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

Should you visit Lagos or Fez?

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 Fez. 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.

Fez

Fez is a winding, busy, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Lagos and Fez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Fez?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fez. Although Lagos and Fez are popular destinations, Fez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fez is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lagos attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lagos is more touristy than Fez and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Fez is famous for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. It is also well known for the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

How is Lagos different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Fez 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 Fez that are not to be missed. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fez 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 Fez, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

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 Fez Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Lagos has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fez. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Fez can be explored in its historical center. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Hiking?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Fez?

Fez is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Fez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

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 Fez Better for Families?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fez 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fez. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Couples?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Fez 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 Fez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Is Lagos or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos and Fez 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, Fez is extremely popular for backpackers. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Lagos or Fez 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 Fez.

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 Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

Is Lagos or Fez a more walkable city?

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

Fez is very walkable. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

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 Fez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fez or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Fez?

In either Lagos or Fez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Lagos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lagos than Fez. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Lagos or Fez?

With nightlife and food around the dramatic destination of Lagos, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Each neighborhood in Fez has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Fez?

Many people visit Lagos for a weekend. With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant resort town of Lagos, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Fez. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lagos or Fez?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Lagos, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Fez is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Fez has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Fez?

Lagos, a popular resort town, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food and shopping around the winding big city of Fez. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Fez, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lagos is in Europe and Fez is in Africa, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Fez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fez 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 Lagos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lagos than you might in Fez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lagos Expensive? and Is Fez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Fez?

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