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

Should you visit Lagos or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 adventure-filled, dramatic, and vibrant resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Zaragoza?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Zaragoza, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zaragoza is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Lagos is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Zaragoza is well known for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Lagos different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Zaragoza offer a number of great 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.

Zaragoza has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Lagos has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Resorts?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for its resorts. However, Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Lagos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Lagos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Lagos are among the best in 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Lagos is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Zaragoza?

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

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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 Zaragoza Better for Families?

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

Lagos is an amazing family-friendly resort town to visit. 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly resort town. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for couples. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Lagos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Zaragoza is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Lagos or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Zaragoza is a good destination for students. However, Lagos is not popular with students.

Zaragoza is popular with students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Zaragoza is well known for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Zaragoza can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams around the city.

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 Zaragoza a more walkable city?

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

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lagos and Zaragoza. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than in Zaragoza. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Zaragoza.

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

The beautiful resort town of Lagos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Zaragoza, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 Zaragoza?

Lagos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Lagos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lagos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Zaragoza is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza?

Lagos is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Zaragoza. 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Zaragoza. Many visitors come to Lagos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lagos is generally around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Zaragoza. Most visitors come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lagos because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Zaragoza. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Zaragoza. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Zaragoza in the Spring?

Both Zaragoza and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Zaragoza. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Lagos