Porto-Novo: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Porto-Novo is the capital and second-largest city of Benin. The commune covers an area of 52 square kilometres (20 sq mi) and as of 2002 had a population of 223,552 people.

Porto-Novo · CC BY-SA 4.0

Now in the cityPorto-Novo+32°CCloudy · sunset 06:29 PMupdated 12:39 PM

EntryPick a passportThe answer depends on the passport.

Places on the map4

Exchange rateF CFA 585.95per 1 $XOF — the local currencyas of Nov 2, 2026

Within two hours

Abomey-Calavi≈ 45 min

Safety and health

Safety · official adviceour data as of Nov 3, 2026

UK Foreign Office (FCDO)Avoid parts of the countryPart of the country is off limits entirely.

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FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of the Alibori and Atacora departments. FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel and all travel to other areas in Benin (‘Warnings and insurance’ page).

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice

US State DepartmentLevel 2Watch your surroundings and belongings more closely than usual.

crime
terrorism
kidnapping

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Exercise increased caution in Benin due to unrest , crime , terrorism , and kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso ; Niger ; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi , Niger , and Kwara due to crime , terrorism , and kidnapping .

Source: US Department of State Travel Advisory

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice · US Department of State Travel Advisory

Porto-Novo: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Getting there and staying

Visa and practicalities

Safety and health

Getting here

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