Last Updated on September 24, 2024
Ferragudo is a small town right on the Arade estuary in the Algatve, across from the city of Portimão. Spending 1 day in Ferragudo is the perfect amount of time to get to know this beautiful, Portuguese fishing town.
Ferragudo started out as a fishing village, but over the years, it’s become a destination for tourists. The town today has a traditional feel, with whitewashed homes, winding streets lined with flowers, a historic castle, and even a beach.
Although tourism has become popular in Ferragudo, fishing continues to be a key industry in the town. In the mornings, you’ll see fishermen along the river pulling up their nets full of fish. And of course, Ferragudo is the perfect spot to try fresh Portuguese sardines.
On a recent trip to the Algarve, my parents and I decided to plan a few day trips from Lagos. Ferragudo was at the top of our list, and it did not disappoint! We got up bright and early and made the quick drive there.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to visit Ferragudo from Lagos, and how to spend 1 day in Ferragudo.
- Need a car rental for your Algarve adventures? Discover Cars compares the prices for a vehicle from a variety of suppliers to ensure you get the cheapest rate, and you can reserve your car rental in advance. Reserve a car rental here!
- A Brief History of Ferragudo
- How to Visit Ferragudo From Lagos
- Best Time to Visit Ferragudo
- Best Things to Do in Ferragudo
- Know Before You Go to Ferragudo
- Enjoy Your Day Trip to Ferragudo from Lagos
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A Brief History of Ferragudo
The history of Ferragudo stretches back to even before the 1500s. Because of its position along an estuary. An estuary is a partially enclosed, coastal water body where freshwater from rivers mixes with salt water from the ocean. This position meant that Ferragudo could be accessed from the sea.
The Phoenicians would have visited from 1200 to 600 BC, followed by the Greeks, who took over trade in the region. Then, the Carthaginians would have arrived, followed by the Romans. Because of access to the sea, Ferragudo was the perfect place for the Romans to make “garum,” a sauce made of fish.
In 1520, Queen Dona Leonor agreed to the request by the city of Silves to establish a settlement at Ferragudo. The central square of Ferragudo today is named after her. Ferragudo’s local economy grew from the fishing industry and agriculture inland.
Until the late 20th century, Ferragudo remained a fishing community that depended on seasonal employment along the Arade River. But in recent decades, tourism in the Algarve region grew, including in Ferragudo. In 1999, Ferragudo was elevated from the designation of a village, to a town.
How to Visit Ferragudo From Lagos
How to visit Ferragudo from Lagos? There’s several ways to make this trip! You can travel between the two Algarve towns by train, car, or taxi.
How far is Ferragudo from Lagos?
Ferragudo is about 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Lagos. It takes about 25 minutes to go from Lagos to Ferragudo by train, and 30 minutes to go by car.
Lagos to Ferragudo by train
Comboios De Portugal operates a train from Lagos to Ferragudo. Tickets cost a couple euro and the journey takes about 25 minutes. The train runs both directions, several times a day.
Tickets must be bought before boarding, at the train stations. The Lagos train station is by the marina, a 15 minute walk from Lagos Old Town.
The Ferragudo train station is a little further out. It’s about a 30 minute walk from the station to the center of the old town. But, the walk is really beautiful! Alternatively, take a short taxi ride to the center.
Lagos to Ferragudo by car
The drive from Lagos to Ferragudo is an easy 30 minutes, making Ferragudo a perfect day trip. To go from Lagos to Ferragudo by car, hop on the N125, and then take the exit toward Estômbar/Zona Portuária Porto.
- Need a car rental for your Algarve adventures? Discover Cars compares the prices for a vehicle from a variety of suppliers to ensure you get the cheapest rate, and you can reserve your car rental in advance. Reserve a car rental here!
Lagos to Ferragudo by taxi
If you don’t mind spending some money on a taxi to take you to Ferragudo from Lagos, this is a good option. Just beware that the drive between towns is about 30 minutes, and so the taxi will cost quite a lot.
If you’re traveling with a group, it may be a more affordable option. You can also lessen the cost by taking a bus from Lagos to Portimão, and getting a taxi from there.
Where is there parking in Ferragudo?
