Find hotels in Cotonou from £18

Top reasons to visit Cotonou

• Beautiful Beaches: Cotonou boasts stunning sandy shores perfect for relaxation and leisure.
• Vibrant Markets: Immerse yourself in local life by exploring the bustling public markets filled with unique goods.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Discover the city's history through its impressive cathedral, lively mosque, and engaging arts centre.
• Exciting Nightlife: Experience Cotonou's lively nightlife, offering a variety of entertainment options for evening enjoyment.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in Cotonou

Explore a range of hotel accommodations in Cotonou, ideal for both business travellers and families seeking a beach getaway. From top-rated hotels to charming guesthouses, you'll find options that cater to various budgets and preferences. Discover essential information including star ratings, guest reviews, and competitive prices to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this vibrant coastal city.

• Golden Tulip Le Diplomate Cotonou: Nestled in the vibrant heart of Cotonou, this 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.6, offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. Ideally suited for those seeking a beach getaway and shopping experience, Golden Tulip Le Diplomate boasts direct access to the sandy shores. With its proximity to the bustling shopping district, guests can relish in both relaxation and retail therapy. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a range of amenities that cater to both leisure and business travellers alike.
• ibis Cotonou: Designed for the budget-conscious traveller, ibis Cotonou stands out with its unique spa-themed offerings. This hotel is perfect for those on business trips or seeking a luxurious escape without breaking the bank. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa complete with sauna, massage treatments, and an outdoor pool for ultimate relaxation. Located conveniently in Cotonou, ibis Cotonou combines affordability with essential comforts, ensuring a pleasant and rejuvenating stay.
• Azalaï Hotel Cotonou: A 3.5-star establishment, Azalaï Hotel Cotonou caters primarily to business travellers looking for a productive and comfortable stay. With its modern facilities and professional ambiance, this hotel is strategically situated in close proximity to key business hubs in Cotonou. Guests can expect spacious accommodations, essential amenities, and a dedicated service team, making it an ideal choice for those needing a seamless blend of work and relaxation.

Where to stay in and around Cotonou

Cotonou offers a delightful blend of beach getaways, vibrant city life, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can unwind on sandy shores, explore bustling markets, and immerse themselves in local traditions. The city’s lively atmosphere is complemented by budget-friendly neighbourhoods, making it accessible for all travellers. With its natural beauty and favourable climate, Cotonou is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and memorable holiday experience in West Africa.

• Abomey-Calavi: Nestled approximately 9.7km from Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi is a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of cultural and urban experiences. Visitors often flock here for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The city comes alive during peak travel periods in January to February and November, making it an ideal time to explore its bustling public markets and local shops. Notable attractions include the serene beaches, a beautiful cathedral, and an art museum that showcases the region's artistic flair. Abomey-Calavi promises an enriching travel experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Cococodji: Located within the Cotonou area, Cococodji is a charming village that invites travellers to enjoy its peaceful coastal setting. Though not as frequented as some tourist hotspots, it offers a unique experience with its stunning beach, perfect for relaxation and unwinding. Visitor numbers peak similarly to neighbouring areas in January to February and November. Cococodji is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, offering a tranquil environment to experience local life by the water.
• Ganvie: Situated about 11.3km from Cotonou, Ganvie is renowned for its unique stilted houses and picturesque setting on Lake Nokoué. This city attracts visitors seeking a distinctive experience, particularly during peak months in February and July to August. The highlight of Ganvie is undoubtedly its beautiful lakeside beaches, where you can unwind and enjoy the scenic views. The village offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Tofinu people, making it a fascinating destination for cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Things to do in Cotonou

Cotonou, the vibrant hub of Benin, offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling public markets and enjoy the local shopping scene. The city boasts an exciting nightlife, perfect for those seeking evening entertainment, alongside rich cultural experiences that showcase the region's heritage. Cotonou is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation filled with diverse activities and attractions.

Shopping

In Cotonou, visit the lively Dantokpa Market, where you can find local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, check out the Mega Center, located about 16.1km away, featuring various shops and eateries for a more modern shopping experience.

Recreation

The Wellness Centre in Cotonou offers tranquil spa treatments and holistic therapies, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can indulge in massages, yoga sessions, and healthy cuisine, all within a peaceful environment designed to enhance well-being and harmony.

Cotonou Beach is perfect for leisurely strolls and sunbathing. Enjoy beachside yoga classes, refreshing swims in the Atlantic, and vibrant local markets, creating a delightful blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.

Adventure

The Cotonou waterfront offers thrilling water sports, including jet skiing and parasailing, providing stunning views of the coastline. Explore the bustling Dantokpa Market for a vibrant cultural experience, where you can discover local crafts and flavours. Don’t miss the Fondation Zinsou for contemporary art exhibitions and workshops.

Nightlife

Cotonou's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like Le Pacha offering stunning views and lively music, while La Casa provides a more laid-back atmosphere with excellent cocktails. For a taste of local culture, head to the vibrant markets that come alive at night, showcasing food and crafts.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cotonou

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cotonou are April, August and 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to narrow your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Cotonou with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Cotonou

Cotonou offers a delightful mix of beach, cultural, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the stunning cathedral, vibrant mosque, and engaging arts centre. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking a rich cultural and urban experience, making Cotonou an appealing destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local life and heritage.

• Cotonou Central Mosque: This stunning mosque is a remarkable example of Islamic architecture in Benin. Its serene atmosphere and intricate designs provide a peaceful retreat for visitors, allowing you to appreciate the local culture and spirituality.
• Cotonou Cathedral: A significant landmark in the city, Cotonou Cathedral showcases beautiful stained glass and impressive architecture. The cathedral serves as a cultural hub, inviting visitors to engage with the local religious practices and community.
• Fondation Zinsou: An inspiring arts centre, Fondation Zinsou promotes contemporary African art and culture. The exhibitions here offer a unique insight into the region's creativity, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

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	Slightly Low
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	Average
December	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cotonou

Cotonou is easily accessible by flying into Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO), located 1.6km from the city. Nearby accommodation options include the 4-star Nobila Airport Hotel, situated a mere 322m from the airport, and the Benin Marina Hôtel, which is 966m away. Both hotels provide convenient access to the airport, with services including complimentary airport transfers and a 24-hour shuttle. The Sun Beach Hotel, located 1.6km from the airport, also offers a comfortable stay for travellers. With these options, reaching Cotonou from the airport is seamless, ensuring a pleasant start to your visit to Benin.