population: 0.78 million

extension: 79.2 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Cotonou, a great museum to visit is the Ethnographic Museum of Porto-Novo, which is about 30 kilometers away from Cotonou. It showcases Benin's diverse cultures and traditions through exhibitions of artifacts, clothing, and art. Additionally, the Historical Museum of Abomey, located about 100 kilometers north of Cotonou, is another excellent museum that offers insights into the Kingdom of Dahomey's history and traditions.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes in Cotonou, Benin include:

1. Pounded yam with peanut soup: This dish is a staple food in Benin and is made by boiling yam until it becomes soft, then pounding it into a smooth dough-like consistency. The peanut soup is usually served on top of the pounded yam.

2. Akpan: It is a fermented cornmeal that is steamed and served with spicy sauce or stew.

3. Amiwo: A rice dish that is cooked with tomato paste and various spices, including onions, garlic, and ginger.

4. Gbèjoun: A snack made from grated cassava, mixed with spices and deep-fried into small balls.

5. Grilled tilapia fish: A deliciously seasoned and grilled tilapia fish, often accompanied by plantains or other vegetables.

6. Atassi: A dish made from okra, tomatoes, and palm oil served with boiled cassava, plantains or rice.

7. Poulet Yassa: A marinated chicken dish cooked with onions, lemon juice, and mustard, typically served with rice or couscous.

These dishes are not only popular among the locals but also provide an authentic taste of Beninese cuisine.

Activities

There are many fun activities that locals enjoy in Cotonou, Benin. Here are some suggestions:

1. Visit the Dantokpa Market, which is one of the largest markets in West Africa and offers a wide selection of goods, including food, clothing, and handicrafts.

2. Take a stroll along the Boulevard de la Marina, which runs alongside the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for jogging, people-watching, and enjoying the sea breeze.

3. Attend a live music performance at a local venue such as Le Viking or Chez Ntemba.

4. Explore the nearby villages of Ganvié and Possotomè, which are built on stilts over water and offer a unique glimpse into traditional fishing communities.

5. Taste local cuisine at outdoor street vendors or restaurants, where you can try dishes such as grilled fish with attiéké (cassava couscous), akpan (cornmeal pudding), and tchigan (spicy peanut butter sauce).