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

Should you visit Lagos or Alicante?

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 Alicante. 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 scenic, adventure-filled, and dramatic resort town. The famous beauty of Lagos is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Lagos travel costs.

Alicante

Alicante is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Alicante travel costs.

Lagos and Alicante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Alicante?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Alicante 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 Alicante attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Lagos is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Alicante is famous for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Lagos different from Alicante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Alicante 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 Alicante. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lagos and Alicante offer a number of high quality 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.

Alicante has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Resorts?

Lagos is terrific for its resorts. However, Alicante is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Lagos is a perfect 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.

Alicante is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Beaches?

Lagos is terrific for the beach. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Lagos is a very popular vacation 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.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for its Old Town?

Alicante is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Alicante to see the historical old town. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Hiking?

Lagos is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Alicante 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.

Alicante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Alicante?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Alicante 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 Alicante. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Lagos or Alicante More Beautiful?

Lagos is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Alicante is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Lagos is one of the main draws. With its dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches, this area is truly one-of-a-kind.

Alicante is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Families?

Lagos is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lagos is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Alicante. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Couples?

Lagos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Lagos 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.

Alicante is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is terrific for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Lagos or Alicante Better for Students?

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

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Alicante 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 Alicante, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

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 Alicante a more walkable city?

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

Alicante is somewhat walkable. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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 Alicante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alicante or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Alicante?

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

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

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 Alicante, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. 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 Alicante?

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 Alicante. 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.

Five days in Lagos or Alicante?

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.

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

A week in Lagos or Alicante?

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 colorful destination of Alicante. 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 Madrid, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Alicante, we can see that Alicante is more expensive. And not only is Lagos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lagos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lagos 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 Alicante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Alicante than you might in Lagos.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Alicante?

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Alicante, 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 Alicante?

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 Alicante in the Summer?

Both Alicante and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lagos for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Alicante in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Alicante. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Alicante in the Autumn?

Both Alicante and Lagos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lagos in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Alicante for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Lagos is generally a little warmer than Alicante. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Alicante. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Alicante in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Alicante. Most visitors come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Alicante because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lagos is much warmer than Alicante in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Alicante fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Alicante. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Alicante in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Alicante. The spring months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Alicante this time of year.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Alicante. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Alicante averages at about 16°C (60°F).

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

Typical Weather for Alicante and Lagos