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

Should you visit Paros or Lagos?

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 Paros and Lagos. 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.

Paros

Paros is a breathtaking, striking, and historical island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Lagos

Lagos is a vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Paros and Lagos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Paros or Lagos?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Lagos are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its museums, food, and shopping, while Lagos attracts visitors for its resorts and hiking. Lagos is more touristy than Paros and is popular for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Paros is famous for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani.

How is Paros different from Lagos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paros or Lagos?

Paros
Lagos

Paros 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 Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Paros
Lagos

Paros 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 Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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 Paros or Lagos Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Lagos

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Lagos.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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.

Is Paros or Lagos Better for Resorts?

Paros
Lagos

Lagos is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. 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.

Paros is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.


Is Paros or Lagos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Lagos

You'll find excellent places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Paros and Lagos.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

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.

Is Paros or Lagos Better for Beaches?

Paros
Lagos

Paros and Lagos both offer terrific beaches.

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria 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.

Is Paros or Lagos Better for Hiking?

Paros
Lagos

Lagos is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.


Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Lagos?

Paros
Lagos

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

Paros is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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 Paros or Lagos Better for Families?

Paros
Lagos

Lagos is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Paros is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Is Paros or Lagos Better for Couples?

Paros
Lagos

Paros and Lagos both terrific destinations for a couple.

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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.


Is Paros or Lagos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Lagos

Lagos is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lagos is extremely popular 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.

Paros is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

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

Paros
Lagos

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

Visitors to Paros can move around easily with public transportation. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

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 Paros or Lagos a more walkable city?

Paros
Lagos

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

Paros is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

Lagos is not a very walkable island. 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 Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Lagos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lagos or Paros?

How long in Paros or Lagos?

In either Paros or Lagos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paros has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paros than Lagos. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Paros. 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 Paros than Lagos. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paros that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Paros or Lagos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Lagos 3-5

One day in Paros or Lagos?

In Paros, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Lagos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful 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.

A weekend in Paros or Lagos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paros. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 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.

Five days in Paros or Lagos?

Paros is a fun place to experience. In Paros, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. 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.

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.


A week in Paros or Lagos?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Paros. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the dramatic 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Lagos or Paros?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €122, while the average daily cost in Lagos is €118. 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 Paros and Lagos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Lagos 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Lagos 122
Compare Hotels in Paros and Lagos

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Lagos? 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 Paros


Hotels in Lagos


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: Paros Hotel Prices and Lagos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Lagos 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paros

Also for Paros, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Naxos Port-Airport To All Destinations: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lagos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:

  • Transfer Lagos - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $76
  • Transfer Lagos - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $55
  • Transfer Burgau - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $71
  • Transfer Burgau - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $55
  • Private Transfer: Lagos to Seville: $380
  • Private Transfer: Lagos to Lisbon: $434
  • Private Transfer: Faro/FAO to Seville: $326
  • Private Transfer: Faro to Lisbon: $434
  • Private Transfer from Vila do Bispo to Faro (FAO) Airport: $149
  • Private Transfer from Santa Maria (Lagos) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Private Transfer from Praia da Luz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104
  • Private Transfer from Lagos to Faro (FAO) Airport: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Lagos?

Prices for flights to both Lagos and Paros 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
    Paros 45
    Lagos 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

For Paros, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $60
  • Naxos Town Food Tour : $93
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $97
  • Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $105
  • Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $107
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $115
  • Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $116
  • Paros Cooking Class: $117
  • Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $154
  • Naxos Villages Food Tour : $163
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $652

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: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Lagos 26

Tours and Activities in Paros

For Paros, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Paros Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Naxos Half Day History and Culture Guided Tour: $33
  • Naxos: Highlights of Naxos Day Tour: $33
  • Naxos Highlights Bus Tour with Free Time for Lunch and Swimming: $33
  • Naxos Old Town, Castle & Portara Sunset Tour (Certified Guide): $43
  • Hiking tour on Kythnos: $50
  • Sightseeing Tours by Alexander Boat: $55
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Paros and Antiparos Islands from Paros : $62
  • Iraklia and Koufonissia- One Day Cruise from Naxos: $64
  • Sunset Experience in Paros: $72
  • Iraklia and Koufonisi Cruise from Paros: $72
  • Paros Island Highlights Bus Tour & Boat Trip to Antiparos: $76

Tours and Activities in Lagos

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

  • 2-hour Kayak Tour of Ponta da Piedade Caves and Beaches: $44
  • 4x4 Off-road Algarve Natural Park West Coast Tour : $58
  • Adventure to the Benagil Caves on a Family Friendly Catamaran - Start at Lagos: $44
  • Algarve Private Tour: Sagres and Benagil from Lisbon: $847
  • Algarve: Aljezur, Arrifana, and Costa Vicentina Private Tour: $147
  • Algarve: Family photoshoot experience: $217
  • Algarve: Lagos Sightseeing guided Tour with e-bikes: $64
  • Algarve: Lagos sightseeing guided tour with E-bikes: $64
  • Boat Cruise to Algar de Benagil from Lagos: $39
  • Catamaran Cruise in Lagos: $43
  • Coast Cruise Trip to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos: $33
  • Coastal Tour 2H30M / Lagos / Grottos / Aqua Trampoline: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Lagos 6.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

Also in Paros, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos: $61
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos: $66
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $165
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $168

Sample the Local Flavors in Lagos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:

  • Lagos Wine Tasting and Tapas: $39
  • Small group Wine Tasting Tour from Lagos: $66
  • Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique with Wine Tasting: $87
  • Benagil Secrets: Jeep and Boat Tour with Wine Tasting: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Paros or Lagos?

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