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

Should you visit Lagos or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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 scenic, adventure-filled, and dramatic 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. It's also known for museums.

Lagos and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Pompeii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Pompeii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is more popular for its museums. Lagos is well known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Pompeii is well known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

How is Lagos different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii that are not to be missed. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Lagos has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Lagos has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Lagos is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Lagos is a perfect 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Lagos is renowned for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Lagos is a very popular vacation 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

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

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Pompeii?

Lagos is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Lagos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Families?

Lagos is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lagos is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly place to visit. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Lagos is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Lagos 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Lagos or Pompeii Better for Students?

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

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

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 Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this ancient destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Pompeii?

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 around the ancient destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Lagos or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Pompeii. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lagos is much warmer than Pompeii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Pompeii averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Pompeii. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Lagos