Porto-Novo, Benin 🇧🇯
#755
6.499071, 2.625336
Nomad Score:
50%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Porto-Novo is the capital city of Benin, located on the coast and known for its rich history and cultural diversity. |
| 👥 Population | Approximate population is around 300,000. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 15 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is West African CFA franc (XOF). 1 EUR ≈ 655 XOF. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, bottled water recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 220V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type C/E sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include MTN, Moov, and Glo; prepaid SIM cards are widely available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | ATM services like EcoBank and UBA are accepted; mobile banking apps like Alat and OPay. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guest houses, and serviced apartments; Airbnb is available. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Moderately cashless; cards accepted in hotels and some restaurants. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental platforms like RentBenin are popular for short stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options include Maison Rouge and Hotel Le Port. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Coworking space 'Espace de Coworking' offers reliable internet and quiet workspaces. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café Akoumeko provides a cozy atmosphere and free Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Occasional events organized by the Benin Business Network on social media platforms. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Attend meetups through the Porto-Novo Expats group on Facebook. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis can be hailed on the street; ride-sharing not widely available. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options; bicycles can be rented from local shops. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Aweather Beach, approximately 30 mins drive from the city center. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Benin provides regional services. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and Royal Air Maroc operate flights to Porto-Novo. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Main road access to Cotonou and other major cities. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Porto-Novo train station connects to Cotonou and north Benin. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport service includes shared taxis; no formal passes. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses operate to major cities; travel agencies in the city offer services. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Porto-Novo offers basic healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes available at 'Yoga Center Porto-Novo.' |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic fitness facilities like 'Gym na Forme' are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Available at local laundromats; some hotels offer laundry service. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Jumia Food operates in Porto-Novo for local restaurant deliveries. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Pâte and sauce - a traditional Beninese dish made with maize. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like 'Le Bistronome' offer vegetarian meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Pâtisserie Aissatou is popular for baked goods. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Marché Dantokpa is a great market for budget-friendly local foods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Konga and Jumia are popular for online shopping. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery options are limited; local supermarkets may offer delivery. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is mostly quiet with options around the main square. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Brasserie du Borgou produces local beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Local wines available at bars near the marina. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors near the market offer grilled meat and fried plantains. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza at 'Le Phenix' and shawarma at 'Ali Baba'. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Royal Palace of Porto-Novo and the Ethnographic Museum. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Benin Museum showcases local history and art. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Historical sites include the old Portuguese Fort and the Basilica of Saint Michael. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Basilique de l'Immaculée Conception is a significant site. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals often celebrated, such as the Voodoo Festival. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The downtown area offers a glimpse of local architecture and marketplaces. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local performances at 'Théâtre de Porto-Novo.' |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Porto-Novo's markets are vibrant with local produce and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music is commonly featured at local bars and community events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Exploring downtown Porto-Novo reveals many vibrant murals. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Culinary classes available through local cultural centers. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Small galleries showcasing local art are found around the city. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Notable architecture includes the Governor's Palace and colonial buildings. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Porto-Novo reflects Benin's diverse cultures and history. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Ajase Forest Reserve offers hiking and nature walks. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Pendjari National Park is accessible for wildlife enthusiasts. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths along the coastline are great for cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The view from the surrounding hills offers picturesque scenery. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching opportunities near Lake Nokoué. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas are available for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL operates in Porto-Novo for parcel delivery. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops provide mobile phone and laptop repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | French language courses available at 'Alliance Française'. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Public library offers study space; 'Bibliothèque Monuments' is a good spot. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local centers provide cultural programs and activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited options for gaming; local cafes may provide some gaming access. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Very few gaming establishments; local entertainment focuses on cultural activities. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €40,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €800 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €32,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €72,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €900 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €54,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €80,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €64,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend tax rate is 10%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 35%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 18%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, CFC rules apply for foreign subsidiaries. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is around 5% based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Tax applied during property purchases is around 5%. |