For our second day in Albufeira, Portugal, we decided to explore a bit further down the stunning Algarve coast. We booked a day trip to Lagos and Sagres, and our adventure kicked off right at 9:00 AM.
We had just finished a relaxing breakfast at our hotel when our tour van pulled up. After a quick stop in Albufeira’s Old Town to pick up two more travel companions, we hit the motorway and pointed ourselves west toward Sagres.
Our first official stop was the breathtaking “Farol do Cabo de São Vicente”. This lighthouse sits right on the edge of a dramatic coastal peninsula, offering absolutely spectacular, panoramic views of the cliffs from every angle. It truly felt like standing at the edge of the world!
Interestingly, we bypassed the actual town centre of Sagres. Our guide let us in on a local secret: the town itself is quite quiet, so it was much better to save our time for Lagos, which is larger and packed with things to see.
Oh, and I learned something new! I always assumed Sagres was the birthplace of the famous Portuguese beer of the same name. Turns out, it is not. Our guide cleared up the myth, explaining that the brewery is actually located near Lisbon, completely unrelated to the town.
I will tell you all about our visit to “Farol do Cabo de São Vicente” but before, let me tell you a little bit about it:
A LITTLE BIT ABOUT CABO DE SAO VICENTE
Perched on the rugged southwestern tip of Portugal’s Algarve region, Cabo de São Vicente is one of the country’s most dramatic and awe-inspiring landmarks.
Located near the charming town of Sagres, this windswept headland marks the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe and offers visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the power and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
For centuries, Cabo de São Vicente has held a special place in European history and maritime culture. Ancient civilisations believed this remote cape was the end of the known world, a place where the land simply disappeared into the vast ocean beyond.
The Romans referred to it as the “Promontorium Sacrum” or Sacred Promontory, attributing spiritual significance to its dramatic cliffs and spectacular sunsets.
Today, visitors are greeted by towering limestone cliffs that rise more than 60 meters above the crashing Atlantic waves. The scenery is both wild and mesmerising, with endless ocean views stretching toward the horizon.
The cape’s exposed location makes it one of the best places in Portugal to experience the raw force of nature, especially during stormy weather when powerful waves batter the coastline below.
One of the most recognisable features of Cabo de São Vicente is its iconic lighthouse, the Farol do Cabo de São Vicente. Built in 1846 on the site of a former Franciscan monastery, the lighthouse remains one of the brightest in Europe and continues to guide ships navigating the busy Atlantic shipping routes.
Its striking red lantern tower contrasts beautifully with the deep blue sea and golden cliffs, making it a favourite subject for photographers.
The cape is also closely linked to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Nearby Sagres is associated with Prince Henry the Navigator, who played a crucial role in advancing maritime exploration during the 15th century.
The surrounding region became a hub for navigators, cartographers, and sailors preparing for voyages that would ultimately reshape world history.
Perhaps the most unforgettable experience at Cabo de São Vicente is watching the sunset. As the sun sinks into the Atlantic, the sky transforms into a canvas of gold, orange, pink, and purple hues. Visitors from around the world gather along the cliffs to witness this daily spectacle, often regarded as one of the finest sunset views in Europe.
VISITING CABO DE SÃO VICENTE
Our guide gave us an hour to explore, which was the perfect amount of time to soak in the scenery! While the lighthouse itself was closed to visitors, the real magic was outside anyway.
We spent our time walking along the edge of the cliffs, hunting for the best vantage points. The views were absolutely breathtaking, and we captured some incredible photos along the way.
Once we finished exploring, we headed back to the van to relax and wait for the rest of the group. On our way out, we made a great little pit stop at a roadside spot called “Sao Vicente Spot”.
It was a handy place to use the facilities and browse through a cute souvenir shop. They even had a quirky, free stuffed animal museum to check out!
After a few people grabbed snacks for the ride, we hopped back in the van and hit the road toward Lagos.
A LITTLE BIT ABOUT LAGOS
Nestled along the sun-drenched Algarve coast, Lagos is one of Portugal’s most captivating seaside towns. Known for its golden cliffs, turquoise waters, dramatic rock formations, and centuries of maritime history, Lagos combines the relaxed atmosphere of a beach destination with the depth and character of a historic Portuguese city.
