2 Days In Lagos Portugal: Amazing 2-Day Itinerary

Q: Is it worth going to Lagos Portugal?

Yes, Lagos is absolutely worth visiting . It's one of the best places in the Algarve because of the stunning rocky cliffs, the beautiful Lagos beaches, and the interesting city center.

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In 2 days in Lagos Portugal, you can experience the best this beautiful coastal town has to offer. Explore the historic old town, relax on a beautiful beach, and admire the stunning limestone cliffs.

I spent two days in Lagos myself and I think it’s the best amount of time to spend in the town, although you can easily spend more days if you want more time to relax on the beach or if you want to do some day trips.

But let me warn you, while I visited in September and had the best time, the summer months can get very crowded which might hinder your experience. My recommendation? Avoid the peak tourist season if you can, for a truly immersive Lagos experience.

And now, buckle up for an insider’s guide to the best of Lagos in 48 hours. Let’s dive in!

🤩 I love this boat tour to see the stunning cliffs in Lagos!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Lagos Itinerary: Old Town, Coastline, Beach Time

Stroll through the old town of Lagos

A vegan bagel on a plate, next to it is a vase with flowers, on a table on a street — Take your time strolling through the city center and have a cup of coffee or a snack

Day one in Lagos should definitely start with a leisurely stroll through the old town. Wandering around the cobbled streets is one of the best things to do in Lagos.

The vibrant squares are filled with charming local cafes and boutiques, perfect for a quick coffee break or to pick up unique souvenirs.

My recommendation for a vegan snack in Lagos is Goldig Café & Take Away, I had a vegan lox bagel and a fresh juice. They also have vegan pastries, for example, vegan Pastel de Nata.

🤩 Explore the city center on a guided tour with a Tuk Tuk!

Visit Lagos castle

An archway from the city walls, a must-see spot if you're 2 days in Lagos Portugal — There’s not that much left of the city walls, but the Porta de São Gonçalo is a must-see spot

Next, head towards the Lagos Castle. This historical monument, with its robust stone walls, takes you deeper into Lagos’ past. Although much of the castle was devastated in the 1755 earthquake, its remaining façade is an imposing sight to behold.

Right next to the castle, you’ll find the Porta de São Gonçalo gate with its watchtowers, once a critical part of Lagos’ defensive system. Today, it stands as a reminder of the town’s medieval history.

Just a short walking distance away from the Porta de São Gonçalo gate, you’ll discover Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, a 17th-century fortress that stands as a symbol of Lagos’ maritime heritage. It’s located right on the coast.

Take a boat or kayak tour

Tina in a boat with a straw hat, in the back are impressive cliffs; a boat tour is one of the best things to do in Lagos Portugal — I really loved the boat tour to explore Lagos’ coastline

A boat or kayak tour is an absolute must when in Lagos. I chose to embark on a boat tour and it was amazing!

As our small boat bobbed along the waters, we were able to get close to the towering cliffs that make up the Lagos coastline and even entered some caves.

If you’re seeking a more hands-on adventure, a kayak tour allows you an even more intimate experience with the coastline.

Whether you choose a boat tour or a kayak tour, the stunning cliffs, caves, and sparkling turquoise waters make for breathtaking views.

🤩 See the stunning sea caves from a boat tour!

Relax on a beach and do a coastal walk

The coastline near Lagos with wooden steps leading down to the beach. This stunning coastline makes you answer the question: Is Lagos worth visiting? with yes — Walk on the stunning coastal walk and find your favourite beach

After the boat trip, I recommend experiencing the breathtaking Lagos coastline from a different perspective. On the scenic coastal walk towards Ponta da Piedade, a stunning headland with a lighthouse, you’ll get more phenomenal views of the Algarve coastline.

I wasn’t sure if I should do this coastal walk as it takes almost an hour to walk from the city center of Lagos and I had just seen the coastline from the boat, but I’m so glad I did.

The views are incredible and the best part is that you can pack your swimwear and break up the walk with some relaxing beach time. It’s one of the best things to do in the Algarve.

Praia de Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are two of the most stunning beaches on this walk. But feel free to explore even more and try to find your personal favorite beach.

Enjoy the view of the turquoise waters, coupled with the dramatic cliffs as a breathtaking backdrop, go for a swim, or read a good book. But make sure to reach the end of this coastal walk before sunset.

If you enjoyed this stunning coastal walk and you want more, you’ll love the Fishermen’s Trail between Lagos and São Torpes. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails.

Sunset at Ponta da Piedade

Sunset over the ocean, in the front are some cliffs with people on them — Ponta da Piedade is a perfect spot for a sunset

As the day nears its end, make your way to the Ponta da Piedade for an epic Algarve sunset.

