Which place is cheaper, Porto or Lagos?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lagos and Porto. 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 is a scenic, adventure-filled, and dramatic resort town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.
Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Lagos and Porto are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Lagos is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lagos is more touristy than Porto and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Porto and Lagos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Porto 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 Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.
Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.
Porto 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 Porto, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.
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.
Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lagos and Porto.
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 Porto for the nightlife scene. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Lagos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Porto 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.
Porto is not a resort destination.
Lagos is a great resort town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto 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.
Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Lagos is very popular for its beaches. However, Porto 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.
Porto is not a beach destination.
Porto 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 Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.
Lagos does not have a historic old town.
Lagos is a great resort town for hiking. However, Porto 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.
Porto is not a hiking destination.
Shopping is a popular activity in both Porto and Lagos.
Lagos is a great destination for shopping. 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.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Porto. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.
Lagos is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.
Porto is a very kid-friendly resort town. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.
Lagos is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.
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.
Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.
Lagos and Porto are first-rate 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, Porto is extremely popular for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.
Porto is well known for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.
Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.
Lagos is not popular with students.
Porto is well known for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.
Visitors to Porto can move around easily with public transportation. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.
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.
Porto is well known for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.
Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.
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 Porto Worth Visiting?.
In either Lagos or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.
Families should spend more time in Lagos than Porto. 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 Porto. 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 Porto 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 Porto.
In Lagos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful 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 Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port 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.
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 Porto. 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.
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.
Porto is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
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.
You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Porto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Lagos is €118, while the average daily cost in Porto is €126. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lagos and Porto in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Lagos or Porto? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:
Also for Porto, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Porto and Lagos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lagos.
For Porto, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are a few actual costs in Lagos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Porto.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Porto:
When comparing the travel costs between Lagos and Porto, we can see that Porto 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 Porto Expensive?.
Porto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Porto, 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.
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.
Both Porto and Lagos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
Lagos is a little warmer than Porto in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Porto. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than Porto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Porto averages at about 17°C (62°F).
Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lagos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Porto. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Porto. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).
It's quite rainy in Porto. Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Porto and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year.
Lagos is much warmer than Porto in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Porto. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Lagos | Porto | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 27°C (81°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 171 mm (6.7 in) |
Feb | 29°C (84°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 169 mm (6.7 in) |
Mar | 29°C (84°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 112 mm (4.4 in) |
Apr | 28°C (82°F) | 146 mm (5.7 in) | 14°C (56°F) | 112 mm (4.4 in) |
May | 27°C (81°F) | 202 mm (8 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) |
Jun | 26°C (79°F) | 316 mm (12.4 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
Jul | 25°C (77°F) | 243 mm (9.6 in) | 21°C (69°F) | 16 mm (0.6 in) |
Aug | 25°C (77°F) | 122 mm (4.8 in) | 20°C (69°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) |
Sep | 26°C (79°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) | 20°C (67°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) |
Oct | 26°C (79°F) | 125 mm (4.9 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 131 mm (5.2 in) |
Nov | 27°C (81°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 152 mm (6 in) |
Dec | 27°C (81°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 176 mm (6.9 in) |