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

Should you visit Lagos or Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Lagos and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Lagos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lagos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to Ponta da Piedade. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Lagos different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lagos makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lagos offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Toulon is a good place to visit the old town. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Toulon?

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

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to 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 Toulon Better for Families?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly resort town. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Couples?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Lagos or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

Toulon 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 Toulon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around 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 Toulon a more walkable city?

Toulon is well known for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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 Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Toulon?

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

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

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 Toulon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this off-the-beaten-path destination offers. This port city 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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 Toulon?

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.

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

A week in Lagos or Toulon?

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 authentic destination of Toulon. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

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

Lagos is around the same temperature as Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Toulon 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 Toulon. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Toulon. 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 Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Toulon. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon 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 Toulon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Toulon. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon 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 natural beauty are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

Lagos is much warmer than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Toulon 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 Toulon. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Lagos