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

Should you visit Lagos or Basel?

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 Lagos and Basel. 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.

Lagos

Lagos is a adventure-filled, dramatic, and vibrant resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Basel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Basel 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 Basel attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Basel and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Lagos different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel 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 Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Lagos has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Basel 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 Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Hiking?

Lagos is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Lagos is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Basel?

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

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Lagos or Basel Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Basel. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Couples?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Basel is a good resort town for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Basel is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Lagos or Basel Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Basel can move around easily with public transportation. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Lagos or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Lagos is not a very walkable resort 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 Lagos Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lagos and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than in Basel. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lagos than Basel 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 Lagos or Basel?

In Lagos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this vibrant destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This resort 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.

In Basel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this easily accessible destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lagos or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Five days in Lagos or Basel?

Lagos is a fun place to experience. In Lagos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Lagos or Basel?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Basel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Basel, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Lagos Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Basel?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Basel, 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 Lagos or Basel?

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 Lagos or Basel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Basel. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lagos is a little warmer than Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Basel. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Basel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Basel. Most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Basel. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. Lagos is much warmer than Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Basel. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Basel in the Spring?

Both Basel and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Basel. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Lagos