Things to do in Cocody
Tree-lined streets, embassies, universities and a real neighbourhood feel: Cocody is Abidjan's most pleasant residential district. Here are the places our team recommends for eating, going out, keeping fit or unwinding around our apartments.
Norima (Vallons) — award-winning burgers and candlelit Tex-Mex · Five (rue des Jardins) — French fine dining · Jardyland (Vallons) — one-hectare garden restaurant, Ivorian cuisine · Tsunami (Riviera 4) — sushi and yakiniku grill · La Villa Alfira (II Plateaux) — refined fusion cuisine by the pool
Des Gâteaux et du Pain (rue des Jardins, Riviera 3) — the benchmark pâtisserie · Kajazoma (bd Latrille) — restaurant and art gallery · Bushman Café (Riviera 4 M'Pouto) — arty venue on three levels, Cocoaïan chocolaterie · La Gourmandise (Sofitel Ivoire) — Sunday brunch overlooking the lagoon
Le Toit d'Abidjan (Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire) — panoramic dinner · Vista Lounge (Riviera Palmeraie) — sky lounge at sunset · The RooPh (Riviera Bonoumin) — 600 m² rooftop · Chill Out (Bonoumin) — garden, karaoke and themed nights
Galerie Cécile Fakhoury (Danga, bd des Martyrs) — contemporary African art, free entry · Fondation Donwahi (II Plateaux) — art centre in a 1,500 m² house · LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery (Mermoz) — young Ivorian scene · Cocody Market (Saint-Jean) — crafts and wax fabrics on three levels
Cap Nord (Riviera 3) — Casino, Fnac, City Sport · Sococé (II Plateaux) — the country's first shopping centre · PlaYce Palmeraie — Carrefour and 60 more shops since 2025 · Abidjan Mall (Riviera Bonoumin) — open until midnight
Banco National Park — primary forest in the heart of the city · Ivoire Golf Club (Riviera Golf) — 27 holes · Padelta (Danga) — 5 covered padel courts · Parc Dominique Ouattara (Riviera 3) — skatepark and playground, free
Eat
Maison Akissi
Refined Ivorian cuisine in a beautiful house: our local favourite, about ten minutes from SAMBA Home and Jardins Inn.
Norima
Christelle and Frank Anet's institution: award-winning burgers and Tex-Mex (fajitas, ribs, tacos), cosy candlelit setting, near the Claire Fontaine school. Approx. 20,000 FCFA per person.
Five
French fine dining in a bright, modern setting: breaded prawns, mushroom risotto. Daily 12pm–3pm and 7pm–midnight. Approx. 25,000 FCFA.
Jardyland
One-hectare garden restaurant (former botanical garden, free-roaming deer): kedjenou, choukouya, skewers and pizzas. Open daily 11:30am–11:30pm, approx. 9,000 FCFA.
Le Comptoir Bar & Restaurant
Modern European cuisine, lively bar in the evening; a safe bet for a first night in Abidjan.
Tsunami
Modern Japanese: creative sushi, fresh fish and three yakiniku grill tables. Approx. 30,000 FCFA per person.
Texas GrillZ
American and African grills, steaks and ribs; very popular, booking advised at weekends.
Restaurant Le Paon
Grills and African cuisine, karaoke and live music until 2am, on boulevard Arsène Assouan Usher near the American school.
La Villa Alfira
Refined fusion cuisine and house cocktails in an elegant villa: a hushed lounge or tables under palapas by the pool.
Phénicia · L'Automatic
The neighbourhood's two Lebanese restaurants: mezze, shawarma and grills at low prices, handy for a quick lunch or takeaway.
Copa D'ella · Dolce Vita
Modern Italian in Vallons and a pizzeria in Angré: fresh pasta and pizzas, delivery available.
iGarba · Chap Chap Express
Garba (attiéké and fried tuna) reinvented in an air-conditioned dining room, and Ivorian "chap chap" fast food: burgers, pastels, BBQ wings.
Lulu
Contemporary French table in an interior by architect Christelle Vougo: tuna tataki, crispy rice with salmon, cassava pearls. Rated 4.7/5 on Google. From 20,000 FCFA. Lunch noon–3pm, dinner from 6pm (to midnight later in the week). Bookings: 07 97 97 04 23.
MUST Abidjan
Mediterranean-African fine dining on the 5th floor, local seafood, music-led late evenings. Opened 2026, Condé Nast Hot List. Approx. 20,000 FCFA. Mon–Sat 7pm–2:30am.
Maquis du Val
Abidjan's reference upscale maquis: braised fish, smoked agouti, grouper skewers, the famous "garba du Val". Lively 400-seat hall. Approx. 6,000–15,000 FCFA. Tue–Sat until 11pm.
