Porto Novo 3 Day Itinerary, Things to Do and Must Sees

Travel Tips in Porto Novo

Porto Novo, Benin is a hidden gem of West Africa. This coastal city is an ideal destination for those looking for a unique cultural experience and an escape from daily life. From its vibrant markets to its stunning beaches, Porto Novo is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of African culture. Here are some travel tips to get the most out of your experience in Porto Novo.

First, plan your trip in advance. Before arriving, research the best time to visit, the weather conditions, and the cost of accommodations. Also, familiarize yourself with the cultural norms and laws in the country.

When in Porto Novo, stay aware of your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings. Be sure to keep your valuables secure and visible at all times. Additionally, it is important to respect the local culture and dress appropriately.

If you want to explore Porto Novo, consider taking a guided tour. Many companies offer city tours, and these can be a great way to get a comprehensive overview of the city. Additionally, there are plenty of activities to explore while in Porto Novo, such as boat tours, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Finally, make sure to enjoy the local cuisine. From traditional Beninese dishes to international flavors, there is something for everyone in Porto Novo. Be sure to try out some of the local restaurants and street vendors.

Now that you’ve got your travel tips, here are the top sites and monuments to visit in Porto Novo.

  1. Palais de la Culture: This historic palace is one of the most impressive buildings in Porto Novo. It is the former home of the Oba, the king of the Fon people. The building is now a museum and houses various artifacts, sculptures, and exhibitions. Admission to the palace is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d7497331-Reviews-Palais_de_la_Culture-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  2. Monument de l’Independance: This monument is a tribute to Benin’s independence from French colonial rule. It is a towering structure that stands over 40 meters tall, and is a powerful symbol of the nation’s freedom. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809717-Reviews-Monument_de_l_Independance-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  3. Marché Dantokpa: This bustling market is the largest in West Africa and sells everything from fresh produce to traditional clothing. It is a great place to find souvenirs and get a taste of daily life in Porto Novo. Entrance is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809731-Reviews-Marche_Dantokpa-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  4. Plage de la Pointe de L’eau: This stunning beach is one of the most popular in Porto Novo. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, it is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809735-Reviews-Plage_de_la_Pointe_de_L_eau-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  5. Cotonou Cathedral: This magnificent cathedral is the largest in Benin and is a popular tourist destination. It was built in the 19th century and is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809732-Reviews-Cotonou_Cathedral-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  6. Reserve de la Faune de Pendjari: This national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. It is one of the best places to observe wildlife in Benin and offers a variety of activities, such as safaris and bush walks. Entrance fee is 500 CFA. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1118281-d1549321-Reviews-Reserve_de_la_Faune_de_Pendjari-Natitingou_Benin.html
  7. Stade de l’Amitie: This impressive stadium is one of the largest in Africa and is used for both football and rugby matches. It is a great place to catch a game and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a Beninese sporting event. Entrance fee depends on the event. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809739-Reviews-Stade_de_l_Amitie-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  8. Musée de la Civilisation Fon: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Fon people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Benin. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809746-Reviews-Musee_de_la_Civilisation_Fon-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  9. Grande Mosquée de Porto Novo: This grand mosque is one of the most impressive buildings in the city. It is a great place to learn about the Islamic faith and experience the culture of Porto Novo. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809740-Reviews-Grande_Mosquee_de_Porto_Novo-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  10. Maison des Esclaves: This former slave house is a powerful reminder of Benin’s dark past. It is a sobering reminder of the horrors of the slave trade and a must-visit for anyone looking to learn about the history of the region. Entrance fee is 500 CFA. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809741-Reviews-Maison_des_Esclaves-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  11. Cascade de Gbodjome: This stunning waterfall is located just outside of the city and is a great place for a day trip. The cascading waters are a beautiful sight and a great place for swimming and hiking. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809742-Reviews-Cascade_de_Gbodjome-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  12. Quartier Fon: Located in the heart of the city, this neighborhood is the best place to experience daily life in Porto Novo. It is filled with markets, restaurants, and local shops. Entrance is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809743-Reviews-Quartier_Fon-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  13. Abomey-Calavo National Park: This sprawling park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to explore the local flora and fauna. There are a variety of hiking trails and a historic palace. Entrance fee is 500 CFA. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1118283-d1549322-Reviews-Abomey_Calave_National_Park-Natitingou_Benin.html
  14. Parc National de la Pendjari: This national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. It is one of the best places to observe wildlife in Benin and offers a variety of activities, such as safaris and bush walks. Entrance fee is 500 CFA. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1118281-d1549312-Reviews-Parc_National_de_la_Pendjari-Natitingou_Benin.html
  15. Musée Ethnographique: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Somba people, one of the oldest ethnic groups in Benin. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809745-Reviews-Musee_Ethnographique-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  16. Plage de Grand-Popo: This stunning beach is located on the border of Benin and Togo and is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, it is the ideal place to unwind. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293984-d1809734-Reviews-Plage_de_Grand_Popo-Grand_Popo_Oueme_Province.html
  17. La Plage de Ganvie: This stunning beach is located in the heart of the city and is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, it is the ideal place to unwind. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809738-Reviews-La_Plage_de_Ganvie-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  18. Marché Kpasse: This vibrant market is one of the best places to shop in Porto Novo. It is filled with a variety of vendors selling everything from traditional clothing to fresh produce. Entrance is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809744-Reviews-Marche_Kpasse-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  19. Musée du Populaire: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Populaire people, one of the oldest ethnic groups in Benin. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809747-Reviews-Musee_du_Populaire-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html
  20. La Plage de Oueme: This stunning beach is located on the banks of the Oueme river and is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, it is the ideal place to unwind. Admission is free. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293981-d1809737-Reviews-La_Plage_de_Oueme-Porto_Novo_Oueme_Province.html

Day 1
• Start your day at Marché Dantokpa, the largest market in West Africa. Explore the vibrant stalls and find unique souvenirs.
• Head to the Palais de la Culture, the former home of the Oba. Explore the palace and enjoy the museum and exhibitions.
• Spend the afternoon at Plage de la Pointe de L’eau. Relax on the white sands, take a dip in the turquoise waters, and spot some coral reefs.
• End the day at Maison des Esclaves, the former slave house. Learn about the harrowing history of the slave trade and pay respects to the victims.

Day 2
• Spend the morning at Parc National de la Pendjari, a national park home to a variety of wildlife. Enjoy a safari and spot some elephants, lions, and antelopes.
• In the afternoon, explore the Grand Mosquée de Porto Novo. Learn about the Islamic faith and admire the beautiful architecture.
• Take a stroll through Quartier Fon, the best place to experience daily life in Porto Novo. Enjoy the markets, restaurants, and local shops.
• End the day at the Stade de l’Amitie. Catch a game and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a Beninese sporting event.

Day 3
• Start your day at Abomey-Calavo National Park, a sprawling park home to a variety of wildlife. Enjoy some hiking trails and explore the historic palace.
• Spend the afternoon at the Musée de la Civilisation Fon. Learn about the history and culture of the Fon people and admire the artifacts and sculptures.
• Take a day trip to Cascade de Gbodjome, a stunning waterfall outside of the city. Enjoy a swim in the cascading waters and some hiking.
• End your trip at La Plage de Ganvie. Relax on the white sand and take a dip in the turquoise waters.