Porto-Novo

Benin, Africa

Porto-Novo, the vibrant capital of Benin, is rich in culture and history, known for its stunning architecture, including the beautiful Royal Palace and the lively Artisanal Center, where visitors can discover local crafts. Explore the Ethnographic Museum for a deep dive into the region's heritage, or take a boat trip along the Oueme River to enjoy the scenic views. Its mix of traditional and modern influences creates a captivating atmosphere, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking culture and history.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Cotonou Cadjehoun

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

9 Best Things to Do in Porto-Novo

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Royal Palace of Abomey

Discover the history of the Fon kings at this UNESCO site.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ouidah Museum of History

Uncover the rich history of the slave trade here.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Ganvie Lake

Experience life on stilts in this unique village.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Beninese cuisine at local eateries

Savor traditional dishes like pounded yam and tilapia.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the lively Porto-Novo market

Shop for local crafts and fresh produce at this vibrant market.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Art and Culture Centre

Explore local art and cultural exhibitions in this center.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Join in the vibrant celebrations of local traditions.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the St. Augustine Cathedral

Admire the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral.

No booking required
9

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Place de l'Indépendance

Relax in this central square surrounded by colonial buildings.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kuli-Kuli

VE

Peanut snack made from groundnuts. (National dish)

Akkra Funfun

VE

Fried bean cakes, crispy and savory.

Pâte

VE

Cornmeal dough served with sauce.

Amon Tindjan

Spicy fish stew with vegetables.

Ablo

VE

Steamed cornmeal cake, soft and fluffy.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)