Overview

Cotonou is a large port city located on the southern coast of Benin, in West Africa. At the eastern end of Central Road St. Michel lies the vast Dantokpa Market, which features religious items and spices alongside fresh produce. The cheapest trips to Cotonou have never been easier to find. As the main airport of the country, which was a central player in the 17th and 18th-century slave trade, Cotonou offers a travel itinerary that is both impressive and memorable. Upon arriving in Cotonou, you can head to the Royal Palaces of Abomey, built by the kingdom in the 17th century and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, as well as the stunning Portuguese architecture in Ouidah.

Direct Flights to Cotonou from the United Kingdom

Currently, there are no direct flights to the city of Cotonou from the United Kingdom. All major airlines reach Cotonou after making at least one stop (connecting flights). The top operators of connecting flights from the United Kingdom to Cotonou include Royal Air Maroc, Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Flybe.

Cheapest Cotonou Flights from the United Kingdom

When searching for the lowest prices, it is helpful to look into the month or a range of dates in which you can secure a better deal. Traveling to Cotonou in March or May can provide an advantage, as airfares are expected to decrease during these months. Our website is a treasure trove of information regarding such details, but you can always inquire directly. Even a brief conversation with one of our travel planners can give you a complete picture of market trends and help you choose the best time to plan your vacation.

International Airport in Cotonou

The full name of the airport is Cardinal Bernardin Gantin de Cotonou International Airport, but it is commonly referred to as Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport, or by its IATA code COO. The airport is just a short drive from the city center, approximately 4 kilometers away. Its significance as the primary airport in the region cannot be overstated. It is the largest airport in Benin, serving as the gateway to all major destinations in the country, including the capital.

Major Tourist Attractions in Cotonou

• Fondation Zinsou: This museum bridges the gap between the local culture of the region and the broader African heritage of centuries. It aims to provide workshops to raise awareness and preserve practices, specifically targeting the younger generation who may have drifted away from their traditional culture.
• Dantokpa Market: The lifeblood of the city's economy, Dantokpa Market remains the largest outdoor market in the country. Operating day and night, you can find everything from a needle to a modified engine. Spanning over 20 hectares, it would take a whole day to traverse the market, especially if you are bargaining along the way.
• Plage De Fidjrosse: No trip to a coastal town is complete without a visit to its beaches. Hosting various bars and outdoor bistros that serve local seafood dishes, the beach is a great spot to relax and unwind.

The Best Hotels in Cotonou

• Benin Royal Hotel
• Urban Suites
• Hotel du Lac
• Home Residence Hotel
• Hotel Villa Les Orchidees
• Villa Ekabo