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

Should you visit Lagos or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia. 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 beautiful, scenic, and adventure-filled resort town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a understated, classic, and authentic seaside town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Lagos and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Lagos is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Lagos different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ventimiglia and Lagos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Both Lagos and Ventimiglia offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

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.

Ventimiglia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.


Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Lagos know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Resorts?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Lagos is a great 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.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lagos. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is well known for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Hiking?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Lagos is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Lagos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ventimiglia is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.


Is Lagos or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Lagos is a very popular resort town to visit 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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Lagos
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Lagos
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Ventimiglia?

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

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


  • How many days in Lagos or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lagos 3-5 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic resort town of Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Ventimiglia is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This seaside town 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the scenic destination of Lagos. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This resort town offers something for everyone. 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 Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled resort town of Lagos. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia is a fun place to experience. Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Lagos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lagos is €118, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lagos and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lagos 61
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lagos 122
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Lagos and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Lagos or Ventimiglia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lagos


Hotels in Ventimiglia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lagos Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lagos 31
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lagos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:

  • Car or Van Departure Transfer Meia Praia or Lagos to Faro Airport: $77
  • Faro Airport to/from Lagos/Private Transfer max 4 passengers: $117
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer With Options To or From Lagos: $128
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer to/from Monchique or Lagos: $102
  • Private Transfer from Faro Airport Up to 8 passengers: $131
  • Private Transfer from Lisbon Airport Up to 8 pax: $485
  • Private Transfer to Faro Airport (60 min): $107
  • Private Transfer from Budens to Faro (FAO) Airport: $129
  • Private Transfer from Gil Eannes Square to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Praia da Luz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Quinta Falzina to Faro (FAO) Airport: $140
  • Private Transfer from Santa Maria (Lagos) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Lagos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lagos 34
    Ventimiglia 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lagos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lagos.

  • Classic Food Tour - Lagos: $97
  • Full-Day West Coast Adventure with Hiking, Sunset, Dinner & Wine : $114

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo with Show Cooking: $92
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $94
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Sanremo: $157
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lagos 26
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Lagos

Here are a few actual costs in Lagos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided Walking Tour with Brodie from Australia: $16
  • Ponta da Piedade Rock Formations Guided Boat Tour: $19
  • Tour to go inside the Ponta da Piedade Caves/Grottos and see the beaches - Lagos: $20
  • Lagos Street Art: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Boat Tours: $27
  • Ponta da Piedade Grotto Tour in Lagos, Algarve: $27
  • NATURA TOUR - Countryside of Lagos - ECO TUK and LOCAL guide: $29
  • TUK TUK Tour Lagos Old& New Town& Beaches- Best way to know: $31
  • TUK TUK Tour around Lagos Old & New Town & beaches - Best way to know Lagos: $31
  • Sailing cave tour Ponta da Piedade Lagos: $32
  • Coast Cruise Trip to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos: $33

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lagos 6.79
    Ventimiglia 7.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Lagos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:

  • Lagos Wine Tasting and Tapas: $43
  • Small group Wine Tasting Tour from Lagos: $65
  • Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique with Wine Tasting: $86
  • Benagil Secrets: Jeep and Boat Tour with Wine Tasting: $103


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


Which is Bigger, Lagos or Ventimiglia?

Ventimiglia has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lagos 25°C (77°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia and Lagos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lagos is much warmer than Ventimiglia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Ventimiglia. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lagos 26°C (79°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Ventimiglia. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lagos 27°C (81°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Ventimiglia. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lagos 28°C (82°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Lagos

Lagos Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 29°C (84°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 27°C (81°F) 202 mm (8 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 26°C (79°F) 316 mm (12.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 243 mm (9.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 26°C (79°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)