A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Biarritz for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lagos or Biarritz?

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 Biarritz. 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 beautiful, scenic, and adventure-filled 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.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a dynamic, cultural, and relaxing seaside town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Lagos and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Biarritz are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Lagos is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Lagos different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Biarritz 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 Biarritz?

Biarritz is a seaside town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Biarritz offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lagos makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Many people head to Biarritz for the nightlife scene. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Lagos is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Lagos is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Biarritz. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Lagos is renowned for the beache. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lagos. 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.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Biarritz?

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

Biarritz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

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 Biarritz Better for Families?

Lagos is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Lagos is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Biarritz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Lagos is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lagos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Biarritz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Lagos or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is a very popular resort town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

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

Biarritz 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 Biarritz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

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 Biarritz a more walkable city?

Biarritz is well known for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

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 Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Biarritz?

Both Lagos and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Lagos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Biarritz. 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 Biarritz. 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 Biarritz 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 Biarritz?

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.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside 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.

A weekend in Lagos or Biarritz?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Lagos or Biarritz?

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.

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. 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.

A week in Lagos or Biarritz?

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.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this dynamic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Lagos or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Biarritz. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Biarritz. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Biarritz. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Lagos