Top 50 Places to Visit in Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria’s vibrant commercial capital, is a bustling metropolis brimming with cultural, historical, and modern attractions. From pristine beaches to historic landmarks, thriving markets, and cutting-edge art galleries, Lagos offers something for everyone. Below is a curated list of the top 50 places to visit in Lagos, complete with price ranges, descriptions, nearest bus stops, and information on founders or owners where applicable. This guide aims to help you navigate the city’s dynamic offerings, whether you’re a local or a tourist.
1. Lekki Conservation Centre
- Price Range: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 (adults), ₦500 (children)
- Description: A 78-hectare nature reserve featuring a 401-meter canopy walkway, one of the longest in Africa, offering stunning views of the surrounding flora and fauna. Perfect for nature lovers, it includes walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys and birds.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1
- Founder/Owner: Founded by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF); managed by NCF.
2. Nike Art Gallery
- Price Range: Free entry; art purchases range from ₦10,000 to millions
- Description: A world-renowned gallery showcasing Nigerian art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. It’s a cultural hub celebrating creativity, with works by both established and emerging artists.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1
- Founder/Owner: Founded and owned by Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, a prominent Nigerian artist.
3. Freedom Park
- Price Range: Free; events may have ticket prices (₦500 – ₦5,000)
- Description: A memorial and recreational park on Lagos Island, formerly Her Majesty’s Broad Street Prison. Built to mark Nigeria’s 50th independence anniversary, it features monuments, fountains, an amphitheater, and spaces for cultural events.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Designed by architect Theo Lawson; managed by Lagos State Government.
4. Elegushi Beach
- Price Range: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 (entry); additional costs for activities
- Description: A popular private beach in Lekki known for its lively atmosphere, water sports, and nightlife. Ideal for relaxation and social gatherings, with food stalls and beachside bars.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1
- Founder/Owner: Owned by the Elegushi Royal Family.
5. Tarkwa Bay
- Price Range: ₦500 – ₦1,000 (ferry); ₦1,000 (entry)
- Description: A serene beach accessible only by boat, offering a peaceful escape from Lagos’ hustle. Perfect for swimming, picnics, and water sports, with fewer crowds than other beaches.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS (ferry departure point)
- Founder/Owner: Public beach; managed by local authorities.
6. Eko Atlantic City
- Price Range: Free to visit; property purchases start at millions
- Description: A modern city being developed on reclaimed land, featuring luxury residential and commercial spaces. It’s a glimpse into Lagos’ futuristic ambitions, with scenic ocean views.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Developed by South Energyx Nigeria Ltd., a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group.
7. National Museum Lagos
- Price Range: ₦500 – ₦1,000
- Description: Located on Lagos Island, this museum houses Nigerian artifacts, including Benin bronzes, Nok terracottas, and historical relics, offering insight into the country’s cultural heritage.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Managed by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments.
8. Tinubu Square
- Price Range: Free
- Description: A historic open space on Lagos Island, formerly Independence Square, named after slave trader and merchant Efunroye Tinubu. It’s a cultural landmark with colonial-era significance.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Public space; maintained by Lagos State Government.
9. Balogun Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦100,000+ for goods)
- Description: A bustling market on Lagos Island, known for its vibrant trade in fabrics, clothing, and electronics. A must-visit for experiencing Lagos’ commercial energy.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Traditional market; no single founder, managed by local traders’ associations.
10. Jara Beach Resort
- Price Range: ₦5,000 – ₦50,000 (entry, activities, and dining)
- Description: A luxurious beach resort offering premium amenities, including fine dining, water sports, and serene ocean views, perfect for upscale relaxation.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ibeju-Lekki
- Founder/Owner: Privately owned; specific founder details unavailable.
11. Ikeja City Mall
- Price Range: Free entry; shopping/dining ₦1,000 – ₦50,000+
- Description: A modern shopping mall in Ikeja with international brands, a cinema, and dining options, catering to families and young professionals.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikeja Along
- Founder/Owner: Developed by Actis and Paragon Holdings.
12. Danfo Bistro
- Price Range: ₦2,000 – ₦10,000 per meal
- Description: A vibrant restaurant on Lagos Island serving elevated Nigerian street food like ewa agoyin with fried plantain, set in a colorful, cultural ambiance.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Privately owned; specific founder details unavailable.
13. NOK by Alara
- Price Range: ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 per meal
- Description: A fine-dining restaurant offering modern African cuisine in an elegant setting with a bamboo-framed garden, blending fashion and food.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Founded by Chef Pierre Thiam, under the NOK luxury brand.
