14 AMAZING Things To Do In Sagres, Portugal (& Where To Eat)
If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Sagres then look no further. In this post, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about Sagres, Portugal, from what to do, where to eat and how to get there!
Located on Portugal’s most south-westerly point, and home to the last coastal town on the Algarve, lies the old fishing village of Sagres, Portugal.
Once thought to be the end of the world, Sagres’ remote and rugged landscape is a world away from the other tourist towns that can be found on Portugal’s Algarve coast such as Lagos and Albufeira.
Unlike some of the other towns found in the Algarve, Sagres is a relaxed and chilled-out surfer town, less popular with your typical holiday-makers and tourists.
Thanks to this, the town still retains an ‘untouched’ magic and charm that you will totally fall in love with.
Whilst, yes Sagres is a haven for surfers, it’s not just epic waves that can be found here. Craggy coastlines, cliffs, pristine beaches and awe-inspiring hikes also add to the appeal of this endearing town.
I didn’t expect to fall in love with Sagres as much as I did. However, after visiting Portugal more than 5 times, I can safely say it’s one of my favourite places in the country (coming in a close second to Ericeira near Lisbon) and I can’t recommend it enough.
So, what are the best things to do in Sagres? Read on below to find out.
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Sagres At A Glance
✈️ How to get there – Sagres is best accessed by flying into Faro Airport (FAO), the closest international airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Sagres, about a 1.5-hour drive along the scenic Algarve coastline. If you’re coming from Lisbon, expect a 3.5-hour drive or a combination of train and bus connections via Lagos. Renting a car is the best way to explore the region freely.
🛌🏻 How long to stay – You can experience Sagres in 1-2 days, perfect for enjoying its dramatic cliffs, historic fortress, and wild beaches. However, if you’re into surfing, hiking, or just soaking in the relaxed coastal vibe, staying 3-4 days allows you to explore hidden coves, take a boat trip, and visit nearby Algarve gems like Lagos and Praia da Cordoama.
📅 Best time to visit – Sagres is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on what you’re after! Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing and hiking. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather and great surf but also more visitors. If you’re a surfer, winter (December-February) has the best waves, though the wind can be strong.
Visit the best beaches in Sagres
One of the best things to do in Sagres has to be to visit some of the many stunning beaches found in this area.
Praia De Mareta
Praia De Mareta is the most central beach in Sagres.The best time to catch this beach is just after sunrise before the rest of the town has woken up. It’s a great place to catch some peace before you start the rest of your day.
Praia Do Martinhal
Praia De Martinhal is the place to come to try out windsurfing. Alternatively, if you just want to sunbathe all day whilst drinking sangria from the local beach bar, then this beach is also for you.
Praia De Beliche
Praia De Beliche is unarguably the most beautiful beach in Sagres. You get to enjoy a birds-eye view of the beach before heading down the cliff onto the sand. You can also hire a kayak and go exploring the caves that surround this beach. Although I must warn you, part of this beach is nudist so you might be in for a few surprises.
Praia Do Tonel
Praia Do Tonel is the best place to go surfing If that’s your thing. The only downside I would say this beach has is the fact it’s not sheltered from the wind. Whilst this may work in favour of the surfers, it’s not so great if you just want to sunbathe.
💡 PRO TIP 💡
☀️If you have time, I recommend making a trip to all of these beaches.
⛱️However, if you just have to choose from 1 or 2 then make it Praia De Beliche and Praia De Martinhal.
Book on to a surf camp
As I mentioned earlier in this post, one of the best things to do in Sagres is surfing. With Surfing being the main activity in Sagres, Portugal, there are a handful of surf schools in the area that offer week-long surf camps. Surf camps start from as little as €140.
Here are some of the best surf schools to book in Sagres:
Go for a surf lesson
Not ready to fully commit to the idea of a surf camp and would prefer to have a taster session first? Thankfully, most, if not all, of the surf schools listed above will offer 1-off private and or group surfing lessons.
Explore the coastline with a boat trip
To book one of the best boat trips in the Algarve, you will have to head to the neighbouring town of Lagos. Lagos is a 30-minute drive away. An Uber will cost you approximately €30. Alternatively, you can catch the bus for €6; however, the journey time is 60 minutes.
We booked an awesome boat trip with Discover Tours, and we honestly had the best time. The tour enabled us to see the unique auburn-coloured Algarve coastline and caves from a different perspective. We got to enjoy one too many delicious cocktails, relaxing music and also got to spend a bit of time paddleboarding in the Ocean.
To top it all off, we even saw dolphins along the way (hopefully you get just as lucky).
