Zaria is one of the nicest towns to visit in the north of Nigeria. The old section of the city, surrounded by a mud wall, is full of traditional Hausa architecture — stroll through and you will find the old market, a grand mosque, and the palace of the Emir. Artisans work in the market area, and Kufena Hill offers views over the city.
Zaria is also home to Ahmadu Bello University, one of the largest and most important universities in West Africa, which gives the town a more youthful energy than many northern Nigerian cities. You can reach Zaria from Abuja or Kano.