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

Should you visit Lagos or Bergen?

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 Bergen. 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 in Lagos as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Lagos travel costs.

Bergen

Bergen is a friendly, laid back, and nostalgic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bergen travel costs.

Lagos and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Bergen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lagos than Bergen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lagos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Lagos is more touristy than Bergen and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Also, Lagos is famous for Ponta da Piedade. Bergen is well known for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Lagos different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Lagos is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Lagos is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen 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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Resorts?

Lagos is very popular for its resorts. However, Bergen is not a resort destination.

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.

Bergen is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

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.

Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Beaches?

Lagos is very popular for the beach. However, Bergen is not a beach destination.

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.

Bergen is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Bergen to see the historical old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Hiking?

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

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Bergen?

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

Bergen is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

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 Bergen More Beautiful?

Lagos is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Bergen is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lagos as well. With its dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches, this area is truly one-of-a-kind.

Bergen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Families?

Lagos is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Bergen is a very family-friendly destination. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Couples?

Lagos is very popular for couples. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Bergen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is very popular for backpackers. Also, Bergen 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Lagos or Bergen Better for Students?

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

Bergen is popular with students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Bergen can move around easily with public transportation. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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 Bergen a more walkable city?

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

Bergen is very walkable. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore 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 Bergen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Bergen?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lagos. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bergen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nostalgic 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.

A weekend in Lagos or Bergen?

Lagos is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Lagos or Bergen?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Lagos. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the nostalgic destination of Bergen. 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Bergen?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

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 Bergen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Bergen. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lagos is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 25°C (77°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Bergen. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Bergen. Many travelers come to Lagos for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bergen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Lagos is much warmer than Bergen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Bergen in the Winter?

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

Bergen can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lagos is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lagos in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Bergen averages at about 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Bergen. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen 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. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm.

In April, Lagos is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 28°C (82°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Bergen. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Lagos