Hotels in Lagos

Lagos Introduction

Boasting a prime spot in southern Portugal's Algarve region, Lagos serves up an intoxicating blend of history and hedonism. Tranquil stretches of golden sand, such as the small but perfectly formed Praia de Batata, present the perfect setting for those who prefer to do little but soak up the sun. Visitors with a bit more oomph can explore the town's bustling historic centre – overlooked by ancient Moorish walls and counting an array of traditional dining spots among its highlights.

Hotels in Lagos

From budget hostel-style digs to plush hotels and resorts with all the trimmings you'd expect from a high-end getaway, Lagos comes up trumps with a wealth of accommodation options that find favour with everyone from backpackers and budget travellers to families and friends. Much of the accommodation can be found near the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, though some of the luxury hotels in Lagos sit closer to the beach. For families looking for a bit of space to spread out, the town's self-catering apartments and villas with private pools serve up tempting alternatives to Lagos hotels.

Where to stay

The preferred option for many tourists is to plump for one of the beachfront hotels in Lagos – a wise choice for those in the market to top up their tan. Choosing a hotel further inland is not necessarily a bad move, since many offer free shuttle services to the beach and have the added benefit of being close to all the amenities of the town. For something a little different, check out hotels near the marina. These are typically middle-of-the-road when it comes to room rates and come complete with easy access to both Meia Praia and the town's historical centre.

Things to see

For families, Lagos and the surrounding areas offer a range of kid-friendly delights that are sure to result in some serious brownie points. You'll find Lagos Zoo and a good selection of nearby water and theme parks are ideal destinations for memorable family fun. Those keen on soaking up some of Lagos' natural delights won't need to travel far to admire the stunning Ponta da Piedade headland – a parade of weather-beaten cliffs lined with sea caves, arches and grottos. Plentiful boat tours available from the marina are a lovely way to get up close to what is widely considered to be the Algarve's finest natural feature. Keen to squeeze a little culture into your stay? At the side of the river, just before it spills out into the Atlantic, must-visits include the baroque Castelo dos Governadores and the elaborately decorated 18th-century church, Igreja de Santo António.

How to get to Lagos

International flights from the UK typically touch down at Faro Airport, almost 60 miles west of Lagos. The distance involved means it's a good idea to plan your onward journey well in advance if you don't want to rent a car. Budget-friendly options include local trains and buses, though you can expect these to add a good few hours to your journey time. Pre-booked transfer services are often your best bet and come in a great deal cheaper than hopping in an airport taxi on an impulse. Once you're settled in, travel in Lagos is a hassle-free experience thanks to reliable public transport.