Abidjan has a reputation for a vibrant nightlife and is considered to be the liveliest on the continent. There are many nightclubs, bars and what is known as the maquis to be discovered throughout the city. It is worth mentioning that it was banned in 2012 to smoke in public places but it is only recently that regular checks in bars and restaurants have been made; and if there is any offence, the smoker and the establishment are responsible and will have to pay a fine which can go up to 100,000 FCFA.

The Rue des Princes in the Yopougon district of Abidjan has now become Rue Princesse, which used to be an infamous street full of nightclubs. Today the rue des Princes is the place to be at night.

Yopougon because of its multitude of bars and known maquis such as Le Monde Arabe, the Velodrome and the Baby Zenith.

Historically, the maquis began as an underground restaurant where locals could eat and drink. Today the maquis has been modernised into a lush and legal nightclub, often with open spaces for concerts and live music. The Yopougon district is home to some of the best known of the maquis. As is the case in many other African cities, the maquis is the place where most local artists, singers and musicians make a name for themselves.

Below we have listed some of the many nightclubs, bars and maquis you will find in Abidjan.