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Cotonou,

Place to Go Porto Novo

Destination: Porto-Novo

Porto Novo, the capital of Benin, is one of its most interesting cities to visit. The city was founded in the 16th century by Portuguese settlers who gave it its name and still retains some of its early colonial charm in certain sections. The city lies between Cotonou and Nigeria, and thus maintains a high level of commercial activity. For tourists, there are a variety of museums, historical attractions, local markets and restaurants.

Attractions

- The Ethnographique Museum of Porto Novo

This was the first museum established in Benin (in the 1960's) and contains cultural artifacts from all over the country, with a great deal on the history of Porto Novo itself. It is open daily (closed between 12-3 p.m.) and the entrance fee is 1000 CFA per person, which can sometimes be negotiable for those in large groups. Located a short walk from Place Jean Bayol.

- Jardin Place Jean Bayol

This grand square is located near the entrance to Porto Novo and contains a statue of the first king of Porto Novo. One can take a quick stroll through the gardens here or spend some time people-watching from a comfortable bench. Many of the major museums and markets are within walking distance of this park.

- The da Silva Museum (Musée da Silva)

This museum was founded by Porto Novo's da Silva family and contains many items relating to the early history of Benin, when it was known as Dahomey. It is open daily (closed between 12-3 p.m.) and the entrance fee is 1000 CFA per person. Located a short walk from the main taxi station across the street from Bank of Africa.

- The Royal Palace (Palais Royal, also known as the Musée Honmé)

Officially, this museum is called the Musée honme but most people in Porto Novo refer to it as the Palais Royal, since it was once home to King Toffa, who was responsible for establishing Benin's first ties to France. This museum gives visitors an idea of how African royalty lived during the latter half of the 19th century and early part of the 20th. Among the items on display are King Toffa's royal carriage and a great many old photographs. The museum is open daily (closed between 12-3 p.m.) and the entrance fee is 1000 CFA and is a short walk from the da Silva Museum.

- Centre Songhai

Located in the area known as Ouando, Songhai is a great place to visit if you want to get a close-up glimpse of Benin's agricultural production. A walk through the sprawling farm reveals all kinds of produce growing, animals being raised and Africans hard at work at both. Walking tours can be easily arranged. Songhai is also home to a conference center, so hotel rooms are available here, a restaurant serving both African and European specialities, and a telecenter with high-speed computers and internet access at reasonable prices.

General Information

Cost of travel from Cotonou:

400-500 FCFA for one place in an auto-taxi

300 FCFA by bus.

By taxi, the trip runs about 45 minutes; by bus, one hour.

Best time to visit

Because of the diversity of attractions, one can visit Porto Novo at any time. Like other parts of the south, the hottest time of the year is January and February; the rains are heaviest from mid-March to mid-May.

Lodging

Hotel Beaurivage is one of the best choices for those looking for comfort, since it has air-conditioning and is well-run and well-maintained. Its 13 rooms rooms range from 12.500 FCFA to 25.500 FCFA and there is a good restaurant on the premise. Located on the road running parallel to the lagoon.

Hotel Dona is also a good option, located in the center of town on Rue Catchi. It has 21 rooms, priced at 8000 FCFA per night, and a restaurant serving African and European food.

Bimyns is another 'upscale' option, with only 10 room but a variety of amenities including a play area for children, a pool and a bar/restaurant. Rates range from 30.500 to 40.500, depending upon accommodations.

Restaurants

Porto Novo has many, many good restaurants to choose from. Aside from the restaurants at Centre Songhai, Hotel Beaurivage and Bimyns, here are a few others you may want to consider: The Gallery of the African Collection (Galerie Collection d'Afrique) is located not far from Place Jean Bayol, and is a combination art gallery/restaurant. This is an excellent spot for purchasing local crafts as well as enjoying a traditional African meal. Another popular choice for tourists and ex-pats is the Bar/restaurant Java Promo which is reasonably priced and serves both African and European foods. The restaurant Juliana is a local favorite.

Local Markets:

There are great many markets in Porto Novo, some of them open every day. Marché Ahouangbo, open every day, is not far from the Place Bayol and is an excellent choice for buying local fruits and vegetables; bargaining with the "Marché Mamas" is a must. Marché Gbego is run by the Nigerians and has a wide range of electrical equipment such as boom boxes, fans and small appliances. Located near the center of town and open every day. For traditional herbal remedies found in Benin, visit the Marché d'Agbokou, held every three days. The marché de Ouando is another lively, large market where one can find almost anything. Only 10 km outside of Porto Novo and well worth the trip is the Marché d'Adjarra, held every five days, which has excellent souvenirs for tourists including elaborate hand-carved drums, beautiful fabrics and pottery.


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