Things To Do
in Abidjan
Abidjan is Côte d’Ivoire’s largest city and economic hub, sprawling along the Ébrié Lagoon with a dramatic skyline in the Plateau business district. The city blends modern high-rises, busy markets, and lively neighborhoods such as Cocody, Treichville and Marcory with strong cultural and musical scenes. Abidjan is known for its vibrant street life, rich Ivorian cuisine, and as a gateway to beaches and national parks in the south.
Traffic can be intense, but the city rewards visitors with food, nightlife, music and friendly local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Plateau district, taking in the sights of colonial buildings and local markets. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café, savoring Ivorian pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the National Museum of Abidjan to explore the rich cultural heritage of Côte d’Ivoire through its art and artifacts. After immersing yourself in history, visit the vibrant Treichville market, where you can interact with local vendors and sample traditional Ivorian street food. Conclude your afternoon with a relaxing walk along the waterfront promenade.
As night falls, dine at a popular local restaurant that specializes in attiéké and grilled fish, immersing yourself in the local culinary scene. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the lively streets of Abidjan, enjoying the sounds of music and laughter. End your evening at a local bar or nightclub, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of the city.
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Plateau district, taking in the sights of colonial buildings and local markets. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café, savoring Ivorian pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Cote d'Ivoire National Theatre, a stunning architectural masterpiece where you can often catch a rehearsal or performance. Afterward, visit the famous Marché de Treichville, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local produce. Engage with local vendors and sample some fresh fruit or traditional snacks.
For dinner, indulge in a traditional Ivorian meal at a rustic restaurant, enjoying dishes like foutou and sauce arachide. After your meal, visit a local music venue where you can listen to live performances of Ivorian zouglou music. Experience the warmth of Ivorian hospitality as you interact with locals and perhaps even join in a dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-10 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (in-city) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-120 |
| 🍺Local beer (bar) | $1.50-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant food scene and strong coastal seafood traditions
- Lively nightlife and music culture (Afrobeat, coupé-décalé)
- Close access to urban nature (Banco National Park) and lagoon scenery
- French-speaking — easier for French speakers to navigate
- Heavy traffic and frequent congestion
- Petty crime in crowded areas — requires vigilance
- Weather can be very humid with heavy seasonal rains
- Limited tourist infrastructure outside main neighborhoods
- "Bonjour / Bonsoir" - Hello / Good evening (French - general greeting)
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like… (useful when ordering)
- "Où est la gare / le marché ?" - Where is the station / the market?
- "Yako (in Baoulé) / Fɔ (in Dioula) — expression of sympathy" - An expression of empathy or support (contextual local phrases)
Places to Visit in Abidjan
Visit one of these nice places.
High-rise buildings, modern architecture and lagoon views provide dramatic cityscape shots at dawn or dusk.
Iconic modern church with striking architecture and colorful stained glass — good for architectural and cultural photos.
Lakeside promenades and bridges offer reflections, fishing boats and sunset shots over the water.
Vibrant market scenes, colorful produce, fish stalls and bustling daily life — ideal for street photography.
Shaded forest trails, wildlife and stream scenes close to the city — great for nature photography and escaping the urban bustle.
Food in Abidjan
Abidjan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grated cassava fermented and steamed into a couscous-like side, commonly served with grilled fish or spicy sauces; found at markets and seaside stalls.
Must-Try!
A popular street meal of fried tuna (often fresh) served with attiéké and hot pepper sauce — a must-try at roadside stalls around Abidjan.
Fried ripe plantain pieces often served with chili sauce or peppered fish; ubiquitous as a snack or side dish.
Slow-cooked chicken or guinea fowl with vegetables in a sealed pot, richly flavored and common in restaurants and family kitchens.
Thick, rich stew made from palm fruit pulp often served with rice or foutou; typical of southern Côte d’Ivoire cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh fish, attiéké sellers, fruits and street-food stalls — great for energetic food photography and tasting local dishes.
Evening food stalls and maquis serving brochettes, alloco, grilled fish and sauces; lively after dark and popular with locals.
Markets and small food vendors offering fresh juices, pastries and regional snacks near more tourist-oriented craft stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use French greetings (Bonjour, Bonsoir) and a polite handshake; asking about family or health is common small talk. Always greet shopkeepers and hosts when entering.
Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas; locals appreciate respectful attire and behavior.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets and rural areas; some will expect a small fee or the chance to see the photo.
If invited to a local home, it’s polite to bring a small gift (fruit, sweets); remove shoes if requested and accept offered food as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Abidjan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; round up small bills or leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, give small tips to hotel porters and drivers, and reward good tour guides. In small local eateries and markets tipping is less common.
The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Cash is king in markets and street food stalls; credit/debit cards work at hotels, larger restaurants and malls. ATMs are widely available in central neighborhoods; inform your bank before travel and carry some cash for neighborhoods off the beaten path.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy, sometimes daily rain showers and high humidity; some rural roads can become muddy — pack a waterproof jacket and plan indoor activities for heavy rain days.
Intermittent rain with warm temperatures; good for fewer tourists and still-lush landscapes, but carry rain protection for sudden downpours.
Drier, slightly cooler mornings and evenings with dusty Harmattan winds at times; comfortable for outdoor activities but bring layers for cooler evenings.
Hotter, humid days before the rains start — stay hydrated, schedule outdoor activities in mornings or late afternoons.
Abidjan at Night
Hiking in Abidjan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Near Abidjan, offers shaded forest walks, short to moderate hikes and birdwatching close to the city — an accessible escape into nature.
Protected mangrove and lagoon area southwest of Abidjan with guided boat trips and nature exploration; requires a longer drive and local arrangements.
A UNESCO site further west with primary rainforest and more challenging treks — best visited as a planned trip with guides and park arrangements due to distance from Abidjan.
Airports
How to reach Abidjan by plane.
Main international airport serving Abidjan (east of the city); connects widely within West Africa and to Europe. Taxis and shuttle services link the airport to Plateau and Cocody (expect 30–60 minutes depending on traffic).
Regional airport on the southwest coast, useful for access to coastal towns and nearby beaches; fewer international connections and mainly served by domestic or regional flights.
Smaller airport serving the political capital inland — limited commercial flights; about a few hours by road from Abidjan and an option for domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the major ethnic groups in Côte d’Ivoire, present in Abidjan’s population and cultural life.
Significant trading communities and widely spoken languages influencing commerce and cuisine.
Abidjan is a cosmopolitan city with diverse ethnicities, immigrant communities and a mix of Ivorian and foreign residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local leagues, passionate fans and frequent matches; local stadiums host club and national team fixtures.
Traditional wrestling and modern combat sports are popular recreationally and in organized events.
Growing interest in urban neighborhoods and school programs, with pickup games common in parks and courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abidjan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but less varied; expect rice, attiéké, fried plantains, vegetable stews and salads. Communicate clearly in French (‘Je suis végétarien(ne)’) and ask about meat/fish stock in sauces.
Vegan choices are limited outside major hotels and some cafes. Many traditional stews use fish or meat stock, so specify and confirm ingredients when ordering.
Staples like attiéké, rice and grilled fish are naturally gluten-free, but be cautious with fried foods and sauces that may contain wheat-based thickeners.
Eat cooked hot food or from busy vendors, avoid raw salads from street stalls, drink bottled or boiled water and peel fruit you didn’t see washed.