Go on a hike
The hiking routes in Sagres will allow you to get closer to nature and admire the rugged landscapes that this part of Portugal has to offer. There are over 10 popular hiking routes in Sagres and some of the best include:
Rota Vicentina – Sagres to Salema
This trail connects Sagres to the charming village of Salema, winding through sea cliffs, hidden coves, and rolling dunes. This hike is 7.6 km and takes just over 2 hours. This trail is Ideal for experienced hikers who love rugged terrain and stunning coastal views.
Sagres Fortaleza Circuit
This is a short and easy 3.2 km loop, perfect for a quick dose of history and scenery. With this hike, you can explore the Fortaleza de Sagres, soak in panoramic ocean views, and catch an unforgettable sunset, all in under an hour.
Praia do Tonel to Praia do Beliche
This 7 km out-and-back coastal trail takes just under 2 hours, offers dramatic cliffside views and connects two beautiful beaches. Starting at Praia do Tonel, follow the rugged coastline to the secluded Praia do Beliche, a perfect spot to relax before heading back.
If you’re keen to hike during your time in Sagres, you can find out more about these and other routes here.
Looking for more Portugal Inspo? Check out my other guides here.
Watch the sunset at Cabo Sao Vicente
Cabo Sao Vicente is the headland where Portugal reaches its most south-westerly point. This is the same point that is often referred to as the ‘end of the world’. One of the best things to do in Sagres is to watch the sunset from Cabo São Vicente.
According to the locals, this is not just one of the best places to watch the sunset in Sagres, but it’s one of the best places in all of Portugal. The sunset moments here really are magic. It feels like the whole town of Sagres descends to Cabo Sao Vicente to chill on the rugged cliff tops and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Watching the sunset at Cabo Sao Vicente was one of my favourite things to do in Sagres and should not be skipped on your itinerary. Just be sure to pack a jacket for this activity, as Cabo Sao Vicente is one of the windiest parts of Sagres.
Try your hand at windsurfing
Sagres has over 200 windy days a year, so windsurfing is a great way to take advantage of these conditions. Praia Do Martinhal is the main beach for windsurfing in Sagres. You can book windsurfing lessons and windsurfing rentals with Wind 4 All.
Lessons start from €70 and rentals start at €40. Windsurfing is one of the coolest things to do in Sagres, so make sure to give it a try!
Visit the Fortaleza Sagres
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Sagres, Fortaleza Sagres was originally built back in the 15th century to protect this coastline from North African raiders. The fortress plays an important part in Portuguese history as it’s where Henry the Navigator planned his expeditions to West Africa. Henry the Navigator was a key figure in the Age of Discovery who established a navigation school and planned expeditions that would ultimately expand Portugal’s maritime empire.
Inside the fortress, you will find a large wind compass (Rosa dos Ventos), which was thought to have been used for navigation tradition, and a small chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Graça. But the real highlight had to be the incredible ocean views from the cliff,s giving you a glimpse of why this spot was so important.
The fortress is open every day, and entrance tickets are just €3 for adults. If you’re into history or just love a good view, this is definitely one of the best places to check out in Sagres!
Book a dolphin and cave tour
If you’re looking to do something completely different in Sagre,s then this brand-new Dolphin and Caves tour is a great option. You will be able to get up close and personal (in a respectful way) with wildlife such as Dolphins, sea birds, and if you’re lucky, whales!
On top of that, you’ll also get the chance to explore caves and secret beaches that are only accessible by boat. And if that’s not enough to convince you, you’ll also get the chance to see parts of the land that date back to prehistoric times. The tour costs €60 and is 2 hours long.
Do a road trip along the Costa Vicentina
One of the most fun things to do in Sagres has to be completing a road trip along the Costa Vicentina. The Vicentina coast starts in Burgau (just east of Sagres) and stretches to Odeceixe (just north of Sagres).
The distance between Sagres and Odeceixe is just 59 KM and is a 1-hour drive. I would, however carve out a full day for this trip so that you can fully enjoy and immerse yourself in all of the viewpoints and beaches along the route.
Some of the best spots to visit along the Costa Vicentina include:
Exploring this coastline was one of the highlights of my trip to Sagres, so I highly, highly recommend it!
Go Paddleboarding
For those who prefer something a little gentler to surfing or windsurfing, then paddleboarding is a good option. You can book guided paddleboarding tours and paddleboard rentals with SUP Sagres. Tours start from €65 and board rentals start at €45.
Explore Sagres by e-bike
One of the most unique things to do in Sagres is to explore the town on an e-bike. You can rent e-bikes from Bike Rental Algarve for €35 a day and even book a sunset e-bike tour for €30. The tour takes you through hidden tracks, onto secret beaches, and ends with watching an awesome sunset.
