You might be free to visit today, but Sao Joao do Arade Fort hasn't always been so welcoming! Find out the story behind this stronghold and exactly what it was designed to defend.

This history-filled fortress in Lagoa is well-liked by travelers, so be sure to put it on your schedule. Don't stop there, though. There are many more places ready for you to discover after Sao Joao do Arade Fort. Rocha Beach, Benagil Beach, and Carvoeiro Beach are close by.

Plan a trip to see Sao Joao do Arade Fort

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Orange Grove Residence

$754

per person

Jan 20 - Jan 25

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (NYC) to Faro (FAO)

20/10 Exceptional! (1 review)

Viceroy At Ombria Algarve

$797

per person

Jan 15 - Jan 18

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Boston (BOS) to Faro (FAO)

18.8/10 Exceptional! (68 reviews)

The stay was amazing! Joana at the front desk was super helpful. Ana at the spa gave an amazing massage. The property is beautiful and very clean. The room was spacious and was very comfortable.

Reviewed on Oct 20, 2025

LV Premier Algarve FU1 Pool AC Sea View

Save 100% on your flight

$1,952

per person

Feb 16 - Feb 22

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (NYC) to Faro (FAO)

No reviews

Browse tours and tickets to explore Sao Joao do Arade Fort

Tours & day trips

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Algar de Benagil from Lagos

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

See all 75 activities

Day Trip from Lisbon to Algarve, Benagil, Lagos with Boat Option

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 39 activities

From Lagos: 2.5-Hour Guided Coastal Boat Tour & Grotto Visit

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

See all 32 activities

From Faro: Benagil Cave, Marinha & Carvoeiro [Full-Day Tour]

Free cancellation available

Classes & workshops

See all 15 activities

Lagos: Sailboat Trip to Ponta da Piedade

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Portimao Marina featuring a bay or harbor

Portimão Marina

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Acclaimed beaches and a pair of historic fortresses are part of this haven for super-sized yachts. Its orange and red buildings contain shops, bars and restaurants.

Grande Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Grande Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Ferragudo. Visit the shops in this quaint area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Praia da Marina

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Marina during your trip to Portimão? Wander the beautiful beaches and marina in this romantic area.

Rocha Beach

4.5/5(102 reviews)

Backed by golden-red cliffs and met by the white-flecked waves of the Atlantic, this spectacular beach is one of the Algarve’s most popular.

Rocha Beach featuring general coastal views and a beach

Portimão Harbor

Explore the waterfront in Praia da Rocha with a trip to Portimão Harbor. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.