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

Should you visit Helsinki or Lagos?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Lagos can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos

Lagos is a dramatic, vibrant, and beautiful resort town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Helsinki and Lagos: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Lagos?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Helsinki 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, and hiking, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Lagos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Helsinki is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lagos has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Helsinki is not a resort destination.

Lagos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Helsinki is not a resort destination.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Helsinki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lagos is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Helsinki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Lagos is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Lagos?

Helsinki is well known for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Helsinki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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 Helsinki or Lagos Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lagos is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. 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.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Couples?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lagos is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lagos is extremely popular for backpackers. 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 backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Lagos Better for Students?

Helsinki is well known for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Helsinki can move around easily with public transportation. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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 Helsinki or Lagos a more walkable city?

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

Helsinki is somewhat walkable. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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 Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Lagos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lagos or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Lagos?

In either Helsinki or Lagos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than Helsinki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-5 days is enough time in Lagos.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Lagos?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this waterfront destination offers. This city 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 Helsinki or Lagos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. 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.

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 Helsinki or Lagos?

Helsinki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Helsinki. 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 Helsinki or Lagos?

You'll find food and shopping around the environmentally conscious destination of Helsinki. 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 The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Lagos, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. And not only is Lagos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lagos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lagos and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki than you might in Lagos.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Lagos?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Lagos?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lagos in the Summer?

Both Lagos and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than Lagos. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Helsinki usually gets less rain in July than Lagos. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lagos in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Lagos. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than Lagos in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Lagos fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Lagos. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lagos in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Lagos. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Helsinki can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Lagos. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Lagos averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Helsinki usually gets more rain in January than Lagos. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lagos in the Spring?

Both Lagos and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Helsinki can be very cold during spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Lagos. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Lagos. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lagos and Helsinki