A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Tenerife for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Lagos or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife. 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 adventure-filled, dramatic, and vibrant resort town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a volcanic, scenic, and vibrant island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lagos and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Tenerife?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tenerife. Although Lagos and Tenerife are both popular with visitors, Tenerife has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tenerife is more popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Lagos is known for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Lagos is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Tenerife is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. It is also home to Mount Teide.

How is Lagos different from Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tenerife is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lagos. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Tenerife is a world class party destination. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Lagos is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Lagos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

In Tenerife, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find great places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Lagos and Tenerife.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Lagos is very popular for its beaches. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

The beaches in Lagos are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Tenerife attract visitors from all over. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Tenerife is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Tenerife?

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

Tenerife is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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 Tenerife Better for Families?

Both Lagos and Tenerife are world-class family-friendly destinations.

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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tenerife is a very family-friendly destination. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Couples?

Lagos is very popular for romance. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Lagos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Tenerife frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Lagos or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lagos. 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.

Tenerife is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

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

Tenerife 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 Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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 Tenerife a more walkable city?

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

Tenerife is somewhat walkable. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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 Tenerife Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Tenerife?

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

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Tenerife. 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 Tenerife. 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.

One day in Lagos or Tenerife?

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.

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this volcanic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Tenerife?

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 Tenerife. 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.

Five days in Lagos or Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a fun place to experience. In Tenerife, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Tenerife?

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.

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this vibrant destination offers. 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. 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, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

When is the best time to visit Lagos or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Tenerife. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lagos is around the same temperature as Tenerife in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Tenerife fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Tenerife. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Tenerife in the Autumn?

Both Tenerife and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lagos is a little warmer than Tenerife. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Tenerife averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Tenerife in the Winter?

Both Tenerife and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Tenerife. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Tenerife in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Tenerife. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lagos is much warmer than Tenerife in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Tenerife fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Lagos