Villa Affarica
Leafy 1,350 m² villa: creative Ivorian cooking (graine, kopè and groundnut sauces), grilled fish and skewers, lounge. Approx. 8,000–15,000 FCFA. Mon–Sat noon–midnight.
Nuit de Saigon
Long-running Vietnamese institution in a garden with a fish pond: nems, shrimp fritters, bo bun, plus Chinese and Thai dishes. Approx. 10,000–20,000 FCFA. Lunch and dinner.
Miacucina
Warm Italian opposite the ITC: some of Abidjan's best pizzas, homemade gnocchi, bar. Approx. 10,000–20,000 FCFA. Tue–Sun from 11am, closed Monday.
La Boucherie Fine
Premium butcher-deli turned meat restaurant: rib steaks, entrecôtes, premium burgers and catering. Riviera 3's carnivore spot. Approx. 10,000–25,000 FCFA.
Madame Antika
Afro-Latino restaurant-bar: Ivorian and Caribbean cooking (Cuban, Creole), cocktails, live music. Dishes from approx. 6,000 FCFA. Daily 11am–midnight (1am weekends).
Kamandjè
Tripadvisor's #1 in Cocody: French-Peruvian-African fusion, ceviches, cocktails, weekend DJ. Approx. 12,000–20,000 FCFA. Tue–Sun, mostly dinner; closed Monday.
La Baie de Marcène
Big lagoon-side Ivorian address (600 seats): braised akpessi crab, aubergine-leaf stew with shrimp, grilled fish. Dishes from approx. 10,000 FCFA. Tue–Sun 10am–10/11pm.
La Pirogue
Land-and-sea menu by Saint-Jean church: fresh seafood, fish and meats with Ivorian and European accents. Approx. 18,000 FCFA. Mon–Sat; closed Sunday.
Espace 331
Friendly maquis famous for grilled snail and grouper skewers, devilled chicken and live music. Gentle prices. Daily 10am–10:30pm.
Saakan
Abidjan's modern African fine dining (chef Christelle Vougo): reinvented braised-fish attiéké, djondjon rice, oxtail. Starters from approx. 8,000 FCFA, mains from 14,000. Daily lunch and dinner.
Nama
Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) fusion by chef Naël Fakhry: tataki, ceviche, sushi, coconut prawns. Japanese-style decor, dancing after 11pm at weekends. Approx. 30,000–40,000 FCFA. Lunch and dinner.
Hippopotamus Steakhouse
The French steakhouse chain in Plateau: grilled beef cuts, fries, quick service for a business lunch. Approx. 15,000–25,000 FCFA. Daily 11am–3pm and 7pm–10:30pm.
Chez Marcène
Refined Ivorian cooking in the heart of Plateau for years: kedjenou, traditional sauces, fish, cognac-and-cigar lounge. Approx. 10,000–20,000 FCFA. A popular business lunch.
Le Méchoui
Historic Lebanese (since 1990) in the Athletic Club garden by the lagoon: mezze, grills, halloumi, traditional desserts. Approx. 15,000–25,000 FCFA. Daily 12–3:30pm and 6:30–11pm.
Em Sherif Café
Abidjan outpost of the Beirut brand: refined family-style Lebanese food, hummus, mezze, skewers, signature "Em Ali" dessert. Approx. 20,000–30,000 FCFA. Daily noon–11:30pm.
Parenthèse
Chic restaurant-bar-lounge: lobster, Angus steak, miso-roasted aubergine, crispy prawn fritters. Approx. 19,000 FCFA. Daily lunch and dinner, late at weekends (until 2am).
Le 31
French gastronomic: signature tasting menu, discovery set menu, meats, fish, crème brûlée. Approx. 17,000 FCFA. Mon–Sat noon–3pm and 7pm–midnight; closed Sunday.
Villa Verde
Mediterranean villa set in greenery (chef Naël Fakhry of Nama): Art Nouveau bar and mixology, glass room, latticed terrace, breakfast and tea time. Approx. 20,000–30,000 FCFA.
Richard's
Intimate, arty French-European bistro, good wine list, musical evenings; a favourite for business dinners. Approx. 20,000–30,000 FCFA.
Le Pêcheur
"From sea to plate": ultra-fresh fish and seafood by chef Waël Hoballah, lobster, platters. Approx. 30,000 FCFA. Tue–Sun noon–3pm and 7–11pm; closed Monday. Book ahead.
Villa Savoia
Elegant Italian (#8 on Tripadvisor Abidjan): fresh pasta, ravioli, risotto, tiramisu, garden terrace. Approx. 25,000 FCFA. Tue–Sat 11:30am–3pm and 7pm–midnight; closed Sun–Mon.
Indian By Nature
Abidjan's best Indian: authentic curries, tandoor, many vegetarian dishes, garden, pool and lagoon view. Approx. 15,000–25,000 FCFA. Tue–Sun noon–3pm and 7–11pm; closed Monday.
