Find hotels in Cotonou

Top reasons to visit Cotonou

• Stunning Beaches: Cotonou boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, providing a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
• Cultural Heritage: Explore the rich cultural landscape with local mosques, the Cotonou Cathedral, and arts centers that reflect the city's heritage.
• Vibrant Markets: Experience the bustling public markets where you can shop for local crafts and taste delicious street food.
• Diverse Accommodations: Cotonou offers a range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all travelers.
• Delicious Cuisine: Indulge in local culinary delights that showcase the flavors of Benin, enhancing your travel experience.

Where to stay in and around Cotonou

Cotonou, the vibrant coastal city of Benin, offers a delightful blend of beach getaways and cultural experiences. Visitors can bask in the sun on nearby beaches while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city center. With average temperatures typically warm, Cotonou caters to both luxury travelers and those seeking cultural immersion. Explore the rich local heritage, indulge in delicious cuisine, and unwind by the ocean for a memorable vacation experience.

• Abomey-Calavi: Located approximately 9.7km from Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of beach relaxation and rich cultural experiences. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in January to February and July. Here, you can explore local markets and shops, while also enjoying the serene beaches and places of worship nearby, including stunning cathedrals. The combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.
• Ganvie: Situated about 11.3km from Cotonou, Ganvie is famously known as the Venice of Africa due to its picturesque stilt houses and vibrant waterways. This city holds a steady stream of visitors, particularly peaking in February and during the summer months of July to August. Travelers flock to Ganvie for its rich culture, where you can visit local art museums and experience the unique lifestyle of the lake-dwelling communities. The charm of Ganvie lies in its cultural depth and stunning scenery.
• Cococodji: Cococodji is a quaint village located in close proximity to Cotonou, offering an authentic taste of local life. With a steady influx of travelers, particularly from January to February and July, visitors are drawn to Cococodji for its beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. The village's close-knit community and tranquil atmosphere provide a refreshing escape from the bustling city life, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a laid-back experience by the sea.

Things to do in and around Cotonou

Cotonou is an ideal destination for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, offering a vibrant mix of activities. Explore the bustling public markets and shopping centers, or indulge in corporate events and tours that showcase the best of Benin. Don’t miss the beautiful beaches of Cotonou, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the local atmosphere.

Shopping

In Cotonou, visit the Grand Marché de Dantokpa for a bustling public market experience filled with local goods. Check out the Artisanal Center for unique crafts. If you're up for a drive, the Fetish Market offers an intriguing selection of traditional items and souvenirs, just over 16.1km away.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Charles de Gaulle Stadium, a premier sports venue located 27.4km from Cotonou. Engage in various sports activities or simply soak in the lively sports vibes, making it a great spot for relaxation and recreation during your visit.

Adventure

In Cotonou, explore the vibrant Dantokpa Market, where you can experience the local culture and shop for unique crafts. Visit the Ouidah Museum of History to learn about the region's heritage, or relax on the beautiful beaches along the coastline, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.

Nightlife

Cotonou's nightlife is vibrant and lively. Enjoy live music at Le Bénin, or dance the night away at Club 404. For a more relaxed vibe, unwind with drinks at the trendy La Terrasse. The streets are filled with energy, making it a perfect spot for night owls.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cotonou

To save money during your trip to Cotonou, consider visiting in April or from November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Saturday is the cheapest day to book a stay, while Tuesday is the priciest. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels and refine your search by budget and location. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals. Explore free activities, and take advantage of Cotonou's affordable public transport options for getting around. These tips will help you enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cotonou are April and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, June and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cotonou is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Cotonou is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Cotonou with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Cotonou

Cotonou offers a vibrant mix of beach and cultural experiences, making it a great destination for tourists. Key attractions include the Cotonou Cathedral, local mosques, and arts centers that immerse visitors in the rich culture and city life. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach or explore the city's artistic side, Cotonou has something to satisfy every traveler's interests.

• Cotonou Central Mosque: Experience the serene atmosphere of the Cotonou Central Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The intricate designs and peaceful ambiance offer a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of the community, making it a must-visit for those interested in local culture.
• Cotonou Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral stands as a testament to the region's religious heritage. With its striking architecture and tranquil environment, Cotonou Cathedral invites visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy moments of reflection amidst the vibrant city life.
• Fondation Zinsou: Immerse yourself in contemporary art at Fondation Zinsou, which showcases inspiring works from African artists. The center promotes cultural dialogue and creativity, making it a vibrant hub for art lovers and a fantastic place to experience Benin's artistic scene.

Best time to go to Cotonou

The best time to visit Cotonou is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March and April are its hottest month on average. At the time of April, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	82.9°F (28.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	83.8°F (28.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	83.8°F (28.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cotonou

If you're planning a trip to Cotonou, Benin, you'll likely fly into Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO), which is located just 1.6km from the city. Nearby hotel options include the 4-star Nobila Airport Hotel, situated 322m from the airport, providing easy access. Another choice is the 4-star Sun Beach Hotel, located 1.6km away, also offering convenient transportation to COO. For those willing to stay a bit further, the Bénin Royal Hôtel is a 4-star hotel located 4.8km from the airport. All these hotels are well-connected and allow for hassle-free access to the airport for your travel needs.