Lagos, Portugal Travel Guide

Located in the Algarve, that region of Portugal that encompasses its southern coast, Lagos is a small city well-known as a prime European beach destination. While not as internationally famous as some of the major resort communities of Mediterranean Spain, Cyprus or the Greek Islands, Lagos is a favorite among those in the know. By and large, Lagos is one of those secret gems as far as Americans, Canadians and Asians are concerned, but very well-known among Europeans.

Getting There
Not to be confused with the Lagos in Nigeria, the city is 40 miles to the west of Faro and the Algarve's airport. As the Algarve is a major tourist draw, it receives flights from all over Europe. Those pushing on to Lagos may do so by train, bus or by renting a car. From Lisbon, trains taking 5 1/2 hours in travel time depart through the day. By car, Lisbon is about four hours from Lagos.

Money Matters
As a rule, Portugal is one of the cheapest destinations in the Eurozone. Prices for most everything in Lagos are at least a little cheaper than comparable beach destinations in Spain, Italy or Greece. Lagos is also the sort of vacation spot where the hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs span a range of budgets and tastes. Backpackers and patrons of posh, five-star resorts alike will find something to suit them in Lagos, Portugal.

Internationalized ATMs are widely available. Indeed, Portugal manufactures ATMs and the Portuguese use them for paying their bills and taxes, so these devices are present every few blocks in urban areas.

Activities
The main reason people go to Lagos is for its beach coves. Relative to the Atlantic Coast of Portugal, beaches in places like Lagos have warmer and more placid waters. Beaches like Potato Beach, Half Beach and Lady Ana's Beach are major draws. Dolphin watching, sea kayaking along the striking cliffs and rocks of the coast, and scuba diving are all major activities. Lagos has also positioned itself as a golfer's destination, with a number of golf courses situated in the hinterland north of town.

Shopping
The Algarve is famed for its ceramics, ranging from its azulejos tile work to its plates and cups. Most of the shops in Lagos itself are essentially tourist traps with mid-quality, mass-produced wares at marked-up prices. You may, however, be able to find a worthy antique shop with interesting ceramics. The real place to shop for tiles or a new serving bowl, however, is in the smaller villages around the city. Another possibility is commissioning some custom ceramics-work from a local workshop and having it shipped to you.

Sources: Personal Experience