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Ready to dive into the best things to do in Lagos? You’ve come to the right place!
Lagos is one of those places that has it all—stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, rich history, and an unbeatable laid-back vibe. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you’ll find plenty of unforgettable experiences in this charming coastal town.
After spending time exploring every corner of Lagos, we’ve put together the ultimate list of must-do activities—from kayaking through sea caves and sailing along the coastline to wine tasting, hiking, and spotting wild dolphins. No matter what kind of traveler you are, these 10 experiences are guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Lagos was this half-day cruise to Ponta da Piedade! Sailing along the coastline, swimming in the Atlantic, and exploring hidden grottos was an unforgettable experience.
Plus, hopping onto a smaller vessel to navigate the caves made it even more special!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Lagos, Portugal
- 1. Go kayaking in the Ponta da Piedade Caves
- 2. Relax on a half-day cruise to Ponta da Piedade
- 3. Explore old and New Lagos in a tuk tuk
- 4. Take a boat trip to the caves of Benagil
- 5. Go on a dolphin-watching excursion with a marine biologist
- 6. Taste your way around Lagos
- 7. Explore Ponta da Piedade on a sailboat
- 8. Taste locally made wine in Silves
- 9. Learn how to surf
- 10. Go hiking along the West Coast with a cliffside picnic
- Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Lagos, Portugal
1. Go kayaking in the Ponta da Piedade Caves
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Time: Multiple times available from 8:45 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: Guided kayak tour of Ponta da Piedade, explore caves and grottoes, enjoy scenic views of the coast on a catamaran boat ride, and swim or relax at the beach
- Inclusions: Professional guide, equipment
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Did you know that just off the coast of Lagos lies one of Portugal’s most breathtaking natural wonders? Ponta da Piedade is a collection of dramatic cliffs, towering rock formations, and hidden sea caves, and the best way to experience it up close is on this incredible kayaking tour!
The adventure starts with a scenic catamaran ride from Lagos Marina, giving you a chance to soak in the views before hopping into your kayak.
Once we reached Ponta da Piedade, we paddled through dramatic sea arches, narrow grottoes, and stunning rock formations while our guide shared fascinating insights about the area’s history and geology. We even got to explore hidden caves that boats can’t access!
After our kayaking adventure, we climbed back aboard the catamaran, where we had time to swim, relax, or just enjoy the sun before cruising back to Lagos. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation—plus, the calm waters and small-group setting made it ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience the Ponta da Piedade and the Algarve’s famous coastline, this tour is the way to do it—there’s a reason it has so many amazing reviews!
Check availability for this popular kayaking tour here!
2. Relax on a half-day cruise to Ponta da Piedade
- Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Time: 9:45 am
- Highlights: Explore the coast and Ponta da Piedade area on a comfortable exploration vessel, go swimming, and enjoy lunch and drinks on board
- Inclusions: Live commentary, lunch, drinks (beer, wine, water, soft drinks)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 230+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking to experience the stunning Algarve coastline in comfort, this half-day cruise to Ponta da Piedade is a must-do! With breathtaking views, swimming stops, and a delicious onboard lunch, it’s the ultimate mix of relaxation and adventure.
Setting sail from Lagos Marina, we cruised along the coastline, passing golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and hidden caves on our way to Ponta da Piedade. The views from the water were unreal, and the crew made sure we had plenty of time to soak it all in.
Once we reached a sheltered bay, the real fun began! We dropped anchor and went swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Whether you wanted to jump in and cool off or just lounge on deck with a drink in hand, this stop had something for everyone.
Speaking of drinks, beer, wine, and soft drinks are included, along with a freshly prepared Portuguese-style lunch served right on board. Does it get any better than that?
Between the stunning scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and fantastic crew, this cruise was easily one of our best experiences in Lagos—we’d do it again in a heartbeat! Spots fill up fast, so be sure to book early so you don’t miss out
Learn more about our favorite Lagos tour and secure your spot here!
