- \n
- By car<\/strong>: It is only a five-minute drive from downtown. Right in front of the lighthouse is a parking lot where you can park for free.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: No city buses go to Ponta da Piedade, but there is a tourist train that stops there (only in summer).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- On foot<\/strong>: The walk from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade is also highly recommended. From downtown, it takes about 40 minutes. From Praia do Pinh\u00e3o, you can walk along the shore on the wooden boardwalks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n ![\"Only](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Alleen-bij-Ponta-da-Piedade-in-Lagos-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"In](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/In-de-kayak-bij-Ponta-da-Piedade-met-mijn-zusje-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sagres and Cabo de S\u00e3o Vicente<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sagres is one of the main attractions in the Algarve as far as I’m concerned and also another recommended day trip from Lagos. I take almost all my friends here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sagres is located on the southwesternmost tip of Europe. Before visiting the town itself, drive a few kilometers to Cabo de S\u00e3o Vicente (Cape Saint Vincent). Here you will find the imposing lighthouse atop steep cliffs. Sailors used to think this was “the end of the world. The rugged coast and raging waves are a spectacular sight. In Sagres itself, you can visit the port, several gorgeous beaches<\/a> and the fortress. You can also have a great meal at one of the seafood restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Read more: The best things to do in Sagres<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 45-minute drive to Cape St. Vincent, which is 10 minutes from Sagres. Parking is available next to the lighthouse on the cape, in Sagres itself there is a large lot in front of Sagres Fortress and behind Praia da Mareta. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transportation<\/strong>: Bus 47 runs several times a day from Lagos to Sagres and sometimes stops at Cabo de S\u00e3o Vicente. A ticket costs about \u20ac7, payable in cash to the driver. Check Google Maps<\/a> for schedules and bus stops.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Cape](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Kaap-Sint-Vincent-bij-Sagres-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMonchique<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For a day trip inland, Monchique is highly recommended. This mountain village is located in the middle of the Algarve’s green hinterland. You will find picturesque streets, cozy squares, and the ruins of a medieval monastery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, climb F\u00f3ia (the highest mountain in the Algarve) for stunning views of the region. On the way you will pass by the Caldas de Monchique, a spa town with thermal springs. Ideal for relaxing for a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Read more: 11 fun things to do in Monchique Portugal<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 45 minutes drive (via the A22, a toll road) or 50 minutes to an hour drive on other roads.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Take the bus or train to Portim\u00e3o and there change to bus 84 to Monchique. Please note that these buses do not go very often, so it is wise to find out the bus schedules well in advance. You can find them on Google Maps.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Uitzicht-vanaf-Miradouro-de-Monchique-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSilves<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
History lovers should not skip Silves while staying in Lagos. This town was once the capital of the Moorish empire in the Algarve. The main attraction is the red castle that towers high above the city. From here you have a beautiful view of the green hills full of vineyards and the river. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inside the city walls you will find narrow streets, white houses, and Moorish remains. Also, visit the cathedral and the ruins of a Roman bridge. A medieval festival takes place here in August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Read more: Discover Silves, the oldest city in the Algarve<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 35-minute drive (via toll road) or 45-minute drive via the N125.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: 37 minutes by train. Check the website of CP<\/a> for train times. It usually goes every 1 to 2 hours. From the train station, it is a 20-minute walk to get to the town.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"From](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Vanuit-het-park-heb-je-een-prachtig-uitzicht-op-Silves-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPraia da Marinha (Seven Hanging Valleys Trail).<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Often labeled as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Praia da Marinha. This beach is located in a sheltered bay surrounded by high cliffs. The turquoise water and golden sand make it a picture to behold. A great place to relax on the beach and you can also do some good snorkeling among the rock formations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Above the cliffs is a hiking trail with magnificent views. This is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and it runs through several cliffs and beautiful beaches to Praia do Vale de Centeanes (about 6 kilometers one way). This is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Algarve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Read more: Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: the best hiking trail in the Algarve<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 40-minute drive via the A22 or 45-minute drive via the N125.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Although Praia da Marinha is accessible by public transportation from Lagos (the fastest route is by taking the train to Ferragudo, then the bus to Barros Brancos and, then changing buses again to Praia da Marinha), I would advise against doing it as a day trip by public transportation. It takes too long and it is then difficult to travel back on the same day. As an alternative, you can also take the train to Ferragudo and then continue by taxi or Uber.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Praia](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Praia-da-Marinha-in-de-Algarve-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBoat trips along the coast: dolphins & caves<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
