Planning your very first trip outside of Nigeria can feel a bit overwhelming, but if you’ve chosen Accra, Ghana as your destination, you are in for an incredible time. Often called our friendliest neighbor and rival, Accra is the ultimate weekend getaway. It offers rich history, stunning beaches, incredible music, and a food scene that will have you constantly comparing their Jollof to ours (no spoilers here!).
Whether you are catching a short 1-hour flight from Lagos or taking an adventurous road trip through Benin Republic and Togo, this ultimate 3-day Accra itinerary will ensure you see the absolute best of the city without wasting time or money.
📅 Day 1: Rich History, Culture, and Arts
On your first day in Accra, get a feel for the city’s deep historical roots and vibrant art scene. Dress comfortably, wear light clothing, and carry some Ghanaian Cedis for souvenirs.
Morning: Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Start your morning at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to Ghana’s founding father and first president. The park features a stunning architectural monument, a museum housing Nkrumah’s personal belongings, and peaceful fountains. It is a deeply reflective space that gives you a solid background on Ghana’s independence journey.
Afternoon: Makola Market and Black Star Square
Next, head down to Black Star Square (also known as Independence Square). This massive public square is an iconic photo spot featuring the Independence Arch.
After securing your photos, take a short drive to Makola Market.
Travel Tip for Nigerians: Makola is just as vibrant and chaotic as Balogun Market in Lagos! Keep your bags close, but definitely dive in to see the colorful local fabrics, beads, and organic shea butter.
Evening: Dinner and Art at Jamestown
End your day in Jamestown, one of Accra’s oldest neighborhoods. Walk past the historic Jamestown Lighthouse and check out the local street art murals. For dinner, head to a local spot to try your very first plate of Ghanaian Jollof or Waakye (a delicious rice and beans dish served with shito pepper sauce).
📅 Day 2: Nature, Shopping, and the Famous Osu Nightlife
Day two is all about experiencing the trendy, modern side of Accra mixed with a breath of fresh air.
Morning: Legon Botanical Gardens
Escape the city bustle early with a trip to the Legon Botanical Gardens. If you love adventure, you can try their famous canopy walkway or go canoeing on the lake. It’s a beautiful, serene space that makes for incredible Instagram photos.
Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping at the Arts Centre
Head over to the Accra Arts Centre. This is the absolute best place in the city to buy hand-carved woodwork, traditional Kente cloth, paintings, and handmade jewelry.
Note: The vendors love to bargain, so channel your inner Nigerian market skills here!
Evening: Experience the Vibes on Oxford Street, Osu
When the sun goes down, head straight to Osu, the entertainment heartbeat of Accra. Oxford Street is packed with restaurants, cafes, and rooftop lounges. Grab dinner at a popular spot like Republic Bar & Grill, order some local Kelewele (spicy fried plantains), and experience the nightlife that draws thousands of Nigerians to Ghana every single year.
📅 Day 3: Beach Relaxation and Contemporary Art
Before you head back home, spend your final day soaking up the Atlantic breeze and exploring Accra’s modern creative scene.
Morning: Gallery Hopping at Gallery 1957
Start a relaxed morning by visiting Gallery 1957, located inside the Kempinski Hotel. It is a world-class contemporary art gallery that showcases brilliant works by West African artists. It’s quiet, air-conditioned, and deeply inspiring.
Afternoon: Lunch and Vibes at Labadi Beach
You cannot visit Accra without spending an afternoon at the beach. Head to Labadi Beach (or the more upscale Laboma Beach). Rent a beach chair, watch the horseback riders, and listen to the live reggae music or Afrobeats blaring from the beach bars. For lunch, order grilled tilapia fish with banku right on the seaside.
Evening: Farewell Drinks at a Rooftop Lounge
End your 3-day adventure with a sunset drink at a rooftop lounge like Skybar 25, which offers a breathtaking, panoramic 360-degree view of the entire Accra skyline. It’s the perfect way to toast to an unforgettable trip.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Nigerians Visiting Accra
- Currency: The local currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). It is best to travel with US Dollars or use a multi-currency card to withdraw Cedis from local ATMs upon arrival.
- Transportation: Download the Yango or Bolt apps. They work perfectly in Accra and are a very safe, affordable way to move around the city.
- Language: English is the official language, but learning a few words in Twi, like “Chale” (Friend) or “Akwaaba” (Welcome), will instantly win you smiles from the locals!
