A First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Lagos Island

Welcome to the Beating Heart of Lagos

If Lagos were a living, breathing person, Lagos Island would be its fast-talking, fashion-forward, no-nonsense heart. It’s the part of Lagos where history shakes hands with modern hustle, where colonial-era architecture rubs shoulders with shiny bank headquarters, and where every street corner feels like a story waiting to be told.

Whether you’re arriving by road or crossing the Third Mainland Bridge with the sea breeze brushing your face, your first glimpse of Lagos Island is like stepping into an action-packed movie scene—only here, the soundtrack is a mix of honking danfos, street hawkers calling out, and Afrobeats leaking from shop speakers.

If this is your first trip to Lagos Island, buckle up. You’re about to experience a heady blend of culture, commerce, food, and chaos—served up with a side of pure Nigerian hospitality.

Getting to Lagos Island – Choose Your Adventure

Your journey to Lagos Island is an adventure in itself. You can approach it in a few ways:

• By Car or Ride-Hailing Service – This is the most comfortable option, though Lagos traffic might test your patience (and your will to live). Plan your trip outside of rush hour unless you enjoy turning your commute into a Netflix marathon.
• By Bus or Danfo – For the brave-hearted who want the real Lagos experience. Danfos are bright yellow minibuses, often with motivational quotes on the bumper, and drivers with reflexes sharper than Formula 1 racers.
• By Ferry – This is my personal favourite. Ferry rides from places like Ikorodu or CMS let you dodge the infamous Lagos traffic while giving you spectacular views of the water and skyline.

A Brief History – Why Lagos Island Matters

Lagos Island is the oldest part of Lagos, with roots tracing back to when it was a thriving Yoruba fishing community before becoming a major hub for Portuguese traders in the 15th century. The colonial era added a British stamp, evident in the old architecture around Broad Street. Today, it’s a commercial powerhouse, home to Nigeria’s financial sector, while still holding tight to its cultural roots.

This mix of history and modernity is what makes Lagos Island irresistible—it’s the kind of place where you can walk past a century-old cathedral and, two minutes later, step into a glass-covered shopping complex.

Where to Stay – From Chic to Cheap

Lagos Island isn’t primarily known for boutique hotels the way Victoria Island is, but you’ll still find a range of options:

• Luxury Hotels – Eko Hotels (technically on Victoria Island but a quick hop over), Radisson Blu Anchorage. These are perfect if you want comfort, waterfront views, and reliable AC.
• Mid-Range Options – Small business hotels around Marina and CMS offer clean rooms at reasonable prices.
• Budget Stays – Guesthouses or short-let apartments around Obalende and Onikan can save you money if you don’t mind basic facilities.

What to See and Do on the Island

Here’s where the fun really starts. Lagos Island is packed with attractions that can easily fill your itinerary.

1. Lagos Island Markets

If you haven’t visited the markets, have you really visited Lagos Island? The crown jewel is Balogun Market—a labyrinth of narrow alleys, stalls, and bargaining banter. Here you’ll find everything from fabrics and jewellery to household goods and street food.
Tip: Dress comfortably, keep valuables close, and bring your bargaining A-game.

2. National Museum Lagos

Located in Onikan, this museum is home to Nigeria’s historical treasures, including traditional masks, carvings, and the iconic Benin Bronzes. It’s the perfect stop for first-timers who want to understand Nigeria beyond the headlines.

3. Freedom Park

Once a colonial prison, Freedom Park is now a cultural hub with art exhibitions, concerts, and open-air cafés. It’s a great place to relax after braving the markets.

4. Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS)

This historic site has hosted everything from Independence Day celebrations to political rallies. The sheer scale of it makes you feel small in the best way possible.

5. Cathedral Church of Christ

A stunning piece of Gothic architecture that feels worlds away from the Lagos hustle. Step inside for a moment of calm—your ears will thank you.

Food and Drink – Lagos Island on a Plate

Food is where Lagos Island truly flexes. Whether you’re into sit-down dining or street food snacking, there’s something for every craving.

• Street Food – Try suya (spicy grilled beef), roasted plantain with groundnut (bole), and puff-puff (fried dough balls) from roadside vendors. The flavours are bold, unapologetic, and unforgettable.
• Local Joints – Bukas around Lagos Island serve hearty Nigerian staples like jollof rice, amala, and efo riro.
• Restaurants – For something more refined, check out Terra Kulture’s restaurant (just across the bridge) or Yellow Chilli for elevated Nigerian cuisine.

Pro Tip: Always ask locals for food recommendations. Lagosians are passionate about their favourites and will send you to the best spots—sometimes hidden in the most unexpected corners.

Navigating the Chaos – Survival Tips for Lagos Island

A first-timer’s visit to Lagos Island can feel overwhelming, but these tips will help you navigate like a pro:

• Time Your Visits – Avoid peak traffic hours (7–10 am and 4–8 pm) unless you enjoy watching your fuel gauge drop without moving an inch.
• Stay Hydrated – The Lagos sun doesn’t play. Carry a bottle of water wherever you go.
• Cash Is King – While POS machines are common, they can be unreliable. Always have some cash for small purchases.
• Dress Light – Comfort beats fashion when you’re wading through crowded markets, though Lagosians will still judge your style—lovingly, of course.

Nightlife – When Lagos Island Lights Up

Lagos Island may be all business during the day, but at night, it turns into a party. From live bands at Freedom Park to rooftop lounges overlooking the city, there’s something for every mood. Street bars (known as “joints”) spring up, serving cold drinks and hot grills until the early hours.

If you’re feeling adventurous, join the locals for an impromptu street party. Lagos Island doesn’t need much of an excuse to dance.

Shopping Beyond the Markets

While Balogun and other traditional markets are must-sees, Lagos Island also has a growing number of modern shopping options. Look out for smaller fashion boutiques, art galleries, and pop-up stores showcasing Nigerian designers.

One spot worth checking is the Onikan Art Centre, where you can find paintings, beadwork, and sculptures made by local artisans. Buying here means you’re directly supporting the talent that keeps Lagos Island’s culture alive.

Day Trips from Lagos Island

If you have extra time, Lagos Island makes a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions:

• Victoria Island & Lekki – For more upscale dining, shopping, and nightlife.
• Tarkwa Bay Beach – Accessible by boat, it’s a serene escape from the city buzz.
• Badagry – A historic town with museums and monuments telling the story of the slave trade era.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Lagos Island

Lagos Island is not perfect—it’s noisy, crowded, and at times chaotic. But it’s also full of life, colour, and resilience. Every corner hums with energy, every face tells a story, and every day feels like something new is happening.

A first-timer’s trip here will leave you with more than just photos; you’ll take home memories of people, flavours, and moments that capture the real spirit of Lagos. And once you’ve been, you’ll always find yourself wanting to come back—because Lagos Island doesn’t just welcome visitors, it absorbs them into its heartbeat.