10 Must-Visit Places in the World for Every Nigerian Tourist: Your Best Guide

Life in Naija can get hot literally and figuratively. From dodging Lagos traffic like you are in an episode of Fast & Furious to fuel scarcity that will make you contemplate becoming a cyclist, it is no surprise many of us dream of escape. But wait; don’t just hop on the next available plane without a plan.

If you are going to travel, travel well. Some must-visit places in the world will leave you speechless (and maybe temporarily forget NEPA’s existence). So grab your travel bucket list because this post is about to get deliciously global!

1. Paris, France – The City of Love (And Surprisingly Good Bread)

Address: Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

No travel list is complete without Paris. It’s not just for lovers. It is for foodies, fashionistas, and even those who just want to take a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower with the perfect “foreign pose.”

From walking along the Seine to eating enough croissants to develop a French accent, Paris is magic. For Nigerians who grew up watching Super Story, this is your chance to write your own episode, just with less drama and more baguettes.

2. Cape Town, South Africa – Mountains, Beaches, and a Bit of Home Vibe

Address: Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa.

Forget “overseas” for a moment because Cape Town will blow your mind. There is Table Mountain (go up the cable car, not the long walk unless you have trained with the Nigerian Army), stunning beaches, and even penguins at Boulders Beach.

Plus, the food is delicious and not too far from jollof rice territory. You also won’t need a translator or dictionary, just your bold Naija confidence.

3. Bali, Indonesia – Where Peace Meets Palm Trees

Address: Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia.

Bali is like the “calm after Nigerian stress” in physical form. Imagine lush rice fields, exotic temples, and massages that cost less than a plate of goat meat pepper soup. Whether you are seeking a spiritual awakening or just need a break from Lagos’ honking, Bali is that sweet escape. And the people? Smiling like they’ve never heard of PHCN.

4. Rome, Italy – Ancient Vibes and Serious Pasta Goals

Address: Colosseum, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

Rome is where history books come alive. The Colosseum alone is reason enough to visit. Yes, the same one from Gladiator, but without the lions. Every corner has a statue, a church, or a pizza shop. And you will eat pizza so good, you might never trust Domino’s again. Rome is a must-visit place in the world if you want to blend sightseeing with heavy eating.

5. Dubai, UAE – Where Luxury Shines Brighter than NEPA Light

Address: Burj Khalifa, 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates.

Dubai is like what happens when someone with oil money has too much free time—and it’s glorious. The Burj Khalifa, gold-plated everything, indoor skiing, and shopping malls the size of villages. You can even get suya-style shawarma at 2 a.m. It is where most Nigerians already go, but you haven’t been until you try a desert safari while screaming like a Nollywood actor in a horror movie.

6. Santorini, Greece – Heaven in Blue and White

Address: Oia, Santorini, Cyclades, Greece.

Santorini is the island you see in romantic Instagram photos – with white buildings, blue rooftops, and sunsets that make you question your single status. It is peaceful, quiet, and perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to pretend not to be lonely. Just don’t expect to find amala or efo riro here. Pack snacks.

7. Tokyo, Japan – For the Techy, the Foodie, and the Curious

Address: Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-8010, Japan.

Tokyo is so futuristic that you might expect to see flying cars. From vending machines that sell everything (yes, everything) to sushi that tastes like joy, Tokyo is a vibe. Don’t worry about the language barrier; the Japanese are kind and polite enough to help you mime your way through anything. If you have ever watched anime or Kung Fu Hustle, you will feel like a star.

8. New York City, USA – The City That Never Sleeps (Because of Rent)

Address: Times Square, Manhattan, NY 10036, USA.

New York is noisy, fast, expensive, and thrilling. You can eat food from every country, hear 20 languages in one subway ride, and find a church, club, and barbershop on the same block. It’s where dreamers go to dream and hustle, just like Lagos, but with more skyscrapers and fewer potholes. A must-visit place in the world if you want to feel global and grounded at the same time.

9. Petra, Jordan – The Lost City That Looks Like a Nollywood Set

Address: Petra Archaeological Park, Wadi Musa, Jordan.

Petra looks like someone carved heaven out of stone. You have seen it in movies (Indiana Jones, for one), and in real life, it’s even more impressive. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore history while burning calories, Petra is a great bet. Just wear good shoes. This isn’t the place for fine boy slippers or high heels.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland – Land of Fire, Ice, and Mad Views

Address: Hallgrimskirkja Church, Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Yes, Iceland is cold. Yes, it is far. But if you want to see the Northern Lights, soak in hot springs, and post pics that make people jealous on your WhatsApp status, Iceland is your place. Plus, it’s so peaceful that even your overactive Nigerian paranoia will go on holiday. Just pack like you are preparing for Christmas in Jos and then double it.

What Every Nigerian Tourist Should Know Before Jetting Off

1. Visa Matters: Like we know, some countries dey vex for our green passport. Always research visa requirements ahead of time. Some places are visa-free or visa-on-arrival for Nigerians (hello, Seychelles and Maldives!), while others will need you to pray and submit 17 documents, including your great-grandfather’s certificate of origin.
2. Budget Like a Pro: Don’t let Instagram deceive you. Travel can be pricey if you don’t plan. Use budget airlines, book hotels in advance, and if all else fails, travel during off-peak seasons. Or find countries where your naira can still talk with small authority (hello, South East Asia).
3. Travel Light, but Travel Smart: Forget dragging three Ghana-Must-Go bags around. Pack smart. Carry essentials, avoid overpacking, and yes, always carry pepper (just in case the food no get taste).
4. Embrace Culture, But Be Yourself: It is okay to learn a few local phrases, try their food, and respect their customs. But never forget who you are: a bold, jollof-powered Nigerian. Just don’t shout “Up NEPA” in public transport.
5. Don’t Forget Home: As fun as travel is, Nigeria is still home. Take your experiences, come back, and spread the gospel of travel. Even if you japa permanently, at least help your people see the world through your eyes.

Final Thoughts on Must-Visit Places in the World

Travel is more than just plane tickets and passport stamps. It is about experiences that change you, stories that make you laugh years later, and memories that remind you the world is a lot bigger (and brighter) than your corner of it. These must-visit places in the world are not just tourist traps. They are soul refreshers, eye-openers, and sometimes, even a cure for Nigerian stress.

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to start that travel dream, this is it. Save money, get that passport ready, and step into the world with your Naija pride intact. Don’t just travel; travel well, travel smart, and come back with stories that will make your village people wonder.

Clare Aririahu

Welcome to my world! 🌟 I’m Clare, the proud founder of lovemeandtour.com website. I’m passionate about connecting people and helping them find love. Join me on this exciting journey and let’s spread love together! 🌟 #LoveMe #Travel #Passionate