14. Badagry Slave Museum
- Price Range: ₦500 – ₦1,000
- Description: Located 50 km from Lagos, this museum memorializes the transatlantic slave trade with artifacts and historical exhibits, offering a sobering look at history.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Badagry
- Founder/Owner: Managed by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments.
15. Victoria Island
- Price Range: Free to explore; dining/activities ₦5,000 – ₦100,000+
- Description: A commercial and residential hub with luxury hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, known for its upscale vibe and proximity to the ocean.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Public area; developed by various private and government entities.
16. Ikoyi Club
- Price Range: Membership-based; guest fees ₦5,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A prestigious private club offering golf, swimming, and social events, frequented by Lagos’ elite and expatriates.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikoyi
- Founder/Owner: Founded in 1938; managed by Ikoyi Club management.
17. Lekki Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦50,000+ for goods)
- Description: A vibrant market in Lekki known for arts, crafts, and local produce, offering a blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1
- Founder/Owner: Traditional market; no single founder, managed by local traders.
18. Opebi Road
- Price Range: Free to explore; dining/shopping ₦1,000 – ₦50,000
- Description: A bustling commercial and residential street in Ikeja with high-rise buildings, restaurants, and shops, known for its vibrant skyline.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikeja Along
- Founder/Owner: Public area; developed by various entities.
19. Allen Avenue
- Price Range: Free to explore; dining/shopping ₦1,000 – ₦50,000
- Description: A lively street in Ikeja with retail outlets, restaurants, and nightlife, attracting shoppers and socialites.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikeja Along
- Founder/Owner: Public area; no single founder.
20. Quilox
- Price Range: ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 (entry and drinks)
- Description: A multi-story nightclub on Victoria Island, known for its vibrant nightlife, DJs, and celebrity sightings.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Founded by Shina Peller.
21. Landmark Beach
- Price Range: ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 (entry); activities extra
- Description: A family-friendly beach with recreational facilities, restaurants, and event spaces, ideal for relaxation and fun.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Owned by Landmark Africa Group.
22. Eko Hotels & Suites
- Price Range: ₦50,000 – ₦200,000 per night
- Description: A luxury hotel on Victoria Island with top-tier amenities, conference facilities, and dining options, catering to business and leisure travelers.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Owned by Eko Hotels and Suites management.
23. Terra Kulture
- Price Range: Free entry; events/meals ₦2,000 – ₦10,000
- Description: A cultural center on Victoria Island promoting Nigerian arts, theater, and cuisine, with a gallery and bookstore.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Founded by Bolanle Austen-Peters.
24. Lagos Marina
- Price Range: Free to explore; boat tours ₦5,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A scenic waterfront area with boat tours, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Public area; managed by Lagos State Government.
25. Ikosi International Fruits Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦20,000 for goods)
- Description: A bustling fruit market in Ketu, opened in 2023, offering fresh produce and a vibrant shopping experience.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ketu
- Founder/Owner: Opened by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
26. Surulere
- Price Range: Free to explore; dining/nightlife ₦1,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A lively neighborhood with nightlife, street food, and cultural attractions like the National Arts Theatre.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ojuelegba
- Founder/Owner: Public area; no single founder.
27. Yaba
- Price Range: Free to explore; dining/shopping ₦1,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: Known as “Yabacon Valley,” this tech and cultural hub is home to startups, markets, and vibrant nightlife.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Yaba
- Founder/Owner: Public area; no single founder.
28. Apapa Quay
- Price Range: Free to visit; dining/activities ₦2,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A bustling port area with colonial-era homes and modern apartments, offering a glimpse into Lagos’ maritime industry.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Apapa
- Founder/Owner: Public area; managed by Nigerian Ports Authority.
29. Banana Island
- Price Range: Free to explore; property rentals ₦500,000 – millions
- Description: An exclusive man-made island in Ikoyi with luxury estates, private beaches, and 24-hour security.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikoyi
- Founder/Owner: Developed by private real estate firms.
30. The Art Hotel
- Price Range: ₦80,000 – ₦250,000 per night
- Description: A boutique hotel in Victoria Island combining art and luxury, with unique decor and high-end amenities.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Privately owned; specific founder details unavailable.
31. Omenka Gallery
- Price Range: Free entry; art purchases ₦50,000 – millions
- Description: A contemporary art gallery in Ikoyi showcasing African and international works, popular among art enthusiasts.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikoyi
- Founder/Owner: Founded by Oliver Enwonwu.
32. Lagos Motor Boat Club
- Price Range: Membership-based; guest fees ₦5,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A private club on Lagos Island offering boating, dining, and social events, with a scenic waterfront location.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Founded in 1948; managed by club management.