The Ponta da Piedade, with its jagged cliffs and lighthouse, offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy a sunset. But be prepared, especially in the summer months it can get crowded. So you might need to come early to find a good spot.

After the sunset, you can either walk back to the city center of Lagos for some dinner or call a taxi or Uber. I just walked the shortest way back which still took about 45 minutes.

Day 2 Lagos Itinerary: Benagil Cave, Coastal Walk, Ponta da Piedade

Tour to Benagil Caves

A cave with a circular opening at the top and green water at the bottom; those are the famous Benagil caves in the Algarve — The famous Benagil Cave

Start your second day in Lagos with an exciting tour to the Benagil Caves. These natural wonders are renowned for their unique formations and are considered one of the best landmarks in Portugal.

Tours set off from Lagos at different times a day and take about 2 hours. Some of the tours also include a dolphin-watching experience, adding an extra dimension to your adventure. I was lucky enough to see quite a lot of dolphins very close to the boat, which was incredible.

A picture of a dolphin in the ocean — I saw a lot of dolphins up close!!!

Imagine, that not only do you get to explore the beauty of the caves, but you also get the chance to marvel at playful dolphins in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable morning excursion.

🤩 Check prices and availability for a Benagil Caves boat tour! It’s the best way to see this natural wonder!

Half-day trip to Sagres OR Beach time

A lighthouse on some cliffs in Sagres — Lighthouse of Cabo Sao Vicente just outside Sagres city center

In the afternoon you have two wonderful options to consider.

If you’re up for more exploration, a half-day trip to Sagres, the southwesternmost point in Portugal, is a fantastic choice. Known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the historical Fortaleza de Sagres, this trip will give you a deeper insight into the Algarve’s rich heritage.

Alternatively, if you want to take it slow after the morning’s adventure, simply choose to relax on one of Lagos’s beautiful beaches. Maybe you saw an amazing beach yesterday and didn’t have the time to spend much time there, now is the chance for it.

🤩 Embark on an adventurous off-road road trip to Sagres and see a fantastic sunset!

Limestone cliffs in the ocean with a few trees growing on them — Lagos is the perfect place to see stunning rock formations in the Algarve

Best Time to Visit Lagos Portugal

The best time to visit Lagos, Algarve depends largely on what you’re looking for in your visit.

If beach lounging and water sports are high on your list, then the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and the seas are calm, might be the perfect time for you. These months, however, are the peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

For a more peaceful experience, I highly recommend visiting during the shoulder months of late April, May, and early October. During these times, the weather is still pleasant, the crowds have thinned out, and prices are more budget-friendly. You’ll have all the beauty and charm of Lagos, minus the crowds.

As for me, my visit in September was perfect – the weather was beautiful, and the town was still bustling, but not overwhelmingly crowded. I would recommend doing a Spain-Portugal itinerary in September as well.

A view of a beach in between some cliffs — *Praia dos Estudantes* is one of the best beaches close to the centre of Lagos

FAQs about the 2-day Lagos Itinerary

Is 2 days enough for Lagos Portugal?

2 days in Lagos is enough time to explore the historic center, take one or two boat trips, and relax on the beach.

Is it worth going to Lagos Portugal?

Yes, Lagos is absolutely worth visiting. It’s one of the best places in the Algarve because of the stunning rocky cliffs, the beautiful Lagos beaches, and the interesting city center.

How many days is enough in Lagos Portugal?

I think 2 full days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Lagos, you can explore the best things the city has to offer without being rushed. However, you can easily spend more time there if you want to spend more time on the most beautiful beaches in the area.

What is the best month to visit Lagos Portugal?

I visited Lagos in September and I don’t think I could have chosen a better month. The temperatures are still very warm but the big crowds are already gone.

Can you walk around Lagos Portugal?

Yes, Lagos is a very walkable city.

Is one day enough in Lagos?

I recommend spending 2 days in Lagos. It’s possible to visit Lagos on a day trip from Lisbon but this would be a very long day.

🤩 Get the most spectacular views from a kayaking tour!

Final Thoughts: 2 Days in Lagos Portugal Itinerary

Lagos, with its stunning beaches, picturesque cliffs, and rich heritage, truly is a jewel of the Algarve. The city offers experiences that cater to a variety of preferences. So it should definitely be on your Algarve itinerary.

From the tranquil beauty of Praia de Dona Ana to the adrenaline rush of a speed boat tour to the Benagil Caves; from the tranquil walks along the coast to the vibrant energy of the city center, Lagos promises an adventure that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.

And while the summer months may offer sunshine and clear skies, remember, Lagos might be even better outside of the high season. My visit in September couldn’t have been more perfect, I had all the beauty of this stunning region without the big crowds.

2 Days In Lagos Portugal: Amazing 2-Day Itinerary