3. Explore old and New Lagos in a tuk tuk
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Time: 10 am, 12:15 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Private tour of Lagos in a tuk-tuk, discover several points of interest in Old and New Lagos and get insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, private transportation, driver/guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 330+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If it’s your first time in Lagos and you want to see the city’s highlights without all the walking, this private tuk-tuk tour is the way to go!
Our guide, NoNo, was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and full of fun stories that brought Lagos’s history to life. As we zipped through the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town, he pointed out historical landmarks, hidden gems, and must-visit spots.
We explored everything from the old slave market and ancient city walls to beautifully decorated churches and lively town squares.
But the best part? The tour didn’t just cover the city—we also made stops at some of Lagos’ most stunning beaches, including Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. The clifftop viewpoints overlooking the golden sands and turquoise waters were absolutely breathtaking!
Since it’s a private tour, we had the flexibility to customize the itinerary and stop for photos whenever we wanted. The open-air tuk-tuk made the ride even more fun, and with room for up to six people, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun, and informative way to explore Lagos, this tuk-tuk tour is an absolute must—and if you get NoNo as your guide, you’re in for a great time!
Read all the 5-star reviews and book your tuk-tuk tour here!
4. Take a boat trip to the caves of Benagil
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11 am, and 2 pm
- Highlights: Visit the iconic Benagil Caves in a rigid inflatable boat, learn about the rock formations from your guide, and sail past Alvor, Portimao, and Carvoeiro
- Inclusions: Guide, life jackets
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 530+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve seen photos of the Algarve, chances are you’ve come across Benagil Cave—one of the most famous sea caves in Portugal. Seeing this iconic natural wonder in person is a must, and this speedboat tour from Lagos is the perfect way to do it!
The adventure kicked off when we hopped aboard a small but powerful speedboat and set off along the stunning Algarve coastline.
The ride itself was half the fun as we cruised past Alvor, Portimão, and Carvoeiro, taking in the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden grottos that make this region so famous. Our guide was super knowledgeable, pointing out unique rock formations and sharing cool facts along the way.
And then came the main event—Benagil Cave. Since we were on a small boat, we were able to cruise right inside, getting an up-close look at the massive rock dome and its iconic sunlit opening in the roof. Photos don’t do it justice—standing there surrounded by towering limestone walls was absolutely surreal!
If you want to explore the Algarve’s coastline and see one of Portugal’s most breathtaking sights in an exciting and unforgettable way, this tour is a must. And if you don’t believe me, just check out the hundreds of glowing reviews!
Don’t miss out on this Algarve adventure—secure your spot in advance here!
5. Go on a dolphin-watching excursion with a marine biologist
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Time: Multiple departure times available from 8 am – 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Sail along the Algarve in search of marine species, learn about the marine life from an onboard marine biologist, and observe dolphins from a safe distance
- Inclusions: Guide/marine biologist
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 280+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Seeing dolphins in the wild is a bucket list experience, and there is no better way to do it than on this Lagos dolphin-watching tour! There’s nothing quite like spotting these incredible creatures swimming freely in their natural habitat, and this tour gives you the best chance to do just that.
We set off from Lagos Marina on a fast, comfortable boat, heading out into the Atlantic in search of common and bottlenose dolphins and even the occasional whale!
The best part? The tour is led by a marine biologist, so not only did we get to see dolphins up close, but we also learned all about their behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts.
The moment we spotted our first pod of dolphins was absolutely magical—watching them jump and play alongside the boat was something we’ll never forget! Since the boat is small and maneuverable, we were able to get close without disturbing the mammals, making for some incredible photo opportunities.
With a high success rate of sightings, a knowledgeable crew, and an exciting ride along the Algarve’s stunning coastline, it’s no surprise this tour is rated so highly in reviews. It’s hands down one of the best things to do in Lagos!
If you’re ready to see dolphins in the wild, book your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Taste your way around Lagos
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11:30 am
- Highlights: Sample a range of traditional Portuguese dishes and drinks, explore the Algarvian streets on foot, and learn about Lagos’ history and culture from your guide
- Inclusions: Guided walking tour, around 10 food samples, one drink per stop (including alcoholic)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re a foodie like me, this classic food tour in Lagos is an absolute must! It’s the perfect way to experience authentic Portuguese flavors, learn about the city’s food culture, and eat (and drink!) your way through some of the best local spots.
