Making the most of Lagos
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Sightseeing
Lagos offers a wide variety of sights. Traditional regional architecture and colours shape the centre, while beaches range from long sandy shores to almost private coves concealed by cliffs. Beautiful Ponta da Piedade has a pleasant lighthouse and boat trips to natural caves. Early risers should see the busy morning harbour, and the fish market is also interesting.
The old quarter and small beaches around Lagos deserve a visit, as do the cliffs, seen either from their walking path or by boat. An old fortress at the port entrance contains an exhibition and is another worthwhile stop.
Getting around
Harbour boat trips through the grottos cost €10 per person, while those promoted at the port are overpriced. Alternatively, visit Farol da Ponta da Piedade lighthouse west of town and descend about 200 cliff steps to a small jetty where fishermen collect passengers. From there, a 30-minute Ponta da Piedade cave trip costs €20 per person.
Food and shopping
Southern Portugal is renowned for ceramics, and Lagos offers dishes and tiles across every price range, style and colour. Some shops wrap purchases only in newspaper rather than supplying boxes, so ask before buying if packaging matters.
Portugal is also famous for cork and ranks among Earth's largest producers. A short walk through almost any part of town reveals shops carrying cork items from familiar coasters and placemats to shoes, hats and handbags. Bear in mind that cork can be very expensive.
Mercado Municipal stands on Avenida dos Descobrimentos and trades from Monday to Saturday, although it closes on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. Its beautiful 1924 market hall has been modernised and sells fresh seafood, fish and other goods.
Money
The currency is the euro.