A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Varenna for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lagos or Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Lagos and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Varenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Varenna are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Varenna attracts visitors for its museums and food. Lagos is more touristy than Varenna and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Varenna is famous for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Lagos different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Varenna 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 Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Lagos has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

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.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lagos and Varenna, 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 Varenna for the hiking trails. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Varenna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Varenna 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 Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Couples?

Lagos and Varenna 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.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

Is Lagos or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lagos is extremely popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Varenna 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 Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

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 Varenna a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Varenna?

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

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Varenna. 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.

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

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 Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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 Varenna?

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.

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Varenna?

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 food and shopping around the scenic destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Varenna?

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

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 Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Varenna. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Varenna. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. It's quite rainy in Lagos. In October, Lagos usually receives less rain than Varenna. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Lagos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. Lagos is much warmer than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Varenna. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Lagos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Varenna. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Lagos