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

Should you visit Lagos or Cefalu?

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 Cefalu. 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a historic, touristy, and charming fishing village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Lagos and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Cefalu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Cefalu are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Cefalu attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Lagos is more touristy than Cefalu and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Cefalu is famous for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Lagos different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cefalu is a fishing village with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Cefalu 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.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

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.

Cefalu is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Cefalu is considered a top beach destination. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu 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 Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Cefalu?

Lagos is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu 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 Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Lagos and Cefalu both terrific 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.

Cefalu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Is Lagos or Cefalu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lagos is extremely popular 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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Lagos is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Lagos or Cefalu a more walkable city?

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

Cefalu is very walkable. The town is small enough 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 Cefalu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Cefalu?

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

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

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.

Even though Cefalu is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This fishing village 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 Cefalu?

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 Cefalu. 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 Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled 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.

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Cefalu?

Lagos has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Cefalu, 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 Cefalu?

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 Cefalu in the Summer?

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

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Cefalu. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Cefalu in the Autumn?

Both Cefalu 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 Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Cefalu. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Cefalu in the Winter?

Both Cefalu 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 Cefalu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Cefalu. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Cefalu in the Spring?

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

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

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Cefalu. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Lagos