15 Hotels in Benin
I spent a month in Benin, split between 4 different cities. To be fully transparent, I didn’t test dozens of hotels.
However, while doing my research before leaving, I quickly realized that there is very little information available online, especially when it comes to accommodation.
Even though I didn’t stay in a large number of hotels, I was still able to get a fairly clear idea of which neighborhoods to prioritize and what level of comfort to expect.
In this article, I’m therefore sharing:
- hotels where I personally stayed for several nights,
- as well as other places I’ve spotted and plan to try on a future trip to Benin.
The goal: to help you decide where to sleep thanks to these 15 hotels in Benin, without spending hours comparing scattered information.
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Hotels in Cotonou
GUESTHOUSE ÉTOILE
I spent 12 nights in this hotel, located close to one of the city’s key landmarks: Place de l’Étoile.
A very convenient location, especially for a first stay in Cotonou.
In the immediate surroundings, you’ll find:
- several banks (handy for withdrawing cash as soon as you arrive),
- plenty of restaurants and small shops,
- as well as shared taxis that make it easy to reach other destinations, including Ouidah.
The room I stayed in had a private bathroom. The bed, equipped with a mosquito net, is large and comfortable.
The desk allows you to work in good conditions, and the wardrobe is spacious enough for a stay of several days.
The hotel also offers several pleasant common areas where you can relax.
A simple breakfast is included in the nightly rate. The staff are both discreet and kind.
If you’re traveling solo or as a couple and looking for a well-located accommodation with no unpleasant surprises, this is an option I recommend without hesitation.
If you’d like to compare options or discover different types of accommodation, here are 3 hotels in Cotonou that I’ve shortlisted and would like to try on a future stay.
Bamboo Numerik ($$): Located in the Haie-Vive neighborhood, this property offers comfortable, nicely decorated accommodations just a short walk from the sea. The area is quieter than the city center, while still lively thanks to the many nearby restaurants and shops.
👉 A great option for solo travelers and couples looking to relax without feeling isolated.
Tamarin Hotel ($$$): This beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Cotonou stands out for its spacious rooms and elegant décor. All accommodations feature a private bathroom, and some also include a balcony. Guests can enjoy access to an indoor swimming pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
👉 A property I particularly recommend to couples looking for comfort and a refined atmosphere.
ÉLIA Résidence ($$$): If your priority is to stay close to the famous Fidjrossè Beach, this residence is an excellent option. It offers different types of rooms and suites, with simple yet tasteful décor. The property’s main highlights are its swimming pool and its immediate proximity to the beach.
👉 Ideal for couples who want to alternate between beach time and relaxing at the hotel.
Hotels in Ouidah
RÉSIDENCE THE CHAMPIONS 2
I spent 12 nights in this hotel, located away from the city center.
It’s an option I recommend if living at the local pace doesn’t bother you and if walking about twenty minutes or taking a motorbike taxi to get around is not an issue for you.
The neighborhood is very quiet and you’ll find a few small local shops nearby, perfect for grabbing snacks or a quick breakfast on the go, while directly supporting the local economy.
The room I stayed in had a private bathroom, a small table, and an armchair.
The bed was huge and extremely comfortable—perfect for recovering after a full day of sightseeing.
The hotel also offers other rooms equipped with a microwave and a coffee maker, providing more independence during your stay.
Very recent, the property features modern facilities, including next-generation power outlets and several lighting ambiance options. If needed, the owner is also very responsive.
👉 If you’re traveling solo or as a couple and looking for a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle, this is an option I highly recommend.
Even though I really enjoyed this place, here are 3 hotels in Ouidah that I’d like to try on a future trip:
CDA Elijah ($): This is the most budget-friendly option in Ouidah and a true peaceful haven near the beach and the Route of Slaves. The communal area under the thatched roof is perfect for meeting other travelers and relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
👉 If you’re traveling solo on a tight budget, this is clearly the best option in Ouidah.
Casa del Papa ($$$$): This beachfront property is ideal if you want to combine relaxing by the sea with exploring the city. The small individual houses offer a great deal of privacy and almost make you feel as if you have the entire place to yourself. On site, you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a private beach, a bar, and even a tennis court.
👉 This is the accommodation I highly recommend for couples looking for peace, quiet, and relaxation.
Natura Luxury Lodge ($$$$): Set on the edge of a lake, this property is located away from Ouidah, making it the perfect place to completely disconnect. It features three bedrooms, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and a welcoming dining area. The swimming pool allows you to cool off while enjoying the surrounding natural setting.
👉 If you’re traveling with family or friends, this is the best option in the area. Please note: the property can only be booked as a whole.
