From Lagos: A Day Trip to the Hidden Gem on the Algarve Coast 🌊
Introduction?
The charming fishing community of Ferragudo has successfully avoided the widespread development that has impacted much of the Algarve region. Given its location at the mouth of the Rio Arade estuary, directly across the water from a popular tourist destination, this is even more impressive. It has managed to keep much of its old-world charm with the white buildings, colorful details, and quaint atmosphere.
Where is Ferragudo?
It is situated on the banks of a minor branch of the main Arade estuary, which is divded by palm trees. It is located directly across from Portimo and Praia da Rocha, which is a popular tourist destination.
How to get to Ferragudo?
🚘Car?
It is a 50-minute drive from the international airport in Faro or a 30-40 minute drive from Lagos. You can either rent a car from the Faro international agencies or through a car service in Lagos. I'd recommend having a car so that you can explore more of the Algarve Coast.
🚉Train?
Getting to Ferragudo via train is relatively easy and super cheap! It will overall take around 1 hour.
Trains leave from Lagos Station nearby the city center every hour or two depending on the time of year you are visiting, but make sure to check the times in case you have plans to get back by a certain hour. It will cost around €4.40 roundtrip while one way is €2.20. The journey takes about 40 minutes in total.
Make sure to get off at the right stop - Ferragudo because if you get off at Portimao it'll be a further uber/bolt/taxi ride than previously stated.
TIP: You can buy your tickets on the day at the train station booth. They do check your tickets on the train.
🚍Bus?
Buses are the hardest way to gain access to Ferragudo and would not recommend this route.
🚢Water Taxi?
If you're in Portimao, then it is possible to take a 10-minute water taxi from there to Ferragudo. Make sure to check the times and return times.
How to get around Ferragudo?
Once you get off the train, it might throw you off that there isn't really a train station it is just a concrete platform off the road, but don't worry things are safe. You are now a 29 minute, 2.2km walk from the historical city center area. I'd recommend taking a bolt or uber to your next destination whether that be the historical city center or beaches nearby. It only costs around €3-4 to get to the town center or around €5-6 to get to the nearby beaches.
Another Option? Algarve Boat Tours
When to visit Ferragudo?
⏰Time of year? Honestly visiting the area year round is possible, with the many days of warmth and sunshine. However, the summer season can be brutally packed so it is better to go in the spring, fall, or early summer season. If you are a watersport person, such as a surfer, the summer is the perfect time for you!
⏱️Time of day? The earlier the better. I'd aim to get there between 10-11am so that you have time to explore the beaches and grab lunch before walking through the small town.
☀️Weather? As I said can be great year round, but the summer can be very hot with warm evenings.
Where to stay? 🏡
If you're looking for budgetting?
If you're looking for something a little more luxurious? or boutique?
Where did I stay?
This was honestly super adorable and the pictures don't do it justice. It is a close walk to the beach and Old Town. Would highly recommend 10/10!!
Sample Itinerary? 🗺️
Stop 1 (9:00-11am):
Grab breakfast in Old Town Lagos nearby your accommodations before a long day. I would recommend here if it is close enough to you:
Stop 2 (11am-3/4pm):
Take a walk over to the Lagos Train Station and grab a ticket for the next best time, or jump in your car and head on over to Ferragudo. Refer back to the transportation piece earlier for more information. I would recommend going to the beach first and here are a few options to visit:
If you have a car another option is:
Stop 3 (3/4pm-5pm):
Now it's time to take a stroll through the historic small streets of Ferragudo. Here are some spots to take a look at, but honestly just wandering is the perfect idea since it is such a small town:
Stop 4 (5pm-7pm):
Time to grab some early dinner so you can head back to Lagos with enough time to see the sunset, grab drinks, or relax. Here are some options for lunch and/or dinner food:
Hope you have the best time in Ferragudo! ☀︎
Are you looking for more Lagos help? Check out this guide below!
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