Lagos vs Faro: Which Algarve Town Is Right for You?

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal and the Algarve is on your list, there’s a good chance you’re debating between visiting Lagos or Faro. How do I know? Because it’s hands-down the most common question I get when I mention I live in Portugal.

And honestly, you can’t really go wrong with either of these coastal towns. But depending on your travel goals, how long you’re staying, and your overall vibe, one might suit you better than the other.

These are two of the most popular and picturesque towns in the Algarve. Lagos is great for families and for travelers who want to be surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery. Faro, on the other hand, is ideal if you’re into fortified cities, charming old towns, and want to stay close to the airport.

To sum it up:
Pick Faro if you have three days or less and want a mix of beach time and plenty of bar and restaurant options.
Go for Lagos if you’ve got more than three days and are craving a chilled-out beach holiday.

Still undecided? I figured. So let me break it down in the simplest way possible. Plus, I’ll throw in some photos from my trips to help you picture them for yourself.

Lagos vs Faro: What You Need to Know

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Vibe and Atmosphere

Lagos is relaxed, scenic, and definitely has that “holiday mode activated” feeling. It’s got more of a beach-town buzz.

You can expect a mix of tourists, surfers, and families all doing their thing. You’ll find cute streets, casual cafés, and cliffside views that honestly do most of the talking.

Faro has a more local feel. It’s smaller, quieter, and a little more “real Portugal” than Lagos. The old town is super charming and walkable, and you’ll see more locals going about their day, not just tourists in flip-flops. It’s less about the beach scene and more about the historic vibe. 

Best For

Lagos is ideal if you’re after a classic beach holiday. Think cliff hikes, golden sand, boat trips to hidden coves, and a slower pace. It’s great for couples, families, and anyone who wants to zone out and just enjoy the scenery. 

Faro works better for quick trips, solo travelers, or anyone who wants a mix of culture and convenience. You’re right by the airport, the old town is easy to explore, and you’ll get more of a local vibe. It’s a good base if you want to explore other parts of the Algarve too.

Beaches

Lagos wins here, no contest. The coastline is wild and dramatic, with those postcard-perfect cliffs and turquoise waters. Praia do Camilo, Ponta da Piedade, and Praia dos Estundantes are all stunners. If beach-hopping or boat tours are on your list, Lagos is your spot.

Faro technically has beaches, but they’re a bit more effort to get to. You’ll need to take a short ferry or drive out to the barrier islands like Ilha Deserta or Ilha de Faro. Worth it if you go, but not as front-and-center as in Lagos.

Food and Nightlife

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Lagos

Lagos has a decent food scene. I consider myself a bit of a foodie, so I can be hard to please, but there are a few wine bars and plenty of seafood spots I genuinely like.

You’ll also find chill cafés and a handful of great dinner-with-a-view type places. The nightlife is casual but fun, with some rooftop bars and a few spots that stay open late (so don’t book a place too close to the action if you don’t want to be in it).

• Taninos Wine and Kitchen – This little bistro has solid food and a great selection of wines.
• Travia – My favorite spot from the trip. Highly recommend the goat cheese and a glass of green wine (vinho verde).

• Tasca do Kiko Restaurante – If you’re looking for something on the beachside, opposite the old town, check out this seafood restaurant. I had a great lunch here.
• Black and White Coffee Shop – Best brunch spot in town. Don’t skip the avocado toast.
• Taberna do Mó – If you’re after a proper Portuguese meal, this is the place. I actually ate here twice. I couldn’t resist the fish soup (even in summer), and the other fish dish I tried was just as good.

Faro

Faro might surprise you when it comes to food. Even though it’s smaller, it definitely punches above its weight in restaurants and bars.

The old town is full of cool wine bars, tapas joints, and low-key live music spots. It feels a bit more grown-up than Lagos, in a good way.

A few places I really like:

• Restaurante Alameda – This one’s a bit more upscale and not your typical Portuguese joint, but it’s 100% worth it. The experience is thoughtful, the presentation is gorgeous, and for the quality, the prices are actually pretty reasonable. If you’re in the mood for a more elevated meal, this is the place.

• A Venda – On the complete opposite end of the spectrum, this little hidden gem is super traditional, very local, and extremely affordable. The food is simple but amazing. They only take cash, so show up prepared. I loved the local bean dish and the sautéed fish.

• Bago Wine Bar – A great spot to enjoy a glass of wine and some cheese, maybe before heading somewhere else for dinner. It’s not open every day, so check the hours before you go.