A Town Shaped by the Sea
Lagos has always lived in close relationship with the Atlantic Ocean. Long before tourism arrived, the town was an important maritime centre.
During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Lagos became one of the launching points for Portuguese exploration. Ships departed from here to explore the west coast of Africa and beyond under the patronage of Prince Henry the Navigator.
This era brought wealth and strategic importance to the town. Lagos became a busy port filled with sailors, merchants, shipbuilders, and navigators.
Sadly, it was also associated with darker chapters of history, including Europe’s first recorded slave market, established in the 15th century.
Today, the town openly acknowledges this history through exhibitions and memorials, reflecting Portugal’s growing effort to confront its colonial past.
The Old Town and Its Architecture
Walking through Lagos feels like stepping into a layered historical tapestry. The old town is enclosed by ancient walls, with narrow cobbled streets winding between whitewashed houses, colourful shutters, tiled façades, and small plazas shaded by orange trees.
Some of the town’s most remarkable architectural features include:
- The City Walls — Originally built during Roman times and expanded by the Moors and later Portuguese rulers, the defensive walls still frame much of the historic centre.
- Lagos Castle — A fortress-like structure near the waterfront that reflects Lagos’ strategic military importance.
- Baroque Churches — The town contains several beautiful churches, especially the richly decorated Church of Saint Anthony, famous for its elaborate gilded woodwork and blue-and-white azulejo tiles.
- Traditional Algarve Design — Many buildings display Moorish influence, with internal courtyards, wrought iron balconies, and decorative chimneys that are typical of southern Portugal.
The devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake and tsunami, which damaged much of Portugal, also affected Lagos. Parts of the town were rebuilt afterwards, creating a fascinating blend of medieval, Renaissance, and later architectural styles.
The Spectacular Coastline
While history gives Lagos its soul, the coastline gives it global fame.
The cliffs surrounding Lagos are among the most photographed landscapes in Europe. Golden sandstone formations rise above crystal-clear Atlantic water, shaped by centuries of wind and waves. The most iconic natural landmark is Ponta da Piedade, a breathtaking headland filled with arches, grottoes, caves, and narrow channels accessible by boat or kayak.
Nearby beaches such as:
- Praia Dona Ana
- Praia do Camilo
- Meia Praia
are famous for their soft sand, calm turquoise waters, and dramatic scenery.
Moorish Influence
Like much of southern Portugal, Lagos was shaped by centuries of Moorish rule before the Christian reconquest in the 13th century. The Moors introduced advanced irrigation systems, architectural styles, and agricultural practices that transformed the Algarve region.
Even today, traces of this influence remain visible in:
- The layout of the old streets
- Decorative tile patterns
- Certain place names
- Traditional Algarve cuisine using almonds, figs, citrus, and spices
Today, Lagos offers an unusual combination: it is both historically profound and naturally spectacular. Visitors come for the beaches but often leave remembering the atmosphere of the old streets, the maritime heritage, and the feeling that this small town still carries echoes of Portugal’s great age of exploration.
VISITING LAGOS
If you ever find yourself dropped off in the historic heart of Lagos at “Praça Dom Infante Henrique”, right in front of the Slave Trade Museum, and you have exactly two and a half hours to explore, what do you do?
Since my stomach rules my travel itinerary, step one was finding food. We wandered onto “Rua Silva Lopes”, a lovely pedestrian street, and nabbed an outdoor table at “Restaurante Imperio do Mar”.
I went for the grilled sardines while my mum and daughter opted for lamb chops. The verdict? The sardines were decent, but honestly, I’ve had better elsewhere in Portugal. (The search for the ultimate sardine continues!)
With lunch out of the way, we kicked off a whirlwind tour of the Old Town. We checked out the “Church of Santa Maria de Lagos”, strolled along the seaside road to admire the ancient walls of “Castelo de Lagos”, and marched all the way to “Forte Ponta da Bandeira”.
Heading back to the square, we popped into the “Armazém Regimental”, a 17th-century military storehouse turned cultural hotspot. Instead of military goods, we found a lively artisanal fair. Let’s just say our wallets got a bit lighter because the local crafts were too good to pass up.
