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

Should you visit Lagos or Cardiff?

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 Cardiff. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a green, industrial, and up-and-coming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Lagos and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Cardiff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Cardiff 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 Cardiff attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Lagos different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cardiff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Lagos know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Cardiff has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Cardiff is not a resort destination.

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.

Cardiff is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cardiff 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.

Cardiff is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Cardiff is not a beach destination.

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.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Cardiff?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cardiff and Lagos.

Lagos is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cardiff. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Families?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Cardiff offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lagos or Cardiff Better for Students?

Cardiff is a good destination for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Cardiff is popular with students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lagos and Cardiff.

Public transit is generally limited in Lagos. The area has buses, but they are limited in where they go. There is also reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Lagos or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Cardiff is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Cardiff is somewhat walkable. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

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 Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Cardiff?

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

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

In Lagos, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this up-and-coming destination offers. 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 Cardiff?

In Lagos, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Cardiff. 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 Cardiff?

Lagos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lagos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Lagos or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the up-and-coming destination of Cardiff. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Cardiff?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Cardiff, 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 Cardiff?

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 Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is a little warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Cardiff averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Cardiff. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Cardiff in the Autumn?

Both Cardiff and Lagos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cardiff in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Cardiff gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Cardiff. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Cardiff. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cardiff can be very cold during winter. Lagos is much warmer than Cardiff in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Cardiff fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Cardiff in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Cardiff. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Cardiff averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Cardiff. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Lagos