HOTELS IN Grand Popo
Villa Le Désir
I had the chance to spend three nights in an excellent and very budget-friendly hotel during my stay in Grand-Popo.
If this experience was so successful, it was mainly thanks to the quality of the service, which, based on my experience in Benin, is quite rare.
The room was clean and spacious, with a very welcome private entrance. The double bed, equipped with a mosquito net, was comfortable, and I also had my own private bathroom.
The hotel is very peaceful and close to the beach, making it an ideal place to relax. To reach the city center, you simply need to stop a motorbike taxi on the nearby road.
In addition to a simple breakfast, the hotel restaurant offers a short menu with tasty dishes at very affordable prices.
👉 An address I highly recommend if you’re looking for peace, comfort, and attentive service in Grand-Popo—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, on a tight budget or not.
If I come back to Grand-Popo on my own, there’s no doubt about it: I would stay at this hotel again. But if I return with someone, here are 3 hotels I’d like to try instead:
Village Kirikou ($): The rooms, set in charming small bungalows, all offer sea views and come with a private bathroom. It’s an ideal option to wake up every day in an idyllic setting and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
👉 An excellent choice for couples or solo travelers looking to truly disconnect.
Ramaya Auberge Espagnole ($$): This property offers spacious rooms, either air-conditioned or equipped with fans, with simple and pleasant décor. It is located close to Villa Karo and many dining options, making it an excellent base for exploring Grand-Popo while also enjoying moments of relaxation.
👉 I particularly recommend this hotel for families and groups of friends, especially thanks to its rooms that can accommodate up to four people.
Guesthouse Bambou Beach ($$): Set in an idyllic setting, this guesthouse welcomes travelers who can choose between air-conditioned rooms or rooms with a fan. All accommodations come with a private bathroom. A shared kitchen makes it easy to prepare simple meals, which can then be enjoyed on the terrace or in the garden.
👉 A lovely option for couples or solo travelers looking to relax in a peaceful environment with stunning views.
Hotel on Ahémé Lake
Bel Ami sur Pilotis
On Lake Ahémé, there’s only one place I’m going to recommend: Bel Amis sur Pilotis.
Hands down my favorite accommodation of the entire trip. I spent three absolutely delightful nights there!
As the name suggests, these are small houses (rooms) built on stilts, set directly above the lake.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, solo, or with a few friends, it’s the perfect place to slow down, unwind with the rhythm of the water, and enjoy the constant light breeze that makes the atmosphere incredibly soothing.
The on-site restaurant, located at the heart of the property, serves an excellent breakfast as well as tasty dishes throughout the day at very affordable prices.
I highly recommend the fish dishes, especially the dakouin. Special mention also goes to the allocos—but I have to admit, I’m completely addicted!
My tip: if possible, book a room truly over the water rather than one along the edge. The experience is even more immersive, and the feeling of total disconnection is unbeatable.
HOTELS IN Porto Novo
I haven’t had the chance to stay overnight in Porto-Novo yet, but it’s definitely something I’m planning to do on a future trip.
I found the city particularly pleasant, especially since most travelers choose to stay in Cotonou and visit Porto-Novo on a simple day trip.
Staying in the city allows you to discover it differently, at a slower pace, and to soak up better its atmosphere, which is largely shaped by local life.
Here are 2 hotels in Porto-Novo that I’ve come across and that I consider to be good options for staying there.
Phimex Tours Lodge ($): This is clearly the most budget-friendly option! This charming accommodation offers nicely decorated rooms with double or king-size beds, all with private bathrooms.
Located slightly away from the city center, the property also features a garden and a terrace, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
👉 An excellent option for solo travelers or couples looking for comfortable accommodation on a small budget.
Résidences Ouadada ($$): Set in a pleasant, green environment, this property is a very good option for staying in Porto-Novo while enjoying moments of rest between visits. Its main highlight is the outdoor swimming pool, a real bonus in the area.
👉 A particularly well-suited accommodation for couples and families looking for peace and comfort.
Hotels in Benin : MY 4 FAVORITES
Solo travelers / couple | Calm | Location, mosquito net, common areas | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$ |
Solo travelers / couple | Peaceful | Huge bed, responsive owner | ⭐⭐⭐ | $ |
Solo travelers / couple / family | Welcoming | Exceptional service, homemade food, close to the beach | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $ |
Solo travelers / couple | Slow travel & nature | Room on the water, unique setting, excellent food | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$ |
I hope this article about 15 hotels in Benin has inspired you and, above all, made planning your next trip to this country — which truly deserves to be better known — a little easier.
Feel free to check out my other articles to help you plan your stay as smoothly as possible!
