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

Should you visit Lagos or Carcassonne?

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 Carcassonne. 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 vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and museums.

Lagos and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Lagos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lagos is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne is known for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Lagos is more touristy than Carcassonne and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to Ponta da Piedade. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Lagos different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Carcassonne offer a number of excellent 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.

Carcassonne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Resorts?

Lagos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

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.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Lagos is very popular for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Carcassonne to see the historical old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Carcassonne?

Lagos is a good destination for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lagos is very family-friendly. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Carcassonne. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Lagos is very popular for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

Is Lagos or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Carcassonne is a great resort town to visit for backpackers. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

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

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

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 Carcassonne a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Carcassonne on foot is easy. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore 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 Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful resort town of Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Carcassonne, many people enjoy the food and museums that this historical destination offers. This town 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 Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Lagos. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This resort town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Lagos or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful resort town of Lagos. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Carcassonne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Carcassonne. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and food around the historical destination of Carcassonne. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne?

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 Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Carcassonne. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

Lagos is around the same temperature as Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Lagos