Explore the Fort of Santo António de Belixe
Located close to Praia De Beliche lies the Fort of Santo António de Belixe. The exact time in which the fortress was built remains unknown, however, it has been fully functional since the 16th century.
The fortress was built to protect fishermen from pirates and was even damaged by an attack from Francis Drake (the famous British Explorer) in 1587. This fortress is quite unique as it also contains its very own chapel, with a domed roof (similar to those you see in Greece).
Go off-roading
This awesome sunset and Jeep off-roading tour is an unusual way to explore Sagres at sunset, and it’s honestly SO much fun. The tour will take you to Vila de Sagres, Cape of Sao Vicente, and another secret spot with 140-metre-high cliffs to see the sunset. The tour costs €60 and includes wine, sandwiches and cake! I can definitely recommend it if you are looking to do something a little different during your time in Sagres.
The best places to eat in Sagres
Sagres isn’t built up like most of the holiday towns on the Algarve, so the best bars and restaurants are dotted all over town as opposed to being along a strip or in a centre. Nevertheless, there is some great and traditional Algarve food to be enjoyed here. Some of the best restaurants in Sagres, Portugal include:
Telheiro Do Infante
Looking over Praia de Mareta, Telheiro do Infante is a wonderful place to eat seafood whilst enjoying the sunset. Grab a bottle of their ‘Dory’ wine to accompany your dinner.
A Tasca
A Tasca is another great place to enjoy traditional Portuguese food whilst watching the sunset. This restaurant looks out over Porto da Baleeira.
Picnic Sagres
Picnic Sagres is a cosy spot known for its speciality coffee and sourdough as well as it’s craft beer and natural wines. This is a great spot to either start or end your day.
The Hangout
The Hangout is popular with the surfing and backpacking community in Sagres due to its laid-back atmosphere, and of course, incredible food. Make sure to order the ‘Green Eggs’ at breakfast and for dinner, grab a pizza along with the black pork and mozzarella salad.
Three Little Birds
Three Little Birds is one of the most popular cafes in Sagres for good reason. It’s a vibrant, trendy restaurant that has a scrumptious menu that offers juicy burgers, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails in a cool, surfy atmosphere.
Vila Velha
Vila Velha is one of the top-rated restaurants in Sagres. They offer traditional Portuguese food which is perfect for those looking to sample the local cuisine. I can highly recommend the beef and chorizo skewers!
Dromedario Bistro Bar
Dromedario Bistro Bar is one of the oldest bars in Sagres (35 years and still going strong). You can come here to pick on tasty snacks and delicious cocktails.
The Laundry Lounge
The Laundry Lounge is a cosy café and bar in Sagres, known for its delicious brunch, craft cocktails, and live music. They offer a varied menu that is suitable for vegans, and they even have a sushi bar! The Laundry Lounge is also known for its live music, open mic nights, and daily yoga sessions.
Pau De Pita
If you’re looking for cocktails with an ocean view, then Pau De Pita is the place to come. Make sure to head to the rooftop.
How to get to Sagres
Flying Into The Algarve
The main airport serving the Algarve is Faro Airport (FAO), which offers direct flights from most major European cities. If you’re travelling from outside Europe, you may need to connect via Lisbon or another major European hub like Madrid or London.
Getting from Faro to Sagres
Once you land in Faro, you have several options to reach Sagres, located about 117 km (90 minutes by car) to the west:
By Car
- Renting a car from Faro Airport is the easiest way to explore the Algarve at your own pace.
- The drive to Sagres takes around 1.5 hours via the A22 motorway.
- Car rentals in Portugal are affordable, especially if booked in advance.
By Taxi or Uber
- An Uber from Faro Airport to Sagres costs approximately €90.
- A standard taxi fare will be slightly more expensive, usually around €100–€120.
By Bus
- Faro to Lagos – Take a FlixBus or EVA bus from Faro town centre to Lagos for as little as €5.
- Lagos to Sagres – From Lagos, catch a local bus to Sagres for €6.
- Tickets can be pre-booked online.
- Buses run multiple times a day, but schedules vary depending on the season.
Getting to Sagres from Lisbon
If you’re arriving via Lisbon (Humberto Delgado Airport), you have a few travel options to reach Sagres:
By Car
- The drive from Lisbon to Sagres is about 3.5 hours via the A2 and A22 motorways.
By Bus
- Direct buses operate regularly from Lisbon to Lagos, which take around 4 hours and cost €10-€25 (prices vary depending on the provider).
- From Lagos, transfer to the local bus to reach Sagres (€6).
By Train + Bus
- The train journey is scenic but takes slightly longer than the bus.
