Updated: February 7, 2025

 

lagos portugal real estate

One of the real gems of the Algarve region,  Lagos is not to be missed and keeps visitors coming back for more year after year. With unique rock formations, long sandy beaches, and luxury properties, why not dive into the Lagos real estate market and take a permanent vacation amongst the sea and the sun?

Our article on Algarve Portugal Real Estate provides you with everything you need to know about buying real estate in the south of Portugal. This article will focus on Lagos, one of the most highly sought-after parts of the Algarve.

We’ll run over what makes Lagos Portugal real estate so attractive, both for homebuyers and incoming investors. Following this, we’ll provide insights into the types of houses for sale in Lagos Portugal, what it is like to live in Lagos, and practical information that should prove useful for you.

An Introduction to Lagos, Portugal

As one of the most visited areas in the country, Lagos, in the Western Algarve region, has it all. From turquoise waters and top-quality beach resorts to incredible cuisine – including a mix of fine dining restaurants and family-owned restaurants – buying property in Lagos, Portugal, is the ultimate dream for many.

The most populous areas in Lagos are by the coast, where locals are primarily involved in the tourism and services sectors. Further inland, you can bask in the peace and quiet of the region. Here, agriculture and forestry remain the main focus of work for the locals, although you will be able to find properties in very calm areas without the footfall of tourists.

Even in the main coastal areas, however, Lagos has not succumbed to mass tourism. The city retains its character and charm with cobbled streets and a welcoming atmosphere. With plenty of things to do and a sublime climate, you will always be kept busy. However, if you prefer to simply sit back in blissful relaxation, Lagos can certainly cater to this need too.

When buying property in this part of Portugal, it is worth having a real estate agent in Lagos assist you with the purchase.

The Allure of Lagos: How This Charming City is Taking Center Stage

Lagos has been steadily emerging as one of the most desirable locations to relocate to in the Algarve region, particularly among American buyers. The high quality of life, sublime weather, and stunning properties – many of which are new builds that come with ocean views – have firmly placed Lagos on the map for expats from all walks of life, including retirees, families, and investors.

As many seek a safe country to relocate to, Portugal – and Lagos in particular – ticks all the boxes. Alongside this, given the fact that Lagos is much more affordable than many cities in the US and Western Europe, you get a lot more for your money.

The popularity of investing in real estate in Lagos looks set to continue to place Lagos as a top location for foreign buyers in the coming years, with strong potential to capitalize on strong rental yields and capital appreciation.

History of Lagos

Lagos has a rich history dating back 2,000 years. Lagos was the early home of the Carthaginians, who recruited Celtic tribesmen in their conflicts against the Romans in the Punic Wars. The name “Lagos” is derived from a Celtic settlement.

From the Romans to the Visigoths, to the Byzantines, and then to the Moors, Lagos has changed hands (and names) over the years. Although the old Portuguese town was much destroyed by the earthquake and tsunami of 1755, Lagos still retains its historic character and endless charm.

Why invest in Portugal Lagos real estate?

Lagos, in the Western Algarve, has long been a firm favorite with expats, tourists, and investors. In 2024, the average asking price for a property was €5,066 per square meter. Note that these are asking prices, and the sales price is often lower than this. While Lagos tends to be one of the higher-priced areas in the Algarve, in comparison to its European neighbors, you can find that the average price for properties is usually quite reasonable.

As a well-connected region with excellent services, amenities, and beautiful landscapes, Lagos certainly has expensive areas to invest in, yet this hasn’t stopped a steady flock of people from snapping up properties here. What’s more, Lagos Portugal real estate is very favorable for investors as the region is a tourist honeypot. Investors looking for short-term rentals should have no problems with finding tenants, plus long-term rentals are also an option if you are looking to rent your property out on a longer-term basis. Algarve real estate yields stand at 5.56 percent, highlighting that the region is a profitable investment.

When it comes to Portugal as a whole, the country is one of the safest countries in the world, ranking seventh in the 2024 Global Peace Index. There are also certain planning permissions in Portugal whereby the government seeks to preserve the country’s natural beauty. This is an attractive quality for homebuyers and investors alike.

If you want to buy property in Lagos, there are two ingredients to a successful purchase – working with an experienced local real estate professional and an Algarve real estate lawyer. They will make sure your buying journey is as stress-free as possible and that you comply with all legal requirements.

Take a look at our guide to buying property in the Algarve to kickstart your journey!

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Real Estate Lagos: Property Types

You can find many different property types in the Algarve, and Lagos is no different. You will find beach houses, villas, and apartments for sale in Lagos, plus many more. You can also come across luxury Lagos homes for sale, where you can have your own private swimming pool, rooftop terrace, gym, and private security. Because of this, many celebrities have come to call the Algarve home – indeed, this taste of luxury with sweeping views of the Atlantic could well be one of the finest combinations out there.

Below are some common types of properties that you will come across in Lagos:

Apartments

Apartments in Lagos range from modern, luxury units with ocean views to more traditional styles. Many apartments in Lagos come with amenities such as pools, gyms, and secure parking. They are popular for both permanent residences and vacation rentals due to their convenience and proximity to the city center and beaches.

Villas

Villas are standalone homes, often with private gardens and pools. These properties vary in size and style, from contemporary designs to classic Portuguese architecture. They are ideal for families or those seeking more privacy and outdoor space.

Quintas

Quintas are traditional country houses, often set on larger plots of land. These properties are perfect for those looking for a rural lifestyle while not being too far from the amenities of Lagos. Most quintas will be located a little outside of Lagos itself.

Penthouse apartments

Penthouse apartments are luxurious units situated on the top floors of buildings, offering expansive views of the city or coastline. These properties are highly sought after for their exclusive feel, large terraces, and often high-end finishes and amenities.

