If you’ve ever tried finding a comfortable, flexible place to stay in Nigeria’s commercial hub, you already know that Lagos operates on a different level. The city never really slows down — and neither does its short-term rental market.
Lagos attracts a constant flow of business executives flying in for meetings, tourists exploring West Africa’s most vibrant city, and remote workers who need a reliable base without committing to a long-term lease. This unique mix of residents and visitors has turned Lagos into the undisputed shortlet capital of Nigeria.
The most in-demand neighborhoods for shortlet apartments are Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Ikeja — each offering its own personality, price range, and lifestyle. Whether you want to be close to the corporate corridors of VI or nestled in the quieter, tree-lined streets of Ikoyi, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
Top 10 Shortlet Apartments in Lagos (2026 Prices)
Finding a verified shortlet in Lagos used to be a gamble. Today, with platforms like Travla making it easier to browse legitimate listings, the process is far more straightforward. Here are the top picks across different neighborhoods and budgets.
1. Lekki Phase 1 Apartments
Price Range: ₦40,000 – ₦120,000/night
Best For: Guests who want luxury close to the social scene
Lekki Phase 1 strikes a balance between upscale living and access to Lagos’s most exciting nightlife, restaurants, and beach spots. Apartments here tend to be modern, well-furnished, and popular with both local and international guests. If you’re visiting for leisure or a mix of work and play, Lekki Phase 1 is a strong choice.
2. Victoria Island Shortlets
Price Range: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000/night
Best For: Corporate travelers and professionals
Victoria Island is Lagos’s business nerve center. Banks, embassies, corporate headquarters, and five-star hotels all share the same postcode. Shortlet apartments here are typically sleek, professionally managed, and designed with the business traveler in mind — think fast Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces, and proximity to major conference venues.
3. Ikoyi Luxury Apartments
Price Range: ₦80,000 – ₦250,000/night
Best For: High-end, premium stays
Ikoyi is where Lagos’s wealthiest residents live, and its shortlet offerings reflect that. Expect sprawling apartments with premium finishes, concierge services, rooftop pools, and gated security. If budget isn’t a concern and comfort is your priority, Ikoyi consistently delivers the most refined short-stay experience in the city.
4. Ikeja Budget Shortlets
Price Range: ₦25,000 – ₦70,000/night
Best For: Affordable, practical stays near the airport
Ikeja is the perfect base for travelers who want to avoid Lagos traffic, especially those with early flights out of Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Shortlets in this area are well-priced, practical, and increasingly well-furnished as competition in the area grows. You won’t get the waterfront views of VI or Ikoyi, but you’ll get solid value for money.
5. Yaba Shortlets
Price Range: ₦20,000 – ₦60,000/night
Best For: Tech professionals, creatives, and long-stay guests
Yaba has quietly become one of Lagos’s most interesting neighborhoods. Home to startups, tech hubs, universities, and creative agencies, it attracts a younger, more entrepreneurial crowd. Shortlets here are typically more casual in style but well-connected and affordable. If you’re attending a tech event, consulting for a startup, or just want to be in the middle of Lagos’s creative energy, Yaba is worth considering.
6. Ajah Shortlets
Price Range: ₦20,000 – ₦65,000/night
Best For: Families and extended stays on the Lekki-Epe corridor
Ajah sits further along the Lekki-Epe Expressway and has developed significantly in recent years. It offers larger apartment options at relatively lower prices, making it popular with families and guests planning extended stays. The area has good road access, shopping malls, and a growing number of quality shortlet options.
7. Oniru / Eti-Osa Shortlets
Price Range: ₦45,000 – ₦130,000/night
Best For: Beach access and upscale relaxation
Oniru is one of Lagos’s best-kept secrets for shortlet guests. Sitting between Victoria Island and Lekki, it offers a quieter, more residential feel while still being close to the city’s major attractions. Several apartments here come with access to beachfront areas, making it a top choice for guests who want a holiday atmosphere without leaving Lagos.
8. Maryland / Ikeja GRA Shortlets
Price Range: ₦30,000 – ₦85,000/night
Best For: Mid-range comfort with easy access to the mainland
The Ikeja GRA and Maryland axis offers a quieter, more spacious alternative to island living. Properties in this zone tend to be well-maintained, with estate security and access to major roads. It’s a reliable choice for guests who need to travel across both the mainland and island for business.
9. Surulere Shortlets
Price Range: ₦18,000 – ₦55,000/night
Best For: Budget-conscious guests and sports/event visitors
Surulere has long been one of Lagos’s most culturally active areas, sitting close to the National Stadium and some of the city’s oldest commercial streets. Shortlets here are among the most affordable on the mainland, and the neighborhood’s central location means you’re never too far from where you need to be.
10. Chevron / Idado Shortlets
Price Range: ₦35,000 – ₦100,000/night
Best For: Guests seeking a quiet, estate-style environment
The Chevron axis along the Lekki-Epe corridor has become one of Lagos’s fastest-growing residential zones. Shortlet apartments in this area are often located inside well-managed estates with 24-hour security, good roads, and proximity to shopping centers and hospitals. It’s a particularly good option for families or anyone prioritizing a calm, organized environment.
Important: Always Verify Before You Book
Lagos’s shortlet market is thriving, but it’s not without its risks. Fake listings, bait-and-switch properties, and unverified hosts are real concerns. Before handing over any payment or personal information, take the time to read up on how to protect yourself.
A good starting point is understanding how to identify verified shortlet apartments in Nigeria and avoid common scams. Doing your homework upfront can save you significant stress — and money.
You can also cross-reference listings on trusted platforms like Airbnb, read independent reviews, and always confirm bookings directly through a secure payment channel.
Browse Verified Shortlet Apartments in Lagos
Ready to book? You can explore a curated selection of verified shortlet listings across all Lagos neighborhoods on Travla. For location-specific deals, browse shortlets in Lagos directly to filter by price, neighborhood, and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price of a shortlet apartment in Lagos?
Prices typically range from ₦20,000 to ₦150,000 per night, depending on the neighborhood, apartment size, and level of luxury. Budget-friendly options in areas like Surulere and Yaba sit at the lower end, while premium apartments in Ikoyi and Victoria Island command the highest rates.
Which area in Lagos is best for shortlet apartments?
It depends on your purpose. Victoria Island is ideal for business travelers, Ikoyi for luxury stays, Lekki for a mix of lifestyle and comfort, and Ikeja for convenience and airport proximity.
Are shortlet apartments in Lagos safe?
Yes, provided you book through a verified platform or trusted agent. Always confirm the property exists, read guest reviews, and avoid making cash payments to unverified individuals.
How far in advance should I book a shortlet in Lagos?
For standard periods, booking 3–7 days ahead is usually sufficient. However, during festive seasons like Christmas, New Year, and public holidays, it’s wise to book at least 2–3 weeks in advance, as quality apartments fill up quickly.
Can I negotiate the price of a shortlet in Lagos?
In many cases, yes — particularly for longer stays. Hosts and property managers often offer discounted weekly or monthly rates. It’s always worth asking.
Prices listed reflect market rates as of 2026 and may vary by season, apartment size, and individual host pricing.
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