A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Lagos for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Arachova or Lagos?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Lagos, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Lagos

Lagos is a adventure-filled, dramatic, and vibrant resort town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Arachova and Lagos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Arachova or Lagos?

Both Lagos and Arachova have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Lagos is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Arachova and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Arachova is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Lagos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lagos and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Lagos is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Lagos is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Lagos?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Lagos? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Lagos

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Lagos can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Lagos has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city offers some of the best food in the Algarve. The old town has plenty of restaurants that are both affordable and high quality. Seafood is the obvious choice, but you'll also find tapas, paellas, and local dishes such as cataplana (a seafood and chorizo stew). Most restaurants serve up a local fish of the day as well as prawns and other seafood items.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Lagos

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Lagos.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Lagos for the nightlife scene. The city has a mellow vibe, even at night, but that's not to say there aren't good parties going on, particularly during the peak of the travel season. There's a local charm to the nightlife scene here and you'll likely start to recognize other party-goers. Many of the bars are housed in character-filled old buildings which can feel a bit cramped, but that's all part of the charm.


Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Lagos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. As a resort town, you'll find no shortage of places to stay in the area. If you don't have a car, your best options are in the historic center. If transportation isn't a concern, then you'll find plenty of great resorts in the Marina, Meia Praia, Dona Ana Beach, Camilo Beach, and Porto de Mós Beach.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Lagos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. With its unique rock formations and caves, there are many spots where you can snorkel or scuba dive nearby. There's also sparkling blue waters and plenty of marine life including lobster, shrimp, anemones, octopuses, and brightly colored fish.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Lagos are among the best in the world. The beaches are long, flat and sandy with beautifully dramatic rock formations. The largest beach in the area is Meia Praia and arguably one of the best beaches is Praia Dona Ana. For convenience, Praia da Batata is the closest beach to town. Praia de Porto de Mós is one of the more quiet beaches, but it's still along a bus line. For beautiful nature head to either Praia dos Estudantes or Praia dos Pinheiros.

Arachova is not a beach destination.


Is Arachova or Lagos Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova is well known for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova and Lagos are both places where visitors can find great hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Many visitors go to Lagos for the hiking trails. The city makes an excellent base for exploring some of the nearby hikes and walks. Favorite places to hike include the famous Ponte de Piedade Trail, which is the last part of the multi-day Fisherman's Trail. It takes you by many beautiful rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Another scenic hike is The Alvor Walkways, which is a series of boardwalks through sand dunes.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Lagos?

Arachova
Lagos

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lagos and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lagos. The town has a long history of local artisan crafts. You can head to the seafront promenade and find local traditional items such as ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry.


Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Families?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lagos is an amazing family-friendly resort town to visit. You can spend days hanging out on the beautiful beaches, but there are so many other activities that the whole family will enjoy. Explore the caves in kayaks, take surfing lessons, head for the zoo, or go dolphin watching. There are also plenty of playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Couples?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Lagos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The beaches and hotels in the area offer a truly romantic setting for couples, whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's weekend getaway. Spend some time on the beach or go kayaking through the caves. Get a spa treatment at a luxury hotel or go wine tasting through the countryside. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunsets on a sunset boat cruise while sipping a glass of local wine.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Lagos

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The area is a favorite for backpackers who come to hang out on the beaches during the day or party late into the night after the sun goes down. There are plenty of hostels around town and many offer a social vibe where it's easy to meet other travelers.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Lagos Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova is a good destination for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lagos. The area has buses, but they are limited in where they go. There is also reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Is Arachova or Lagos a more walkable city?

Arachova
Lagos

Arachova is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Lagos is not a very walkable town. Most people prefer to have a car as some areas are very hilly and many resorts are outside of town. Depending on your fitness level and motivation, you may be able to get by without a vehicle, but it is generally not recommended.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Lagos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lagos or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Lagos?

In either Arachova or Lagos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than Arachova because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 3-5 days is enough time in Lagos.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Arachova. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lagos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lagos than Arachova. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lagos that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lagos than Arachova if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lagos.


  • How many days in Arachova or Lagos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Lagos 3-5

One day in Arachova or Lagos?

In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful resort town of Lagos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Lagos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Lagos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Lagos?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lagos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Lagos?

You'll find museums and skiing around the beautiful destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lagos is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Lagos or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Lagos is €118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Lagos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Lagos 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Lagos 122
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Lagos

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Lagos? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Lagos


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lagos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Lagos 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lagos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:

  • Car or Van Departure Transfer Meia Praia or Lagos to Faro Airport: $78
  • Faro Airport to/from Lagos/Private Transfer max 4 passengers: $118
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer With Options To or From Lagos: $128
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer to/from Monchique or Lagos: $103
  • Private Transfer from Faro Airport Up to 8 passengers: $132
  • Private Transfer from Lisbon Airport Up to 8 pax: $487
  • Private Transfer to Faro Airport (60 min): $107
  • Private Transfer from Budens to Faro (FAO) Airport: $130
  • Private Transfer from Gil Eannes Square to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Praia da Luz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Quinta Falzina to Faro (FAO) Airport: $141
  • Private Transfer from Santa Maria (Lagos) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Lagos?

Prices for flights to both Lagos and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Lagos 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lagos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lagos.

  • Classic Food Tour - Lagos: $97
  • Full-Day West Coast Adventure with Hiking, Sunset, Dinner & Wine : $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Lagos 26

Tours and Activities in Lagos

Here are a few actual costs in Lagos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Lagos Scavenger Hunt and Sights Private Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Guided Walking Tour with Brodie from Australia: $16
  • Ponta da Piedade Rock Formations Guided Boat Tour: $19
  • Tour to go inside the Ponta da Piedade Caves/Grottos and see the beaches - Lagos: $20
  • Lagos Street Art: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Ponta da Piedade Grotto Tour: $22
  • Boat Tours: $27
  • Ponta da Piedade Grotto Tour in Lagos, Algarve: $27
  • Coast Cruise Trip to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos: $29
  • NATURA TOUR - Countryside of Lagos - ECO TUK and LOCAL guide: $29
  • TUK TUK Tour Lagos Old& New Town& Beaches- Best way to know: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Lagos 6.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Lagos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:

  • Lagos Wine Tasting and Tapas: $44
  • Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique with Wine Tasting: $86


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Lagos, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Lagos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Lagos?

Lagos has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Lagos, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Lagos?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Lagos in the Summer?

Both Lagos and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Lagos in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Lagos fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Lagos. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Lagos 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Lagos in the Autumn?

Both Lagos and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Arachova is cooler than Lagos. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lagos averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Lagos. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Lagos 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Lagos in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Lagos. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Arachova is generally much colder than Lagos. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In January, Arachova usually receives more rain than Lagos. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Lagos 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Lagos in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Lagos. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year.

Arachova is much colder than Lagos in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lagos fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Lagos. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Lagos 28°C (82°F)

Typical Weather for Lagos and Arachova

Arachova Lagos
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 29°C (84°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 29°C (84°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 316 mm (12.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 243 mm (9.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 26°C (79°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)