Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal: Ultimate Neighborhood Guide

Lagos is a town with a rich history located in the Algarve on the southern coast of Portugal. Once a famous seaport, nowadays visitors come to enjoy its many good restaurants, beautiful beaches, and wild nightlife.

The city, with a population of just over 30,000 people, becomes a popular destination for travelers in Portugal, especially during the summer. It offers boat trips, beach parties, and fun in the sun, making it not only one of the most visited cities in the region but also in the country.

However, if partying is not your thing, don't worry because there are plenty of other things to do in Lagos. It is an excellent starting point to explore nearby towns, coves, and golden sand beaches, and you will also find places to relax with your partner or with your family.

But where to stay in Lagos Portugal? I'll show you my favorite areas of town, and no matter if you're coming on a couples getaway or a party holiday, I'll have the perfect spot for you!

The best areas to stay in Lagos, Portugal

By the beach

If you're a true beach bum, then Meia Praia, Batata Beach, Don Ana Beach, or Praia de Porto Mós are the perfect choices for you. You can find peaceful family getaways, laid-back surfer vibes, or lively beach parties at all these places.

In town

Lagos Old Town and Marina in Lagos are brimming with historical architecture and excellent hotels. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or want to immerse yourself in the culture of this charming fisher village, these are the perfect areas for you.

1. Where to stay in Lagos for the first time & sightseeing: Lagos Old Town

If this is your first time in Lagos and you want to be in the heart of the action, Lagos Old Town is the perfect location, as it is surrounded by the old city wall.

Not only can you find amazing restaurants, shops, and nightlife in the city centre, but there are plenty of cool things to see and explore, such as the old slave market (Mercado de Escravos) or the Fort Ponta da Bandeira.

Best area for:

• First timers

• Day trips

• Sightseeing

• Backpackers

Things to see & do in Lagos Old Town

I recommend visiting the Fish Market of Lagos (Mercado Municipal) on the main street. You don't have to buy anything, but it's worth checking out this impressive fresh food market to see the variety of fish and seafood that can be found in the waters near Lagos.

Another of the must-do activities in Lagos is exploring the walls that surround the town's historic center. These fortifications were constructed in the 16th century and offer an impressive sight.

To catch the best views of the walls, head to Avenida dos Descobrimentos, Lagos seafront promenade or Estrada da Ponta da Piedade, which leads to the Ponta da Piedade with its dramatic limestone cliffs.

Best hotels to stay in Lagos Old Town

($$$) The Salty Lodge

The Salty Lodge is one of the best boutique hotels in Lagos Old Town. Located right in the city center, it is just a few minutes away from the beach and the Marina de Lagos. It offers studios and apartments with a private balcony and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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($$) Villa Zawaia B&B

Villa Zawaia is a cozy bed & breakfast located in the center of Lagos Old Town. It offers comfortable rooms equipped with useful amenities and easy access to all the sights and attractions in this part of this charming town.

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($) Olive Hostel Lagos

If you are looking for something more affordable, Olive Hostel Lagos is an excellent choice. It has basic shared dorm rooms as well as private rooms. It is, without a doubt, one of the best hostels in Lagos Portugal.

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2. Where to stay in Lagos for couples: Lagos Marina

Right next door to the Old Town and historical center of Lagos is the Marina area; this is a popular spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as it offers plenty of small, intimate bars and restaurants along its water promenade.

I really enjoy spending time in this cozy area, which happens to be one of my favorites. You can find some of the nicest hotels in town here, which also makes it an ideal location for a honeymoon. I highly recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants around the Lagos Marina while watching the sailboats being lit up when they're parked.

Best area for:

• Couples

• Honeymoons

Things to see & do in Lagos Marina

If you want to go on a boat trip and explore the coast, the Marina is the perfect area to do so! During my trip, I went on a catamaran tour which is a highlight of any stay. The tour takes us down the Algarve Coast, where you have lunch, go snorkeling, and explore some hidden bays and beaches. I highly recommend this activity if you're visiting Lagos!

Best hotels to stay in Lagos Marina

($$$) Hotel Marina Rio

Hotel Marina Rio is a 4-star hotel located right in the heart of the Marina. The boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms with balconies that overlook the harbor and has a stunning terrace where you can enjoy a nice breakfast or a romantic dinner.

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($$) Tivoli Lagos

Tivoli Lagos is a great choice for couples who want to stay close to the Lagos Marina yet still pay an affordable price. It offers a private beach club, an outdoor pool, and an indoor pool making it one of my favorite luxury hotels in Lagos, without the price tag!

