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

Should you visit Lagos or Girona?

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 Girona. 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 vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Girona

Girona is a ancient, charming, and beautiful city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Lagos and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Girona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Girona are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Girona attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Lagos is more touristy than Girona and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Girona is famous for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Lagos different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Girona 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 Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Girona offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

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.

Girona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Lagos offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Girona is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. 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.

Girona is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Lagos. 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.

Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Girona is not a beach destination.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Girona can be explored in its historical center. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Girona 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.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Girona?

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

Girona is an extremely popular place for shoppers. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

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 Girona Better for Families?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lagos is very family-friendly. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Couples?

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

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.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Lagos or Girona Better for Students?

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

Girona is popular with students. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Girona 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 Girona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

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 Girona a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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 Girona, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lagos or Girona?

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 Girona. 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 Girona?

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.

Girona is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint destination of Girona. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Girona?

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 charming destination of Girona. 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Girona?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Girona. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Girona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Girona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Girona. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Girona. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Girona. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Girona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lagos is much warmer than Girona in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Girona. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Girona for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Girona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Girona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Girona. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Girona and Lagos