s past and its role in the slave trade.
- Igreja de Santo António: A beautiful 18th-century church known for its intricate tile work and gilded altarpiece.
- Castelo dos Governadores: The town’s historic castle, which now houses a small museum and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Tasca do Kiko: A popular local restaurant serving up traditional Portuguese dishes in a cozy, casual atmosphere.
- Restaurante Nau Palatina: A more upscale option known for its fresh seafood dishes and stunning views of the marina.
- Gelateria Italiana: A charming gelateria offering a wide variety of delicious homemade ice cream flavors.
🚶 Walkable: The historic center is easily explored on foot, as many of the main attractions are located within a short walking distance of each other. Visitors can also take advantage of the town’s compact size by renting bikes or using the local bus system to explore further afield.
🏨 Where to Stay in the Historic Center
⭐ Best Hotels in Historic Center
- The Salty Lodge: A stylish boutique hotel featuring modern decor and comfortable accommodations. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace with stunning views, a bar, and easy access to local attractions in the historic center.
- The Marine Place: This charming hotel offers beautifully designed rooms with a nautical theme, along with a relaxing atmosphere. Located close to the waterfront, it provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural sites.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- HENRI'S APARTMENTS - Pateo de Santo António: Affordable apartments with a cozy ambiance, featuring fully equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a home-like experience in the heart of the city.
- Lagos Central Apartments Ap 3: Centrally located apartments offering modern amenities and easy access to local attractions. Ideal for families or groups seeking a budget-friendly stay.
- Casa Sílvia: A quaint guesthouse with a warm atmosphere, providing comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a friendly and affordable place to stay.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Pérola Branca: A vibrant hostel featuring dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen and lounge area, making it a great spot for socializing with fellow travelers.
- Casa Cataplana Accommodations: This cozy hostel offers a relaxed environment with shared facilities and a friendly atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for budget travelers looking to explore the historic center.
- Sea & The City Lagos: A lively hostel located near the beach, featuring comfortable dorms and private rooms. Guests can enjoy various activities and events, making it a fun choice for young travelers.
3. Ponta da Piedade: Stunning Natural Wonder 🌄
🌅 Dramatic Cliffs: The cliffs at Ponta da Piedade rise up to 20 meters above the sea, creating a stunning backdrop for the area’s natural beauty. These towering golden cliffs have been sculpted by the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean over thousands of years, resulting in a series of dramatic arches, caves, and rock formations that are truly awe-inspiring to behold.
🚢 Boat Tours and Kayaking: The best way to fully appreciate the majesty of Ponta da Piedade is by taking a boat tour or kayaking adventure. Chartered boat tours depart from Lagos Marina, allowing visitors to navigate through the sea caves and natural arches of the rock formations. For a more intimate experience, kayak tours offer the chance to paddle through the calm waters and explore the hidden coves and grottoes up close.
🚶♂️ Hiking and Viewpoints: While boat tours and kayaking provide a unique perspective, Ponta da Piedade can also be explored on foot via a network of hiking trails and viewpoints. The Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, while the clifftop trails provide the opportunity to admire the rock formations from above. These hiking trails range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, catering to visitors of all fitness levels.
🌟 The Best Attractions
- Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photography.
- Ponta da Piedade Boat Tours: A variety of boat tours are available, offering visitors a chance to explore the area’s caves and rock formations up close.
- Hiking Trails: The area’s hiking trails range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, with something to suit all levels of fitness.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Restaurante Camilo: Located at the base of the cliffs, this restaurant serves up fresh seafood and stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Restaurante Duna: A casual beach restaurant known for its tasty burgers, salads, and cocktails.
- Restaurante Praia Dona Ana: A popular spot for lunch, serving up a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
🚗 Transportation: Ponta da Piedade is best explored by car, as the area is located just a short drive from Lagos. Visitors can also take advantage of the area’s hiking trails to explore on foot, or join a boat tour to see the area’s natural wonders from the water.
🏨 Where to Stay in Ponta da Piedade
⭐ Best Hotels in Ponta da Piedade
- Cascade Wellness Resort: It is one of the best luxury hotels amidst beautiful gardens, offering spacious rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, multiple pools, and fine dining options, all while overlooking the stunning coastline.
- ”Ancora: This family-friendly resort features comfortable accommodations with a focus on relaxation. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool, children’s play areas, and proximity to local attractions, making it ideal for both families and couples.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Costa d'Oiro Ambiance Village: A charming hotel offering a cozy atmosphere with beautifully decorated rooms. Guests can enjoy lush gardens, a swimming pool, and a complimentary breakfast, all at an affordable price.