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($) Torrinha House

Torrinha House is a budget-friendly option with simple but comfortable rooms, brightly decorated and equipped with modern amenities. The hotel also has a communal kitchen and terrace, which you can use to relax after a day of exploring Lagos.

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3. Where to stay in Lagos for families & beachfront resorts: Meia Praia Beach

Meia Praia Beach, which is almost 4 miles long and has golden sand, is situated on the east side of Lagos, away from the town. Besides being the longest beach in Lagos, it is also highly developed, with many restaurants and beach bars.

This area has some beautiful beach resorts that are ideal for a family vacation. Many of the resorts here offer tennis courts and golf courses, as well as several apartments and villas available for rent. If you're looking for a stress-free resort vacation, then this is the spot for you.

Best area for:

• Families

• Resort vacations

Things to see & do in Meia Praia Beach

I hope you're into water sports because Meia Praia Beach is definitely the place to be. You can rent a jet ski or go paddleboarding, and if you're brave enough, you can even try paragliding! And, of course, you can hop on a banana boat as well.

If you feel hungry after spending your morning on the beach, you can head to one of the many beach bars and restaurants that serve tasty Portuguese dishes and cold beer.

Personally, I recommend Linda Beach Bar, which is located directly on the beach and even has live music on occasion.

Best hotels to stay in Meia Praia Beach

($$$) Iberostar Selection Lagos

Iberostar Selection Lagos is an amazing beachfront resort and a popular choice when it comes to Lagos hotels right on the beach. The luxury hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with balconies facing the sea, as well as several swimming pools and a spa.

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($$) Vila Gale Lagos

Vila Gale Lagos is a great choice for families looking for a more affordable option. It offers several cozy rooms and apartments, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and a playground for children.

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($) IM On Casa do Mar

IM on Casa do Mar is a budget-friendly option located right by the beach. It offers basic rooms and apartments with kitchenettes, as well as a sun terrace with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, it is within walking distance of the best beaches.

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4. Where to stay in Lagos for beach lovers & nightlife: Batata Beach

The most popular beach in Lagos is Praia de Batata, likely because it's the closest one to the city center.

Despite getting very crowded in the summer, it's a great place to sunbathe, swim, and party. If you're looking for a spot to have a drink or two, I recommend checking it out.

Did you know? Batata Beach is known for being a calm and sheltered beach, making it an ideal spot for swimming, particularly if you're visiting with your family.

Best area for:

• Partying

• Drinks along the beach

• Swimming & sunbathing

Things to see & do in Batata Beach

During the summer, the city beach is usually crowded and hosts a few music festivals, which are great fun. Occasionally, some volleyball and handball competitions are also held on the beach.

Don't forget to explore the hidden tunnel at Batata Beach! On the right side, there's an opening in the rocks that leads to Praia dos Estudantes, on the other side of these uber-cool rock formations. This area is less crowded and definitely worth a visit.

Best hotels to stay in Batata Beach

($$$) Henri's Apartments

Henri's Apartments is a set of luxurious beachfront apartments with an amazing view of the ocean. All apartments come equipped with two or three bedrooms, a kitchenette, and a large terrace overlooking the sea.

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($$) Baluarte da Vila Apartments

Baluarte da Vila Apartments is a great choice for couples who want to stay close to the beach. It offers charming studios with an equipped kitchenette, as well as an outdoor pool and terrace.

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($) IM On Charming Home

IM on Charming Home is a budget-friendly option located within walking distance of the beach. It offers basic rooms and apartments with all the necessary amenities, as well as air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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5. Where to stay on Lagos most beautiful beach: Dona Ana Beach

The main attraction that I am particularly excited about is the famous beach Praia Dona Ana. It is situated in the southwest of Lagos town and is known for being one of Europe's most beautiful beaches due to its stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and cliff formations. It is worth the hype!

It might be a good idea to arrive early since the beach tends to get crowded during the summer. If you don't want anyone else in your next Instagram picture, finding a spot early would be helpful.

However, no matter where you find a spot, you'll have an opportunity to appreciate some of the best beaches and sunsets in Portugal.

Best area for:

• Instagram hotspot

• Best sunsets

• Snorkeling & swimming

Things to see & do in Dona Ana Beach

If you're interested in snorkeling, Dona Ana Beach is a great place to visit. The water is clear, and there are rocky reefs and plenty of caves for you to explore. You'll be able to see a variety of marine life, including anemones, octopuses, gorgonians, sea stars, and fish. Dona Ana also connects to Praia do Piñao, a secluded beach that is less crowded and worth checking out.

