Top 10 Most Underrated Cities in Nigeria in 2025: A Traveller’s Guide

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There are dozens of cities quietly hiding their charms, minding their business, and waiting for curious travellers to stumble upon them. So, don’t think you’ve seen all of Nigeria just because you visited Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or Calabar.

This Nigeria travel guide 2025 is for those who love discovering places before they become everyone’s next Instagram location. These are the underrated cities in Nigeria that deserve more spotlight, and once you see them, you’ll wonder why the travel world hasn’t caught up yet.

So, pack your curiosity, and let’s uncover some magic.

Top 10 Most Underrated Cities in Nigeria

1. Abeokuta – The Rock City With Soul

Abeokuta doesn’t make much noise, but its stories run deep. Most people only know it for Olumo Rock, but there’s more to this city than a quick climb and selfie.

Explore the Ake Palace, learn about the Egba heritage, and spend time at the Itoku Market, where you can buy original Adire made by the locals. The city blends tradition with creativity in a way that feels genuine, not staged.

Travel tip: Don’t leave without trying their local delicacy, Ofada rice with Ayamase (green pepper stew). It’s hot. You’ve been warned.

 

2. Osogbo – Where Art and Spirit Collide

Osogbo quietly holds some of Nigeria’s richest cultural heritage. The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where spirituality meets artistry, with sculptures, shrines, and a forest that feels alive.

This is also where the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival happens, one of Nigeria’s most colourful and meaningful cultural gatherings.

Why it’s underrated: Because it’s more than a festival, it’s an experience that connects you to nature, art, and faith all at once.

 

3. Uyo – The City That’s Always Smiling

Uyo is one of Nigeria’s cleanest, most peaceful cities. You should visit. With wide roads, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a dream for travellers who like comfort without chaos.

The city is also home to Ibom Plaza, Le Meridien Golf Resort, and a growing culinary scene that blends traditional Akwa Ibom flavours with modern flair.

Pro tip: Try Afang Soup or Edikang Ikong, and do it the local way. Forget the cutlery.

 

4. Ilorin—The City of Harmony

Ilorin is where the North and South of Nigeria meet, culturally, religiously, and in personality. You’ll find mosques beside churches, Yoruba beside Hausa, and everyone somehow getting along beautifully.

Explore Sobi Hill, visit the Emir’s Palace, and take a walk through the city’s calm neighbourhoods. Ilorin’s pace is gentle, like that friend who never rushes you.

Underrated charm: The mix of cultures gives Ilorin a depth that’s rare and peaceful.

 

5. Lokoja—Where the Rivers Kiss

Lokoja sits quietly at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers, and that’s already reason enough to visit. But beyond the view, it’s a city soaked in colonial history.

You can explore Mount Patti, where Lord Lugard once lived, visit the Iron of Liberty (marking the end of the slave trade), and enjoy a boat ride where Nigeria’s two great rivers meet.

Travel note: Go early in the day, the sun doesn’t play in Lokoja.

 

6. Akure – The City of Warm Hearts

Akure doesn’t shout for attention, but it’ll quietly steal your heart. It’s the capital of Ondo State, surrounded by nature and warmth.

Visit the Idanre Hills, just a short drive away, for breathtaking views and a bit of a leg workout. The ancient town up there still tells stories of kings, gods, and everyday life from centuries past.

Why it’s underrated: Most travellers rush to Idanre and forget that Akure itself has great food, kind people, and calm vibes worth soaking in.

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7. Minna – Nigeria’s Quiet Treasure

You’ve probably never considered Minna to be a travel destination, and that’s exactly why you should.

This Niger State capital is surrounded by stunning scenery, from the Gurara Waterfalls to Zuma Rock (which technically sits between Minna and Abuja). It’s peaceful, affordable, and refreshingly authentic.

Best for: Travellers who love nature without crowds or cameras in their faces.

 

8. Enugu—The Coal City That Glows Again

Once famous for coal, Enugu is reinventing itself as a hub for art, food, and nightlife. The hills around the city make every view photogenic, while the people make every visit warm.

Explore Ngwo Pine Forest, chill at Nike Lake Resort, and grab a plate of Abacha or Nsala soup from a local spot. Enugu knows how to feed both your stomach and your soul.

Underrated reason: It’s modern without losing its old-school charm.

 

9. Yola – The Gateway to the Northeast

Yola may sound remote, but it’s a stunning blend of culture and landscape. The nearby Mandara Mountains are breathtaking, and the Yedseram River adds a calming rhythm to life here.

It’s also the doorway to Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria’s largest national park and one of Africa’s least-explored wildlife havens.

Who it’s for: adventure travellers looking for something real and untouched.

 

10. Eket – The Coastal Gem Nobody Talks About

Most travellers who think of beaches in Nigeria head straight to Lagos or Calabar, but Eket, in Akwa Ibom, has pristine coastlines that will surprise you.

It’s peaceful and less crowded, and locals are incredibly welcoming. Plus, its sunsets could rival any tropical island’s.

Pro tip: Visit the Ibeno Beach stretch; it’s one of the longest beaches in West Africa. Bring sunscreen and a camera.

 

Why You Should Explore Beyond the Obvious

Travelling through these underrated cities in Nigeria reminds you that adventure isn’t always loud or expensive. Sometimes it’s in quiet conversations with locals, the smell of palm wine at sunset, or a view so raw it feels like the world forgot to commercialise it.

Each city has something that Lagos traffic can’t offer: peace, authenticity, and discovery.

 

How to Plan Your 2025 Nigerian Adventure

Here’s how to make the most of your Nigeria travel in 2025:

• Mix the known with the new: Sure, visit Lagos or Abuja, but add at least two underrated cities to your trip.

• Travel slowly: Nigeria is big, and rushing ruins the fun.

• Ask locals for tips: Nigerians love to help (and talk, a lot).

• Stay flexible: The best memories often come from detours.

 

FAQs: Underrated Cities in Nigeria

1. Which underrated city in Nigeria is best for first-time travellers?

Uyo and Abeokuta are both easy to access, friendly, and filled with attractions that don’t overwhelm you.

2. Is it safe to travel to smaller Nigerian cities?

Yes, generally. Just follow basic travel safety rules, avoid late-night wandering, respect local customs, and stay informed.

3. What’s the best time to visit Nigeria?

The best time to visit Nigeria is between November and March, during the dry season, when travel is easier and festivals are in full swing.

4. How can I get around these cities?

There are various ways to navigate around these cities, including domestic flights, interstate buses, and local transport options such as tricycles and car rentals. For short trips, Bolt or local taxis work fine.

5. Why should travellers explore underrated cities instead of popular ones?

Because real culture lives where the crowds don’t. You get better prices, deeper experiences, and genuine stories to tell.