Ponte da Bandeira Fort Tours and Activities

Lagos featuring a sandy beach, a sunset and general coastal views


Explore this intriguing fortress and enjoy the excellent views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean from the museum’s terrace.

The Ponte da Bandeira Fort is a majestic and well-preserved 17th-century structure at the mouth of the Bensafrim River in central Lagos. It has a robust, rectangular form, having been constructed to fend off pirates and Spanish fleets. Visit the fort’s museum that provides information about Portuguese discoveries.

Enter the impressive structure via the large drawbridge extending across the fort’s moat. Reach the courtyard at the heart of the fort and admire the quaint blue mosaic tiles of the chapel devoted to Santa Barbara, patron saint of miners and artillery soldiers.

The museum contains many exhibits relating to Portuguese discoveries. See the large models of caravels, which are unusual Iberian boats. Learn about the region’s maritime history through the enlightening exhibits. Marvel at the remarkable metal sculptures and see the collection of old weather vanes. The top of the fort has a viewing platform overlooking the water from the marina to the sea. Capture photos of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean.

The stone carving above the main door states that the fort was constructed between 1679 and 1690. Find out via the exhibits and docents about the history and uses of the structure over time. It initially served to protect the mouth of the river and the harbor area from attack. Later, it was a warehouse for military and maritime supplies, before becoming a museum.

The entry fee for the fortress includes access to the museum and chapel. The complex opens Tuesday through Sunday from morning until late afternoon, with a short break at noon.

The Ponte da Bandeira Fort is at the point where the mouth of the Bensafrim River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Walk along the coastal promenade past the historic center to get to this scenic gem. Make sure to see Lagos Marina, the Edge of the Port and the Governor’s Castle in this district.

Plan a trip to see Ponte da Bandeira Fort

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pestana Alvor Park
Viceroy At Ombria Algarve
Pestana Dom João II Hotel Beach & Golf Resort

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Ponte da Bandeira Fort

Carvi Beach Hotel
Carvi Beach Hotel
3 out of 5
Alameda Dr. Armando Soares Ribeiro, Praia Dona Ana, Apartado 33, Lagos
Carvi Beach Hotel
Cascade Wellness Resort
Cascade Wellness Resort
5 out of 5
Rua das Ilhas, Lagos, Algarve
Cascade Wellness Resort
Tivoli Lagos
Tivoli Lagos
4 out of 5
Rua Antonio Crisogono dos Santos, Lagos
Tivoli Lagos
WOT Lagos Montemar
WOT Lagos Montemar
3 out of 5
Rua da Torraltinha Lote 33-34, Lagos, Algarve
WOT Lagos Montemar
Belmar Spa & Beach Resort
Belmar Spa & Beach Resort
4 out of 5
Estrada do Porto De Mos, Lagos
Belmar Spa & Beach Resort
Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory
Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory
4 out of 5
Rua Sacadura Cabral 8, Lagos
Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory
Lagosmar Hotel
Lagosmar Hotel
2 out of 5
Rua Dr. Faria e Silva, N13, Lagos
Lagosmar Hotel
Agua Hotels Vila Branca
Agua Hotels Vila Branca
3 out of 5
Rua Santa Casa da Misericordia, Torraltinha, Lagos
Agua Hotels Vila Branca
Charming Residence & Guest House Dom Manuel I (Adults only)
Charming Residence & Guest House Dom Manuel I (Adults only)
3 out of 5
Rua Gago Countinho LT.37, Lagos
Charming Residence & Guest House Dom Manuel I (Adults only)
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.