A week in Abuja: Here’s an itinerary for you
If you had 1 week in Abuja for leisure, what would you do? Well, I’ve crafted the ultimate itinerary for a fun time in the capital city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local yearning for adventure, this guide is your ticket to a memorable time. You’re welcome!
It’s really hard to know where to start with Abuja because there are so many beautiful places that are guaranteed to blow your mind – but they’re sometimes hidden and if you don’t move with the right people, it’s easy to think Abuja is a boring city to explore. I bet some people who have spent their whole lives in Abuja could undoubtedly find something new and fun to do. Truth is, there is so much to this city, and to be able to peel it back, layer by layer, is such an exciting thing to me.
Let’s get right into your one-week itinerary:
Monday
Everyone is always up to an early start on Monday. You’ll quickly find that Abuja is a big bustling city that has traffic in certain business areas like Wuse, Jabi, Life Camp, Apo, Karu, and more. But the beauty lies in its mountains, good road network, and gorgeous landscape.
I recommend you indulge in a delightful morning at Strobrie! Start your day right with a slice of their freshly baked cake, rich with delicious cream frosting. Sip on a cup of coffee while surrounded by lush greenery, potted plants, and warm pottery and wood décor.
After you’ve had breakfast/brunch, dedicate the rest of the day to sightseeing because Abuja has such a mix of cultures when it comes to people and art. Start by visiting the Exhibition Hall at Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre (it’s rich in history). Then head over to the Korean Cultural Centre if you are a fan of Asian culture. Also, make a quick stop at Retro Africa to get a feel of the art gallery in the city or you can visit Nike Art Gallery.
To end the day, make a quick stop at Trunk Central (the first and biggest food truck park in West Africa) for happy hour.
Tuesday
You have yet to visit Abuja if you haven’t been to the popular stop for tourists – Abuja Arts and Crafts market. It’s touristy, of course, but it’s got a great vibe. It is a meeting place where locals and tourists troop in to get artefacts, sculptures, handmade Ankara, beads, wooden tables, and everything art.
Another great activity for your second day in Abuja is to visit Central Park for some Go-karting, axe shooting, archery, water park, and other outdoor activities. If you still have some energy left, visit the Amazon Kayak for a bubble ball experience and a boat ride.
In case you’re feeling peckish at this time, stop by Galaxy Pizza to get one of the best pizzas in the city and ice cream too. If you want to go local check out Iyan village for a good taste of pounded yam and egusi. However, you should head back to your hotel to refresh and get dressed for salsa night at Barracuda. It’s exciting, trust me.
Wednesday
Davido once said, “If weekend go sweet na from Wednesday you go know”, so let’s start easing you into the weekend.
Start with a leisurely paint and sip today at Paint and Sip Studios by FR. It’s a walk-in studio where you can paint and sip with friends and loved ones. Or you can head over to the Loom Chocolate factory for a tour of their facilities while you make your own customized chocolate.
Afterwards, take a ride to Pappies Maestro for a fun karaoke night. Perhaps, you want a quiet evening, head over to Uncle T’s diner or Gatsby for a fine dining experience.
Thursday
If you’re a fan of nature, spend the early hours of your morning at Ekondo Park for a wholesome experience. From painting pots to planting, there are creative activities to keep you alive.
However, a trip to Abuja isn’t complete without visiting Zuma Resort. It has an amazing mountain view of the famous Zuma rock. You can channel your inner Tiger Woods at the golfing facility, enjoy a pool day, ride a bicycle, and other recreational activities lined up at the resort.
In the evening, pre-drinks ahead for the weekend at Pickle Social House for Happy Hour Thursday or visit the infamous Beer Barn (crowded but great vibes).
Friday
Today, you party. Abuja might be a conservative city, but that disappears on Friday from 5 pm to 6 am.
First, visit the National Mosque. It’s an architectural masterpiece that shows the country’s rich cultural heritage. The building is grand with a distinctive gold dome that is worth the visit. In the afternoon, head over to any of these local joints to get a proper taste of traditional meals – Amala Central, Iya Oyo, or Coal City Abuja.
In the evening, do a quick pre-drinks by experiencing the ultimate live band experience at Blake Resort, before heading out to Tokyo or Whiskey Mistress for a proper nightlife experience.
Saturday
Weekends are calm days known for family time in Abuja. Make the most of your last day at Magicland or Millennium Park for a fun afternoon. It helps keep your inner child alive. I heard there is a new fun water park too - SunRise
You also want to make a quick stop at Area 1 to get the ultimate Abuja visitor party pack – Kilishi.
Sunday
Last morning in Abuja, wake up early and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at Boozy. Later in the evening, enjoy your last night with a final dinner at La Taverna.
Then fly back home and reminisce on the last 7 days.