Thinking About Moving to Lagos? Here are our top Reasons
Lagos is one of the most popular cities in the Algarve and Portugal for foreigners to reside, quite possibly thanks to it getting more than 3000 hours of sunshine every year!
However it does offer much more, these are our favourite things about this stunning destination.
1. Indulge in the Wonderful Array of Restaurants
Lagos boasts one of the largest selections of restaurants in any of the Algarve cities. You will be spoiled for choice whatever your taste may be. Apart from the typical local Portuguese cuisine, you will find tastes from all over the world.
The aroma from the restaurants as you walk through the narrow streets of the city centre will arouse your taste buds until you finally have to give in and enter.
The Casinha do Petisco is one of our favourite places and offers the local delicacy, stewed cataplana if you love seafood as much as we do! It’s affordable, has a great atmosphere, is lively (but not too loud) and will leave you excited about your future in this wonderful place.
2. Visit one of the many beaches
Famous for its miles of coastlines, Lagos’ biggest beach is the Meia Praia, meaning ‘half beach’, thanks to being bisected by the Ribeira de Odiáxere river.
At almost five kilometres long, the beach is anything but small and is home to a wealth of windsurfers, kiteboarders, surfers, beachgoers, families and interesting sights!
If the vibes get a little much then we’d recommend the secluded Praia dos Estudantes, that’s famed for natural beauty and notable entrance through a natural rock arch.
3. Adventures for those that love a more active lifestyle
If you’re after something a little more adventurous, you’ve come to the right place! You can join a group of other sightseers and take a Kayak tour around the stunningly dramatic rock cliffs, stopping off in the secluded inlets filled with incredible sights with the turquoise Algarve Sea setting the perfect backdrops for some great photos.
If you’re after something a little more relaxing, then why not join a yacht on a day excursion to see the many pods of dolphins effortlessly gliding through the beautiful waters and see what other sea creatures you can spot?
4. Explore the historic old town
The old town has many interesting elements to it, notably the São Gonçalo Gate, the Ponta da Bandeira Fort, the Church of Santa Maria and the Infante Dom Henrique Square to name just a few.
If you love exploring cobble streets, drinking coffee alfresco, and poking around in small souvenir shops, then this should definitely be on your agenda!
5. Relax in one of the many luxurious health spas
If you’re after indulging in some yoga and massage, we think the award-winning ‘Inlight’ would be a great fit for you. It offers holistic treatments and classes every day in the sumptuous relaxing studio.
If you’re after something more traditional, why not try the Agni Way wellness centre? Situated in a traditional Portuguese villa, it’s only a few minutes walk from Lagos’ old town and run by a certified Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga teacher!
6. Check out the golf courses
Lagos benefits from 4 different golf courses in the local area, three being 18-hole courses and one being a 27-hole course!
The Espiche course is our particular favourite for its views of the Monchique Mountains, the mix of open countryside and vineyards, and the lakes and streams. The clubhouse and restaurant are noted for their exceptional quality, making this one of the premier golf locations in the area!
7. Relaxing on the Marina
Lagos hosts one of the best Marinas in the Algarve and is a great place to spend some relaxing time in one of the many restaurants and cafes. Watching the boats and Yachts swaying as the waters ebb and flows causes the masts of the sailboats to creak in time.
From here you can take boat trips down the river that meets the sea giving you a wonderful view of the city and coastline. If you are really lucky you may catch the sight of a pod of dolphins playing in the sea.
8. Immerse Yourself in the Wonderful Portuguese Culture
The Portuguese people are very welcoming and have a fond affection for both foreign residents and tourists. Even if you do not speak the local lingo you can always get by and the locals are always willing to teach you a few words.
As Lagos is a tourist destination as well as being home to many ex-pats the English language is spoken in most places. If you get stuck there will always be someone at hand to help out.
But if you are thinking of making this beautiful place your home you really should try to learn the basic words, the locals really appreciate those who try.
9. Exploring the Surrounding Villages
There are many hidden gems to be found just outside Lagos with many quaint villages to explore.
Our favourite of these would be Monchique just a 20-minute drive through the beautiful countryside of the Algarve. Perched in the mountains that seem to protect the Algarve from the colder and wetter weather for the North.
Stopping off at the Caldas de Monchique just outside the town and visiting the thermal springs. Here you can sample the region’s favourite bottled water at its source. The Monchique Water Company is just below the stream that flows through the village.
The town of Monchique itself is a great place to explore with lots of interesting architecture and monuments as a reminder of the past.
However, the highlight of this area has to be the short trip up to Fóia, the highest mountain in the Serra de Monchique and the highest point in the Algarve. I guarantee you will be amazed at the view when you reach the top.
10. The Bustling NightLife
Lagos is famed for its amazing nightlife and really comes alive after the sun has set and the beaches have emptied. The atmosphere is electric as you walk through the town centre which lights up with excited tourists and locals.
With loads to do for the kids and adults alike, it really is a great night out for all. A walk across the river bridge to the marina will lead you to an outside kids’ fair which will keep them happy. Just head in the direction of the big wheel and you will find it.
During the summer months, it can get very busy so parking can be limited but it is well worth the trip.
If you think that Lagos is the perfect place for you to settle down in the wonderful Algarve why not search for your Lagos property on our site? We have a great selection of apartments and villas for sale in the area.
Mark McLoughlin: A Passionate Explorer of Algarve’s Rich Heritage
For over 20 years, I’ve called the Algarve my home, immersing myself in its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted history. My passion lies in sharing this remarkable region’s unique beauty and stories through writing, photography, and helpful guides for those who live here or dream of making the Algarve their home.
As a Level 10 Google Local Guide, I’ve contributed extensively to showcasing the Algarve’s gems, from hidden beaches to historical landmarks, helping locals and travellers alike discover the best of what this southern paradise offers.