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

Should you visit Lagos or Paris?

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 Paris. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Lagos and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Lagos and Paris are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lagos is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lagos is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Paris is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Lagos different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Lagos is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Lagos is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Lagos is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Lagos is not a live music destination.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Resorts?

Lagos is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Beaches?

Lagos is terrific for its beaches. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Hiking?

Lagos is great for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Lagos for the hiking trails. 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Paris?

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

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Lagos does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Lagos does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Families?

Both Lagos and Paris are amazing family-friendly destinations.

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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Couples?

Lagos and Paris both amazing 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.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos and Paris are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Paris is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Lagos or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is a must-visit destination for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Paris is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

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

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored 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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Paris?

Both Lagos and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Lagos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Lagos. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Lagos 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 Paris.

One day in Lagos or Paris?

In Lagos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventure-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lagos or Paris?

Lagos is a fun place to experience. In Lagos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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.

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lagos or Paris?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Lagos during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lagos is a little warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Paris. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Paris. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Lagos is much warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Paris. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Lagos