Practical Information about Lagos

Lagos is sandwiched between the central Algarve, where you have the “Golden Triangle” of luxury properties, and Sagres, where you can experience the rugged beauty of nature. Perfectly positioned between the two, Lagos offers excellence – whether it’s the unique landscapes and incredible cuisine or if you simply want to wake up with a morning coffee and watch the glimmering ocean from your beach house.

Here, we’ll provide you with some practical information on Lagos. We’ll delve into the perks of the region, the lifestyle, and insider tips and tricks.

Lifestyle in Lagos

Investing in real estate in Lagos guarantees an array of advantages. Firstly, it is extremely easy to stay active in Lagos. With more than 300 days of sunshine per day and beautiful landscapes, just heading out your door and going for a walk is a pleasure. You will be able to meet fellow expats at a range of activities. This ranges from golf to yoga, watersports to cooking classes – indeed, the list of things to do goes on and on.

Watersports in Lagos are very popular. With yachts to head out onto the sea, very good surf spot locations, and where you can weave in and out of the unique cave and rock formations in a kayak, for watersports enthusiasts, there is no greater place than Lagos. For keen golfers, you will be pleased to know that there are several top golf spots.

Lagos offers many tourist attractions, such as boat tours, beautiful beaches, and many top restaurants. Nonetheless, the city is not as busy as the popular resorts of the central Algarve, such as Albufeira or Portimão.

Lagos also has very good seafood and fish specialties. Living in the area, you will quickly become well-accustomed to brilliant produce. From the sweet Algarve oranges to the crisp white wines, the food and wine in the region are incredible. You also have many exceptional fine dining restaurants where you can enjoy sublime food with perfect views of the ocean.

Climate in Lagos

Lagos experiences very warm summers and mild winters. It is common to have 12 hours of sun in the summer months and temperatures of 37 Degrees C (98 Degrees F). The temperature rarely drops below 6 Degrees C (44 Degrees F ) in winter.

Beaches in Lagos

In all the Algarve region, the Western Algarve is home to some of the most stunning beaches and one of the main reasons why tourists flock to Lagos and foreigners buy property. There is the 4km long Meia Praia, the gorgeous Praia de Porto Mós, and the picturesque Praia de Dona Ana. Also, you have Praia do Camilo, situated among truncated cliffs, where you have to walk down 200 steps to be blessed with the beautiful beach below.

However, it’s not just about the renowned beaches in Lagos. You also have beautiful landscapes, such as the iconic Ponte de Piede Cliffs and the Bengali Caves.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

  • Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
  • Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
  • Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
  • Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
  • Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.

Frequently Asked Questions about Portugal Lagos Real Estate:

Yes, as a popular tourist destination, Lagos is a good investment hub with a high potential for strong returns. Finding homes and apartments for sale in Lagos should not be too difficult, and the area has a vibrant real estate market. If you are looking for rental investment properties, you should get a nice return on your investment.

If you are considering commercial properties, you will also find many options available. Commercial properties include hotel projects, serviced apartments, and resorts.

Yes, you will be able to find both luxurious and cheap property for sale in Lagos, situated in the Western Algarve. Many of the properties also come with their own swimming pool. There are ample activities to meet fellow expats, a strong healthcare infrastructure where English is widely spoken, and many beautiful properties. In all the Algarve region, there are many excellent golf courses, so keen golfers will be able to get their golfing fix.  

Yes, it is relatively straightforward for foreigners to purchase property in Portugal. We recommend working with an experienced professional when house hunting in Lagos. Note that if you are looking to live permanently in Portugal, you may need a visa to stay in the country. See our article on securing residency in Portugal for more information.

Yes, Lagos, in the Western Algarve, is an excellent place to live. Lagos has some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, a fascinating history, a vibrant café and nightlife culture, and an abundance of scenic natural areas. Whatever your interests, you’ll never be short on things to do. The best attractions and activities are easily accessible and reasonably priced in Lagos. 

In all the Algarve region, you should find the cost of living to be quite affordable compared to other seaside areas in other Western European countries. Obviously, if you have your own swimming pool or private gym, this will increase the costs.

The real estate market in Lagos in the Western Algarve, as with many places and Portugal, has moved from strength to strength. A quick search for “houses for sale Lagos Portugal” will give you an overview of the market. While property prices in Lagos are on the higher end of the spectrum, if you are considering renting out property, you’ll find rental yields to be quite high. Given the popularity of Lagos with expats, you will also find commercial properties to be an excellent investment.

The average price for properties in Lagos is quite expensive when compared with other areas in Portugal. However, compared with other European countries, property prices can be quite reasonable.  

Real estate prices in Lagos, Portugal vary based on location and property type, with coastal properties generally higher.

In 2024, the average asking price for a property was €5,066 per square meter. Note that this is the asking price and the transaction price can be significantly lower than this or, in less frequent cases, higher.

Foreigners can buy property in Lagos, Portugal without restrictions, enjoying the same rights as local buyers.

The Lagos real estate market offers a diverse range of properties, including apartments, villas, waterfront properties, and commercial properties. You’ll also find many luxury properties with a private swimming pool, gyms, and security in Lagos and the Western Algarve.

Yes, you should be able to rent out your property in Portugal. If you are considering renting it out in the short term, you will need to secure an Alojamento Local License. Bear in mind that there are currently restrictions on getting a license for short-term rentals, although the new government looks set to revoke some of these restrictions.

If you are considering buying to let, you can find out more in our article: Buy-to-Let: An Overview.

Yes, investing in real estate in Lagos, Portugal, is considered favorable due to its attractive tourism sector, which continues to grow. Compared to other seaside areas in Western Europe, you will also find the average price of properties to be quite reasonable.