A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Marseille for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Lagos or Marseille?

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 Marseille. 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. 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 beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Lagos and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Marseille?

Both Marseille and Lagos have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Lagos is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Marseille is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Lagos is more touristy than Marseille and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Lagos different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marseille 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 Marseille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

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

Marseille is a world class party destination. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Marseille. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Marseille can be explored in its historical center. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Hiking?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Marseille?

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

Marseille is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

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 Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Lagos does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Lagos does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Couples?

Lagos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lagos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lagos, as it is a very popular resort town for 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.

Marseille is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Lagos or Marseille Better for Students?

Marseille is well known for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Marseille 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 Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

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 Marseille a more walkable city?

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

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore 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 Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Marseille?

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

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

One day in Lagos or Marseille?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Lagos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant 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 Marseille?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the adventure-filled resort town of Lagos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

Marseille is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. 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 Marseille?

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant destination of Marseille. 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

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

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Marseille. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille 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 Marseille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lagos is much warmer than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Marseille. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Marseille. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Marseille in the Spring?

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

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Marseille. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Lagos