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

Should you visit Lagos or Cadiz?

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 Cadiz. 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 dramatic, vibrant, and beautiful resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a historic, authentic, and friendly port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Cadiz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Cadiz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Cadiz are both popular with visitors, Lagos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lagos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to Ponta da Piedade. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Lagos different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lagos offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Resorts?

Lagos is renowned for its resorts. However, Cadiz 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.

Cadiz is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cadiz 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.

Cadiz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Lagos is renowned for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

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.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cadiz 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.

Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Cadiz?

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

Cadiz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

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 Cadiz Better for Families?

Lagos is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-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.

Cadiz is a family-friendly resort town. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Lagos is renowned for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Is Lagos or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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

Cadiz 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 Cadiz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

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 Cadiz a more walkable city?

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

Cadiz is very walkable. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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 Cadiz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Cadiz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Cadiz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Cadiz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cadiz.

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

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 Cadiz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port 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 Cadiz?

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 Cadiz. 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 Cadiz?

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.

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

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 Cadiz. 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Cadiz?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Cadiz, 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 Cadiz?

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 Cadiz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Cadiz. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Cadiz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Cadiz. The autumn months attract visitors to Lagos because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year.

In the autumn, Lagos is a little warmer than Cadiz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Cadiz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Cadiz. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Cadiz in the Winter?

Both Cadiz and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Cadiz. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Cadiz in the Spring?

Both Cadiz and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cadiz in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lagos is much warmer than Cadiz in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Cadiz fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Cadiz. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Lagos