33. Palms Shopping Mall
- Price Range: Free entry; shopping/dining ₦1,000 – ₦50,000+
- Description: A modern mall in Lekki with retail stores, a cinema, and dining options, catering to families and shoppers.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1
- Founder/Owner: Developed by Persianas Properties.
34. Bogobiri House
- Price Range: ₦20,000 – ₦100,000 (accommodation/dining)
- Description: A boutique hotel and cultural hub in Ikoyi, known for its Afrocentric decor, live music, and art events.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikoyi
- Founder/Owner: Privately owned; specific founder details unavailable.
35. Federal Palace Hotel
- Price Range: ₦70,000 – ₦200,000 per night
- Description: A historic luxury hotel on Victoria Island with a casino, fine dining, and event spaces, blending heritage and modernity.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Owned by Sun International.
36. Oshodi Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦50,000+ for goods)
- Description: A major market at the heart of Lagos, known for its chaotic energy and wide range of goods, from electronics to food.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Oshodi
- Founder/Owner: Traditional market; no single founder.
37. Oniru Beach
- Price Range: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 (entry); activities extra
- Description: A lively beach in Oniru with music, food stalls, and water sports, popular among young Lagosians.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Owned by the Oniru Royal Family.
38. Ndubuisi Kanu Park
- Price Range: Free; activities ₦500 – ₦5,000
- Description: A recreational park in Ikeja with green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, ideal for families.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikeja Along
- Founder/Owner: Managed by Lagos State Government.
39. Lagos State Secretariat
- Price Range: Free to view; restricted access
- Description: The administrative hub of Lagos State, featuring modern architecture and historical significance.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikeja Along
- Founder/Owner: Managed by Lagos State Government.
40. Third Mainland Bridge
- Price Range: Free (public infrastructure)
- Description: Africa’s longest bridge, connecting Lagos Island to the mainland, offering scenic views of the Lagos Lagoon.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS or Yaba
- Founder/Owner: Built by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
41. Silverbird Galleria
- Price Range: Free entry; cinema/dining ₦2,000 – ₦20,000
- Description: A popular entertainment complex in Victoria Island with a cinema, restaurants, and shops.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Owned by Silverbird Group, founded by Ben Murray-Bruce.
42. Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
- Price Range: Free (public infrastructure)
- Description: A scenic cable-stayed bridge connecting Lekki and Ikoyi, offering stunning views and a jogging path.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lekki Phase 1 or Ikoyi
- Founder/Owner: Built by Lagos State Government.
43. Alexis Galleries
- Price Range: Free entry; art purchases ₦50,000 – millions
- Description: A contemporary art gallery in Victoria Island showcasing vibrant Nigerian artworks, known for its vivid displays.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Founded by Patty Chidiuto Ononiwu.
44. Lagos City Mall
- Price Range: Free entry; shopping/dining ₦1,000 – ₦50,000+
- Description: A shopping and entertainment hub on Lagos Island with retail stores, a cinema, and food courts.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Developed by private investors.
45. Idumota Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦50,000+ for goods)
- Description: A historic market on Lagos Island known for textiles, electronics, and wholesale goods, bustling with energy.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Traditional market; no single founder.
46. Epe Fish Market
- Price Range: Varies (₦500 – ₦20,000 for goods)
- Description: A vibrant market in Epe specializing in fresh seafood, offering a glimpse into Lagos’ fishing industry.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Epe
- Founder/Owner: Traditional market; no single founder.
47. National Arts Theatre
- Price Range: ₦1,000 – ₦10,000 (event tickets)
- Description: An iconic cultural venue in Surulere hosting plays, concerts, and exhibitions, a cornerstone of Nigerian arts.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ojuelegba
- Founder/Owner: Managed by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
48. MUSON Centre
- Price Range: ₦2,000 – ₦20,000 (event tickets)
- Description: A performing arts center on Lagos Island hosting classical music concerts, theater, and cultural events.
- Nearest Bus Stop: CMS
- Founder/Owner: Founded by the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON).
49. Ikorodu Town Hall
- Price Range: Free to view; events ₦1,000 – ₦10,000
- Description: A community hub in Ikorodu hosting cultural and social events, reflecting the area’s local heritage.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Ikorodu
- Founder/Owner: Managed by Ikorodu Local Government.
50. Hard Rock Cafe Lagos
- Price Range: ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 per meal
- Description: A vibrant restaurant in Victoria Island offering American-style dining, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
- Nearest Bus Stop: Victoria Island
- Founder/Owner: Franchise owned by Hard Rock International.
This list captures the essence of Lagos’ diverse attractions, from cultural landmarks to modern entertainment hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in art and history, Lagos offers endless opportunities for discovery. Always check for updated pricing and accessibility before visiting, as costs may vary due to seasonal changes or events. Enjoy your adventure in Nigeria’s largest city