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

Should you visit Lagos or York?

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 York. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and York: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or York?

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

How is Lagos different from York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

York is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around York. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

York 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 York, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lagos and York.

Lagos is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to York for the nightlife scene. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is Lagos or York Better for Resorts?

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

York is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or York Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, York 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.

York is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or York Better for Beaches?

Lagos is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

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.

York is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or York Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of York can be explored in its historical center. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or York Better for Hiking?

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

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or York?

Shopping is a popular activity in both York 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 York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Lagos or York Better for Families?

Both Lagos and York are amazing family-friendly destinations.

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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, York is a very family-friendly destination. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Is Lagos or York Better for Couples?

Lagos is a world-class destination for romance. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is Lagos or York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

York 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 York, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a reliable and efficient bus system 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 York a more walkable city?

York is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

York is somewhat walkable. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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 York Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in York or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or York?

It's fun to spend time in either Lagos or York. 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 York.

Families should spend more time in York than Lagos. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in York, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lagos than York. 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 York 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 York?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Lagos. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In York, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fanciful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 York?

Lagos is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Lagos. This resort town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

York is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of York. Lots of people come for the food. 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 York?

The dramatic resort town of Lagos offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or York?

York has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and York, 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 York?

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 York in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and York. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences.

Lagos is much warmer than York in the summer. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and York fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than York. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while York receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or York in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as York. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Lagos is much warmer than York. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lagos in October average around 26°C (79°F), and York averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than York. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or York in the Winter?

Both York and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lagos in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

York can be very cold during winter. In January, Lagos is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 27°C (81°F), and York fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than York. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while York receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or York in the Spring?

Both York and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lagos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than York in the spring. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and York fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than York. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for York and Lagos