Ultimate 3-Day Lagos Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant Portuguese charm await in Lagos, the Algarve’s most captivating seaside town.

Main view of Lagos

Day 1: Historic Lagos & Coastal Wonders

Morning

Start your adventure at the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, a 17th-century seaside fort guarding the entrance to Lagos harbor, offering panoramic views and fascinating maritime exhibits.

Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

Forte da Ponta da Bandeira

Afternoon

Wander the cobbled streets to the Mercado de Lagos, the town’s lively market, to browse fresh local produce, taste regional delicacies, and experience authentic Algarvian daily life.

Mercado de Lagos

Mercado de Lagos

Afterwards, head to Praia da Batata, a sheltered golden beach just steps from the old town—perfect for a refreshing dip or sunbathing with dramatic cliff backdrops.

Praia da Batata

Praia da Batata

Evening

Dine at Casa do Prego, a stylish rooftop restaurant famed for its tapas and fresh seafood, with lively local ambiance and sunset views over the old town.

Casa do Prego

Casa do Prego

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Clifftop Vistas & Coves

Morning

Begin your day with a stroll along the iconic Ponta da Piedade, where dramatic golden cliffs and sea arches create one of Portugal’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes—explore the viewpoints or join a guided kayak tour.

Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade

Afternoon

Relax at Praia do Camilo, a postcard-perfect cove reached by a wooden staircase, where crystal-clear waters and golden sands invite you to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind.

Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo

Enjoy lunch at O Camilo, a cliff-top seafood restaurant renowned for ultra-fresh fish, spectacular Atlantic views, and a relaxed, family-run vibe.

O Camilo

O Camilo

Evening

As night falls, savor creative Portuguese cuisine at O Escondidinho, a hidden-gem eatery in a quiet alleyway, known for friendly service and authentic local flavors.

O Escondidinho

O Escondidinho

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Culture, History & Local Flavors

Morning

Begin at the moving Mercado de Escravos, Europe’s first slave market museum, for thoughtful insights into Lagos’ pivotal role in the Age of Discovery and its complex past.

Mercado de Escravos

Mercado de Escravos

Next, admire the baroque beauty of Igreja de Santo António, with its dazzling gilded woodwork and ornate azulejo tiles—one of the Algarve’s most stunning churches.

Igreja de Santo António

Igreja de Santo António

Afternoon

Stop for lunch at Restaurante A Forja, a local favorite renowned for its grilled sardines and home-style Portuguese dishes at great value—be sure to try their cataplana if available!

Restaurante A Forja

Restaurante A Forja

Walk it off with a visit to the Marina de Lagos, a lively waterfront lined with cafes and shops, where you can watch yachts drift by or book a last-minute sailing excursion.

Marina de Lagos

Marina de Lagos

Evening

Finish your journey with drinks and tapas at Ol' Bastard, a quirky gastropub known for its fun atmosphere, craft cocktails, and inventive bar bites—a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Ol' Bastard

Ol' Bastard

📍 Directions for Day 3

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