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

Should you visit Bucharest or Lagos?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Lagos. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos

Lagos is a vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Lagos: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Lagos?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Bucharest and Lagos are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Lagos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Bucharest is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lagos. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Lagos is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Resorts?

Lagos is renowned for its resorts. However, Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. 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.

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Lagos. 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.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Beaches?

Lagos is renowned for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bucharest to see the historical old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Hiking?

Lagos is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lagos. 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.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Lagos?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lagos and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Lagos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Bucharest or Lagos Better for Families?

Lagos is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lagos is very family-friendly. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Couples?

Lagos is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Lagos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Lagos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lagos. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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

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

Visitors to Bucharest can move around easily with public transportation. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Lagos a more walkable city?

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

Bucharest is somewhat walkable. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

Lagos is not a very walkable city. 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 Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Lagos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lagos or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Lagos?

In either Bucharest or Lagos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than Bucharest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 3-5 days is enough time in Lagos.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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.

One day in Bucharest or Lagos?

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Lagos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Lagos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Lagos?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant resort town of Lagos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Lagos?

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Bucharest. 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 popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and Lagos, we can see that Bucharest 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 Bucharest Expensive? and Is Lagos Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Lagos?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Lagos in the Summer?

Both Lagos and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year.

In July, Bucharest is generally around the same temperature as Lagos. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Lagos. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Lagos in the Autumn?

Both Lagos and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bucharest is much colder than Lagos in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Lagos fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Lagos. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Lagos in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Lagos. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bucharest. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Lagos. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Lagos averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In January, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Lagos. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Lagos in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Lagos. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bucharest is generally much colder than Lagos. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Lagos. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lagos and Bucharest