Lisbon is an incredible city, full of charm, history, and energy. But Portugal has so much more to offer beyond its capital. Once you’ve wandered through the colorful streets of Alfama, admired the views from Miradouros, and eaten your weight in pastéis de nata, it’s time to explore further. And if you’re looking for sun-soaked beaches, rugged cliffs, and a laid-back coastal vibe, there’s no better place to head than Lagos in the Algarve.
So, how do you get from Lisbon to Lagos? You’ve got several options—each with its own pros and cons. Whether you want the freedom of a road trip, the ease of a train ride, or the budget-friendly appeal of a bus, this guide covers everything you need to know.
The Best Way To Get From Lisbon To Lagos Portugal
The best way to get from Lisbon to Lagos is to drive. Driving from Lisbon to Lagos is approximately a three-hour drive, with stops not included. This means that it’s a fairly simple and easy trip even if it’s your first time taking the journey.
You can also start in the morning and still have most of the day left by the time you reach Lagos.
How Far is Lagos from Lisbon?
Lagos is located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, about 300 kilometers (187 miles) from Lisbon. It’s one of the most popular beach destinations in the country, known for its golden cliffs, hidden grottoes, and crystal-clear waters. The journey from Lisbon to Lagos takes anywhere from 2.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport.
Now, let’s break down your options.
Driving From Lisbon to Lagos
Why Drive?
The best way to get from Lisbon to Lagos is by car. Driving gives you the most flexibility, letting you stop along the way and explore Portugal at your own pace. Plus, some of the most beautiful spots in the Algarve like Praia da Marinha and Ponta da Piedade among many other beautiful options are much easier to reach if you have a car.
The Route
If you’re picking up a rental car from Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado Airport), the drive is straightforward and easy:
- Take the A12 across the Ponte Vasco da Gama bridge out of Lisbon.
- Merge onto the A2, following signs for E01 / Algarve / Alcácer do Sal.
- Continue on the A2 for most of the journey south.
- When you enter the Algarve region, merge onto the A22 (Via do Infante) heading toward Lagos.
- Take Exit 1 (N125) to enter the town.
How Long Does it Take?
Without stops, the drive takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes. If you leave in the morning, you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy your first day in Lagos.
Toll Roads & Costs
Both the A2 and A22 highways are toll roads. Expect to pay around €20-25 in tolls for the trip. Rental car companies usually equip vehicles with automatic toll sensors, which will charge your credit card directly. This worked perfectly for us when we made our trip, it was so convenient because we didn’t have to drive in a special lane, the sensors just pick up the signal as you drive along the highway. If you’re unsure, ask at the rental counter before you hit the road.
Things to Know Before Driving
- Gas stations are limited on the highway, so fuel up before leaving Lisbon.
- The drive is mostly flat and uneventful, but there are a few nice rolling hills along the way.
- Traffic is light outside of major holidays and summer weekends.
Pros & Cons of Driving
✅ Maximum flexibility – stop at scenic spots along the way.
✅ Fastest option (excluding flights).
✅ Great for families and groups.
❌ Costs add up – gas, tolls, and parking.
❌ Driving in an unfamiliar country may be stressful.
Taking the Lisbon to Lagos Train
Why Take the Train?
If you’d rather avoid driving, the train is a comfortable and scenic alternative. Portugal’s rail system is reliable, affordable, and a great way to soak in the Alentejo and Algarve countryside.
The Journey
Trains from Lisbon to Lagos aren’t direct, so you’ll need to transfer at Tunes. Here’s how it works:
- Catch a train from Lisbon’s Entrecampos or Oriente station to Tunes.
- Transfer to a regional train for the final leg to Lagos.
How Long Does it Take?
The total journey takes about 4 hours, including transfer time at Tunes.
How Much Does it Cost?
Ticket prices range from €20-30, depending on the type of train and how far in advance you book.
Pros & Cons of Taking the Train
✅ Relaxing & scenic – no driving stress.
✅ No tolls, fuel, or parking costs.
✅ Comfortable – more legroom than a bus.
❌ Not direct – requires a transfer at Tunes.
❌ Fewer departure times compared to buses.
Taking the Bus to Lagos From Lisbon
Why Take the Bus?
If you’re looking for the cheapest option, the bus is your best bet. It’s budget-friendly, easy to book, and gets you straight to Lagos without transfers.
Which Bus Companies Operate This Route?
Two main companies run direct buses from Lisbon to Lagos:
- Rede Expressos (Portugal’s main intercity bus company).
- FlixBus (a popular low-cost option with modern coaches).
How Long Does it Take?
The bus journey takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes.
How Much Does it Cost?
Tickets range from €8-26, depending on the time of booking. Buying in advance can save you money.
Pros & Cons of Taking the Bus
✅ Cheap – often the most affordable option.
✅ Direct – no transfers required.
✅ Comfortable enough – modern coaches with Wi-Fi.
❌ Takes longer than driving.
❌ Less flexibility – no scenic stops.
FLIGHT
Flying to Lagos (via Faro Airport)
Is Flying an Option?
Lagos doesn’t have its own airport, so if you fly, you’ll land in Faro (FAO), then continue to Lagos by train, bus, or car. The drive from the airport to Lagos was simple and easy.
Like most of our journeys through the Algarve, we just entered the destination into the GPS, and it guided us effortlessly. Even without it, navigating would have been easy since the majority of the route follows the A22, making it a straightforward drive, even for first-time visitors to the region.
Flight Details
- TAP Air Portugal runs multiple daily flights from Lisbon to Faro.
- Flight time: ~50 minutes.
- Cost: ~€40-100, depending on when you book.
Getting from Faro to Lagos
Once you land in Faro, you’ll need to:
- Rent a car and drive (~1 hour).
- Take a train (~1.5 hours, €8-12).
- Book a bus (~2 hours, €5-15).
Pros & Cons of Flying
✅ Fastest option (excluding transfer time).
✅ Best for international travelers connecting through Lisbon.
❌ More expensive.
❌ Requires an extra leg of travel from Faro to Lagos.
You can purchase tickets for your flight here.
Day Trip Tours
For a stress-free visit to Lagos, consider arranged day trips from Lisbon offered by tour companies. These packages include round-trip transportation and itineraries featuring highlights like Ponta da Piedade and Benagil Cave.
Some also include guided activities or meals, providing a well-rounded experience. Though pricier than self-planned options, these tours are perfect for those with limited time who want a convenient, hassle-free way to explore the Algarve’s beauty.
Pros: Experience the Algarve’s highlights in a day, with convenient train and bus options and iconic spots like Ponta da Piedade.
Cons: Long travel times limit exploration, and a rushed itinerary may not fully capture Lagos’s charm.
Enjoy Your Time In Lagos, Portugal
Lagos is an incredible destination to experience on its own. But it’s also a great starting point to explore the Algarve. Make sure to plan well for your trip so that you’ll get the most out of your time in Lagos and the rest of Portugal. Click here to find out what to pack and what beach near Lagos you’ll love.
