A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Positano for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Lagos or Positano?

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 Positano. 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 vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Lagos and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Lagos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Lagos is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Lagos is well known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Positano is well known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

How is Lagos different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Positano and Lagos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Positano 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 Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Resorts?

There are terrific resorts to choose from in both Lagos and Positano.

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. 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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Positano can be explored in its historical center. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lagos and Positano, and they are excellent.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Positano?

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

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Couples?

Lagos and Positano both terrific 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.

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Is Lagos or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

Positano 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 Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

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 Positano a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Positano?

Both Lagos and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Lagos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lagos than Positano 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 Positano?

The beautiful resort town of Lagos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

Lagos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Positano?

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lagos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

A week in Lagos or Positano?

Lagos is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. 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 food. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Positano?

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

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Lagos during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

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

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

Should I visit Lagos or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Positano. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Positano 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 Positano. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

It's quite rainy in Positano. Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Positano. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Positano and Lagos