From Lagos, you can book incredibly fun boat trips. For example, you can go far out to sea to see dolphins, or you can stay close to the coast to see the most beautiful hidden beaches and caves, with the cave of Benagil being the highlight. Some of these tours also combine the two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Benagil-grotten-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Dolphins](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Dolfijnen-langs-de-kust-van-de-Algarve-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThese are some of the most fun boat trips you can take from Lagos:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Speedboat adventure to the caves of Benagil<\/a><\/strong>: With this tour, you will go along the coast in a fast speedboat. Occasionally the boat slows down, giving you a chance to properly admire the golden cliffs and caves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dolphin watching & Benagil Tour with marine biologist<\/a><\/strong>: On this boat trip, you will also check out the cave of Benagil, but it goes a little slower. In addition, you will search for dolphins with an expert.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nPortim\u00e3o<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Portim\u00e3o is the second largest city in the Algarve, after Faro. This is another nice place to visit as a day trip from Lagos. It’s a great place to go shopping (perfect if it’s raining) and you can wander around downtown. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highlights include Praia da Rocha (a beach with steep cliffs full of beach pavilions), Fortaleza de Santa Catarina (beautiful views), Ribeirinha de Portim\u00e3o (nice stroll), and Pra\u00e7a 1\u00ba de Maio (beautiful buildings, street art, and lots of nice stores and restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Read more: 20 Best Things to do in Portim\u00e3o Portugal<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 20-minute drive. Near the Ribeirinha is a large parking lot. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: 20 minutes by train, it goes about once every two hours. There are also buses between Lagos and Portim\u00e3o, which take about 35 minutes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Portimao](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Portimao-als-dagtrip-vanaf-Lagos-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPraia da Luz<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Just west of Lagos is another nice resort: Praia da Luz. The atmosphere here is very different, less urban and a bit more convivial. Although it is not that big, it is a wonderful place to relax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The steep cliff next to the beach is a picture to behold, and this is also a good place to take surfing lessons. In addition, there are plenty of nice restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a delicious Portuguese meal. And if you fancy a sporting challenge, the walk from Luz to Lagos<\/a> is highly recommended. It’s a bit of a climb at the beginning, but then a wonderful trip over the cliffs full of beautiful views awaits you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Read more: 12 Best things to do in Praia da Luz & around<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 15-minute drive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Lagos’ “city buses” run regularly to Luz. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs only a few euros.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Praia](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Praia-da-Luz-strand-1-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAljezur<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Aljezur is a municipality in the northwest of the Algarve and has not (yet) been discovered by the masses. Consequently, the coastline here is still largely undeveloped, and the steep cliffs full of unusual rock formations make it extra spectacular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My favorite spots in Aljezur are Carrapateira (a sleepy surfing village with a spectacular beach), Praia do Amado (one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal), Praia de Monte Cl\u00e9rigo (a tiny village with a picturesque beach), and Aljezur (a beautiful old town with a ruined fortress and quaint streets). It is always so much fun to visit this region! You come to complete peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Read more: The most beautiful places in Aljezur<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- By car<\/strong>: 35 minutes from Lagos. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: About an hour by bus from Lagos to Aljezur. However, I would recommend visiting this region by car, then you can also discover the beautiful beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Pontal](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Pontal-da-Carrapateira-min.