• Á do Pinto – A solid mid-range spot serving Algarve classics. Think fresh fish, hearty portions, and that home-cooked feeling. It’s not fancy, just reliably good.

• I’osteria – If you’re starting to crave something non-Portuguese (totally fair — it happens), this Italian place is a go-to. I’ve been a few times and always get the nero seafood spaghetti with spicy Italian red sauce. So good.

Getting to Lagos vs Faro: What’s Easier?

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This one’s pretty straightforward.

Faro is the easier option. The airport is literally in town, so if you’re flying into the Algarve, you could be sipping wine in the old town within 15 minutes of landing. No extra travel needed, which makes it perfect for shorter trips or if you just want to get settled fast.

Lagos takes a bit more effort. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour journey from Faro Airport. You can take a train, but first you need to go to Faro to check the train. The train is scenic but slow, or get a bus, or rent a car. I’ve done all three, and honestly, renting a car is the easiest if you’re planning to explore the Algarve a bit more. But if you’re on a tighter budget or not keen on driving, public transport will get you there — just give yourself a little buffer.

So if travel time is a dealbreaker for you, Faro wins. But if you don’t mind the journey and want those iconic Algarve beaches, Lagos is totally worth the trip.

Getting to the Algarve from Lisbon

If you’re starting your trip in Lisbon and heading down to the Algarve, here’s what you need to know.

To Lagos: The only direct public transit option from Lisbon is the bus. I recommend using FlixBus. It’s affordable, comfortable, and runs regularly. The ride takes about three and a half to four hours depending on traffic. No transfers, no complications. Just make sure to book in advance during busy seasons.

To Faro: You can take the train, which sounds great in theory since it’s scenic and relaxed. The issue is that there have been a lot of transit strikes lately. They’re not always announced in advance, and they can throw off your entire plan. When the trains are running, it’s a nice option. But I wouldn’t fully rely on it.

If you want more flexibility and fewer potential delays, renting a car is your best bet. It gives you freedom to explore the coast at your own pace and skip any public transport hassle.

👉 Thinking of making Faro just a day trip from Lisbon? Understand your best transit options!

Do You Need a Car in Lagos or Faro?

You don’t need a car if you’re sticking to either town and just want to enjoy the beaches, old towns, and local restaurants. Both Lagos and Faro are very walkable and easy to get around. But if you want to explore more of the Algarve, a car can definitely change the game.

In Faro: You actually have great public transport options. The train line connects you to several charming towns in the eastern Algarve like Tavira, Olhão, and Vila Real de Santo António. They’re all easy day trips without needing to drive. So if you’re staying in Faro, you can skip the car and still see a lot. But if you do rent one, you’ll have more flexibility to visit smaller villages and beaches that are off the main routes.

In Lagos: This is where having a car really makes a difference. The train doesn’t run to many of the best western Algarve spots. If you want to see the wild coast of the Costa Vicentina, check out the cliffs of Sagres, or head inland to Monchique, you’ll need to drive. Alternatively, you can join a guided day trip from Lagos to Sagres, which often includes a stop at Sagres Fortress, a historic site sitting right on the edge of the cliffs.

So overall, if you’re staying in Faro and planning a few cultural day trips, public transport will do the job. But if Lagos is your base and you want to explore beyond town, renting a car or joining tours is your best option.

Things to Do in Lagos vs Faro

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Lagos

• Lagos is all about being outside. The coastline is stunning, and this is where you go if you want to fill your days with sun, sea, and a bit of adventure. You’ll spend less time in museums and more time in the water or on a cliff. Here are a few top picks:

• Ponta da Piedade. A must-see viewpoint with jaw-dropping rock formations
• Boat tours or kayaking through the sea caves
• Praia do Camilo and Praia Dona Ana. Two of the most iconic beaches in the Algarve
• Wine Tasting
• Algarve Classic Food Tour
• Surfing or paddleboarding
• Sunset walks along the cliffs or coastal trails
• Shop at the local food market (Mercado Municipal de Lagos)
• Wandering the old town for shops, street performers, and relaxed cafés
• Explore the Castelo dos Governadores

Faro

Faro is slower and more about the details. You’re not coming here for the beaches alone. You’re coming for the charm, the history, and a bit more of a local vibe.

