Travel & Tourism Travel Tips Urban Tourism A Weekend in Uyo: Best Places to Stay, Eat, and Relax in Akwa Ibom’s Capital Philip SifonNovember 6, 20250522 views Domestic tourism in Akwa Ibom has surged over the past few years, with Uyo emerging as a top weekend destination for travellers seeking calmness, culture, and good food. More weekend visitors now choose Uyo over Lagos or Port Harcourt for December getaways, drawn by its quiet streets, warm hospitality, and easy access to beaches and city attractions. A weekend in Uyo offers the perfect balance between relaxation, local flavour, and festive energy. In this article, we’ll cover where to stay, the best local eats, and how to unwind while experiencing the city’s unique culture – everything you need for a memorable short escape. What Makes A Weekend In Uyo Special Uyo has become a top destination for travellers looking to spend a weekend in the city, offering the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and local experiences. Visitors enjoy quiet streets and welcoming neighbourhoods while exploring lively spots like Unity Park and Itam Market, where local traditions and crafts come to life. The food is a highlight, with dishes like Edikang Ikong, Afia Efere, and fresh seafood giving travellers an authentic taste of Akwa Ibom. Its location, with easy access from cities like Port Harcourt and Lagos via road or Victor Attah International Airport, makes it a convenient short getaway. A weekend in Uyo offers the ideal balance of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation, making it perfect for anyone looking to unwind while enjoying the city’s festive atmosphere. How To Plan Your Weekend In Uyo Planning your weekend in Uyo works best when you know the pace you want. The city is calm and straightforward to navigate, so you don’t need to rush to enjoy it. Two to three days is enough to eat well, visit key attractions in Uyo, and still have time to rest. Key Things to Know for Your Weekend in Uyo: Getting in and out For most travellers, flying to Victor Attah International Airport makes the weekend in Uyo stress-free because the airport is close to the city centre. If you’re coming by road from Port Harcourt, Calabar, or Aba, the routes are straightforward, making the trip smooth. Choosing Where to Stay Your accommodation choice significantly impacts how your weekend in Uyo feels. If you want peace, choose hotels in tranquil neighbourhoods. If you want quick access to Uyo’s restaurants, lounges, and evening spots, stay closer to the city centre. Moving Around The City Ride-hailing services and taxis make Uyo simple. Most places to visit in Uyo are within a short driving distance, so moving around doesn’t take much time. Planning Your Days Don’t Overcrowd Your Schedule. The best weekend in Uyo typically includes one main activity each day, such as visiting Unity Park, Ibom Plaza, or a seafood spot, and leaving room to relax and enjoy the city’s slow rhythm. Where To Stay For A Comfortable Weekend In Uyo A weekend in Uyo feels better when your stay is comfortable, calm, and close to the places you’ll visit. The city offers hotels to suit various budgets, ranging from relaxed and quiet spots to those with more activities and a lively atmosphere. Here are excellent places to stay for your weekend in Uyo: 1. Ibom Icon Hotel And Golf Resort This is the hotel most people think of when planning a weekend in Uyo. It is peaceful, surrounded by trees, and has a lovely view of the golf course. The environment is calm, allowing you to enjoy the pool, take outdoor walks, or simply rest. It works well for couples, families, or anyone seeking a slow and relaxed trip. 2. Monty Suites If you’re looking for comfort without breaking the bank, Monty Suites is a great choice. The rooms are neat, the service is consistent, and it’s conveniently located near major parts of the city. It’s the kind of place where you just settle in easily without stress. A steady option for a weekend in Uyo. 3. Davok Suites For a quiet and straightforward stay during your weekend in Uyo, Davok Suites is a suitable option. It’s not loud or crowded, and the staff are usually friendly. You’ll get privacy, clean rooms, and a calm environment to rest after exploring. 4. EEMJM Hotels And Suites This hotel is a more affordable option for travellers who want to spend less and still stay comfortable. The rooms are basic but clean, and it’s easy to move to the main spots in the city from here. If your weekend in Uyo is more about going out and exploring than staying indoors, this place is a good pick. Where To Eat During Your Weekend In Uyo Food is a big part of what makes a weekend in Uyo feel complete. The city has meals that are warm, rich, and full of flavour, especially local dishes. Whether you’re looking for a calm and homely spot or a lively place to sit with friends, Uyo has places that make eating feel like part of the experience. Here are excellent places to eat during your weekend in Uyo: Destination By Dukes A steady place for a relaxed meal. The food is well-prepared, the service is calm, and the environment is clean. Good for breakfast, lunch, or a slow evening meal. Vista Restaurant, Ibom Icon Hotel If you’re staying at the resort or just want somewhere quiet with a view, the restaurant here works well. The meals are simple but enjoyable. It’s an excellent spot for unhurried conversations and peaceful dining. The Addrex Restaurant A comfortable middle ground, not too expensive, not too casual. They