Can you feel a location’s aura?? Like spiritually? Emotionally?? I swear I can.

Barcelona? Dark, mysterious, a little dramatic
Lisbon? Bight and challenging (aka the hills)

But Lagos?? Giving Lagos one adjective doesn’t feel right. It’s happy. It’s cheerful. It’s soft and golden and breezy. It feels like what life should feel like.

This place had been sitting on my bucket list for years, so when my friend agreed to skip Porto and head down south instead…instant serotonin. 

I’ve realized I do better in smaller towns than big cities. I love visiting places with space to breathe, not some massive city with a 50-item itinerary and “you must see this” urgency. Lagos has its must-dos, sure, but after that? You just… vibe. You get what it feels like to live there, even for only a few days.

I would absolutely move here.
The beaches? The cliffs? The cost of living? The vibe? Yes. Yes. Yes.
I even loved the seagulls (and if you know me, this is big)

So if you’re looking for a place to slow down, soak it all in, and romanticize life again… please let it be Lagos.

Okay okay. On to the goods:

food & coffee (gluten free friendly)

• Kisa Italian – The best gluten-free pizza I’ve ever had. Also, their espresso martini was great!
• Nina 11 – Great for breakfast or lunch. I had the salmon avocado toas on gluten free
• Indigo – Healthy bowls, laid-back vibe. Recommend the Buddha bowl
• The Coffee Studio – Great for digital nomads. Cozy space, good coffee, and they have plenty of gluten-free & vegan options
• MAR Bar & Restaurant – Great dinner spot if you want views

going Out

• Joe’s Garage – Start your night here. It’s got a divey, fun feel. You MUST do the photobooth (mandatory).
• Shaker Pub – To start the night or later in the night. Music, dancing, general chaos. Everyone ends up here eventually.

things to do

• Hike to Ponta da Piedade – Easy enough for any fitness level, but absolutely worth it. You can walk there right from the city centre.
• Walk along the beaches to Praia dos Estudantes – Chill route, beautiful scenery, and little coves to explore. Bring snacks and take your time.
• Kayaking – Just make sure you actually book one in Lagos and not 30 minutes away like I did (RIP to that deposit).