Contonou Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips

Cotonou Nightlife

Cotonou is the largest city and economic centre of Benin and is located on the coastal strip between Lake Nokoué and the Atlantic Ocean. The city is cut in two by a canal, the lagoon of Cotonou, which was dug by the French in 1855.

Bars and Restaurants

Cotonou is a bustling city full of bars and restaurants to try, and many small hole-in-the-wall places to try as well. A few places to try first are the Bar Cafe Cappuccino, which is a really cozy drinking spot located on a side street of Rue des Cheminots. Other go-to spots include Challa Ogoi and you the authentic Irish Pub in the Jonquet area.

Clubs & Music

There is no shortage of clubs and places for music in the city either. Check out the Coco Cocktail, which has disco, live music, drinks and interesting people every weekend. Others to try are Z Tip, The New York Bar, and the nightclub in the ground floor of Dynamic Hotel.

For a bit of local music and a totally different atmosphere, try the Yes Papa. The Yes Papa is not a commercial bar, so don’t go there expecting a club, it is actually a non-profit organization trying to support local culture and provide a platform for Beninese musicians. It has a bar, but it is just a side thing to make evenings a little more comfortable for visitors.

Around Town

After dusk, the Jonquet district has the most nightlife and selection of good bars. However, be aware when you go that it is also a popular place for crime, drugs, and prostitution.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Cotonou nightlife.