Best Hotel in Nigeria: My Honest Experience and Practical Guide
By: Etuk Ukpono
Finding the best hotel in Nigeria is not just about luxury, but about comfort, safety, and value for money. As someone who has traveled across Nigeria for work and leisure, I know the struggle of choosing the right place to stay especially with so many options in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and other major cities.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience, highlight some of the top-rated hotels in Nigeria, and give you practical tips to help you choose the perfect one whether you’re traveling for business, family vacation, or a quick getaway.
Why Choosing the Best Hotel in Nigeria Matters
When I first started traveling within Nigeria, I thought hotels were just about having a bed to sleep on. But over the years, I learned that the hotel you choose can make or break your entire trip.
Here’s why:
Comfort and Safety: A good hotel provides security, clean rooms, and peace of mind.
Location: Staying close to the airport, business centers, or tourist attractions saves time and money.
Amenities: From reliable Wi-Fi to swimming pools, gym, and restaurants—these extras matter.
Value for Money: Price does not always equal quality. Sometimes, boutique hotels outperform “big names.”
That’s why I decided to put together this detailed guide on the best hotels in Nigeria—based on personal experience, reviews, and what most travelers actually care about.
Best Hotels in Nigeria by City
1. Best Hotels in Lagos
Lagos is Nigeria’s commercial hub, so naturally, it has some of the finest hotels in the country.
Eko Hotels & Suites (Victoria Island): Probably the most famous hotel in Nigeria. It’s great for business travelers and also has event halls for concerts and conferences.
Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel (Victoria Island): Perfect for leisure with a sea view, modern design, and excellent dining options.
The Wheatbaker (Ikoyi): A luxury boutique hotel that is both stylish and quiet—ideal for business meetings.
2. Best Hotels in Abuja
Nigeria’s capital city offers high-end and secure hotels suitable for government officials, diplomats, and travelers.
Transcorp Hilton Abuja: A landmark in Abuja, known for world-class service, casino, restaurants, and top security.
Sheraton Hotel Abuja: Classic, reliable, and good for conferences.
Nordic Hotel: A modern boutique hotel with Scandinavian design, perfect if you want something unique.
3. Best Hotels in Port Harcourt
As an oil city, Port Harcourt attracts a lot of international visitors.
Hotel Presidential: Spacious, with top-notch restaurants and conference facilities.
Le Meridien Ogeyi Place: Smaller but luxurious, with personalized services.
4. Best Hotels in Calabar
Calabar is a tourist-friendly city, especially during the annual Carnival Calabar festival.
Tinapa Lakeside Hotel: Perfect if you want to combine relaxation with shopping and entertainment.
Transcorp Hotel Calabar: A reliable choice with good food and decent facilities.
How to Choose the Best Hotel in Nigeria (My Personal Tips)
When searching for the best hotel in Nigeria, here are practical steps I personally use:
Step 1: Decide Your Purpose of Travel
Are you traveling for business, leisure, or family vacation? Business travelers usually need central locations and conference facilities, while tourists prefer hotels near attractions.
Step 2: Check Online Reviews (But Be Smart)
Websites like Nigerianinfolink.com and TripAdvisor are useful, but always read reviews carefully. Some are exaggerated, while others give genuine insights.
Step 3: Compare Prices Across Platforms
Don’t just book from one site. Use booking platforms (Booking.com, Hotels.ng, Expedia) and compare rates. Sometimes, calling the hotel directly gives better deals.
Step 4: Look Beyond Price
The cheapest hotel may not always be safe or comfortable. Balance cost with value.
Step 5: Security is Non-Negotiable
In Nigeria, especially in big cities, hotel security is crucial. Always choose a hotel with proper security checks.
Best Hotel in Nigeria for Different Needs
Best Hotel for Business Travelers
Transcorp Hilton Abuja – reliable, secure, and well-equipped for meetings.
Best Hotel for Family Vacations
Eko Hotels & Suites (Lagos) – spacious rooms, pool, kids-friendly environment.
Best Boutique Experience
The Wheatbaker (Lagos) – cozy and private.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotel
Smaller hotels in GRA areas of cities like Enugu, Ibadan, and Uyo can give you comfort at half the cost of luxury hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best hotel in Nigeria overall?
Based on popularity and reviews, Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos rank among the best.
2. Are Nigerian hotels safe?
Yes, but always choose hotels with proper security checks and located in safe areas.
3. How much does it cost to stay in the best hotels in Nigeria?
Luxury hotels like Hilton Abuja and Eko Hotels start around ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 per night, while budget-friendly options can be ₦20,000 – ₦40,000.
4. Can I book Nigerian hotels online?
Yes, through Hotels.ng, Booking.com, Expedia, or even directly from the hotel’s website.
5. What should I look out for when booking a hotel in Nigeria?
Security, location, amenities, and verified reviews.
Final Thoughts
The best hotel in Nigeria really depends on what you’re looking for—luxury, budget, family-friendly, or business convenience. From my experience, you can never go wrong with Transcorp Hilton Abuja if you’re in the capital, or Eko Hotels & Suites if you’re in Lagos. But boutique options like The Wheatbaker also deliver unforgettable stays.
The key is to balance comfort, safety, and value for money. Next time you’re traveling within Nigeria, use the steps I shared here to find the right hotel for your needs.
For more practical travel and lifestyle tips in Nigeria, check out Nigerianinfolink.com—your go-to hub for side hustles, smart living, and travel hacks.
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