Lagos is one of the best-value quality destinations in the Algarve. A baseline of €70 per person per day covers a comfortable stay: a double room in a good guest house or hostel, lunch in a local restaurant, dinner in a quality restaurant and one coastal activity.
Accommodation varies widely by season. A double room in a B&B or pensão costs €50-80 in May-June, €100-160 in July-August. Lagos has an excellent hostel scene (a favourite with backpackers) with dorm beds at €18-25. Boutique hotels and sea-view guest houses start at €120-200 in high season.
Food is generous and affordable. A full lunch (prato do dia + drink) in a neighbourhood restaurant costs €10-15 per person. A meal of grilled sardines with salad and local wine: €15-20. Dinner in a quality fish restaurant: €25-40 per person. Lidl and Pingo Doce supermarkets on the outskirts make inexpensive beach picnics easy to assemble.
Activities are the main expense. Kayak tour to Ponta da Piedade: €30-45 per person. Boat tour to Benagil: €35-50 per person. Day bicycle hire: €15-20. The beaches and coastal walking paths are free.
Read also
- The Algarve — Complete regional guide: Benagil, Sagres, Faro and the finest beaches of southern Portugal.
- Portugal — Complete country guide: entry rules, budget, regions to explore and best time to visit.
- Lisbon — Portugal's capital: Alfama, Belém, tram 28 and pastéis de nata.