What to do in Cotonou: guide to the economic capital
The country's gateway, Cotonou is a vibrant world-city: West Africa's largest market, a booming art scene, generous cuisine and thousands of yellow zémidjans. Two days are enough to tame it before radiating out to Ganvié, Ouidah or Abomey.
The unmissables
- ●Dantokpa market: a labyrinth of several hectares, best visited with a guide
- ●The Zinsou Foundation: contemporary African art, free entry
- ●Crafts at the artisanal promotion centre (bronzes, fabrics, batiks)
- ●Notre-Dame cathedral and the Ganhi district
- ●Fidjrossè beach and its huts at sunset
Taste Cotonou
Don't leave without trying pâte (corn) with sauce, grilled bicycle chicken, wagasi (fried Fulani cheese) and akassa. The maquis of Fidjrossè and the tables of the Haie Vive district cover every budget.
Practical tips
- ●The airport is in the city: 15–30 min from most hotels
- ●Get around by zémidjan (helmet advised) or negotiated taxi
- ●Cotonou is the best base camp for Ganvié (30 min) and Ouidah (1 h)
- ●Best areas to stay: Haie Vive, Fidjrossè, Cocotiers
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Explore the destination →Frequently asked questions
How many days should you spend in Cotonou?
One to two days for the city itself, as a base camp for excursions to Ganvié and Ouidah.
Can you visit Dantokpa market freely?
Yes, but a local guide makes the visit richer and calmer in this maze of several hectares.
Where to go out at night?
Haie Vive and Fidjrossè concentrate restaurants, maquis and beachfront bars.
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