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

Should you visit Lagos or Cannes?

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 Cannes. 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 scenic, adventure-filled, and dramatic resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy, opulent , and luxury resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Lagos and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Cannes?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cannes than Lagos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cannes is better known for its food, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Lagos is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is well known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Cannes is well known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette.

How is Lagos different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cannes is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Cannes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Cannes for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Music?

Cannes is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Lagos is not a live music destination.

Cannes is a world class music destination. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Lagos is not a live music destination.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Resorts?

There are first-rate resorts to choose from in both Lagos and Cannes.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cannes is a great choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Cannes has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for the beach. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Lagos is a very popular vacation 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'll have a great beach vacation in Cannes. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Cannes 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 Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Hiking?

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

Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Cannes?

Cannes is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cannes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes Better for Families?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lagos is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort town. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Couples?

Lagos and Cannes both first-rate destinations for a couple.

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.

Cannes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Is Lagos or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a very popular resort town to visit 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

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

Cannes 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 Cannes, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around the city.

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 Cannes a more walkable city?

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

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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 Cannes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Lagos or Cannes. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lagos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cannes.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Cannes, many people enjoy the live music and food that this opulent destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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.

A weekend in Lagos or Cannes?

Lagos is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cannes is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cannes. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the dramatic destination of Lagos. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the glitzy destination of Cannes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Cannes?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Cannes, 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 Cannes?

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 Cannes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Cannes. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cannes in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Cannes. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Cannes. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Cannes. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Cannes. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Cannes. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Cannes. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cannes and Lagos