If you’re staying in the peaceful fishing village of Salema and looking to experience some buzzing nightlife, Lagos is your go-to destination. Just a short journey away, this vibrant coastal town offers everything from intimate cocktail bars to clubs that keep the energy going until sunrise.
Getting from Salema to Lagos
Lagos sits approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Salema, making it perfectly accessible for a night out. The road distance is 11.6 miles, taking around 20 minutes by car.
Your Transport Options
By Car
Driving gives you complete freedom to come and go as you please. The journey takes just 20 minutes along straightforward coastal roads. However, keep in mind that parking in Lagos can be challenging during peak summer months, and you’ll need a designated driver if you plan to enjoy the nightlife properly.
By Taxi or Uber
This is often the most practical option for a night out. Uber operates in Lagos, though availability can vary depending on the time of night and season. Uber is available in the Algarve around popular beach towns and resorts like Lagos. A taxi from Salema to Lagos typically costs around €15-20, though prices increase by 20% during night hours (9pm-6am). For peace of mind, it’s worth booking a return taxi in advance or having local taxi numbers saved in your phone, as ride-hailing apps can have limited availability late at night.
By Bus (Limited Evening Service)
The line 47 bus operated by VAMUS connects Salema to Lagos, taking approximately 27 minutes. However, this isn’t practical for nightlife, as last buses leave Lagos between 1900 and 2000 on weekdays in winter, with services ending much earlier on some routes at weekends. The bus is perfect for daytime trips to Lagos, but you’ll need alternative transport for getting home after a night out.
Lagos Nightlife: Where to Go
Lagos truly comes alive after dark, with its maze of cobblestone streets in the old town hiding dozens of bars and clubs. The beauty of Lagos is that most venues are within walking distance of each other, making bar-hopping effortless.
The Heart of the Action: Rua 25 de Abril
This street is the epicentre of Lagos nightlife. Once you’re here, you’ll find yourself swept up in the energy of locals and travellers alike moving between venues.
Bon Vivant stands out as one of the most unique spots in town. The 5-level bar hosts some of the most chaotic parties in town, with the topmost level being a rooftop terrace featuring sensational views of the lively streets of Lagos. The bartenders are known for their creative cocktails and entertaining flair shows. It’s been around since 1987 and remains a Lagos institution.
InsideOut Bar is legendary for those who want to party into the early hours. InsideOut is one of the few places in Lagos open until 4am, famous for its delicious fishbowl cocktails. Arrive before midnight to take advantage of their 2-for-1 drink specials. The venue transforms as the night progresses, with guest DJs spinning deep house and the dance floor getting increasingly packed.
Other Bars To Check Out
The Tavern offers something completely different with its Halloween-and-pirates theme. They’re famous for drinking challenges like “Walk the Plank” (six shots and a Jagerbomb) and the Viking Inferno. If you’re competitive, this is your spot.
Three Monkeys is beloved by both backpackers and locals for its laid-back atmosphere that intensifies as the night goes on. It’s a great place to start your evening with games of pool or darts before the music gets louder and the dancing begins.
Whyte’s Bar features a unique setup with a lively shot and cocktail bar upstairs and a dance floor downstairs. Their “9 Deadly Sins Challenge” has become something of a rite of passage for visitors.
Eddie’s Bar in Lagos, Algarve, is a laid-back, unpretentious spot popular with both locals and visitors. With its friendly atmosphere and easygoing vibe, it’s a simple place to enjoy a drink, chat, and soak up the relaxed spirit of Lagos.
Beer & Co in Lagos, Algarve, is a lively, casual bar known for its good selection of beers and relaxed social vibe. Popular with locals and tourists alike, it’s an easy place to grab a drink, unwind, and sit outside people-watching.
Late-Night Clubbing
Grand Café is one of the most well-known clubs in Lagos, with three bars where you can dance and drink against a kitsch décor of gold leaf, red velvet, and cherubs. The venue features two dance floors and stays open until 5am, typically getting busiest after 2am when other bars have closed.
Nox Club is the local favorite for electronic music lovers. Check their social media before visiting to see what themed parties or DJ events are happening. This is where the party crowd heads to dance until dawn.
Beach Vibes
For a more relaxed start to your evening, Duna Beach Club sits on Meia Praia Beach and transitions from daytime beach retreat to sophisticated evening hangout. It’s slightly removed from the old town center but offers a different atmosphere if you want to begin with sunset cocktails.
Planning Your Night Out
Timing: Lagos nightlife operates on a late schedule. Many bars don’t get busy until 10pm or 11pm, with clubs filling up around midnight or later. Plan accordingly.
Dress Code: Lagos maintains a casual beach-town vibe. Smart casual works for most venues, though you can dress up if you prefer.
Budget: Drinks are reasonably priced compared to other European coastal cities. Beers typically cost €2-4, cocktails €6-10. Many bars offer happy hour specials before midnight.
Safety: Lagos is generally very safe, but as with any tourist destination, keep an eye on your belongings and stick to well-lit, busy areas when moving between venues.
Getting Home: This is crucial to plan in advance. Save local taxi numbers before you go out, and don’t rely solely on Uber. During peak summer season and weekends, demand is high. Some visitors arrange for their accommodation to call a taxi for them at a specific time.
Making the Most of It
The walk through Lagos old town at night is part of the experience. The historic streets take on a magical quality with atmospheric lighting and the buzz of conversation and music spilling from doorways. Don’t feel pressured to stick to one venue – half the fun is wandering and discovering new spots.
Many visitors from Salema make Lagos nightlife a weekly treat rather than a nightly routine, which makes it feel even more special when you do venture out. The contrast between Salema’s peaceful beaches and Lagos’ vibrant nightlife gives you the best of both worlds.
Just remember: Salema will still be there in the morning, quiet and beautiful as ever, waiting for you to recover with a coffee on the beach and a leisurely swim in your private pool.