- Take an indirect train from Lisbon to Lagos (around 4 hours).
- From Lagos, board the local bus to Sagres (€6).
🚌BOOK YOUR SAGRES BUS HERE🚌
The best way to get around Sagres, Portugal
Walk
If you are planning on staying very local, then walking is fine. Most of the beaches and restaurants are within walking distance of the town centre.
Bicycle or Scooter
Sagres has several bike and scooter rental shops, offering a great alternative for exploring the area. If you’re looking to venture a little further or avoid long walks in the warm Mediterranean sun, renting a bike or scooter is a fun and convenient option. Some of the bike and scooter rental stores in Sagres, Portugal include:
Rent a Car
Renting a car is the best way to explore Sagres, Portugal, giving you the freedom to discover its stunning coastline and nearby hidden gems at your own pace. Car rentals start from just €35 per day, making it a convenient and affordable option. This is the choice I went with, and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to experience Sagres beyond the main sights!
🚗BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR HERE🚗
Where is the best place to stay in Sagres?
The top-rated hotels in Sagres are:
- Pousada De Sagres – A stylish, cliffside hotel with stunning ocean views, an outdoor pool, and a peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Sagres Good Time Apartments – Modern, self-catering apartments ideal for families or longer stays. Great location and spacious rooms.
- Memmo Baleeira – A sleek, contemporary hotel with sea views, an infinity pool, and a wellness spa. One of the best luxury stays in Sagres.
The top-rated hostels in Sagres include:
- Sagres Sun Stay – A trendy, surf-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, plus a pool and social atmosphere.
- Good Feeling – A relaxed, cosy hostel known for its friendly vibe, surf lessons, and free shuttle to the beach.
- Sagres Natura Surf Camp – A top pick for surfers, offering laid-back accommodation, yoga classes, and group surf trips.
- The Lighthouse Hostel – A vibrant, social hostel with an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and a welcoming community feel.
FAQs about Sagres
When is the best time to visit Sagres, Portugal?
Sagres is a year-round destination, but if you’re after warm, sunny weather, the best time to visit is between May and October. During the height of summer, temperatures can reach 26°C, making it perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
However, don’t be fooled by the summer sun because Sagres is one of the windiest places in Portugal, and the ocean stays chilly even in peak season. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the water, a wetsuit is a must. And for the evenings, when the wind picks up and temperatures drop, bringing a light jacket is a good idea.
Is Sagres worth visiting?
Absolutely! As I’ve mentioned before, Sagres is one of the most unique places in the Algarve. Its rugged cliffs, unspoiled nature, and laid-back atmosphere make it a must-visit. Whether you’re here for surfing, hiking, or simply enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery, you’ll find it hard to leave this laid-back town.
Where is Sagres?
Sagres is located in southwestern Portugal, in the Algarve region. In fact, it’s not just the most southwesterly point of Portugal, it’s also the most southwesterly point of mainland Europe.
Can you camp in Sagres?
Yes! Camper-vanning through Portugal is incredibly popular, and Sagres has one campsite: Orbitur Camping. This site is part of a well-known network of campgrounds across Portugal, offering a great place to park up and stay the night. You can book a pitch in advance to secure your spot.
Can you Do A Day Trip To Sagres?
Yes! Sagres makes for an easy day trip from other parts of the Algarve. It’s well-connected by car and bus from Lagos, Portimão, and Albufeira, so you can experience its stunning landscapes, historic fortress, and epic surf spots even if you’re short on time.
What is Sagres, Portugal, best known for?
Sagres is famous for its world-class surf. In the winter, waves here can reach up to 16 feet, drawing surfers from around the world. It’s also known for its dramatic cliffs, untouched beaches, and rugged natural beauty.
Why is Sagres called the ‘end of the world’?
In ancient times, Sagres was believed to be the last explored point on Earth, hence the name “The End of the World.” Standing on the cliffs, with nothing but the vast Atlantic stretching before you, it’s easy to see why. As the most southwesterly point of mainland Europe, it truly feels like the edge of civilisation.
Prepare for your trip to Sagres
🛏️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget, then make sure to check out Hostelworld.
✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!
🚆Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.
🚗Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.
🎟️Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100s of activities whilst travelling.
🦋Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.
📱Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download SIMs from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.
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- 17 Of The Very Best Restaurants In Ericeira, Portugal
- The Best Things To Do In Ericeira, Portugal
- 9 Of THE BEST Boat Trips In The Algarve, Portugal
Happy Exploring
I hope you have an incredible time uncovering all of the best things to do in Sagres. If you have any questions about anything mentioned in this blog, please feel free to reach out!
