An Extensive conventional bus service operates in Algarve. These are generally reliable and easy to use, although publicity is non-existent.

Tickets are bought in advance from kiosks and given to the driver upon boarding the bus. For local routes, tickets can be purchased directly with the driver. Each passenger pays according to the distance traveled to specific stops. There's also a clean and efficient bus service that serves Praia da Luz and the central bus stop is located next to the church.

Most buses from Lisbon to Lagos operate from the "Sete Rios" terminal, beside the metro and suburban train stations of the same name.

Bus services are of four general types

Alta Qualidade:  A fast deluxe category offered by some companies.
Carreiras:  Marked 'CR', slow and stopping at every crossroad.
Expressos:  Comfortable, fast buses between major cities.
Rápidas:  Quick regional buses.

This is a very practical means of transportation and much cheaper than a taxi. Unlike taxis, you cannot hail and be picked up by a bus. In large city conglomerations, there's little reason to take municipal buses, as most attractions are within walking distances.