Leading the way was Sophia, a passionate local who knew everything about Algarve cuisine. She didn’t just take us to the best restaurants—she shared the history behind each dish, making every bite even more special.
Throughout the tour, we sampled around 10 different Portuguese specialties, including a rich and flavorful fish soup (my personal favorite!).
But the food was only half the fun—each stop came with a perfectly paired drink, from crisp vinho verde and smooth reds to refreshing local beers. By the end, we weren’t just full—we walked away with a real appreciation for the flavors and traditions of the Algarve.
Between the delicious food, fantastic drink pairings, and Sophia’s expert storytelling, this was easily one of the best things we did in Lagos. If you love good food and great company, you must add this tour to your itinerary!
Reserve your spot on this food tour now, and don’t pay until just before you go!
7. Explore Ponta da Piedade on a sailboat
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore the coast on a traditional sailing ship, change boats and cruise through Ponta da Piedade on a smaller vessel, and learn about the area’s formation and history from your crew
- Inclusions: Multilingual crew/guides
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sailing along Lagos’ stunning coastline on a traditional Portuguese sailboat is already an incredible experience, but this two-hour tour takes it a step further by letting you explore Ponta da Piedade’s incredible caves up close!
We left Lagos Marina, cruising past golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rugged rock formations while the crew shared fascinating insights about Lagos’ maritime history. There’s something special about traveling by sail, with nothing but the sound of the waves and the fresh ocean breeze—it’s such a relaxing way to soak in the views.
When we reached Ponta da Piedade, we switched to a smaller boat, allowing us to glide through narrow grottos, towering sea arches, and hidden caves that bigger boats can’t access. Seeing the crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone formations from this perspective was the best part of the trip!
This tour is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal option for those short on time or anyone looking to experience the Algarve coast in a unique way. Believe me, you won’t regret booking this fun sailing adventure!
Click here to secure your spot on this sailing adventure to Ponta da Piedade!
8. Taste locally made wine in Silves
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Time: 9 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Visit a local winery in the Portuguese countryside, enjoy three glasses of wine and delicious tapas, explore the historic town of Silves and its castle
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide, bottled water, wine tasting
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you love good wine, stunning scenery, and a bit of history, this small-group wine-tasting tour from Lagos is the perfect way to experience the Algarve beyond the beaches!
We started with a visit to Silves, a charming medieval town that was once the Moorish capital of the Algarve.
Walking through its cobbled streets and past whitewashed houses, we made our way to Silves Castle, an impressive red-brick fortress with panoramic views over the countryside. It was the perfect way to soak in some local history before heading to the real highlight of the day—the wine!
After exploring Silves, we drove into the rolling hills of the Algarve countryside to visit a family-run winery. Our guide took us on an immersive journey through the winemaking process, from strolling through the sun-drenched vineyards to stepping inside the cool, oak-scented aging room.
Then came the best part—tasting! We sampled three exceptional local wines, each bursting with flavor and perfectly paired with regional treats like rich cheeses, briny olives, and savory cured meats. It was the ideal way to slow down and savor the region’s rich culinary traditions.
With great wine, a relaxed atmosphere, and convenient roundtrip transportation, this tour was the perfect way to experience a different side of the Algarve. If you love wine and history, you’ll love this experience—I can’t recommend it enough!
Check availability and book your wine tour here!
9. Learn how to surf
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Varies – confirm with tour provider
- Highlights: Learn how to surf with an expert instructor, enjoy the convenience of roundtrip transportation and all necessary equipment, surf on one of Lagos’s most beautiful beaches
- Inclusions: Board, wetsuit, transportation, instructor
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 340+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Surfing in the Algarve is an experience you can’t miss, and this 2-hour surf lesson on the Algarvian West Coast is perfect whether you’re a total beginner or just looking to brush up on your skills!
We met our friendly instructors in Lagos before hopping into a van and heading to one of the beautiful surf beaches along the West Coast. The exact location depends on the waves that day, but expect to surf at places like Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, or Amoreira—all known for their stunning scenery and great beginner-friendly waves.
