Lagos
Portugal
Backpacking Lagos
Information on Lagos, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Lagos is a historic and characterful city that is situated on the beautiful Western Algarve. It is a city that boasts a rich seafaring heritage and a coastline of dramatic natural scenery, and today is one of Portugal’s top holiday destinations. For travelers, Lagos offers picturesque beaches, buzzing nightlife and outstanding tourist facilities. During the summertime, this city becomes the center of partying for backpackers in Portugal with all night bar crawls, booze cruises, and fun in perfect sunny weather. Within the historic center you will explore cobbled streets, authentic restaurants, and an atmosphere which is relaxed and welcoming. Lagos perfectly combines traditional Portuguese culture, with beautiful beaches and one of the best party spots in Europe. With a huge range of activities spanning water sports, boat trips and surfing, excellent restaurants and a pumping nightlife, it’s not surprising that backpackers of all ages come time and time again. If you are looking to party look no further as nights out in Lagos are absolutely crazy fun.
Must See
Old Town - Lagos was a major seaport for Portuguese explorers during the 15th and 16th centuries. The old town area is lively throughout the day and rowdy into the night. The mosaic-tiled streets are lined with stylish shops, charming cafes, and bars where you can dance the night away.
The Caves & Coves -Lagos has some of the most incredible scenery in Portugal. The coastline is full of natural rock formations and you can explore them by sea. Spending the day doing a small boat tour allows you to enter the otherwise inaccessible coves and caves. Guides will explain the history and legends of the area as you boat around.
Must Do
Hike Around the Cliff Trails - One of the most popular things to do in Lagos Portugal is the scenic cliff walk. These hiking trails and paths take visitors along one of the most stunning stretches of coast in Portugal. As you walk, you’ll discover new viewpoints, hidden beaches, and have many opportunities to take photos. There is a Roman-style bridge which you can find that also includes a cave into a passage with a hidden beach.
Hang at the Beaches - The Algarve region of Portugal is a beach lovers paradise, and Lagos is the best beach town to visit in Portugal if you’re looking for fun nightlife as well. When you arrive, I’d recommend hiking the cliff trail from the beach closest to town called Praia da Batata to the farthest called Ponta de Piedade. This will give you a chance to see all of the beaches and decide which ones you want to spend time lounging on.
Nightlife
The beach and party scene is what most backpackers come here for and it definitely lives up to its hype. Lagos is small so you’ll be able to walk from your accommodation to the bars. One at the bars, they are all under a 5 minute walk to each other. The bars/clubs are small to mid-sized fitting around 50-100 people. Most of the bars get the party started by setting up a variety of drinking games including beer funnels, card drinking games, and shot challenges. Overall, everyone at the bars are friendly, looking to meet people and have a good night. Most people drink at the hostels till about 11 pm and head out after. The last bars close at 6am so there are plenty of options for pub crawling all night.
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