La Route des Vins
Lagoon-side wine bar and French table: deep cellar, tapas, sharing boards, chocolate fondue. Ideal for a sunset apéro-dinner. Approx. 15,000–25,000 FCFA.
La Pagode
Popular, generous Vietnamese: cult spicy soup, nems, Chinese and Thai dishes, very fair prices for the quality. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6:30–10:30pm.
Chez Ambroise
Cult skewer maquis (beef, grouper, snails), braised chicken and fish with attiéké, alloco or yam fries; homemade juices, live music, celebrity regulars. Gentle prices, guaranteed atmosphere.
Le Débarcadère
Garden restaurant on the lagoon facing Plateau: braised fish and chicken, attiéké, bissap, cocktails; live band on Friday nights. Approx. 6,000–20,000 FCFA. Daily 8am–11pm (1am Fri–Sat).
L'Aboussouan
Ivorian institution since 1978, favoured by politics and business circles: kedjenou, fresh crab, snails, grills, fine wine cellar. Approx. 20,000 FCFA. Daily 12–3:30pm and 7–10:30pm.
Chez Rabi
Gourmet table hidden in a Biétry garden: Italian cuisine with Middle Eastern accents (truffle linguine, ceviche, seafood), wine cellar, cocktail bar, cigars and live music; Brazilian brunch on Sundays. Tue–Sun, lunch and dinner. Approx. 30,000–50,000 FCFA, booking advised.
Le Bistrot Palmier · La Maison Palmier
Franco-African bistro of the boutique hotel La Maison Palmier, set among 200 varieties of palm: sea bream carpaccio, shaded terrace, elegant bar. The design address of the Vallons, 5 minutes from the apartments.
Le Grand Large
The benchmark fishmonger-restaurant: fish and seafood of the day, oyster platters, fine grocery next door. Tue–Sun 9am–11pm, approx. 25,000–40,000 FCFA.
La Taverne Romaine
A Plateau Franco-Italian classic: pasta, fish, couscous on Wednesdays and paella on Fridays, old-school service. Lunch and dinner, closed Mondays.
Kaiten
Polished Japanese table in Zone 4: sushi, sashimi and hot dishes on a conveyor belt, air-conditioned room and careful service. Approx. 25,000-35,000 FCFA per head.
Marouche
Zone 4 Lebanese institution in the San Francisco building: mezze, grills and shawarma in generous portions, from morning until late. From approx. 5,000 FCFA.
Kanpai Sushi & Teppanyaki
Sushi and teppanyaki cooked in front of you, at the counter or the hot plate. A discreet, reliable address on rue du Canal, around 25,000 FCFA.
Da Peppe
Italian trattoria in Zone 4: fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza and antipasti, with a shaded terrace. Wheelchair accessible. Approx. 15,000-20,000 FCFA.
Villa di Sorrento
Abidjan's historic Italian address, open since 1965 on the lagoon side: pasta, pizza and fish in a leafy garden. Classic service, around 20,000 FCFA.
Mediterraneo
A benchmark for Italian cooking in Abidjan: pasta and fish, a decent wine list and a hushed dining room. Better in the evening; approx. 25,000-35,000 FCFA.
Le Kalliste
Mediterranean table run by a Corsican owner: charcuterie, grilled fish and daily specials under exposed beams. Approx. 15,000-20,000 FCFA.
Le Banian
Fusion cooking by chef Christine Dadie, between Ivorian roots and European technique. Quiet room, a good call for a working lunch. Around 20,000 FCFA.
La Terrasse
Large Lebanese table in Bietry, easy to spot by its lit sign: mezze, grills and shisha on the terrace. Served until late, around 15,000 FCFA.
L'Ambassadeur
The restaurant of the Tiama, the Plateau's five-star hotel: international menu, white linen and a cool dining room. Breakfast and business lunch, around 25,000 FCFA.
L'Entracte
A Plateau table mixing French and African fine dining, with live music in the evening. Pricier than the neighbourhood average, around 25,000 FCFA.
M'Pô
A tidy African canteen on the Plateau built for business lunches: Ivorian daily dishes, quick service, lunch only. Around 12,000 FCFA.
Casa 60
A recent arrival on rue des Jardins: raw concrete, plants and an international fusion menu. A good informal dinner option, around 18,000 FCFA.
Uchico Sushi
Japanese counter in Vieux Cocody: sushi, bento and poke bowls, to eat in or take away. Handy and consistent, approx. 12,000-18,000 FCFA.
Hôtel Particulier
The restaurant of a small boutique hotel in the heart of Cocody: international fusion menu, a quiet patio and a regular crowd. Approx. 18,000-25,000 FCFA.
