6 Days in the Algarve: Golden Cliffs, Sea Caves & Beach Towns — the Algarve

🧳 Summary: Lagos is a historic coastal town in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, known for its charming old town, dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and a rich maritime heritage. Visitors can wander the cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, explore the 17th‑century Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, and relax on famous beaches such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. The town’s marina offers boat trips to the nearby Ponta da Piedade rock formations, while the local market showcases fresh seafood and regional produce.

👉 Tip: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds at the popular beaches, and bring comfortable walking shoes for the steep stairways that lead down to the sea. For a truly local experience, try the grilled sardines (sardinhas assadas) at a family‑run tasca in the old town and pair them with a glass of Vinho Verde from the nearby Alentejo vineyards.

🔆 Highlight: A boat tour of the Ponta da Piedade cliffs is the top highlight – the limestone arches, hidden grottoes and turquoise waters provide spectacular photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Lagos’s stunning coastline.