- Villas D. Dinis - Charming Residence (adults only): An adults-only residence featuring rustic-style villas with private patios. The property offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to nearby beaches and a focus on tranquility and relaxation.
- Vila Ponta da Piedade: This welcoming hotel provides comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. Located near the scenic Ponta da Piedade cliffs, it offers easy access to stunning views and local attractions.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Dona Ana Garden: A vibrant hostel with a friendly atmosphere, offering dormitory and private room options. Guests can enjoy communal spaces and a garden area, perfect for socializing with fellow travelers.
- Uma Casa a Beira Sol: This cozy hostel features a relaxed vibe with comfortable accommodations and shared facilities. It’s an ideal choice for budget travelers looking to explore the beautiful Ponta da Piedade area.
- B76 - Piedade Apartment in Lagos: A charming apartment-style hostel offering a home-like environment with easy access to the beach. Guests can enjoy kitchen facilities and a comfortable living space, making it perfect for longer stays.
4. Praia do Camilo: Picturesque Beach 🏖️
🌊 Breathtaking Scenery: Praia do Camilo is surrounded by striking limestone cliffs that create a stunning backdrop for sunbathing and swimming. The unique rock formations and clear waters make it an ideal spot for photography, offering countless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Algarve coastline. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves and grottos, either by swimming or taking a boat tour.
🏖️ Secluded Atmosphere: Unlike some of the larger beaches in Lagos, Praia do Camilo offers a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere. The beach’s relatively small size means it can get crowded during peak season, but its secluded nature makes it a perfect escape for those looking to relax and unwind. The tranquil environment is ideal for sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves.
🌟 The Best Attractions
- Praia do Camilo Stairs: The beach is accessed via a long staircase carved into the cliffs, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Praia do Camilo Caves: Several small caves can be found along the beach, offering a chance to explore the area’s geology up close.
- Praia do Camilo Hiking Trails: A network of hiking trails connects Praia do Camilo to other beaches in the area, offering stunning views of the coastline.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Restaurante Camilo: Located at the top of the stairs leading down to the beach, this restaurant serves up fresh seafood and stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Restaurante Duna: A casual beach restaurant known for its tasty burgers, salads, and cocktails.
- Restaurante Praia Dona Ana: A popular spot for lunch, serving up a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
🚗 Logistic: Praia do Camilo is best accessed by car, as the beach is located just a short drive from Lagos. Visitors can also take advantage of the area’s hiking trails to explore on foot, or join a boat tour to see the area’s natural wonders from the water.
🏨 Where to Stay in Praia do Camilo
⭐ Best Hotels in Praia do Camilo
- Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory: A modern hotel offering stylish suites and apartments, equipped with kitchen facilities. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a spa, and easy access to the beautiful Praia do Camilo beach, making it a perfect choice for relaxation.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Apartamento Mar Azul: This affordable apartment features a cozy atmosphere with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space. Located near the beach, it provides an excellent base for exploring the area.
- Apartamento na praia dona Ana - Iberlagos: A charming apartment situated close to Praia Dona Ana, offering modern amenities and a relaxing environment. It’s ideal for families and couples looking for a budget-friendly stay.
- Iberlagos - Casa LUNA: This welcoming accommodation provides comfortable rooms and easy access to local beaches. Guests can enjoy a friendly atmosphere and various amenities at an affordable price.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Carvi Beach Hotel: A lively hostel-style hotel located near the beach, featuring dormitory and private room options. Guests can enjoy communal spaces and a bar, making it a great choice for social travelers.
- Prata Azul: This hostel offers a relaxed environment with comfortable accommodations and shared facilities. It’s perfect for budget travelers looking to meet new people while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
- Apartamentos Pinhão: A cozy hostel featuring apartment-style accommodations with kitchen facilities. Guests can enjoy a home-like atmosphere while being close to the beach and local attractions.
5. Lagos Marina: Picturesque Waterfront 🌉
🚤 Scenic Waterfront: The Lagos Marina features a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, offering stunning views of the marina and the boats docked along the shore. This scenic area is perfect for leisurely strolls, where visitors can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and watch the world go by. The marina is also a popular starting point for boat tours and water activities, making it a hub for adventure seekers.