Le Banc Bleu
A fusion table in Riviera 3, blue cloths and white plates, market-driven cooking. Handy for dinner without leaving eastern Cocody, around 15,000 FCFA.
Coconut Grove
Lodge and restaurant on Ile Boulay: French cooking and lagoon fish, at the water's edge under the coconut palms. A day out or weekend lunch, reached by boat.
L'Océan II
Fresh fish and seafood just north of Plateau: shellfish platters, grilled sea bass, careful service. Good for a long business lunch.
El Padrino
Upscale international dining with a premium bar, steps off avenue Chardy. Hushed room, a serious cocktail list and a good choice of meats.
La Maison du Tchep
West African canteen built around tchep (jollof), in fish, chicken or meat versions, served generously. A quick, honest lunch in the business district.
N'Restaurant
Aged-beef grill facing the lagoon, in the Front Lagunaire building. Sharing rib of beef, a decent cellar and water views at sunset.
Des Assiettes et du Vin
Low-key French bistro, known as Chez Armo, with a daily blackboard and a good list of wines by the glass. Small room, so book for dinner.
Atmosphere Abidjan
Modern Asian fusion on boulevard de Marseille: bao, tataki, woks and cocktails. A design-led room with music at the weekend.
Sensazioni
Italian and Mediterranean cooking in Zone 4: fresh pasta, baked fish, house tiramisu. An elegant room, good for dinner for two.
Le Nandjelet
Village maquis on the lagoon edge, known for its kedjenou, chicken or fish slow-simmered with peppers. Simple, authentic, best at lunch.
Chez Hélène
A II Plateaux institution for Ivorian home cooking: sauce graine, braised fish, alloco. Generous portions, family welcome, fair prices.
Café & brunch
Des Gâteaux et du Pain
Abidjan's benchmark high-end bakery and pâtisserie: breads, viennoiseries, pastries and home-made ice cream.
Kajazoma
Restaurant and art gallery: French cuisine with Ivorian and Cameroonian accents, décor for sale, brunch by reservation. Closed Sundays.
Bushman Café
Arty venue on three levels: gallery, concept store, Cocoaïan chocolaterie and Ivorian cuisine. Open 4pm to midnight, closed Mondays.
Afeny Brunchy
Generous and affordable Ivorian and African weekend brunch (approx. 7,000 FCFA).
Africafe
Trendy coffee shop and tea room near the Sofitel: good coffee and pastries for a break or an hour of work.
La Gourmandise – Sofitel Ivoire
Terrace on the lagoon and Sunday brunch from 12:30pm to 3:30pm: buffet, pool and live music, approx. 40,000 FCFA.
Abidjan Café by Mövenpick
Art Deco brasserie at the Mövenpick: French menu (foie gras, local grilled fish, Nutella crème brûlée), fountain terrace, coffee and pastries. Approx. 12,000 FCFA. Mon–Fri lunch and dinner, Sat dinner.
Lune
Bakery-patisserie-chocolaterie, pizzeria and semi-gastronomic table (chef Jessica Berment) over two floors; renowned breakfast and brunch. Approx. 8,000 FCFA. Daily 7am–10pm.
Pullman Sunday brunch
The Sunday brunch of the renovated five-star hotel, with a pool facing Cocody bay: the chic alternative to the Sofitel, on the Plateau side. Booking required.
Paul
French bakery and patisserie: pastries, tarts, sandwiches and coffee in an air-conditioned room. Opens early, the safe breakfast bet. Around 6,000 FCFA.
La Maison de la Crêpe
Breton creperie in Bietry: buckwheat galettes, sweet crepes and cider. Simple and family-friendly, good for brunch or a light dinner. Approx. 10,000 FCFA.
Sam's
Cafe-restaurant opened in 2020 in Zone 4: specialty coffee, salads, sandwiches and pastries, with decent Wi-Fi. A good mid-morning stop, around 8,000 FCFA.
Saladbar Green Is Better
A counter where you build your own salad, with pressed juices and vegetarian dishes. Quick at lunchtime, light and healthy. Approx. 8,000-12,000 FCFA.
Le M Restaurant & Terrasse
The Mövenpick's international and Ivorian buffets, 6am-11pm, with Sunday brunch and house ice cream. Smart casual required; book by email.
Nightlife
Le Toit d'Abidjan
Restaurant-bar at the top of the Hôtel Ivoire: cocktails and dinner with panoramic views over the lagoon and Plateau.
Vista Lounge
Sky lounge on the 6th and 7th floors of the Résidences Plein Sud: sunset, tapas and grills, cocktails approx. 5,000 FCFA. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 5:30pm.
The RooPh
600 m² rooftop at the top of the Le Phare building: restaurant-lounge with views over Cocody, until 4am Thursday to Saturday.