Before hitting the water, our instructor gave us a fun and easy-to-follow land lesson, covering the basics of paddling, popping up, and balancing. Then, it was time to grab our boards and get out there!
The instructors were super patient and hands-on, helping everyone catch waves and stand up (even if it was just for a few seconds!). It was the perfect mix of challenge and fun, and we walked away already dreaming of our next surf session!
With small group sizes and all equipment provided, this surf lesson is one of the best ways to experience the Algarve’s famous waves. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to improve, this is the perfect introduction to surfing in Portugal!
If you’re ready to catch some waves, book this surf lesson here!
10. Go hiking along the West Coast with a cliffside picnic
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 12 pm, 12:30 pm, 1 pm, 1:30 pm, or 2 pm
- Highlights: Trek across Portugal’s highest coastal cliffs in Vicentine Coast Natural Park, enjoy a clifftop picnic featuring local delicacies and wine, watch the sunset, and go stargazing
- Inclusions: Transportation, guide, dinner, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and necessary gear
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Did you know that just outside of Lagos, you’ll find Portugal’s highest coastal cliffs? And the best way to explore them is on this epic full-day hiking tour through Vicentine Coast Natural Park! This adventure takes you along rugged coastal trails, past hidden beaches, and through some of the most untouched landscapes in the Algarve.
We set off from Lagos towards Portugal’s southwestern tip, once believed to be the “End of the World” by ancient explorers. Along the way, our guide shared fascinating stories about the region’s history, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, which kept things interesting as we moved along.
The hike itself was moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking cliffside views of the Atlantic at every turn—absolutely worth every step!
But the best part? After our hike, we were treated to a sunset picnic, complete with local Algarve delicacies and wine, as we watched the sun dip below the horizon. Just when we thought the experience couldn’t get any better, we stayed for a stargazing session far from the city lights.
For anyone looking to escape the crowds and experience the Algarve’s wilder side, this hiking adventure is an absolute must!
Check availability and read all the glowing reviews here!
Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal
Lagos is a stunning coastal town in the Algarve, known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming old town. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly stay, there’s a perfect spot for every type of traveler.
To help you choose, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Lagos, so you can focus on soaking up the sun and exploring everything this beautiful destination has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Perched on the cliffs of Lagos, Cascade Wellness Resort is a 5-star retreat blending wellness, elegance, and coastal beauty. Inspired by Portuguese exploration, its rooms reflect global influences with modern comforts and stunning ocean or garden views. Guests can relax in the spa, lounge by outdoor pools, or enjoy gourmet dining. With direct access to scenic trails and just minutes from Praia Dona Ana, it’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Room rates range from €200 – €400 per night, depending on the season. Book your luxury escape on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Carvi Beach Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option in Lagos, offering a modern and comfortable stay right on Dona Ana Beach. With breathtaking ocean views, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the city’s top attractions, it’s a perfect base for exploring the Algarve. The hotel features contemporary rooms with balconies, an on-site restaurant with panoramic sea views, a fitness center, and free WiFi throughout.
Prices range from around €100 – €200 per night, and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Lisbon, Orange3 Hostel is a great choice! Nestled in the heart of Bairro Alto, this cozy guesthouse offers stylish private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and dormitory beds. Guests enjoy a modern stay with free Wi-Fi and easy access to Lisbon’s best cafes, nightlife, and attractions. With its welcoming atmosphere and prime location, it’s perfect for travelers looking to save while staying central.
Private rooms start at around €60 per night, while dorm beds are available for about €20 per night. Secure your stay now on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of Lagos hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
That’s our complete guide to the best things to do in Lagos! With its stunning coastline, rich history, and laid-back vibe, this coastal gem has something for every traveler. Whether you’re kayaking through sea caves, sailing past dramatic cliffs, or tasting your way through Portuguese cuisine, your time in Lagos is bound to be unforgettable.
If you’re planning more adventures in Portugal, be sure to check out our other Portugal blogs! We’ve covered plenty of amazing destinations, and you might just find your next must-visit spot. Or, take a look at a few of our top picks below!
10 Best Things to do in Porto, Portugal