Best Things to do in Cotonou | Must-see attractions 2025

Cotonou Cathedral

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ancien Pont Bridge

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Cotonou Cathedral in Benin, built in 1961, serves as a major religious site and showcases impressive modern architecture within a vibrant urban context.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance.

Saint Michel Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Blvd Saint-Michel

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Saint Michel Church in Cotonou, Benin, is a pastel pink and green Catholic church known for its unique gingerbread-like exterior, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free to enter with no paid sections.

Cotonou Central Mosque

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Mosque

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Cotonou Central Mosque is a prominent religious site in Cotonou, Benin, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee is required for visitors.

Cotonou Lighthouse

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Lighthouse

Benin

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Cotonou Lighthouse is a historical landmark located in Cotonou, Benin. It serves as a key navigational aid and symbolizes the region's maritime heritage.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free access to the lighthouse grounds; guided tours may have additional charges.

Centre international de conferences de Cotonou

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Benin

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Centre international de conferences de Cotonou hosts diverse events, featuring modern architecture and accessibility in Benin's economic capital.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Entry is free for general access; some events may require tickets.

Paroisse Marie Auxiliatrice de Menotin

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Cotonou

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Paroisse Marie Auxiliatrice de Menotin is a prominent Catholic church located in Cotonou, Benin, known for its vibrant community and local worship activities.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support community programs.

Gare Centrale de Cotonou

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Train Station

Benin

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Gare Centrale de Cotonou, the central railway station in Benin, serves as a key transportation hub and reflects the country's colonial-era architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have entry fees.

Centre Commercial Dantokpa

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

Benin

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Centre Commercial Dantokpa is a vibrant market in Cotonou, Benin, known for its vast array of goods, local produce, textiles, and a cultural experience that reflects the country’s heritage.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some specific events or exhibits may incur a fee.

IRGIB-Africa

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Cotonou

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IRGIB-Africa in Cotonou is a leading tech hub focusing on digital innovation and entrepreneurship in West Africa.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some specialized workshops may require a paid ticket.

Mosquee Centrale Oummi Wassilath

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mosque

1682B (Rue 1890)

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Mosquee Centrale Oummi Wassilath in Cotonou, Benin, is a prominent mosque known for its unique architecture and rich cultural significance to the local Muslim community.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not required.

Mosquee Centrale Suru Lere

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mosque

Finagnon a cote terrain sobetex

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Mosquee Centrale Suru Lere is a key religious site in Cotonou, Benin, known for its architectural grandeur and cultural significance for the local Muslim community.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free for entry. Some special events may require advance registration.

Dantokpa Market

6:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

Cotonou

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Dantokpa Market is Cotonou's largest market and offers a wide variety of goods. You can find everything from fresh fish to traditional cloth and even live animals in its busy lanes.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Place de I'Etoile Rouge

Open all day

Landmark

RN 3

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Place de I'Etoile Rouge is a significant public square in Cotonou. It features cultural events and gatherings, making it a vibrant place for locals and visitors.

Duration: approx. 1 hour

Free

Foundation Zinsou

Mo 13:00-19:00; Tu-Fr 8:30-19:00; Sa 10:00-19:00

Museum

7012 Rue des Missions

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Foundation Zinsou is an art museum in Cotonou, Benin that focuses on contemporary African art. It features photography, paintings, and sculptures, and includes a boutique with art books and a cafe with Wi-Fi.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Etoile rouge

6:00 AM-8:00 PM

Monument

Cotonou

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Etoile Rouge is a significant monument in Cotonou that honors the struggles for independence. It features a striking design and is often visited by locals and tourists alike for its historical importance.

Duration: approx. 30 minutes

Free

Place des Martyrs

Open 24 hours

Monument

Route de l'Aeroport

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Place des Martyrs is a significant public square in Cotonou. It honors those who fought for Benin's freedom with a central monument and surrounding gardens.

Duration: approx. 1 hour

Free