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

Should you visit Lagos or Dublin?

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 Dublin. 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 adventure-filled, dramatic, and vibrant 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Lagos and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Dublin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin. Although Lagos and Dublin are popular destinations, Dublin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lagos attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Dublin and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Lagos different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Dublin is a world class party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Many people head to Lagos for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is well known for live music. However, Lagos is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Lagos is not a live music destination.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Resorts?

Lagos is terrific for its resorts. However, Dublin is not a resort destination.

Lagos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Dublin is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Lagos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Beaches?

Lagos is terrific for the beache. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Lagos are among the best in 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.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Dublin 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 Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Dublin?

Dublin is well known for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Dublin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin Better for Families?

Lagos is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lagos is an amazing family-friendly resort town to visit. 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 Dublin. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Couples?

Lagos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Lagos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Dublin is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Lagos or Dublin Better for Students?

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

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Dublin 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 Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

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 Dublin a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center 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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Dublin?

In either Lagos or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

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 Dublin, many people enjoy the live music and food that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin. 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 Dublin?

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.

Dublin is a fun place to experience. In Dublin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lagos or Dublin?

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 museums and nightlife around the welcoming destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lagos is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Dublin averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Dublin. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Lagos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Dublin. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Dublin. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

Lagos is much warmer than Dublin in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

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

Should I visit Lagos or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Dublin. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Dublin averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Lagos