It is also very popular to charter a boat or join a boat trip from here. The boat trips here aren't as long as the catamaran trips from Lagos Marina, but they will still show you around the coast and show you hidden grottos, including Ponta da la Piedad.

Best hotels to stay in Dona Ana Beach

($$$) Carvi Beach Hotel

Carvi Beach Hotel is an amazing beachfront hotel located just steps away from Dona Ana Beach. The luxury hotel offers modern rooms and suites with beautiful views of the ocean, as well as several swimming pools and a spa, making it the perfect place to stay for a beach holiday.

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($$) Villa Doris Suites

Villa Doris Suites is a great choice for couples or families looking for a more affordable option; it offers several cozy rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace. It is also located just a short walk from the beach.

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($) D. Ana Beach Studio

If you are looking for somewhere that doesn't break the bank, D. Ana Beach Studio is a budget-friendly option located just steps away from the beach. It offers basic rooms and apartments with kitchenettes, as well as a private balcony with panoramic ocean views.

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6. Where to stay in Lagos for surfing: Praia de Porto Mós

A few minutes drive outside of the coastal town of Lagos, you will find Praia de Porto Mós, one of the best spots in Portugal for surfing. The beach is quite long and wide, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and more experienced surfers.

Even if you're not the next Kelly Slater, the wide golden sand beach, backed by huge cliffs, is well worth a visit!

Best area for:

• Surfing

• Beach lovers

Things to see & do in Praia Porto Mós

If you're looking to catch some waves, this beach is the perfect spot. Although it's a bit far from the city center, it's still within walking distance.

If you need a surfboard or want to take lessons, you'll find most surf shops like Jah Shaka Surf in the downtown area.

Best hotels to stay in Praia de Porto Mós

($$$) Cascade Wellness Resort

Cascade Wellness Resort is a luxurious beachfront resort that has everything you need for an amazing holiday. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with stunning views of the ocean, as well as several swimming pools and a spa.

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($$) Belmar Spa & Beach Resort

Belmar Spa & Beach Resort is perfect for those looking for a mid-range option; it offers cozy rooms and suites with an equipped kitchenette, as well as several swimming pools and a luxurious wellness center.

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($) Magnolia Mar Apartamentos

If you're looking for something more budget-friendly beach hotel, Magnolia Mar Apartamentos is a great choice. It offers basic rooms and apartments with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and free parking.

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Where to stay in Lagos Portugal – Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where is the main area in Lagos Portugal?

The main area in Lagos, Portugal is the Lagos Old Town, located around the Old Town and Lagos Marina. This area has all the best restaurants and shops and is also close to Batata Beach.

📅 How many days should I spend in Lagos?

If you plan to explore the town and visit some of the well-known beaches, you can do so in two or three days. However, if you want to fully experience its stunning resorts, Lagos is also an ideal destination for a week or two-week holiday.

☀️ What is the best time of year to visit Lagos Portugal?

To fully enjoy beach activities, I recommend visiting Lagos during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warmer and sunnier. However, if you prefer to avoid large crowds, it may also be worth considering visiting this cozy coastal town in the shoulder season in May or October.

🏝️ What’s the prettiest part of the Algarve?

The Algarve is an incredibly stunning region, so it's hard to pick just one spot! However, my personal favorite is Punta de la Piedad!

🚗 Do I need a car in Lagos?

It depends on what you plan to do. If you want to explore the more remote beaches or visit nearby towns, then a car is definitely a good idea. However, if you're planning to stay in the city centre and don't plan on venturing out too far, then most beaches are just a short walk away!

❓ Where is the least touristy part of the Algarve?

If you're looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, then head to lesser-known towns like Tavira. Lagos, Faro, and Albufeira will always be a little more crowded.

🏨 Should I stay in Lagos, Faro or Albufeira?

It depends on what you're looking for. Lagos is great if you want to be close to the beaches. Faro is more of a city vibe, with plenty of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities, while Albufeira offers wild nightlife.

Where to stay in Lagos Portugal – Final Words

Good surfing, pristine beaches, or long nights out, Lagos truly has it all! You can enjoy the Algarve with your whole family while staying in Meia Praia or come on a party holiday with your friends and party at Batata Beach.

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your needs. I hope that my guide has helped you figure out where to stay in Lagos Portugal.