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

Should you visit Lagos or Galway?

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 Galway. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Galway

Galway is a historical, vibrant, and lively city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Galway?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Galway are both popular with visitors, Lagos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lagos is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Galway is known for its museums and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Galway and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to Ponta da Piedade. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Lagos different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galway is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Galway for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Hiking?

Lagos is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Lagos is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Galway?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Galway and Lagos.

Lagos is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Families?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Galway is a family-friendly resort town. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Couples?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Many backpackers visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Lagos or Galway Better for Students?

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

Galway is popular with students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Galway 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 Galway, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

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 Galway a more walkable city?

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

Galway is very walkable. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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 Galway Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galway or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lagos and Galway. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than in Galway. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Galway.

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

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 Galway, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this lively destination offers. 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 Galway?

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 Galway. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Galway?

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.

Galway is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Galway. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Galway?

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 food and shopping around the historical destination of Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Galway?

Galway has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Galway. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Galway because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Lagos is much warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Galway. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Galway. 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 and the shopping scene are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite rainy in Galway. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galway for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Galway. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the spring for the activities around the city.

Lagos is much warmer than Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Galway. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Lagos