Chill Out
Open-air bar-lounge in a large garden: themed nights, karaoke, African cuisine. Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm.
Comanche Diner
100% halal American diner (burgers, wings, pizzas) opposite Cocovico: retro décor, terrace, open until midnight.
The Bank · Bloom · Felah
Cocody's clubs: The Bank and Bloom in II Plateaux, open-air Felah in Angré 8e tranche.
Allocodrome de Cocody
Large open-air maquis area: grilled chicken and fish, alloco, kedjenou, lively local atmosphere. About 3,000–5,000 FCFA per person; say how spicy you like it.
Institut français
Every week: concerts (including Ivoire Jazz Nights), screenings, exhibitions and literary evenings; media library, film clubs and workshops for children and teens. Avenue Franchet d'Esperey, listings on institutfrancais.ci.
Akoula Urban Bar
Bar-restaurant on the 3rd floor of the Le Massai building, looking over the lagoon and the third bridge. Cocktails, a fusion menu and weekend music. Around 15,000 FCFA.
West Abidjan
Smart restaurant and cocktail bar in Zone 4: a fusion menu, a solid cocktail list and a lounge feel at night. Around 20,000 FCFA with a drink.
In' Concept Store
A hybrid spot on bd des Martyrs: shop, cafe and fusion bar-restaurant, open 9am to 1am. A good address for a long aperitif. Around 15,000 FCFA.
L'EDEN · Food Sky Bar
Third-floor rooftop of the Masaï building on boulevard VGE: panoramic city views, cocktails and music. Book on 07 07 44 4452.
L'Acoustic
Vallon live venue for jazz, soul and Ivorian urban music. Thursday to Saturday evenings mostly; arrive early for a seat.
Groceries
Carrefour Market · Casino · Sococé
Carrefour Market II Plateaux Vallons, opposite SGBCI, a short walk from the apartments: fresh food, groceries, drinks and household items, daily 8am–11pm. Further afield: Carrefour Market at Kokoh Mall in Angré (opposite the CHU), Casino at Cap Nord and the Sococé hypermarket in II Plateaux, generally 9am–8pm.
Carrefour Market Riviera Golf
Handy supermarket on the Riviera side: food, fresh produce and everyday items.
L'Œnophile
Wine, champagne and spirits shop; other stores on Bd Latrille and in Bonoumin, delivery via Glovo.
Glovo
Groceries and meals delivered to the apartment: Carrefour Market, Casino, bakeries, fishmongers and wine shops. Enter the address to see what is available.
Yango Deli
Meal delivery from restaurants all over Abidjan, handy for a night in.
Douceurs de Suzanne
Marcory artisan chocolate maker working Ivorian cacao: single-origin bars, bonbons and gift boxes to take home. Orders on 07 07 06 12 76.
Shopping
Cap Nord
4,700 m² shopping centre: Casino supermarket, Fnac, City Sport, Yves Rocher, Le Caviste, food court. Shops 9am–7pm.
PlaYce Palmeraie · Abidjan Mall
PlaYce: Carrefour and more than 60 shops since the 2025 extension, 600-space car park. Abidjan Mall: shops and restaurants open until midnight.
Cocody Market
4,000 m² shopping arcade on three levels: crafts, jewellery, wax fabrics, fruit, cashew nuts. Daily except Sunday, 6am–8pm; haggling is the norm.
Dozo Concept Store
Ivorian and African designers (Loza Maléombho, Kente Gentlemen): clothes, jewellery, soaps, tote bags. Great souvenir ideas. Tuesday–Saturday 10am–8pm, Sunday 1pm–8pm.
Ayan La Villa
100% Ivorian Afro-contemporary concept store: ready-to-wear, leather goods, jewellery, beauty, kids and home. Tuesday to Saturday 9am–6:30pm.
Librairie de France · Espace Latrille
Large bookshop and stationer: books, press and gifts. Monday–Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday until 7:30pm, Sunday 10am–7pm.
Le Chocolatier Ivoirien
100% Ivorian craft chocolate flavoured with ginger, cashew, chilli or banana: the perfect edible souvenir. Showroom 9am–6pm, closed Sundays.
Diamond Center
Shopping centre opened in late 2024: shops, restaurants and an L'Œnophile wine store.
Cap Sud
Around 95 stores (fashion, beauty, Fnac), the Hayat hypermarket and the Pathé cinema. Shops 9am–7:30pm, daily.
CAVA · craft centre
Artisans' cooperative: sculptures, masks, paintings, basketry, fabrics and jewellery. Cash only, haggling expected; allow 1.5 hours.
Treichville market
Large two-level market: fresh produce and spices downstairs, wax prints and clothing upstairs. Go in the morning, watch your belongings and ask before taking photos.
