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

Should you visit Lagos or Zadar?

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 Zadar. 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lagos and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Zadar are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zadar attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Lagos is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Lagos different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The old town is like a living museum, with city walls and a historic gate. The Church of St. Donatus, Zadar Cathedral, and the Zadar Archaeological Museum are all fascinating places to visit in town, but if you're looking for the most unique sight, make sure you check out The Sea Organ and The Sun Salutation.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Zadar 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.

Zadar has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with outdoor cafes that serve up a healthy and delicious selection of recipes. The ingredients are fresh and local with olive oil and seafood making frequent appearances on the menus. Prices are also reasonable.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Lagos offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zadar. The town comes to life at night when the bars and restaurants fill with people chatting and socializing. This is an easy place to enjoy the evening as almost all of the nightlife venues are within a five minute walk of each other.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for its resorts. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zadar. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Zadar. This is an easy place to snorkel because the water is so clear. There are also half and full day snorkeling trips that take you to some of the best spots.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for the beache. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

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.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are some nice beaches outside of town with one of the most famous being Sakarun Beach, which is part of the Zadar archipelago. There are a handful of beaches nearby that are pebbly and popular with the locals. These include Puntamika Beach and Beach Borik.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar 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 Zadar. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Hiking?

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

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar 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 Zadar. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Families?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Zadar is a family-friendly resort town. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Couples?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Zadar makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This charming seaside town is fun to explore as a couple. There's a walled medieval town that is small and easy to wander around. There are also nearby beaches and great restaurants to explore. A highlight of a visit is watching the stunning sunsets by the water.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for backpackers. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lagos. 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 and backpackers visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Is Lagos or Zadar Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Zadar. The laid back lifestyle and low cost of living make this a great place to be a student. It's a relaxed environment with many nearby places to explore.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Zadar 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 Zadar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 11 bus lines that travel 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 Zadar a more walkable city?

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

Zadar is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

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 Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Zadar?

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

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

In Lagos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this scenic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This resort town 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.

In Zadar, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This 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 Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Lagos is a fun place to experience. In Lagos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Zadar is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Zadar?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Zadar. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Zadar, 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 Zadar?

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 Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Zadar. 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 Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Zadar. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Zadar in the Autumn?

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

In October, Lagos is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar 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 Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lagos is much warmer than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

Should I visit Lagos or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Zadar. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Lagos