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Historically, the fascination of Lagos has always been associated with its geographical position, opposite the African coast. The Bensafrim estuary has attracted foreign settlers and invaders, and has become a focal point for voyages of discovery in the golden age of the Portuguese Discoveries. Infante D. Henrique brought fame to this region, founding his navigation school in neighboring Sagres, having resided in Lagos and built there his famous caravels. Lagos soon became a center of maritime activity, as explorers like Gil Eanes, the first to fold Cape Bojador in 1434, Left the city in search of new lands and fortune. The returning caravels filled with wealth and slaves transformed Lagos into a commercial warehouse with Africa, which increased the wealth and prosperity of this area.

Today, the attractiveness of Lagos lies in the abundance and beauty of its beaches. Visitors can choose from long stretches of sand dunes, such as Meia Praia, or smaller, sheltered beaches, such as Praia da Boneca or Praia Dona Ana. Both options are appealing: the size of Meia Praia makes it a place of choice for water sports, while the cliffs of the smaller beaches offer caves, rock pools and lovely sheltered places that delight the families. The coast is also especially attractive and can be explored by sea, on one of the panoramic boat trips departing regularly from the marina. It is also a favorite spot for scuba diving.

The city itself should be explored on foot. Despite the destruction caused by the earthquake of 1755, many of the houses in the historic center keep the traditional stone carved, the picturesque wrought iron balconies and interior courtyards. Book your cheap flights to Lagos and start exploring shops, bars and restaurants lined the cobbled streets, making them a pleasant place for a stroll and to taste the local gastronomy. The horse mackerel, the feijoada de conuzios, the caldeirada de lingueirao and the squid are some of the specialties. The area also has a lively nightlife.

Lagos Marina offers a more contemporary setting. Flanked by shops, cafes and restaurants, it is a great place to have a drink and relax.

Golf lovers can choose between two nearby courses, as both offer magnificent views. The Pal mares Golf is situated to the east of Lagos, on the hills above Meia Praia, and Boa vista Golf Resort is situated to the west, on the coast leading to Praia da Luz.

Places to visit

Igreja de Santo Antonio

The impressive golden carving of this 18th century church is one of the most beautiful in the country, making it a fantastic example of the Portuguese Baroque. The ornate interior contrasts with the simplicity of the exterior.

Church of Sao Sebastiao

Originally a chapel from the 14th century, it was transformed into a church dedicated to Saint Sebastian in 1463. It contains a large statue of Our Lady of Glory dating from the 18th century coming from Brazil and a 16th century crucifix that was used in the Famous battle of Alcacer-Quibir. From its top you get fabulous views over Lagos and over the sea.

Historic sites and museums

Walls

The walls of Carthaginian or Roman origin were expanded by the Arabs and later in the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries to accompany the growth of the city. If you get chance to visit Stockholm by getting cheap flights to Stockholm then must visit there! The walls offer beautiful panoramic views of the hills and Lagos Bay.

Castle of the Governors

This castle was rebuilt on the site of an ancient Arab castle from the 14th to 16th centuries, and has become the residence of the governors of the Algarve. Partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, it contains a fine example of a Manueline window from which King D. Sebastiao will have delivered his prayers before his trip to Africa.

Slaves Market

The slaves brought in from Africa in 1444 were sold in what is believed to be Europe's first slave market. The ground floor of the building houses an art gallery today.

Museo Municipal Dr. Jose Formosinho

Located next to the Church of Santo Antonio, this museum contains a unique collection of sacred art, archaeological remains and paintings, as well as sections dedicated to the history of Lagos, the Algarve ethnography and mineralogy. Entrance ticket to the museum includes access to the church.