Culture & art
Fondation Donwahi
Illa Donwahi's contemporary-art foundation (2008): exhibitions, residencies, screenings and Le Lounge restaurant (Sunday brunch). Open Tue–Sat, free entry; may close between shows.
Jacobleu Art Gallery
Large gallery opened June 2025 by painter Jacobleu above Pâtisserie Abidjanaise: six rooms, performance hall, art shop and café-bar. Group shows of young talents; roughly 10am–8pm, free entry.
LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery
Family-run gallery (2015) of Simone and Gazelle Guirandou, next to the Goethe-Institut: emerging and established West African artists, 'Découvertes' series. Tue–Sat 11am–7pm, free entry.
Goethe-Institut Côte d'Ivoire
German cultural centre: concerts, exhibitions, film club, talks and a library. Reception Mon–Fri 8:30–12:30 / 13:30–17:30; library Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9am–6pm. Programme at goethe.de/abidjan.
MuCAT – Musée des Cultures Contemporaines Adama Toungara
West Africa's largest contemporary-art museum (2020, 3,500 m²): pan-African temporary shows, Africa Foto Fair. Tue–Sun 9am–6pm; 500 F (Ivorians), 1,000 F (ECOWAS), 2,000 F (others). ~40 min from Cocody.
Rotonde des Arts Contemporains
Art centre founded in 2009 by Yacouba Konaté: permanent display of modern and contemporary Ivorian art, temporary shows, catalogue and artwork shop. Weekdays and Saturday, free entry.
Galerie Houkami Guyzagn
Thierry Dia's cultural complex (founded 2001): two galleries, artist residency, restaurant and lounge. Historic launchpad of the young Ivorian scene (Aboudia started here); a Nuit des Galeries stop.
Galerie Amani
Léon N'Guetta's offbeat gallery around courtyards and an open-air upper floor: African painting, sculpture and design (Méné, Demba Camara, Remy Samuz). 2 min from Eurêka Galerie; best by appointment.
Eurêka Galerie
Sandrine Marmissolle Mesquida's gallery, representing Yéanzi and other Abidjan-scene figures. Regular shows and Abidjan Art Week participant; pair with Galerie Amani and Walls.
Walls House of Art
Contemporary art house (2019) run as a living space: exhibitions, cross-disciplinary collaborations, talks and events. Usual starting point of the Nuit des Galeries on the Marcory side.
Palais de la Culture Bernard Binlin Dadié
Major cultural complex (1999, 12,000 m²) facing Plateau: three theatres, Christian Lattier gallery, Bernard Dadié space, children's library inside a Fokker F27. Concerts, theatre, fairs; tickets per event.
Windsor Gallery – Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire
Contemporary-art gallery opened in 2022 in the Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire lobby: Ivorian and African artists, rotating displays. Free access during hotel hours; combine with Le Toit d'Abidjan.
Galerie Farah Fakhri
Gallery opened 2022–2023 in Plateau: established and emerging artists from Africa and the diaspora (Abdoulaye Konaté, Joana Choumali, Chada). Painting, photo, video, textiles; free entry, hours on galeriefarahfakhri.com.
Studer Gallery
Gallery set inside a residence in Ambassades, with a Dubai outpost: around fifteen African and international artists, painting and sculpture. Nuit des Galeries stop; visiting by appointment advised.
Fondation BJKD
Bénédicte Janine Kacou Diagou Foundation for art, culture, education and entrepreneurship: shows by young visual artists, talent contests, talks. Free entry during exhibitions; programme on its social channels.
Kynome Gallery
Renovated neighbourhood gallery run by Mr and Mrs Achi, a few minutes' walk away: young Ivorian artists, exhibitions and workshops. An easy first encounter with Abidjan painting.
Saint Paul's Cathedral
Aldo Spirito's raw-concrete cathedral, consecrated by John Paul II in 1985: a 70 m mast and huge stained glass telling Côte d'Ivoire's evangelisation. Free entry, 30-45 min; a volunteer guide is often on hand for a tip.
Notre-Dame d'Afrique Marian shrine
A Marian pilgrimage site opened in 1987, recognisable by its cone-shaped bell tower. Set on a hill, it gives one of the finest views over the lagoon and Plateau skyline. Free entry; keep it quiet.
La Pyramide
Rinaldo Olivieri's 1973 brutalist icon, once a vertical market and now dormant. Exterior only: best late afternoon, paired with the Postel 2001 tower on a walking loop through Plateau.
Plateau Grand Mosque
The business district's main mosque, at its liveliest for Friday prayers. Visits are possible outside prayer times: cover up, remove shoes and ask an attendant at the gate first.
National Costume Museum
Housed in the UNESCO-listed former governor's palace: regalia, masks and textiles from across Côte d'Ivoire. Allow 45 min, around 2,000 FCFA entry, best combined with a Quartier France stroll.
