City of the sea
Lagos has in the Algarve, Portugal - with more than 2000 years of history - a beautiful historical city centre, stunning beaches and the awarded yacht marina.
It is a city that boasts a rich seafaring heritage and a coastline of dramatic natural scenery, and today is one of the Algarve’s finest holiday destinations.
Thankfully, Lagos has not succumbed to mass tourism, and the city still retains its distinctive character and charm.
Found within the historic centre is a proud Portuguese city, with cobbled streets, authentic restaurants, and an atmosphere which is relaxed and welcoming.
Historical centre
Once known as Lacobriga, Lagos has more than 2000 years of history and was occupied by many civilizations throughout the centuries including the Romans, the Visigoths, the Byzantines, and the Moors, who renamed it to Zawaia, meaning lake or “lago”.
In the 15th century, Lagos played an important role in launching the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Because of its location, from Lagos the Portuguese were the first European nation to explore the Atlantic Ocean in a significant way.
Portugal may be a small country but with names like Prince Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and even Christopher Columbus attached to its seafaring history, its influence cannot be overstated. Everywhere you look in the old town, you can see the history. Lagos is full of squares and plazas, lined with authentic restaurants, cafes, and shops.
When you visit Lagos centre, please don't forget to pay a visit to:
- The former Slave Market
- Castle of Lagos
- Ponta da Bandeira
- Igreja de Santa Maria
Beaches
More than just a collection of historically significant sites, Lagos offers an abundance of beaches and natural beauty.
We have made a selection of the best beaches.
1. Meia Praia - The largest beach in Lagos and one of the largest in the Algarve. It extends for over 4km from the marina on one end to the Alvor estuary on the other.
2. Praia Dona Ana - This is the most photographed beach and for the right reasons.
3. Praia do Camilo - A stunning but small beach surrounded by shaped rock formations.
4. Praia de Porto de Mos - The second largest beach of Lagos is a beautiful sandy beach.
5. Praia da Batata - The most popular beaches for the young generation.
6. Praia do Canavial - A narrow, isolated and peaceful beach (no facilities). We love it!
7. Praia dos Estudantes - This Students’ beach is famous for its landmark bridge that was once a part of a majestic fortress of Pinhão.