ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST

Abidjan is an expansive, urban city on the southern Atlantic coast of Côte d'Ivoire, in West Africa. It served as the country’s capital until 1983, and it is still a major hub for shipping, culture, and business.

Le Plateau is the main central business district of Abidjan. Key points of interest include the Museum of Civilizations, St Paul’s Cathedral, and a central mosque. You’ll also find cafes and restaurants among numerous grocery stores and pharmacies if there are any items you need to pick up.

 Art lovers may wish to travel north of Le Plateau to Galerie Cecile Fakhoury—an impressive gallery boasting exciting contemporary art from across Africa. Or perhaps head south to Centre Artisanal de Abidjan, familiarly called CAVA. You’ll find all types of African art and handicrafts for sale, and it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs.

If you don’t want to brace the frenetic energy of Abidjan, consider heading north to the Banco National Park. It includes 8,500 acres of tropical rainforest, and is known as Abjdjan’s “green lung.” Or head 16mi/27km south to Grand Bassam. It was the capital city of the French colonies in the region in the late 19th century, and points of interest include the N’zima African fishing village, the National Costume Museum, Maison des Artists, and Cathedral du Sacre Coeur.

 Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a memorable day in Abidjan.