The beaches around Lagos aid in making this area a favorite tourist destination, but if the resorts are crowded, take a stroll… or even a drive further down the coast and explore some of the area’s other beaches. Across the river to the east from is the area of Meia Praia, and this beach features numerous villas and mild slopes that make for a secluded beach that hasn’t quite been “discovered” by the tourists!

To the west is the old fishing village of Praia da Luz, and while this has been found by the tourists, it still offers charms to bygone days. Further down the coast is Burgau, another fishing village and beach that offers stunning sunsets and unspoiled beauty, although this is becoming very built-up in the last couple of years.

Continue to the west and you’ll come to the old Roman ruins near the village of Salema. These remnants are among the furthest expansion of the Roman Empire. Even a bit further is the Vila do Bispo , and this here is the south-west corner of Europe! From here you can see the last seconds of sunset in all Europe!

To the north of Lagos are more coastal beaches along the Atlantic and this includes the town of Aljezur, which is home to a 10 th century Moorish castle. The ruins of this fortress still loom over the town like an old protector.