There are free parking spaces all throughout Ferragudo. Often, you’ll find convenient spaces on Rua Infante Dom Henrique, just a short walk from Rainha D. Leonor Square. There’s also parking along R. Infante Santo. Ferragudo is a popular town to day trip to, so for the best parking, you’ll want to head there first thing in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Ferragudo
Ferragudo has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you prefer sunny, hot days, then the best time to visit is during high season, between late May and early September.
If you prefer cooler days, the best time to visit is in late fall, winter, or spring. Traveling Portugal at this time means you’ll encounter less crowds, and have an easier time booking tours, accommodations, and restaurants.
Even in the winter, Ferragudo (and all of the Algarve) have plenty of beautifully sunny days, and the temperatures stay mild.
Best Things to Do in Ferragudo
Ferragudo may be small, but there’s plenty to see in this Algarve town! You can easily fill up a day with the below list of things to do in Ferragudo.
1. Wander Ferragudo’s Beautiful Streets
Ferragudo is the perfect town to wander without a plan. Bring your camera along as you explore the narrow, cobblestone streets. You’ll come across traditionally painted homes, Portuguese doorways, and lots of beautiful flowers (particularly in spring and summer!).
Be sure to wander over to Rua Dr. Luiz António dos Santos. This narrow street was my personal favorite because it’s lined with colorfully painted houses and doors, as well as trees with blooming flowers.
Another notable spot is a small street where you’ll find a beautiful, blue painted tile mural. The street connects Rua Infante Santo to Rua Vasco da Gama. To find it, walk to Casa do Pescador on Rua Vasco da Gama. Walk eastward past the Casa, and you’ll come across an off-shoot small staircase. Just walk down the few steps and look to your left to find the mural.
After admiring the mural, go down to Rua Infante Santo. Here is where you’ll see local fishermen pulling up the nets in the morning.
2. Relax in Rainha D. Leonor Square
Praça Rainha Dona Leonor is the main square in Ferragudo. It’s a quaint little square where you’ll find restaurants with terraces, benches to sit on, and if you fancy ice cream, this is the spot to get it!
If you stay into the evening in Ferragudo, swing by Rainha D. Leonor Square for a drink on one of the terraces. If you’re lucky, there may be live music in the square.
Looking for lunch? Walk from the square down Rua Infante Santo, towards the water. To your right you’ll see the estuary, but to your left – plenty of seafood restaurants to choose from! Pop into Borda do Cais for a lunch of fresh fish.
3. Take in the Views at Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
Above the town at the top of a small hill, is Ferragudo’s church. Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição is an original church that dates back several hundred years.
Records show that it was renovated in 1520, but unfortunately, that structure no longer exists as it was destroyed in the Great Earthquake that struck Portugal in 1755.
After the earthquake, the church was rebuilt, and that’s the church you see today. The church was built in a Baroque style, very similar to other churches you’ll see around the Algarve.
While the church itself is worth seeing, you’ll also want to visit it for the views from the top of the hill that the church sits on. A few steps from Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição you’ll find a garden lined with benches. From there you’ll have views of the sea, the estuary, and the city of Portimao on the other side of the water.
4. Lounge on a Ferragudo Beach
Ferragudo has two beaches: Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande. Both are a short 15 minute walk from the center of Ferragudo, with Praia da Angrinha being the closer one.
Both beaches are great options for a day of lounging in the sun, and swimming in the river. Neither of them get especially busy, the water is calm thanks to the estuary, and the water doesn’t get deep quickly (a good beach for kids!).
5. See Fort of São João de Arade
This fort, also called Castelo de São João de Arade, is found in between Ferragudo’s two beaches. This fortress dates back to the early 17th century. It was built to take advantage of a strategic location. The castle is positioned so that it could help defend and control the Arade river.
In 1896 the castle was abandoned and put up for sale. Today, it’s privately owned, and so it isn’t possible to visit inside. Instead, you can go down to Praia da Angrinha for nice views of Castelo de São João de Arade.
6. Take an Algarve Boat Tour From Ferragudo
While in Ferragudo, you can take a boat tour! Although a few operators depart from Ferragudo, many operate out of Portimao, which is just across the estuary. Both are convenient for catching your tour.
If you pick a tour departing from Portimao, there is a water taxi that transports people across the estuary. The trip only takes 10 minutes!
