Plateau
Ideal for: first visit, business
The administrative centre, close to the ferry for Gorée and the markets.
Dakar
A vibrant capital on the Atlantic, Gorée Island, music and Senegalese food.
Plan your stay in Dakar
Best areas to stay in Dakar
Almadies and Ngor
Ideal for: couples, beach
The western tip: ocean, beaches, surfing, restaurants and Ngor island opposite.
Mermoz and Point E
Ideal for: solo, local life
Residential areas, cafés and restaurants, between the centre and the Almadies.
Practical info about Dakar
Dakar is lively, musical and open to the ocean. It is the ideal starting point for Gorée, Lake Retba, the Petite-Côte and the Sine-Saloum delta.
What to see in Dakar
- Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its House of Slaves, reached by ferry from the port;
- the African Renaissance Monument and its view over the city;
- the Corniche and the beaches of Almadies and Ngor;
- the markets of Sandaga and Kermel;
- on day trips: Lake Retba (the Pink Lake) and the Petite-Côte.
Getting to Dakar
Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) is about 50 km from the centre. Since 28 September 2026, the TER train links the airport to central Dakar (about 55 minutes announced); taxis take about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic.
All our tips for the country in Travel in Senegal.