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

Should you visit Lagos or Rijeka?

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 Rijeka. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a accessible, diverse, and slow-paced town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Rijeka?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Rijeka, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Rijeka is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Rijeka and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Rijeka is well known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Lagos different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rijeka is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Lagos is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Rijeka for the nightlife scene. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Resorts?

Lagos is renowned for its resorts. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Lagos is renowned for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town for its beaches.

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.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Rijeka is not a hiking destination.

Lagos is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Rijeka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Rijeka?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rijeka 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 Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Families?

Lagos is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Rijeka is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Lagos is renowned for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is renowned for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lagos is a very popular resort town to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Lagos or Rijeka Better for Students?

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

Rijeka is popular with students. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Rijeka 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 Rijeka, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

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 Rijeka a more walkable city?

Rijeka is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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 Rijeka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Rijeka 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 Rijeka.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Rijeka, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this accessible destination offers. This town 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 Rijeka?

Lagos is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rijeka is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rijeka. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the dramatic destination of Lagos. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Rijeka. 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 Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Rijeka, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. And not only is Rijeka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rijeka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rijeka 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 Lagos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lagos than you might in Rijeka.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lagos Expensive? and Is Rijeka Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Rijeka?

Rijeka has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lagos or Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Rijeka. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rijeka in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Rijeka. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Rijeka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Rijeka. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Rijeka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Rijeka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Rijeka. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Rijeka averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Rijeka in the Spring?

Both Rijeka and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Rijeka this time of year.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Rijeka. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Lagos