One of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal, Lagos is a bustling city full of activity, nightlife and modern attractions. The town of Lagos is sited approximately 35 kilometers east of Sagres Point, the southwesternmost point of Europe. To the north of Lagos is the road to Milfontes and Sines, that winds through the scenic protected landscape of the Southwest Natural Park.
However it is also a city full of history and the architecture and monuments, it is also an maritime world. The nearby beaches are among the best in the region and the rocky headland of Ponta da Piedade is outstandingly beautiful.
Over its existence, the town of Lagos has been home to the Romans, Carthaginians, Phoenicians and Moors all attracted by the harbour and what it represented in terms of communication and others. Formerly Henry the Navigator famously ordered expeditions from here, and indeed it was from here that Vasco de Gama set sail for what was to be his discovery of Brazil.
The central city area today consists of a sprawling small flea market. However can be seen is Customs House within its arches Europe’s first slave market was conducted in 1441. However there is also the beautiful church of Igreja de Santo Antonio, restored in 1715 and decorated with fantasy inspired carvings.
