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

Should you visit Lagos or Catania?

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 Catania. 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Lagos and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Catania?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Catania. Although Lagos and Catania are popular destinations, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Lagos attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Catania and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Catania is famous for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also well known for Mount Etna.

How is Lagos different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Catania is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Catania 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 Catania, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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 Catania Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Catania for the nightlife scene. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Lagos is a perfect 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Beaches?

Lagos is very popular for the beache. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

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.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Catania to see the historical old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lagos and Catania, and they are high quality.

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.

Many visitors go to Catania for the hiking trails. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Catania?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Catania 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 Catania. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Families?

Lagos is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Catania. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Couples?

Lagos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Lagos 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.

Catania is a good resort town for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Lagos or Catania Better for Students?

Catania is well known for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Catania. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Catania is well known for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Catania can move around easily with public transportation. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania a more walkable city?

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

Catania is very walkable. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access 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 Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Catania?

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

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Catania. 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 Catania. 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.

One day in Lagos or Catania?

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 Catania, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Catania?

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 Catania. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Catania?

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.

Catania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Catania. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Catania?

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 food and shopping around the lively destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Catania?

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

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 Catania in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Catania. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Catania in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Catania. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Catania averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Catania. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Catania in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Catania. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Lagos is generally a little warmer than Catania. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Catania fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite rainy in Catania. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Catania. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Catania in the Winter?

Both Catania 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 Catania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lagos is much warmer than Catania in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Catania fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

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

Should I visit Lagos or Catania in the Spring?

Both Catania 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. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Catania this time of year.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Catania. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Catania averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Catania. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Catania and Lagos