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThese are just some of the many beautiful places to visit during your stay in Lagos. The Algarve has many more hidden gems worth a day trip. Rent a car and explore this beautiful region of Portugal. Enjoy the beautiful nature, rich culture and delicious cuisine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where do you go first? Let us know by leaving a comment below this blog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More Lagos tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I visit Lagos every year for a few months, and it feels like my second home! Therefore, on this website, you can also find a lot of information about a vacation in Lagos. Check out these articles as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- 25 Awesome things to do in Lagos: tips from an (almost) local<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hiking in Lagos: 7 great hiking trails<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 20 Best cafes and restaurants in Lagos Portugal<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 20 beautiful B&Bs and hotels in Lagos Portugal<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 13 Best Beaches in Lagos Portugal<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Book a trip to Lagos<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
These were all my recommendations for a fun day trip from Lagos. Want to discover this delightful city in the Portuguese Algarve for yourself? Then book your trip now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2708\ufe0f Plane tickets<\/strong> \u2013 Faro Airport is the international airport of the Algarve and the best place to start your road trip. Check Skyscanner<\/a><\/strong> to find the best deals on plane tickets. From the airport, it\u2019s a 1-hour drive to Lagos (on a toll road)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udecf\ufe0f Accommodation <\/strong>\u2013 You can find great hotels, hostels, or apartments via Booking.com<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\ude98\u00a0Rental Car<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 To get to Lagos and to check out more amazing places in the Algarve, it\u2019s highly recommended to rent a car. Check\u00a0Discover Cars<\/a><\/strong><\/strong>\u00a0to find the best deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udc8a Travel insurance<\/strong> \u2013 Make sure to invest in travel insurance, it will give you peace of mind during your trip. Check out Insubuy<\/strong><\/a> to find the travel insurance that fits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcf1 E-sim<\/strong> – Would you like to stay connected during your trip to Portugal? With an E-sim by Airalo<\/a>,<\/strong> you can use data almost everywhere you go in the Algarve. Use the code JACOBA4108<\/strong> to get a discount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83c\udfc4\ud83c\udffc Tours & activities<\/strong> \u2013 There are lots of fun tours and guided trips in Lagos. Check Get Your Guide<\/a><\/strong> for all the options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nRead more about the Algarve and Portugal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Want to discover more beautiful places in the Algarve and the rest of Portugal? Order one of these travel guides for more tips and inspiration:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fodor’s Essential Portugal<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
DK Eyewitness Top 10 The Algarve<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, you can also read a lot about Portugal<\/a> on this website. Check out one of these articles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The perfect Algarve itinerary for a 1 or 2 week road trip<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 12 Beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fishermen\u2019s Trail: the best coastal trail in Europe<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
And make sure to sign up for my newsletter<\/a> for more great travel tips, travel inspiration, and great travel stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- 12 Beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hiking in Lagos: 7 great hiking trails<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: About an hour by bus from Lagos to Aljezur. However, I would recommend visiting this region by car, then you can also discover the beautiful beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Lagos’ “city buses” run regularly to Luz. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs only a few euros.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: 20 minutes by train, it goes about once every two hours. There are also buses between Lagos and Portim\u00e3o, which take about 35 minutes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Dolphin watching & Benagil Tour with marine biologist<\/a><\/strong>: On this boat trip, you will also check out the cave of Benagil, but it goes a little slower. In addition, you will search for dolphins with an expert.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Although Praia da Marinha is accessible by public transportation from Lagos (the fastest route is by taking the train to Ferragudo, then the bus to Barros Brancos and, then changing buses again to Praia da Marinha), I would advise against doing it as a day trip by public transportation. It takes too long and it is then difficult to travel back on the same day. As an alternative, you can also take the train to Ferragudo and then continue by taxi or Uber.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: 37 minutes by train. Check the website of CP<\/a> for train times. It usually goes every 1 to 2 hours. From the train station, it is a 20-minute walk to get to the town.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: Take the bus or train to Portim\u00e3o and there change to bus 84 to Monchique. Please note that these buses do not go very often, so it is wise to find out the bus schedules well in advance. You can find them on Google Maps.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transportation<\/strong>: Bus 47 runs several times a day from Lagos to Sagres and sometimes stops at Cabo de S\u00e3o Vicente. A ticket costs about \u20ac7, payable in cash to the driver. Check Google Maps<\/a> for schedules and bus stops.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- By public transport<\/strong>: No city buses go to Ponta da Piedade, but there is a tourist train that stops there (only in summer).<\/li>\n\n\n\n