Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Porto-Novo is the capital city of Benin, located on the coast of West Africa. |
| 👥 Population | approximately 300,000 inhabitants. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed is around 5-10 Mbps; reliable connections available in coworking spaces and cafes. |
| 💸 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; use Type C and D sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include MTN, Moov, and Glo; prepaid SIM cards available at the airport and local shops. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International cards accepted at major banks and ATMs; local banks such as Ecobank and UBA. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local guesthouses, and serviced apartments. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless facilities; it's advisable to carry cash. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies offer short-term stays from $20 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel alternatives include 'Mama Africa' and 'Le Cormoran' for budget travelers. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The historical center, particularly near the Royal Palace, offers cultural immersion and accessibility. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas around Ganvié offer quiet spots, access to nature, and a few coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Shed 20 offers reliable internet and a collaborative environment. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Le Tamarin offers free Wi-Fi and a tranquil environment for working. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups at local cafes through platforms like Meetup.com. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups such as 'Expats in Benin' organize regular gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Use local taxi services; ride-hailing options available via SafeBénin. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Options for renting scooters are available near major tourist areas. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Grand Popo Beach, about 1 hour away, offers beautiful coastal views. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Benin connects to neighboring countries. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and ASKY Airlines offer international connections. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | N1 highway connects Porto-Novo to Cotonou and beyond. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Porto-Novo is primarily serviced by taxis and buses, with limited train access. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal transit passes; local taxis or shared taxis are customary. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect Porto-Novo with cities like Cotonou, Ouidah, and beyond. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire Hubert Koutoukou Maggi, a major healthcare facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga schools like 'Yoga and Co' provide classes for various levels. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness studios such as 'Gym 897' offer basic fitness equipment. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Several local laundries offer washing and ironing services around the city. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Jumia Food delivers various local and international cuisines. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Amiwo' or 'Pâte'. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like 'La Petite Provence' offer vegetarian menus. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Sweet Tooth Café serves various pastries and local confections. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like 'Marché Dantokpa' for fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Jumia and Konga operate for online shopping. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local services such as 'Grocery-Express' offer delivery. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Réserve offers a lively bar scene with local music. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Brasserie de l’Océan is known for its local beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine Cellar Porto-Novo provides a selection of international wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Try local street vendors for grilled meat and 'Akara' (bean cakes). |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and pasta at 'Italiano' are well-regarded. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Royal Palace and the Museum of Art and History are must-visit. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Musee Ethnographique is popular among visitors. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | From the historic slave port of Ouidah, about 25 km away, to the old colonial architecture in Porto-Novo. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Cathédrale de Porto-Novo showcases beautiful architecture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Festival of Voodoo in January celebrates local culture. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Visit the Artisanal Market for local crafts and art. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | The Grand Theatre is known for local performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Marché de Porto-Novo offers everything from textiles to local handicrafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music venues feature traditional drumming and dance performances. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Look for murals in the center of the city depicting local legends. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Classes available at local culinary schools teaching traditional dishes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Gallery Le Cactus showcases local artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Visit the old German consulate and colonial buildings. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Local markets reflect Benin's rich heritage and traditional crafts. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Lake Nokoué, only a short boat ride away, is ideal for nature lovers. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Pendjari National Park is home to diverse wildlife; travel takes several hours. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal promenade offers scenic walking and cycling routes. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The views from hills around Porto-Novo are stunning, especially at sunset. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Lagoon areas near Ganvié provide excellent birdwatching opportunities. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Beaches near Grand Popo allow bonfires in designated areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local services provide reliable parcel shipping. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops in Porto-Novo can assist with device repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers host table tennis matches regularly. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools like 'Génies des Langues' offer French classes for expats. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Public libraries in the city serve as study spots. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Community spaces like 'Maison des Jeunes' host various activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited availability; some cafes offer gaming consoles. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Currently, there are no casinos in Porto-Novo. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XOF 1,500,000 per m² (e.g., 30 m² = XOF 45,000,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XOF 1,200,000 per m² (e.g., 30 m² = XOF 36,000,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XOF 1,800,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XOF 108,000,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XOF 1,500,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XOF 90,000,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XOF 2,000,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XOF 160,000,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XOF 1,800,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XOF 144,000,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Withholding tax on dividends is 15%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Benin's tax system is based on worldwide income for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 40%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate is 18%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Benin has strict CFC rules. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property taxation is based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Tax applied during property purchases is 5%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Special tax incentives may apply for digital nomads, details can vary. |