Porto-Novo - Discovering Benin

Travelling to Porto-Novo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Porto-Novo, a pretty good destination in Benin (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Porto-Novo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Porto-Novo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Benin, here's everything to know about Porto-Novo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Porto-Novo

Porto-Novo is the capital city of Benin, located in the southeastern part of the country, near the Atlantic coast. It has a population of approximately 300,000 people and is known for its French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to the Palais Royal, the official residence of the King of Porto-Novo and one of the main attractions for tourists. It is also a hub for the Yoruba culture, with many museums and traditional ceremonies taking place throughout the year. Overall, Porto-Novo offers a unique and diverse experience for travelers interested in exploring the history and culture of Benin.

What to visit in Porto-Novo

Here are some tourist attractions in Porto-Novo, Benin, and some information about each of them: 1. Royal Palace of the King Toffa: This palace was built in the 1850s for the King Toffa in the middle of the city. The palace is a symbol of the history and heritage of Porto-Novo.
2. Jardin Place Jean Bayol: This public garden is located near the Palais de Congress, and it's a great place for a picnic or reading a book.
3. Musée da Silva: This museum houses a collection of Benin's arts and crafts with remarkable artwork dating back to the 14th century.
4. Temple des Pythons: This temple is an important place for voodoo ceremonies and snake worship. It's not for the faint-hearted, as they feature a lot of pythons that are worshipped alongside other animals.
5. Marche Dantokpa: This market is the largest market in Benin and offers a range of products from clothing, arts and crafts to foodstuffs.
6. Route des Esclaves: This slave route is the main attraction that offers a historical insight into the Transatlantic slavery trade between West Africa and America.
These are just a few of the tourist attractions in Porto-Novo, Benin. The city has a lot more to offer, so if you are planning a trip, make sure you explore as much as you can.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Benin, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Porto-Novo.

When to go on holiday to Porto-Novo

The best time to visit Porto-Novo, and Benin in general, is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when you can enjoy sunny and warm weather, although it can still be quite hot and humid. The rainy season, which runs from May to November, can be quite unpredictable and may hinder your travel plans. Additionally, the high humidity during this season can make it uncomfortable to explore the city. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your trip to Porto-Novo during the dry season to make the most of your visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Porto-Novo

You can get to Porto-Novo, the capital city of Benin, by air or by road. The closest international airport to Porto-Novo is located in Cotonou, approximately 40 kilometers away.
By air: You can fly into Cotonou International Airport and then take a taxi or a hired car to Porto-Novo. There are several international airlines that fly to Cotonou, including Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines.
By road: There are buses and taxi services that operate between Cotonou and Porto-Novo. The distance between the two cities is only about 40 kilometers, so the trip should take around 45 minutes to an hour. You can also hire a private car or a taxi to drive you to Porto-Novo from Cotonou.
It is recommended to check any travel restrictions and visa requirements before traveling to Benin.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Porto-Novo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Porto-Novo

Porto-Novo is the capital city of Benin, a country located in West Africa. Here are some typical foods of Porto-Novo with a short description for each of them: 1. Pate: A staple food made by boiling cassava, yam or plantain and mashing it into a smooth paste. It is commonly eaten with a soup or sauce and can be found in almost every restaurant in Porto-Novo.
2. Akpan: Made from rice flour or cornmeal, akpan is a popular snack that is usually served with a spicy tomato sauce.
3. Agouti: A type of rodent that is commonly eaten in Benin, agouti is usually roasted, grilled or stewed and served with a spicy sauce.
4. Kpokpoi: A porridge-like dish made from cassava, yam or plantain, kpokpoi is often served with a soup or stew and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
5. Fufu: A starchy dough made from cassava, yam or plantain, fufu is usually eaten with a soup or stew and is a staple food in many African countries, including Benin.
6. Atassi: A traditional Beninese snack made from groundnuts, atassi is usually roasted and salted and is a great source of protein and healthy fats.
7. Gboma Dessi: A spinach-based soup that is popular in Benin, Gboma Dessi is often served with rice or fufu and is topped with fried fish or chicken.
These are just a few of the typical foods of Porto-Novo, but there are many other delicious and unique dishes to try in Benin!
You can find general info about typical foods in Benin here.

Is Porto-Novo an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other African countries, Porto-Novo is not considered to be a very expensive destination for tourists. However, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style and budget. Hotels, restaurants, and transportation in Porto-Novo can be affordable, but entrance fees to tourist attractions could add up. It’s important to plan your trip in advance and research prices for the things you want to do and see. Overall, Porto-Novo offers a unique and authentic travel experience that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Porto-Novo

Porto-Novo is the capital city of Benin and one of the major tourist destinations in the country. The most popular areas to stay in Porto-Novo are: 1. Centre Ville: This is the central district of the city, and it is home to many historic buildings, markets, shops, and restaurants.
2. Fidjrosse: Located on the coast, Fidjrosse is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts.
3. Saint Michel: This is a residential area of Porto-Novo, and it is known for its quiet streets and high-end homes.
4. Ganhi: This is another residential area that is known for its modern architecture and shopping centers.
5. Cadjehoun: Located near the airport, Cadjehoun is a commercial district of Porto-Novo that is home to many hotels and restaurants.
You can check hotel prices at Porto-Novo here:
Booking.com

Is Porto-Novo a safe destination for tourists?

Porto-Novo is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is always important to take standard safety precautions while traveling in any city. It is advisable to keep valuables such as passports, credit cards, and phones secure, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of cash in public. It is also recommended to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly when traveling alone or at night. Overall, Porto-Novo has a fairly low crime rate compared to other cities in the region, but it is always best to exercise caution and be prepared for any unexpected situations while traveling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Benin here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Porto-Novo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Porto-Novo the most?

Porto-Novo, the capital city of Benin, has a unique cultural atmosphere that can appeal to various types of travelers. However, it might not be ideal for young people looking for fun or couples seeking romantic getaways. Families will appreciate the city's history and tradition, as there are many museums, palaces, markets, and historical landmarks that they can visit together. The city also has several parks and gardens, such as the Place Jean Bayol, which is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the greenery.
For those seeking cultural immersion, Porto-Novo is a great destination. It is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Gelede, which is a celebration of women's power, and the Xwla, which is a traditional religious festival. There are also many cultural centers and art galleries that showcase the works of local artists and craftsmen.
Overall, while Porto-Novo may not be an ideal destination for young party-goers or couples seeking a romantic escape, it offers a rich cultural experience that families and culture enthusiasts will enjoy.

How to get around Porto-Novo

In Porto-Novo, the most common forms of transportation are shared taxis, called "Zemidjans" or "Zémidjans" (motorbike taxis), and traditional taxis. There are also buses and minibusses called "Gbaka" or "Waya". However, these options tend to be less reliable and less frequent. Walking is also an option for shorter distances, as the city is relatively small and has many pedestrian-friendly areas.

What to see around Porto-Novo

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Porto-Novo: 1. Abomey: This is a historic town and one of the best cultural sites in Benin. You can visit the King's Palace and learn about Benin's rich history.
2. Ouidah: This is a coastal town with various interesting places such as the Door of No Return, the Ouidah Museum of History, and the Temple of Pythons 3. Possotome: This is a smaller town with a picturesque fishing village, beautiful beaches, and traditional African architecture.
4. Ganvie: This is called the "Venice of Africa." It's an incredible floating village on Lake Nokoué, where you can discover local life and culture.
5. Cotonou: This is the largest city in Benin, known for its vibrant markets, beaches, and nightlife. There are great seafood restaurants, art shops, and museums.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Benin you can click here.

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