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

Should you visit Lagos or Trieste?

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 Trieste. 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 dramatic, vibrant, and beautiful resort town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Trieste

Trieste is a cultural, historic, and dynamic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Trieste?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Trieste, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Lagos is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Lagos different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Trieste is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Lagos has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Lagos has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Trieste has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking out.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

Lagos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lagos is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Lagos is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Trieste to see the historical old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Trieste?

Lagos is a resort town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lagos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Families?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lagos is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. 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.

Trieste is a very family-friendly place to visit. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Couples?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lagos is a great resort town for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Trieste frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 backpackers visit Trieste. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Lagos or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is well known for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Trieste. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is well known for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Trieste can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams to help you get 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 Trieste a more walkable city?

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

Trieste is very walkable. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

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 Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Lagos or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lagos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

In Lagos, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Trieste, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. This 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.

A weekend in Lagos or Trieste?

In Lagos, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Lagos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lagos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Lagos or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife and food around the diverse destination of Trieste. 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Trieste, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. And not only is Trieste much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Trieste would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Trieste 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 Trieste.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Trieste, 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 Trieste?

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 Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Trieste. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Trieste. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lagos because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

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

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Trieste. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine.

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

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Trieste. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Trieste. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Lagos