Take a boat trip to Silves and back. Ferragudo is positioned on the Arade estuary, downstream from the historic Algarve town of Silves. Several tour operators run scenic boat trips up the Arade river to Silves. The trip typically includes a return boat ride, with time allowed in Silves so you can explore.
Go on a coastal boat tour. Other boat trips leave from Ferragudo to explore the Algarve coastline. These tours will take you along the beautiful coast to famous Algarve sites like Benagil cave. You can organize this tour out of Ferragudo, or by crossing over to Portimao, which has a larger harbor.
Here are two boat tour options that depart from Portimao:
Portimao: Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves
This Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves from Portimao is unique because it combines a cruise on a catamaran with a kayaking experience! You’ll enjoy a cruise along the Algarve coastline, all the way to the Benagil Caves. During the cruise the crew will brief you on kayak equipment, skills, and safety.
When the catamaran arrives at Albandeira Beach, you’ll transfer into your kayak and paddle to the famous Benagil sea cave. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore other coastal caves.
This Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves from Portimao includes:
- Kayak, paddles, and life jacket
- Cruise transfer to the starting point
- Professional crews
- Experienced local guide
- Insurance
From Portimao: Private Benagil Cave Sunset Boat Trip
RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours
If you’re looking to have a private boat tour in the Algarve, this one’s for you. This tour is pricier than the others, but if it’s split among a group (up to 8 people) the price is reasonable.
This private sunset boat tour departs from Portimao and cruises along the coast to Benagil Cave and Benagil Beach. You’ll get to lounge on the bow of a little speedboat, go for a swim, and of course, take in incredible views of the Algarve coast.
At the end of the tour, the boat will head to the perfect spot for you and your pals to take in the gorgeous sunset.
The private Benagil Cave sunset boat trip includes:
- Private boat
- Life vests
- Guide
- Bluetooth radio system
- Restroom onboard
Know Before You Go to Ferragudo
What is Ferragudo known for?
Ferragudo is known for being a traditional Algarve fishing village. People visit this town to see its whitewashed homes, the town’s castle, beautiful flowers, winding streets, and fishing boats.
How long should you spend in Ferragudo?
Spending one day in Ferragudo is common. The town is small, which is why it’s a popular day trip from Lagos. In one day, you can see all the highlights of Ferragudo. If you have more time to spend, stay a little longer. Spending more than one day in Ferragudo will give you more insight into life in the town, and enable you to enjoy Ferragudo at a slower pace.
Is Ferragudo worth visiting?
Yes, Ferragudo is worth visiting for the experience of a traditional Algarve town. It’s a peaceful fishing village to explore on foot. In Ferragudo you can wander quaint streets, see the local castle, dine in the main square, and lounge on the town’s beach.
Is there a market in Ferragudo?
There is a market in Ferragudo every second Sunday of the month. On that day, the riverside area of the town comes alive with vendors selling their goods. The Ferragudo Flea Market is known to be a great market for finding and buying antiques.
Does Ferragudo have a beach?
Yes, Ferragudo has two beaches. Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande in Ferragudo are white sand beaches, on the eastern side of the River Arade, just a short walk from the center of town. Both beaches have good swimming because the waves aren’t big. They both have restaurants, toilets, and sunbeds and umbrellas for hire.
Enjoy Your Day Trip to Ferragudo from Lagos
I made the day trip to Ferragudo from Lagos on a sunny day in late March. My parents and I hopped in their rental car, and we arrived in town in the morning. We had a perfect day of exploring Ferragudo’s streets, popping into little shops, watching the fishermen, and taking in scenic views from the hilltop by Ferragudo church.
It may have been the time of year – March is still considered low season in the Algarve – but we were surprised by how quiet the town was. There weren’t too many tourists around, which made it possible to really take in the sights, and observe local life. This is one of the benefits of visiting Portugal in winter!
Now that you know how to visit Ferragudo from Lagos, I hope you’ll make the trip to see this special Algarve town.
More on Algarve from Pina Travels:
- How to Day Trip to Silves From Lagos
- 10 of the Best Boat Tours in Algarve (2023 Guide)
- 13 of the Best Algarve Beaches
- 10 of the Best Day Trips From Lagos
Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism, where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here.
