Lisbon to Lagos: how to get there & where to stay
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Picture it, Portugal, 2024…. You’ve seen and done all you can in Lisbon and have to decide where to, next? The Algarve, of course! Known for its warm beaches, gorgeous blue waters, and ex-pat population, this southern region of Portugal simply cannot be missed. There are many small villages scattered about the coastline but Lagos is the most popular and serves as a good home base as you explore this region. From museums to beaches to boat excursions… there’s something for everyone in Lagos. Here’s how to get there from Lisbon!
Getting from Lisbon to Lagos
There are a few transportation options for getting from Lisbon to Lagos in southern Portugal. You can:
rent a car (I recommend renting a car if you plan on visiting more than one town in the Algarve as there are not a lot of buses or trains going to and from all the towns.)
fly to Faro and then catch a taxi or rent a car for an hour-long drive to Lagos.
you can hire a driver (very expensive)
you can catch a bus.
I chose the bus option as it only costs $14 USD and it departs from the Sete Rios Station or the Oriente Station. I was not planning on visiting other towns aside from Lagos so this was a great option for me. The bus is airconditioned and quite comfortable. I booked through Flexibus and it was very easy! The Sete Rios Station is small and easy to navigate. There is an information board with the bus numbers and schedules directly in front of where you catch your bus. I did not notice any bus station employees and it felt as though you were on your own but again, it is easy to find your bus and there are a few charging stations to charge your electronics if needed. Do be aware that bus stations are a prime place for the less fortunate to beg for a bus ticket or spare change.
View from the bus as you leave Lisbon
The bus ride is 4 hours long but the time flies and you can catch the views from your window. Much of the drive is through the countryside where farming and some dilapidated buildings are the norm but as you get closer to the Algarve, the influx of Ex-Pat $ begins to surface. Somewhat sterilized in comparison to the countryside, the renovated villas, all freshly painted white become more frequent the closer you get to Lagos.
The bus drops you off in the center of Logos and from there, it is incredibly easy to catch an Uber to your accommodation.
Where to stay in Lagos
I chose to stay at the Baluarte da Vila Apartments. The location is terrific! It is located on a quiet side street only 2-3 blocks from the center of Lagos. The stroll into town is enjoyable as you pass colorful homes along the narrow, cobblestone streets.
The apartments themselves were decent. They are not too up-scale but they have a small kitchenette and a wonderful balcony if you choose a pool-side room as I did. The rooms are a bit dated but all-in-all, I recommend this place based on budget, friendly staff, location, and fantastic pool.
The pool is a wonderful little oasis for travelers who need a quiet place to lounge after walking Lagos. I found the pool at this accommodation during this leg of my summer trip to be the most relaxing.
You can use the search box below to find their rates.
No car? No problem!
If you read my post on how to get to Lagos and decided not to rent a car, I HIGHLY recommend the taxi and guide service Transfers Door 2 Door. Book with them! On time, knowledgeable, and just simply awesome people! Some of the best conversations I have when traveling are with drivers and while I can’t remember my driver’s name (Barbara?? Maybe), I remember our fantastic conversation though, as she took me to the airport in Faro. She’s from Scotland and is a riot!
Next time I will write about what to do in Lagos but for now, don’t forget to check out my blog post on a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon!