What can you see in Lagos, Nigeria plus short stays options? An architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark, the edifice is one of the few properties of the country that has stood the test of time. Being home to everything art, the National Theatre provides an avenue for you to learn a lot more about art while having fun in its lush environment. Constructed in 1976 by the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon and completely by General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre has continued to house ancient art, while progressively inviting modern works by new artists. One major dynamics of the theatre is its fascinating interior and exterior design.

Whether or not you’re familiar with the music and life story of Fela Kuti, a beloved Nigerian musician and activist who pioneered the Afrobeat genre, the Kalakuta Republic Museum is worth a visit. The museum is Kuti’s family home (and final resting place), where personal artifacts and items relating to his career are on display, as is the late megastar’s bedroom, which has been left intact. The museum is run by Kuti’s children, who are often present and willing to discuss Fela’s life and legacy with visitors. The string of islands across which Lagos is built are characterized today by skyscrapers and busy highways, but you can still catch glimpses of the undeveloped lagoons and mangroves that greeted Portuguese explorers in the 15th century. A handful of parks and nature reserves present quiet spots to escape the buzz of Lagos city, as do sandy beaches besides crashing Atlantic waves. Lagos, Ikoyi and Victoria islands all have their own vibe and their own attractions to discover.

Just outside of the flashy wealth of Lagos Island you’ll find the severely economically challenged community of Makoko, which is by some definitions the largest floating slum in the world. Definitely the most eye-opening thing to do in Lagos, you’ll witness a hugely marginalized but remarkably resilient community that subsists off the ocean and its own will power. A visit to the Makoko floating village requires some preparation to be sure you’re interacting with the community in a way that is respectful and not voyeuristic. To that end, it’s best to go with a local tour guide, though admittedly that can be a challenge to arrange. I went on a tour with the incredible Nigerian travel group Naija Nomads, who arranged for a boat tour through the village guided by the son of the head of the Makoko community. Note they arrange tours on a custom basis, so you can book a tour through them and see not only Makoko but a few of the other places on this list of things to do in Lagos too! Click here to check out their tours. Read a few extra details on Short stays in Lagos.

Watch Hollywood and Nollywood movies at the different cinemas in the Lagos. There’s Ozone Cinemas in Yaba, Silverbird Galleria in Victoria Island, and Filmhouse in Surulere. The malls also have cinemas in them. There is no better place to sit back and watch the latest box office movies in Lagos than these cinema houses. The Atlantic Ocean overlooks this ideal destination for fun seeking people with little money. There are horses to ride, spaces for a romantic getaway and a free Atlantic Ocean to swim around for the adventurous type. Located in a tropical rain-forest in the outskirts of Lagos, there are lots of places for picnic, kids’ playground and open grasslands for animals like bushbucks, mongooses, hogs and lots more. The lush vegetation and boulevard of coconut trees makes it perfect for a romantic stroll. An awesome city : Lagos with short stays choices?