FULL LIST: Lagos, other African cities with best nightlife

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by Adedamola Ogunbewon
Lagos has been named one of the world’s best nightlife cities, clinching the 14th spot globally and placing second in Africa, just behind Cape Town, South Africa.

The ranking was revealed in a recent report by Time Out Magazine, which surveyed thousands of city dwellers and consulted nightlife experts to compile its list of the top nightlife destinations around the globe.

According to the report, 79% of Lagos residents rated the city’s nightlife positively, highlighting its vibrant energy, late-night food spots, and buzzing club scene.
Here are the four African countries with best nightlife:

1. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town tops the list of African cities with the best nightlife. Known for its scenic beauty by day, the city transforms after dark into a buzzing hub of rooftop bars, beachfront lounges, live jazz venues, and trendy clubs. Long Street and Camps Bay are hotspots where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy world-class drinks, music, and vibrant social scenes.

2. Lagos, Nigeria
Ranked 14th globally and second in Africa, Lagos is renowned for its energetic and eclectic nightlife. From Afrobeats-fueled dancefloors in clubs like Quilox and Cubana to beachfront lounges and open-air concerts, the city never sleeps. With 79% of locals rating the nightlife positively, Lagos offers a dynamic mix of local culture, music, and non-stop entertainment.

3. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo’s nightlife blends tradition and modernity. Whether it’s sipping tea in a centuries-old café, enjoying live Arabic music, or partying on a floating Nile River club, the Egyptian capital offers something for everyone. Its late-night hours and cultural richness make Cairo a distinctive nightlife destination in North Africa.

4. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech combines the charm of ancient medinas with the excitement of modern lounges and rooftop bars. After dark, the city’s pulse can be felt in its lively souks, stylish riad parties, and chic nightspots like Theatro. It’s a nightlife experience steeped in Moroccan flair, drawing travelers from across the globe.