Here’s what’s worth checking out:

• Faro Old Town. Perfect for exploring on foot with its cobbled streets and quiet corners
• Arco da Vila. A beautiful historic gateway into the old town
• Igreja do Carmo and the Bone Chapel. Small, fascinating, and definitely memorable
• Ria Formosa Natural Park. Take a boat tour or go bird watching in this protected lagoon
• Day trips to Ilha Deserta or Ilha de Faro for peaceful beach time
• Local markets and cozy wine bars for a slow afternoon
• Faro Cathedral and the view from the top of the tower

👉Need an Itinerary? Check out my 2 day Faro Itinerary

Lagos is the better fit if you’re into dramatic nature, beach days, and a bit of action. If you want something slower, more historic, and low-key, Faro is your place.

Best for Solo Travelers

Both Lagos and Faro are safe, friendly, and easy to navigate, which makes them great picks for solo travel. You’ll find plenty of hostels, cafés, and laid-back spots to meet other travelers or just enjoy your own company.

That said, Faro might edge out a win here simply because it’s easier to get to. You can land at the airport and be in the city within minutes, no extra travel required. It’s also a bit more compact, which makes it perfect for wandering on foot and settling in quickly.

If you’re staying in Faro but still want a taste of Lagos, it’s an easy day trip by train. You’ll get the best of both without having to move accommodations.

Train Info from Faro to Lagos: The train journey from Faro to Lagos typically takes between 1 hour 29 minutes and 1 hour 51 minutes, depending on the service. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with approximately 11 to 13 departures daily.

The first train usually departs around 7:00 AM, and the last one leaves close to 8:50 PM. For the most up-to-date schedules and to book tickets, visit the official Comboios de Portugal website.

Day Trip Options from Lagos and Faro

Both Lagos and Faro make good bases if you’re looking to explore more of the Algarve, but the vibes of the nearby towns are pretty different.

From Faro: One of the best day trips is to Tavira. It’s charming, walkable, and feels a bit undiscovered. You get a mix of history, quiet cafés, and a slower pace that’s a nice contrast to the busier towns. You can also easily explore more of the Ria Formosa islands from here if you’re in the mood for a beach escape.

Explore all the best day trips from Faro!

From Lagos: A popular day trip is to Albufeira. It has a beautiful beach, but the town itself is a bit more built-up and leans heavily into the party scene. Great if you’re into nightlife or a livelier crowd, but personally, I found it a little less charming than other spots. That said, it’s an easy visit if you’re curious and want to experience a different vibe for a few hours.

So overall, Faro wins for day trips that feel a bit more cultural or off-the-beaten-path. Lagos gives you access to the more energetic, tourist-heavy towns.

Cost: Is Lagos or Faro More Expensive?

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Overall, there’s not a huge price difference between Lagos and Faro. You’ll find similar costs for food, drinks, activities, and general day-to-day expenses. The biggest variation tends to show up in accommodations, especially depending on the season and location within each town.

If you’re looking at hotels or short-term rentals, Lagos might be a bit pricier during the high season since it’s more popular with beach-focused travelers and families. Faro usually has slightly more availability and a wider range of prices, especially if you’re willing to stay just outside the old town.

That said, if you fly directly into Faro and stay there, you can save on transportation costs. No need to rent a car or pay for a bus or train to another town, which can make a difference if you’re on a tighter budget.

Where to Stay

Here are a few places I’d recommend, depending on your budget and vibe:

In Faro

• 3HB Faro – Sleek, modern hotel in the heart of Faro with a rooftop pool, spa, and stylish rooms. Great for relaxing after exploring the Algarve.
• Lemon Tree Stay – Cozy boutique hotel with friendly owners and clean, comfortable rooms.
• Hostel Casa d’Alagoa – Perfect for solo travelers or those on a budget. Great social vibe.

In Lagos

• Casa Mãe – A design-lover’s dream. Beautiful rooms, amazing restaurant, and a relaxed luxury feel.
• Hotel Marina Rio – Overlooks the marina and is walking distance to the old town. Clean and convenient.
• TopCity Hostel & Suites – Great option for budget travelers or solo explorers who want to meet people and still enjoy a rooftop pool.

So, Lagos or Faro?

At the end of the day, you really can’t go wrong with either. Faro is the easier option if you’re short on time, want easy airport access, or prefer a more local, slow-travel vibe with solid day trip options. Lagos is better if you’re in it for dramatic beaches, outdoor adventures, and a more classic holiday feel.

Both towns are safe, affordable, and full of charm — it just depends on your travel style. Hopefully this helped you figure out which one’s a better fit. And hey, if you’re still torn, nothing wrong with visiting both.