A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Marbella for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Lagos or Marbella?

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 Marbella. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Marbella

Marbella is a fun-filled, high energy, and ritzy resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Lagos and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Marbella?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marbella. Although Lagos and Marbella are popular destinations, Marbella has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marbella is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and shopping, while Lagos attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Marbella and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Marbella is famous for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also well known for Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Lagos different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marbella and Lagos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Lagos is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Marbella is a world class party destination. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

Many people head to Lagos for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Music?

Marbella is well known for live music. However, Lagos is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Lagos is not a live music destination.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Lagos and Marbella.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Marbella is a great choice. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

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.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Lagos and Marbella both offer world-class beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Marbella. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Marbella to see the historical old town. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Marbella 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.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Marbella?

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

Marbella is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

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 Marbella Better for Families?

Lagos is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Marbella is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Couples?

Lagos and Marbella 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.

Marbella makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

Is Lagos or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lagos is extremely popular 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.

Marbella is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Is Lagos or Marbella 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 Marbella.

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 Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Lagos or Marbella a more walkable city?

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

Marbella is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

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 Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Marbella?

In either Lagos or Marbella, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Marbella has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Marbella than Lagos. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Marbella.

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

One day in Lagos or Marbella?

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 Marbella, many people enjoy the live music and food that this ritzy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town 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 Marbella?

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 Marbella. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Marbella?

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.

Marbella is a fun place to experience. In Marbella, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lagos or Marbella?

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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the ritzy destination of Marbella. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Lagos and Marbella, 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 Marbella Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Marbella?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Marbella, 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 Marbella?

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 Marbella in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Marbella. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Marbella. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Marbella in the Autumn?

Both Marbella and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally a little warmer than Marbella. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Marbella. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Marbella in the Winter?

Both Marbella and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year.

Lagos is much warmer than Marbella in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Marbella fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Marbella. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Marbella in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Marbella. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Marbella. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Marbella averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Marbella. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marbella and Lagos