serve solid Nigerian dishes and simple continental meals. Works well for group outings during a weekend in Uyo. Local Bukka Spots To truly experience the city, try a local food spot. Fresh soups, soft drinks, and fish prepared well – this is where you truly experience the real Uyo. Ask a local or your hotel staff to point you to a trusted bukka nearby. Things To Do During Your Weekend In Uyo There are many simple and enjoyable things to do in Uyo that make the city feel warm and inviting, making it easy to settle in. A weekend in Uyo is not about rushing from one place to the next. It’s about slow moments, calm mornings, and light evenings, as well as areas where you can experience Uyo culture without stress. Here are excellent places to visit in Uyo during your weekend: Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort One of the most well-known Uyo tourist attractions. Even if you’re not staying here, the open views, quiet walkways, and soft breeze make it an excellent space to relax. Many people include this spot in their Uyo travel plans just to slow down for a bit. Discovery Park This facility is one of the easiest places to visit in Uyo, offering a glimpse into the city’s everyday life. Evenings are lively but not overwhelming, with friends talking, small vendors, and music in the background. It’s honest and straightforward. Ibeno Beach (Short Drive Out) Many weekend visitors take the trip to Ibeno because it’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Uyo and nearby areas. The beach is wide, open, and peaceful. You won’t get Lagos-style crowds, just water, breeze, and room to think. Uyo Arts and Craft Village A calm way to experience Uyo culture directly. Handmade crafts, local artwork, and friendly conversations. Even if you don’t buy anything, it helps you see the heart of the city. A weekend in Uyo works best when you keep it light. Don’t try to do everything. Just pick a few experiences and let the city move at its own pace. Read More Top 5 Hotels In Uyo Akwa Ibom State Ibom Air Expands in Nigerian Aviation with Reliable Service, New Uyo Terminal, & Africa-wide Expansion The Abitto Ferry Connects Calabar and Uyo Beach Adventures in Akwa Ibom for Young Travellers Must-Try Akwa Ibom Delicacies: Traditional Dishes Every Visitor Should Taste How To Get Around During Your Weekend In Uyo Moving around during your weekend in Uyo is easy because the city is calm, well-spaced, and simple to navigate. Most places to visit in Uyo are close to each other, so you won’t spend your trip in traffic. Your movement choices can stay light and flexible. Best ways to get around during your weekend in Uyo: Ride-Hailing Apps (Bolt) Bolt works well and is one of the easiest ways to travel between Uyo tourist attractions, such as Ibom Icon Resort, Discovery Park, and restaurants in the city. It keeps your Uyo travel straightforward. Hotel Car Service Many hotels offer car pickups and drop-offs. This works exceptionally well if you’re planning to explore things to do in Uyo with comfort, like a drive to Ibeno Beach or a relaxed evening outing. Keke For Short, Casual Movement Taking a keke (tricycle) is part of experiencing Uyo culture. It’s quick, local, and easy for short distances. Just agree on the price before entering. Private Car Rentals for Longer Trips If your weekend in Uyo includes travelling outside the city, such as to Ibeno Beach, Ikot Abasi, or a local heritage site, renting a car for the day can make the trip smoother. Conclusion A weekend in Uyo gives you a calm break without feeling far from home. The city moves at a leisurely pace, with soft mornings, good food, friendly people, and enough places to explore without rushing. From simple things to do in Uyo, like an evening at Discovery Park, to peaceful walks at the resort, to tasting Afang or Edikang Ikong, every moment lets you experience Uyo culture in a real and natural way. If you’re searching for places to visit in Uyo that help you unwind while still feeling connected to the city, this is the right destination. Your Uyo trip can be simple, warm, and meaningful – the kind of weekend that feels good even after you return home. Discover Nigeria’s most breathtaking destinations — explore our “Travel & Tourism” stories and let Rex Clarke Adventures guide your next journey. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is Uyo A Good Place For A Weekend Trip? Yes. Uyo is a calm, welcoming, and easy-to-navigate city. It offers excellent food, simple outdoor spaces, and nearby attractions, such as Ibeno Beach. A weekend in Uyo works well if you want to rest without travelling far. 2. What Are the Best Things to Do in Uyo? Some of the best things to do in Uyo include relaxing at the Ibom Icon Hotel & Golf Resort, spending the evening at Discovery Park, visiting the Arts and Crafts Village, and taking a short trip to Ibeno Beach. 3. What Food Is Uyo Known For? Uyo is renowned for its dishes, including Afang Soup, Edikang Ikong, Fisherman Soup, and expertly prepared fresh seafood. Eating at a local bukka is one of the best ways to experience Uyo culture. 4. Is Uyo Expensive To Visit? No. You can plan your Uyo travel to match your budget. Hotels range from affordable guesthouses to higher-end resorts, and food options are also flexible, from local bukka spots to standard restaurants. 5. How Do I Get Around Uyo Easily? Bolt is the simplest option for moving between places to visit in Uyo. You can also use hotel car services or short keke rides for quick trips.