A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Lagos for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lagos

Lagos is a dramatic, vibrant, and beautiful resort town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Lagos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lagos. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is very popular for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Lagos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lagos is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is very popular for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Lagos is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lagos and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Lagos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lagos is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Lagos is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Lagos is very popular for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lagos

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Thiva (Thebes) is somewhat walkable. Some areas are more walkable than others.

Lagos is not a very walkable city. 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 Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Lagos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lagos or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lagos than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 3-5 days is enough time in Lagos.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lagos than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Lagos 3-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

In Thiva (Thebes), many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Lagos, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Lagos is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Thiva (Thebes) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the resort town of Lagos. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Lagos or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Lagos 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Lagos 122
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Lagos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Lagos 31

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Prices for flights to both Lagos and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Lagos 34

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Lagos 26

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Lagos 6.79

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 Thiva (Thebes) and Lagos, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Lagos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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.


When is the best time to visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos in the Summer?

Both Lagos and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Lagos. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Lagos. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Lagos 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos in the Autumn?

Both Lagos and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Thiva (Thebes) is cooler than Lagos in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Lagos fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Lagos. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Lagos 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is much colder than Lagos. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Lagos averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more rain than Lagos. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Lagos 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lagos in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Lagos. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally much colder than Lagos. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Lagos fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Lagos. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lagos receives 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Lagos 28°C (82°F)

Typical Weather for Lagos and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Lagos
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 29°C (84°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 29°C (84°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 316 mm (12.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 243 mm (9.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 26°C (79°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)