5 Awesome Things to Do in Lagos on Your Next Visit
Lagos is one city that rarely runs out of things to do. From exciting food spots and colourful celebrations to shopping destinations and creative spaces, there is always something new to experience. Whether you are visiting for the first time, returning after years away or coming home for the holidays, there are some experiences you should definitely add to your plans. Here are five awesome things to do on your next visit to Lagos.
1. Attend a Traditional Nigerian Wedding
No one throws a wedding party quite like Lagosians! If your visit coincides with a traditional Nigerian wedding, make an effort to attend. This is your chance to experience an authentic Owambe moment at its peak. Think beautifully dressed guests, colourful aso ebi, energetic dancing, live music, generous servings of delicious food, souvenirs for guests and plenty of beautiful moments.
From the Yoruba traditional engagement ceremonies to the lively wedding receptions, Lagos weddings are an experience of their own. If you have friends or family getting married during your visit, don't miss the opportunity to attend. You might even find yourself dancing to songs you haven't heard in years.
2. Go on a Shopping Spree
Lagos is a great place to shop, especially if you know where to look. The city has plenty of stores and shopping destinations where you can find affordable items you might not easily find elsewhere or would probably pay much more for in other places. You can explore Tejuosho Market in Yaba for clothes, shoes, bags and accessories, visit Balogun Market on Lagos Island for fabrics and fashion items, or check out Ikeja City Mall for a more relaxed shopping experience.
If you love locally made products, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market is worth visiting for handmade bags, jewellery, artwork and souvenirs. Whether you are shopping for yourself, your family or friends back home, Lagos offers plenty of interesting finds across different budgets.
3. Go Restaurant Hopping
If you love good food, Lagos will give you plenty of reasons to eat out. The city has restaurants serving everything from traditional Nigerian meals to continental dishes, Asian cuisine and exciting food combinations. Rather than sticking to one restaurant throughout your visit, make a day of exploring different food spots.
You could enjoy Nigerian delicacies at Yellow Chilli in Victoria Island, try the dining experience at The Place, visit Shiro in Victoria Island for Asian-inspired dishes or stop by Terra Kulture for Nigerian food and a cultural atmosphere. You can also explore the many restaurants and cafés around Lekki and Ikeja. The idea is to try different places, discover new favourites and enjoy the variety Lagos has to offer.
4. Visit Lagos' Creative and Cultural Spots
There is more to Lagos than shopping malls, restaurants and nightlife. The city has a growing creative scene and several cultural spaces where you can appreciate Nigerian art, history and heritage. Visit Nike Art Gallery in Lekki to explore beautiful Nigerian paintings, sculptures and traditional artwork. You can also stop by the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan to learn more about Yoruba traditions and history.
Freedom Park on Lagos Island is another interesting destination, especially if you enjoy live performances, art exhibitions and cultural events. If you are interested in music history, Kalakuta Museum in Ikeja offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. These places give you an opportunity to experience a different side of Lagos.
5. Visit a Local Market
You haven't fully experienced Lagos until you have visited one of its bustling local markets. Beyond shopping, these markets offer a glimpse into the everyday life of the city. There is the lively bargaining, the conversations between traders and customers, the colourful displays of goods and the constant movement that makes the Lagos market experience unique.
Visit Balogun Market for fabrics, clothes and accessories, Tejuosho Market in Yaba for fashion and household items, or Mile 12 Market if you want to see where many Lagos households shop for fresh food and produce. You can also visit Lekki Arts and Crafts Market for handmade souvenirs and locally crafted pieces. Take your time to explore, compare prices and bargain politely. Just remember to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded markets.
Lagos is best enjoyed when you make room for different experiences. Beyond the popular attractions, some of the most memorable moments can come from attending an Owambe, discovering a new restaurant, finding an unexpected shopping bargain or exploring a cultural space. So, on your next visit, don't just stick to your usual itinerary. Get out, explore different neighbourhoods and give yourself the opportunity to experience Lagos in all its colour, energy and excitement.
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