A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Palermo for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lagos or Palermo?

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 Palermo. 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lagos and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Palermo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palermo than Lagos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palermo is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Lagos is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral.

How is Lagos different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Palermo offer a number of very good 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.

Palermo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Palermo for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Resorts?

Lagos is very popular for its resorts. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Lagos is very popular for the beach. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

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.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Hiking?

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

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Palermo?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo Better for Families?

Lagos is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Couples?

Lagos is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Lagos or Palermo Better for Students?

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

Palermo is popular with students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Lagos is not popular with students.

Is Lagos or Palermo 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 Palermo.

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 Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Lagos or Palermo a more walkable city?

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

Palermo is very walkable. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lagos and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than in Palermo. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

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

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 Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this dynamic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Palermo?

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 Palermo. 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 Palermo?

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.

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Palermo?

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 museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Palermo, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Lagos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lagos than you might in Palermo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lagos Expensive? and Is Palermo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Palermo?

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

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 Palermo in the Summer?

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

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Palermo 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 Palermo. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Palermo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Palermo. The autumn months attract visitors to Lagos because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

Lagos is a little warmer than Palermo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Palermo. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo 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 Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Palermo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Palermo averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Palermo. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Palermo in the Spring?

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

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Palermo 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 Palermo. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Lagos