Experience
Tour and Attractions
Discover the Heart of Benin
Welcome to Cotonou, Benin’s largest city and its dynamic economic and cultural centre. Located along the Gulf of Guinea, Cotonou combines a lively urban atmosphere with beautiful coastal landscapes, colourful markets, contemporary art, historic landmarks and rich local traditions
Experience Cotonou
Cotonou is a city of movement, colour and contrasts. Explore busy markets, discover local crafts, enjoy Beninese cuisine, visit important monuments or simply take a walk along the coast and experience the city’s atmosphere.
The city is also an excellent base for exploring some of Benin’s most fascinating destinations, including Ganvié, Ouidah and Porto-Novo.
Places to Visit in cotonou and beyond
in cotonou
Place de l’Amazone
One of Cotonou’s most recognisable landmarks, the Place de l’Amazone is home to the imposing Amazon Monument and a large public esplanade.
The monument celebrates the women warriors of the former Dahomey Kingdom and has become one of the city’s most prominent modern landmarks.
in cotonou
Dantokpa Market
Experience the energy of one of Cotonou’s major commercial centres at Dantokpa Market.
Browse through stalls selling fabrics, clothing, food, crafts, household goods and countless other products while experiencing the everyday rhythm of the city. The market is an important part of Cotonou’s commercial identity.
in cotonou
Route des Pêches
For a change of pace, head towards the Route des Pêches, the coastal route connecting Cotonou with Ouidah.
The route offers a combination of beaches, fishing communities, coconut palms, lagoons and coastal scenery, making it a popular area for experiencing Benin’s Atlantic coastline.
in cotonou
Cotonou's Beaches
Cotonou’s coastline provides opportunities to relax, enjoy the ocean views and watch the sunset.
Benin’s coastline stretches for almost 125 kilometres, with Cotonou offering some of the country’s most accessible urban coastal experiences.
in cotonou
Bio Guéra Monument
Discover the monument dedicated to Bio Guéra, one of the important historical figures commemorated in modern Benin.
The monument is located around the Cadjèhoun area of Cotonou and is another opportunity to connect with Benin’s history and national heritage.
beyond cotonou
Ganvié
Take a boat trip across Lake Nokoué to Ganvié, a remarkable lake village where communities live on and around the water.
The village is known for its stilt houses, floating markets, fishing traditions and distinctive way of life.
beyond cotonou
Ouidah
Journey to Ouidah, one of Benin’s most historically and culturally significant cities.
Explore the Slave Route, the Door of No Return, the Ouidah Museum of History and other sites connected to the city’s history and Vodun heritage.
beyond cotonou
Porto-Novo
Visit Porto-Novo, Benin’s capital, to discover another side of the country’s history, architecture and cultural heritage.
Taste Cotonou
Food is an essential part of the Cotonou experience.
Try local Beninese dishes, fresh seafood, grilled fish, rice dishes and other West African favourites. The city also has a growing selection of restaurants and cafés offering international cuisine.
For a more authentic experience, explore local food spots and markets and discover the flavours that make Beninese cuisine distinctive.
Shop for Local Treasures
Cotonou is a great place to shop for souvenirs and locally made products.
Look out for:
Traditional fabrics
Handmade jewellery
Wood carvings
Artwork
Woven products
Decorative pieces
Locally produced food products
Beninese cultural souvenirs
The city’s markets and artisan spaces provide plenty of opportunities to take a piece of Benin home with you.
Getting Around Cotonou
Cotonou can be explored using a combination of taxis, ride-hailing services, private vehicles and motorcycle taxis known locally as zemidjans.
For organised group activities and excursions, private transportation or a tour operator may be more convenient.
Travel Tips
Carry some West African CFA francs for smaller purchases.
Keep your passport and important travel documents secure.
Carry your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
Stay hydrated, particularly when spending time outdoors.
Wear comfortable footwear when visiting markets and attractions.
Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the tropical sun.
Take appropriate precautions when using motorcycle taxis.
Keep your phone and power bank charged while exploring.
Respect local customs, traditions and cultural sites.
If visiting markets, be prepared for a lively and busy environment.
Plan excursions to Ganvié, Ouidah and other nearby destinations in advance.
Make Cotonou Your Starting Point
Cotonou is more than a stopover. It is where you can begin to experience the culture, people, food, history and energy of Benin.
From the markets and monuments of the city to the beaches, waterways and historic destinations beyond it, Cotonou provides the perfect starting point for discovering Benin.
Come for the event. Stay for the experience. Discover Benin.