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

Should you visit Lagos or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh. 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 dramatic, vibrant, and beautiful 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for live music, shopping, and museums.

Lagos and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Edinburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Lagos and Edinburgh are popular destinations, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Lagos attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is famous for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Edinburgh is famous for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle.

How is Lagos different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for theatre. However, Lagos is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Lagos is not a theatre destination.

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

Lagos is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Lagos is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Lagos is not a live music destination.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Resorts?

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

Lagos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lagos is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

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

Lagos is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Edinburgh can be explored in its historical center. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Hiking?

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

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Edinburgh?

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

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh Better for Families?

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

Lagos is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. 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.

Edinburgh is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Lagos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lagos is a great resort town for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos and Edinburgh are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Is Lagos or Edinburgh Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Edinburgh?

In either Lagos or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Edinburgh than Lagos. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

One day in Lagos or Edinburgh?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Lagos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this ancient destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the adventure-filled resort town of Lagos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this quaint destination offers. 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 Edinburgh?

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the ancient destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Edinburgh?

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

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Edinburgh. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lagos because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. Lagos is much warmer than Edinburgh in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Edinburgh. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Edinburgh. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Lagos