Ki-Yi M'Bock village
The artists' village founded by Werewere Liking: theatre, giant puppets, dance and visual-arts studios. Check the programme first; shows and tours mostly run in the evening and at weekends.
Adjamé market · Forum des Marchés
Abidjan's biggest and most intense market: wax prints, spices, hardware, herbal remedies. Go mid-morning, bag closed in front of you, valuables left at the flat. Free to wander.
Basquiart Art Gallery
Riviera 2 gallery showing contemporary Ivorian painting and photography, with changing hangs. Visits by appointment, 01 50 12 13 40.
Amadou Hampâté Bâ Foundation
Cultural foundation in Zone 4C: exhibitions, a literary collection and talks on West African heritage. Visits by appointment, 07 08 31 64 25.
Charles Combes Museum
A 1937 museum in Bingerville devoted to the painters Charles Combes trained: modern Ivorian art in a colonial house. Mon-Sat 8am-4.30pm.
Galerie Cécile Fakhoury
A leading contemporary art gallery since 2012: exhibitions of Ivorian and African artists, free entry.
Sport
Padelta
Covered padel club, 5 FIP-certified courts, gym and café. From 10,000 FCFA per hour for 4 players, 7 days a week from 6am to 10pm.
Ivoire Golf Club
Rolling 18-hole course, 9-hole course, driving range, tennis and pools. Green fee approx. 40,000 FCFA, caddie 4,000–7,000 FCFA.
Equinox
Gym, pool and spa behind the L'Ardoise school complex. Membership from 25,000 FCFA per month, day pass on request.
Padel des Jardins
Open-air club right by the apartments: four padel courts, plus pickleball, pétanque and archery. Book for evenings and weekends.
Z FIT / SPA
Fitness club and spa over several floors: weights, cardio, group classes (Body Pump, Body Combat, Body Balance), personal training, sauna, hammam, jacuzzi and massages. Monday–Friday 6am–10pm, Saturday 7am–8pm, Sunday 8am–6pm.
Padel Magic · Central Tennis Club
The padel club of the Central Tennis Club, host of an international FIP tournament; tennis courts on site.
Core Fitness
Recent centre: weights, cardio, Pilates Reformer, yoga, TRX, pool with aqua-aerobics, spa and healthy café. Personal coaching, monthly membership.
Cocody municipal pool
Renovated in 2024: a large pool, a children's pool and lifeguards, for a few lengths close to the apartments.
Sol Béni complex
10 ha on the lagoon: outdoor pool (5,000 FCFA adult entry), tennis, zumba, Pilates, aqua-aerobics. 7:30am–8pm on weekdays, 8am–8pm on Sundays.
Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire pool
One of Abidjan's largest pools, with a poolside restaurant, open to non-residents for an entry fee (weekday and weekend rates at reception).
Horse Academy
Full equestrian centre: lessons from beginner to competition, pony club from age 4, rides and a pool. Tuesday to Sunday 7:30am–12pm and 2pm–8:30pm.
Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium
Abidjan's historic 33,000-seat stadium, renovated for AFCON 2023, right in Plateau. Ivorian league matches and concerts; tickets from about 2,000 FCFA at the gate on match day.
Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium
The AFCON 2023 showpiece: 60,000 seats, opened in 2020, 20 km north of Abidjan. Come for an Elephants or league match; leave 2 h early, access clogs up. Tickets online or at the gate.
Wellness
Keemāla Spa
Renowned upscale spa: 60 min Thai massage 80,000 FCFA, aromatherapy 65,000 FCFA, 30 min reflexology 25,000 FCFA.
Lys d'Orient Spa · Kenté Sky Spa
Organic spa using Ivorian products on rue des Jardins; elegant shea-scented spa on the old Bingerville road.
Sofitel Spa · Hôtel Ivoire
840 m² with Cinq Mondes treatments: Balinese massage, Kobido facial, hammam and a heated indoor jet pool. Daily 9am–9pm, booking advised.
Mud Spa
Popular neighbourhood spa: relaxing massage (40,000 FCFA an hour), Thai massage, Moroccan hammam, facials, manicure and pedicure. Book online on Fresha.
BNB Spa
Spa open to the public: hammam, sauna, solo or couples massages, Hydrafacial, private rooms. Daily 9am–9pm, book online or on WhatsApp.
Spa by Noom
230 m² on the 6th floor of the Noom Hotel: hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, three massage rooms and two beauty rooms. Open 7 days a week.
Radisson Blu spa
Handy before or after a flight: massages, facials and scrubs, 12pm–8pm. Call the hotel about access for non-residents.
Maison Antys
Afro hair salon for adults, specialising in invisible locs and twists, with parking. Tuesday to Saturday, book on Fresha.