🍽️ Dining and Entertainment: The marina is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, providing plenty of options for dining and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese cuisine, and international dishes while taking in views of the marina. In the evenings, the area comes alive with vibrant nightlife, offering a range of venues for those looking to enjoy a night out.
🛥️ Access to Activities: Lagos Marina serves as a gateway to numerous activities, including boat tours, dolphin watching, and kayaking adventures along the stunning coastline. Visitors can easily book excursions to explore the nearby Ponta da Piedade and its breathtaking rock formations. The marina’s central location also provides easy access to the town center and nearby beaches, making it a convenient base for exploring Lagos.
🌟 The Best Attractions
- Boat Tours: A variety of boat tours are available from the marina, offering visitors a chance to explore the surrounding coastline and see the area’s natural wonders, including the stunning cliffs and hidden caves of Ponta da Piedade. These tours often include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
- Marina Walk: The marina features a scenic walkway lined with palm trees and benches, perfect for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the views of the boats and the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the sun.
- Lagos Market: Just a short walk from the marina, this market is a great place to find local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s an excellent way to experience the local culture and pick up unique items to take home.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- O Camilo: Located near the marina, this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the water. The menu features a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Marina Bar: A casual spot perfect for grabbing a drink or a light bite, Marina Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating overlooking the marina.
- Restaurante O Pescador: Known for its delicious grilled fish and seafood dishes, this restaurant provides a cozy dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
🚶 Easily accessible: The Lagos Marina is easily accessible on foot, and many attractions in the area are within walking distance. Biking is also a popular option, with rental services available nearby. For those wanting to explore further afield, taxis and local buses provide convenient transportation options.
🏨 Where to Stay in the Lagos Marina
⭐ Best Hotels in Lagos Marina
- Marina Club Lagos Resort: A modern resort offering spacious suites with kitchenettes and balconies overlooking the marina. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a spa, and easy access to nearby beaches and restaurants.
- B04 - Luxury 2 bed w Terrace Pool: This luxurious apartment features a private terrace with a pool, offering stunning views of the marina. It provides a high-end experience with modern amenities and a prime location.
- Starboard Luxury Apartment, Marina de Lagos: A stylish apartment with a contemporary design, offering a comfortable living space and a balcony overlooking the marina. It’s perfect for those seeking a high-quality stay in the heart of the marina.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Ocean pearl: A budget-friendly hotel providing comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy easy access to the marina and nearby attractions.
- A65 - Marina Moor Apartment in Lagos: This affordable apartment offers a cozy living space and a convenient location near the marina. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a budget-friendly option with easy access to the area’s amenities.
- Meia-Praia Beach & Town Marina Apartment: A comfortable apartment situated between the beach and the marina, offering a great balance between proximity to the water and the town’s attractions. It provides a budget-friendly option for those who want to enjoy both the beach and the marina.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Marina Lagos Apartments II, junto à água da premiada Marina de Lagos: These apartments offer a unique experience, providing affordable accommodations right on the water’s edge of the award-winning Lagos Marina. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the marina’s amenities.
- Artistic style apartment: A charming apartment with a unique artistic flair, offering a cozy living space and a friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate a touch of creativity in their accommodations.
- Lagos Marina - Exclusive Apartment with a Balcony: This exclusive apartment provides a private balcony with stunning views of the marina, offering a high-end experience at a more affordable price point. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the luxury of the marina without breaking the bank.
Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal
Lagos, Portugal, is a captivating destination that offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveler. From the stunning beaches of Meia Praia to the cultural richness of the historic center, each area has its unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer 5 star hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, Lagos has a range of hotels and apartments to suit your needs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Lagos, Portugal?
The best area depends on your interests. For beach lovers, Meia Praia is ideal, while the historic center is perfect for those interested in culture and history.
Is Lagos safe for tourists?
Yes, Lagos is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. As with any destination, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.
What is the best time to visit Lagos?
The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Are there budget accommodations in Lagos?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and hostels available throughout the city.
How can I get around Lagos?
Lagos is easy to navigate on foot, especially in the town center. Biking is popular, and public transportation options like buses and taxis are also available.
What are the must-see attractions in Lagos?
Must-see attractions include the historic center, Ponta da Piedade, Meia Praia Beach, and the Mercado de Escravos.
What are the must-see attractions in Lagos?
Some must-see attractions include Lekki Conservation Centre, Nike Art Gallery, and the National Museum, along with the beautiful beaches along the Lekki Peninsula.