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

Should you visit Lagos or Imperia?

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 Imperia. 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 beautiful, scenic, and adventure-filled resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lagos or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Imperia is more popular for its museums. Lagos is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Lagos different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lagos
Imperia

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

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lagos
Imperia

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

Dining out in Lagos is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Lagos has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Lagos is a great choice. 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lagos. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Imperia?

Lagos
Imperia

Shopping is a popular activity in both Imperia 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 Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Families?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Lagos is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly resort town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Couples?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Lagos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Lagos or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos
Imperia

Lagos is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a very popular resort town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Lagos
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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 Imperia a more walkable city?

Lagos
Imperia

Imperia is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient 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 Imperia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Imperia 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 Imperia.

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


  • How many days in Lagos or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lagos 3-5 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Lagos or Imperia?

In Lagos, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Imperia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. This town 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 Imperia?

In Lagos, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia?

Lagos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lagos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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


A week in Lagos or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Imperia. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Lagos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lagos is €118, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lagos and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lagos 61
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lagos 122
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Lagos and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Lagos or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lagos


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lagos Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lagos 31
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lagos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:

  • From Porto Airport: Transfer to Lagos Central Bus Station: $33
  • Transfer Burgau - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $55
  • Transfer Lagos - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $55
  • Transfer Burgau - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $71
  • Transfer Lagos - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $76
  • Private Transfer from Praia da Luz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Private Transfer from Gil Eannes Square to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Private Transfer from Santa Maria (Lagos) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Private Transfer from Lagos to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer to/from Monchique or Lagos: $104
  • Private Transfer to Faro Airport (60 min): $109
  • Faro Airport to/from Lagos/Private Transfer max 4 passengers: $119

Is it cheaper to fly into Lagos or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Lagos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lagos 34
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lagos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lagos.

  • Classic Food Tour - Lagos: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lagos 26
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Lagos

Here are a few actual costs in Lagos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided Walking Tour with Local Tips: $16
  • Tour to inside the Caves /Grottos the Ponta da Piedade -Lagos: $20
  • Ponta da Piedade Rock Formations Guided Boat Tour: $20
  • In-App Adventure Hunt: $22
  • Tour to go inside the Ponta da Piedade Caves/Grottos and see the beaches - Lagos: $24
  • Boat Tours: $27
  • NATURA TOUR - Countryside of Lagos - ECO TUK and LOCAL guide: $30
  • TUK TUK Tour around Lagos Old & New Town & beaches - Best way to know Lagos: $32
  • Sailing cave tour Ponta da Piedade Lagos: $33
  • Coast Cruise Trip to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos: $33
  • Coastal Tour 2H30M / Lagos / Grottos / Aqua Trampoline: $38
  • Lagos Portugal:Bike tour History and breathtaking views.: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lagos 6.79
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Lagos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:

  • Lagos Wine Tasting and Tapas: $39
  • Small group Wine Tasting Tour from Lagos: $66
  • Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique with Wine Tasting: $87
  • Benagil Secrets: Jeep and Boat Tour with Wine Tasting: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Lagos or Imperia?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Imperia. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Imperia. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lagos 25°C (77°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Imperia. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lagos is a little warmer than Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Imperia. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lagos 26°C (79°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Imperia. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lagos 27°C (81°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Imperia because of the natural beauty.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Imperia. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lagos 28°C (82°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Lagos

Lagos Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 29°C (84°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 27°C (81°F) 202 mm (8 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 26°C (79°F) 316 mm (12.4 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 243 mm (9.6 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 26°C (79°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)