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

Should you visit Lagos or Florence?

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 Florence. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Lagos and Florence are popular destinations, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Lagos attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lagos is famous for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Florence is famous for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Lagos different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence 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 Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Florence 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 Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a great resort town for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Lagos has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a great resort town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a great resort town for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Lagos for the hiking trails. 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Florence?

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

Florence is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Couples?

Lagos and Florence both world-class 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.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos and Florence are world-class 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, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Lagos or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is a must-visit destination for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Florence a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Florence?

Both Lagos and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Lagos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Florence. 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 Florence than Lagos. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Lagos or Florence?

The beautiful resort town of Lagos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artistic 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 Florence?

Lagos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lagos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this 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 Florence?

Lagos is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this alluring destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Florence?

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

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Lagos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Florence. 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 Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Florence. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Florence. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Lagos is much warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Florence. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Lagos