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

Should you visit Lagos or Pisa?

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 Pisa. 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Lagos and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Pisa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Pisa are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pisa attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Pisa and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Lagos different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pisa is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Pisa. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Pisa offer a number of superb 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.

Pisa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Pisa for the nightlife scene. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Resorts?

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

Pisa is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a great resort town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pisa 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.

Pisa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Lagos is terrific for the beache. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

Many people head to Pisa to enjoy the beach. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa is well known for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a great resort town for hiking. However, Pisa 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.

Pisa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Pisa?

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

Pisa is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

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 Pisa Better for Families?

Lagos is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Pisa is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Couples?

Lagos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Pisa is a good resort town for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pisa is a very popular resort town for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Is Lagos or Pisa Better for Students?

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

Pisa is a very popular place to visit for students. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Pisa 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 Pisa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

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 Pisa a more walkable city?

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

Pisa is very walkable. The city is a great place 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 Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Pisa?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Lagos. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Pisa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Pisa?

Lagos is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of Lagos. This resort town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Pisa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pisa. 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 Pisa?

The vibrant resort town of Lagos offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Pisa. 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Pisa?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Pisa, 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 Pisa?

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 Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Pisa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Pisa averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Pisa. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lagos usually receives less rain than Pisa. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Pisa in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa 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 Pisa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Pisa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Pisa averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Pisa. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Lagos