We fully intended to hit the Slave Museum next, but our tour van driver was already waiting. Time flies when you’re having fun (or shopping).
This is the tour we took to visit Cape of San Vincent and Lagos. If you want to book the same tour, click HERE.
There is also another day tour that seems quite interesting: “Tour of Algarve Historical Western” visiting the city of Silves and Cabo de São Vicente. Book this one HERE.
OR
This day tour “Tour of Algarve Historical Eastern” visiting Faro, Olhão, Tavira and Vila Nova Cacela Velha. If we had more time I would definetely take this one. Book this one HERE.
Afternoon Vibes in Albufeira
Back in Albufeira, we did what any good people on holiday does: found a spot by the sea, ordered drinks, and mastered the art of doing absolutely nothing. Once we were thoroughly relaxed, we called an Uber back to the hotel to prep for dinner. And oh, what a dinner it was!
We headed to a local gem called “O Franguinho de Albufeira” (which translates to “Little Chicken of Albufeira”). This place is the real deal, packed with locals and completely free of tourist traps. They only do one thing, and they do it flawlessly: grilled peri-peri chicken. You get to choose your heat level, and it comes served with white rice, fries, and a salad.
It was hands-down the best meal of the entire trip. In fact, my daughter begged to go back the next day. Sadly, Monday got in the way, and they were closed. Cruel world.
That wraps up day two in the Algarve! Up next: dolphin watching and exploring the world-famous “Benagil Cave”. Stay tuned, because you won’t want to miss it! Till the next post!
I hope this post will give you some idea of what can be done in a day in the Algarve and will help you plan your own visit there.
I have other posts about Portugal, posts such as: Amazing Sintra and Cabo da Roca and Azenhas do Mar. Check them out!
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT
Below you will find a list of what to visit, where to stay and where to eat in Lagos. I classified each place as follows:
BOLD – Visited, tried and recommended
NOT BOLD – Not visited or tried, but planning to visit or try and heard very good reviews
RED – Visited and tried but do not recommend, avoid or be cautious
*** – Excellent
** – Good
* – OK
£££ – Expensive
££ – Fair and affordable
PLEASE NOTE: Every hotel, restaurants and attractions I mention on my blogs are not sponsored reviews and we always paid the full price when visiting. We give our own opinion of the place and detail our experience, good or bad.
THINGS TO DO
ATTRACTIONS
1 – Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres – ***
2 – Lagos Historic Centre – ***
3 – Slave Trade Museum
4 – Church of Santa Maria de Lagos – ***
5 – Castelo de Lagos – ***
6 – Forte Ponta da Bandeira – ***
7 – Armazém Regimental – ***
8 – The Beaches
WHERE TO STAY IN LAGOS
ACCOMMODATION
1 – Boavista Golf & Spa – Bela Colina Holidays – 5* – £££
2 – Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve – 5* – £££
3 – Lagos Atlantic Hotel – 4* – £££
4 – Lagos Avenida Hotel – 4* – £££
5 – 3 Marias Garden House B&B – 3* – ££
6 – 3 Marias Guest House B&B – 3* – ££
If you prefer to look for your own accommodation, search and book via the below widget:
I use affiliate links such as the links above for Booking.com, Get your Guide, Viator and others. It means that if you use any of my links to make a booking, I will get a small commission from the partners I’m affiliated with without any additional cost to you. Please, use the links provided when making a booking, this is a way of supporting blogs like this so we can continue writing informative and interesting posts. I’m very thankful for that.
BEST PLACES TO EAT
RESTAURANTS
1 – Restaurante Império do Mar – ££ – ** – (We ate here) – Google says it s permanently closed at time of writing
2 – Casa do Prego – ££
3 – Azimute – £££
4 – Artistas Restaurant – £££
5 – Barbosa Bar and Kitchen – ££
6 – Alma Lusa Restaurant – ££
7 – O Franguinho de Albufeira – ££ – (We ate here) – ***
We only tried the ones in bold , the others are the result of my researches and ones that I would like to try. If you tried any of my recommendations above, please send me a message and tell me about your experience good or bad, so I can update the list accordingly. Thanks!
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