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

Should you visit Lagos or Venice?

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 Venice. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Lagos and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Venice?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Venice than Lagos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Venice is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Lagos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lagos is well known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Venice is well known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Also, Venice is famous for St. Mark's Basilica.

How is Lagos different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Venice that are not to be missed. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Resorts?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Venice can be explored in its historical center. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Hiking?

Lagos is great for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Venice?

Venice is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Venice is a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Couples?

Lagos and Venice both first-rate 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.

Venice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Lagos or Venice Better for Students?

Venice is a must-visit destination for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Venice is a very popular place to visit for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Venice has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Venice on foot is easy. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Venice?

Both Lagos and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Lagos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

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

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 Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Venice?

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 Venice. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Venice?

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.

Venice is a fun place to experience. In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lagos or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant 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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Venice?

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

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 Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice and Lagos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Venice. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Venice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in July than Venice. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Venice. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Venice in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lagos usually receives more rain than Venice. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lagos or Venice in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Venice. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Venice can be very cold. In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Venice. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Venice averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Lagos usually gets less rain in January than Venice. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Venice fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In April, Lagos usually receives more rain than Venice. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Venice and Lagos