Shortlet vs Hotel in Lagos 2025: Prices, Pros & Cons for Travellers

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In 2025, Lagos visitors are split between stylish shortlets and trusted hotels. Airbnb-style rentals now dominate listings in Lekki and Victoria Island, while international hotel chains are investing heavily in new properties across the city. The question of whether to stay in a shortlet or a hotel in Lagos has become a significant consideration for anyone planning a trip. Your choice will certainly affect your budget, convenience, and overall Lagos experience.

 

Lagos Travel & Accommodation Trends (2025)

The shortlet market in Lagos has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. Over the past three years, availability has surged by 263%, with the city now hosting more than 6,800 units in prime neighbourhoods, such as Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island, and Ikeja.

At the same time, hotel development has expanded rapidly. Nigeria now ranks second in Africa for hotel projects, with Lagos leading the way through a wave of new mid-range and luxury builds.

Shortlet rates spiked by over 200% in 2024, especially during December festivities and major event periods, reflecting the high demand.

Travellers’ preferences vary. Diaspora families and business visitors often favour shortlet apartments for the extra space they provide. In contrast, first-time visitors and conference attendees tend to lean towards hotels for their consistent service and reliability.

 

What’s the Difference Between a Shortlet and a Hotel?

A shortlet is a furnished apartment or house that you rent for a short term, typically for days, weeks, or a month. It comes with a kitchen, living room, and laundry facilities, giving you the feel of home.

A hotel is a professionally managed property where you book a room or suite. Hotels offer daily housekeeping, 24/7 front desk support, room service, restaurants, pools, and regulated security.

 

Pros of Choosing a Shortlet

1. Cost-Effective for Groups or Longer Stays: Splitting costs with friends or colleagues makes shortlets cheaper per person. Weekly or monthly discounts often apply.
2. More Space and Privacy: Separate bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens create a homey feel, ideal for families or remote workers.
3. Home-Like Comfort: Cook meals, do laundry, and entertain in a relaxed setting without strict hotel rules.
4. Local Flavour: Staying in a neighbourhood like Lekki Phase 1 or Yaba lets you experience Lagos beyond the polished hotel scene.

Cons of Choosing a Shortlet

1. Price Volatility: The festive season can send rates skyrocketing by 200% or more. Cleaning fees and deposits may also add up.
2. Inconsistent Service: There is no 24/7 front desk, and fixing a faulty AC or bad Wi-Fi may take longer.
3. Variable Security: Safety depends on the host and building. Always verify listings and neighbourhoods.
4. Utilities and Infrastructure: Lagos experiences frequent power outages. Not every shortlet offers generators or inverters.

Pros of Staying in a Hotel

1. Professional Service: Hotels provide daily housekeeping, concierge assistance, and prompt assistance if any issues arise.
2. Amenities on Demand: Pools, gyms, spas, restaurants, and business centres save you time and stress.
3. Prime Locations and Strong Security: Hotels cluster in business hubs like Victoria Island and Ikeja, offering regulated, reliable security.
4. Great for Short Trips and First-Timers: If you’re unfamiliar with Lagos, hotels provide peace of mind and easy navigation.

Cons of Staying in a Hotel

1. Higher Cost per Night: Even mid-range hotels can exceed short-term rates, especially for multiple travellers.
2. Less Space and Flexibility: Cooking or hosting friends is off-limits. Rooms are often smaller than an apartment.
3. Extra Charges: Taxes, service fees, and overpriced extras can inflate your bill.
4. Less Local Immersion: Hotels can feel detached from everyday Lagos life.

 

Typical Price Ranges You Should Expect

• Shortlets

Budget studios on the mainland start at ₦15,000–₦50,000/night (Yaba, Surulere, Ikeja). Mid-range options in Lekki or Victoria Island cost ₦60,000–₦150,000/night, while luxury penthouses or waterfront apartments in Ikoyi or Lekki run ₦200,000–₦500,000+. Monthly stays can range from ₦400,000 to ₦3,000,000+, depending on the amenities.

• Hotels

Budget hotels or guesthouses charge around ₦25,000–₦50,000/night on the mainland. Mid-range 3-4 star hotels in Ikeja GRA or Lekki are ₦60,000–₦150,000/night, and luxury hotels in Victoria Island or Ikoyi cost ₦200,000–₦600,000+, with presidential suites reaching ₦500,000–₦700,000/night.

 

Lagos 2025 Updates to Keep in Mind

In 2025, the Lagos government implemented more stringent ID checks and host verification measures to bolster the security of short-term apartments, thereby providing travellers with increased comfort. At the same time, major hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Radisson are expanding their presence with new properties, offering more competitive mid-range options for visitors. 

Hybrid accommodations are also on the rise, with serviced apartments offering hotel-style concierge services, effectively blurring the line between short-term rentals and traditional hotels. While prime neighbourhoods like Lekki Phase 1, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Ikeja GRA remain the most sought-after, areas such as Yaba and Surulere are gaining popularity among budget-conscious travellers.

Read Also:

• Best 5-Star Hotels in Lagos: Luxury Stays in Nigeria’s Mega City (2025 Guide)
• Top 5-Star Lagos Hotels for Nightlife in 2025 – Rooftop Bars & Lounges
• Best Hotels in Apapa Lagos Near Tin Can Island Port in 2025

 

Personal Tips and Local Insights

• Stay Close to Your Activities: Lagos traffic is intense—choose accommodation near your meetings or nightlife.
• Check for Backup Power: Confirm that your shortlet or hotel has a generator or inverter to avoid disruptions.
• Verify Fees: Ask about deposits, cleaning charges, or service fees upfront.
• Read Recent Reviews: Outdated feedback may not reflect current conditions.
• Mix It Up: Consider booking a hotel for your first few nights, then transition to a short-term rental for a longer, more immersive stay.
• Book Early in Peak Seasons: December and major events, such as concerts or conferences, drive up both hotel and short-term prices quickly.

Conclusion

The shortlet vs. hotel decision in Lagos 2025 boils down to your travel style, budget, and priorities. Choose shortlets for space, kitchen access, and cost savings on longer trips. You can choose hotels for convenience, reliable service, and a stress-free first experience.

By weighing pros, cons, and price ranges, you’ll pick the accommodation that ensures your Lagos trip, whether business, leisure, or both, is smooth and memorable.

 

FAQs

• What is a shortlet apartment in Lagos?

A shortlet is a fully furnished apartment you can rent for days or weeks, often through Airbnb or local platforms.

• Is a shortlet cheaper than a hotel in Lagos?

Often yes—especially for groups or longer stays. But cleaning fees and holiday price surges can sometimes make hotels competitive.

• Are Lagos shortlets safe?

Most are safe if you book through reputable platforms, verify the host, and stay in secure neighbourhoods.

• Which areas of Lagos have the best shortlets and hotels?

Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Ikeja offer the widest range of options. Yaba and Surulere provide more budget-friendly alternatives.

• Which is better for a first-time visitor—shortlet or hotel?

A hotel is often the best choice for your first trip due to its 24/7 support and predictable service. Once you’re familiar with Lagos, a shortlet can offer more freedom and savings.