Makena Spa
Luxury spa in II Plateaux: relaxing and duo massages, face and body treatments, hammam, manicure-pedicure, fitness corner. Rated 4.9/5 on Google. Opens at 10am, by appointment (07 68 41 60 61).
Platinum Hotel Spa
The Platinum hotel's spa in Angré: massages, facials, pool and gym open to non-residents. Rated 4.6/5 on Google, opens at 10am.
Nature
Banco National Park
3,400 ha of primary forest in the heart of the city: marked trails, 1931 arboretum, bike hire, guided tour approx. 10,000 FCFA. Open 9am–5pm.
Parc Dominique Ouattara
11,000 m² urban park: playground, 800 m² skatepark, amphitheatre and fountains. Free, ID required; renovation announced for 2026: check access before going.
Bingerville Botanical Garden
55 hectares created in 1904: avenues of royal palms, rare tree species and family picnics. Open daily, 7:30am–5:30pm.
Dahliafleur Nature Reserve
148 ha on the Ébrié lagoon, managed by the OIPR: a bamboo tunnel, four hiking and cycling trails, horse rides. Open 7:30am–4:30pm, guided visits on booking.
Orchidées Bonafos
Family-run tropical nursery: a large orchid collection, over 35 palm species and cacti. Monday to Friday 8am–12pm and 2pm–5pm, Saturday mornings.
Cocody Bay
Fine views of the Plateau towers and the cathedral from the Alassane Ouattara bridge. The bay is being redeveloped: waterside walks are opening gradually.
Domaine Bini Lagune
Lagoon-side eco-site 20 minutes from the Vallons: welcome coconut, dugout canoe, swimming, zip line, treetop course and a meal served in clay. Day approx. 15,000 FCFA per adult, by reservation.
Boulay Beach Resort
Island resort 15 minutes by boat from bd de Marseille: landscaped beach, panoramic pool, water sports, restaurants. Day or overnight packages; shuttle from the pier.
La Baie des Autruches
Small family-run hotel-restaurant on the Aghien lagoon: pool, dugout canoe, renowned chicken kedjenou. Simple and peaceful, ideal for a green Sunday 40 minutes from Cocody.
Le Wafou
Village-style hotel-restaurant with mud-brick huts around a large pool: the easiest pool day in town, free for restaurant guests. Express menu 8,000 FCFA, themed buffet on Sundays. Open daily.
Azuretti beach
A fishing village between lagoon and ocean, 15 min by pirogue from Grand-Bassam: coconut palms, grilled-fish maquis, cautious swimming (strong shore break). Budget 2,000-5,000 FCFA return crossing.
Green Valley
A 70-hectare agritourism estate on the Alépé road: plantation tours, fishing, mountain biking, hiking and a pool. A family day out; book on 07 47 20 96 95.
Family
Splash Park · Youpiland
Splash Park: Abidjan's first water playground (Tue–Sun 10am–6pm, children 3,000 FCFA). Youpiland: playground and aquapark for ages 1–12.
Majestic Cinema Ivoire
Large cinema with 385 seats in the Hôtel Ivoire: recent releases, 3D available. Tuesday to Sunday; listings on majesticcinema.ci.
Pathé Cap Sud
Multiplex opened in 2024: 6 laser-projection screens, including 2 VIP rooms with recliners. Tickets online at pathe.ci.
Majestic Cinema Sococé
Cinema with 180 seats in the Sococé shopping centre, Tuesday to Sunday: around ten films a week, mostly in French. 3,000 FCFA, under-18s 2,500 FCFA.
Orcaland · Abidjan Mall
Play area on the top floor of Abidjan Mall: bowling, mini-bowling, bumper cars, bouncy castles and a mini ice rink, with tokens. 10am–7pm on weekdays, 10am–8pm at weekends.
Paradisia
Amusement park on the lagoon: group and individual rides, arcade games, a show stage and food on site. Tel. +225 07 57 67 04 74.
Museum of Civilisations
Masks, statues, textiles and contemporary art from Ivorian peoples, around 15,000 objects. Allow an hour; a guided tour works well with children. Check opening times before you go.
Abidjan National Zoo
Reopened in late 2021 after a refit: 19 ha and 300+ animals (lions, leopards, elephants, pythons, crowned cranes). Entry 500-1,500 FCFA, best in the morning with kids; allow 2 h.
Naïma Land
Indoor play park at the PlaYce Palmeraie mall, staffed by supervisors all day: climbing frames, trampolines, virtual games. Over 1,500 visitors a week.
Le Club des Génies
Bonoumin learning club for ages 6-15: robotics, 3D modelling, graphic arts and educational outings. Drop-in sessions or termly enrolment.
Information checked in October 2026; opening hours and prices may change.
Stay in Cocody
Our furnished apartments are in Cocody, run by our own team. Book direct, all inclusive, no service fees.