Your stay — Résidence Beaulieu
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Antananarivo.
The Property — Résidence Beaulieu
Résidence Beaulieu is a modest, family-run hotel with a warm, unassuming charm. The lobby's rustic wooden accents and vintage photographs evoke a sense of old-world Madagascar, while the compact rooms are simple yet clean and functional. This unpretentious gem is perfect for budget-conscious travellers and those seeking an authentic experience. As you step inside, you'll feel the gentle hospitality of the Antananarivo locals. The hotel's proximity to the city's historic heart makes it an ideal base for exploring the city's winding streets and markets.
Chronicles of Antananarivo
Founded in the 17th century as the royal city of the Merina kingdom, Antananarivo has evolved from a fortified settlement to a bustling metropolis. The city's unique cultural identity is rooted in its history as a fusion of Merina, French, and African influences. Today, Antananarivo is a vibrant, eclectic mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and lively street life. The city's Rova, the ancient royal palace, stands as a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can still explore the ancient streets and take in the city's unique blend of traditional and modern life.
Best Time to Visit
Full Antananarivo guide →Best months
The best months to visit Antananarivo are April and May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. June and July are also good options, with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. These periods make for ideal conditions to explore the city's markets, historic sites, and surrounding countryside without the peak-season crowds.
Peak / festival surge
October is the peak tourist month, driven by the Fête de la Musique, a celebration of music and dance that takes over the city. Hotel prices increase significantly during this time, and visitors can expect larger crowds and longer queues at popular attractions. The city's streets come alive with music and colour, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season, from March to May, offers the best value for budget-conscious travellers. The weather is still mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it easier to explore the city's hidden gems. Expect to find discounts on hotel rooms and tours, and take advantage of the city's laid-back atmosphere.
Weather & packing
Antananarivo's climate is known for its sudden rain showers, so be prepared with a waterproof jacket or poncho. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings, as the temperature can drop significantly after sunset.
Live City Briefing — Antananarivo
- The city's main bus station, Tana Terminal, has been renovated and expanded, making it easier to navigate and connect to surrounding towns and cities. The Anosinetra Café, a popular spot for coffee and snacks, has reopened after a brief closure, offering a convenient spot to rest and recharge. The city's famous Andifotsy Market is currently undergoing renovations, but visitors can still find a wide range of local handicrafts and souvenirs at the nearby markets.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Résidence Beaulieu, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd or above) to minimize street noise. The hotel's location in Antananarivo means you can expect some traffic noise, especially during rush hour. The concrete floors throughout the hotel will help to dampen the noise somewhat, but a higher floor will be quieter. Additionally, the rooms with a north-facing orientation may receive some morning sunlight, but be aware that the sun rises early in Antananarivo, so it may not be a concern for late risers.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms on the lower floors (1st or 2nd) as they may be more prone to noise from the street and the service entrance. Rooms near the lift may also experience more noise from the lift's operation.
Best views
Unfortunately, the hotel's location in Antananarivo does not offer spectacular views. However, rooms on the higher floors may have a view of the surrounding cityscape, which could be a decent compromise.
Quietest floors
The 3rd floor and above are likely the quietest.
🔊 Noise notes
Be aware that Antananarivo is a bustling city, and some traffic noise is to be expected. The hotel's concrete floors will help to reduce the noise, but a higher floor will be quieter.
Insider tips
1. If you're driving, be aware that parking may be limited in the surrounding area. Consider arriving early to secure a spot. 2. The hotel's reception staff may not speak fluent English, so it's a good idea to learn some basic Malagasy phrases to help with communication.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Résidence Beaulieu
Free WiFi available on all floors, with speeds up to 100 Mbps. No login constraints.
The lift serves all floors, with one set of stairs-only rooms in the historic section of the building.
Complimentary digital newsstand via PressReader app. Physical newspapers not available.
Check-in: 14:00, Check-out: 12:00. Early bag-drop available from 08:00. Late check-out until 18:00 costs 50,000 MGA.
Limited baggage storage available at the front desk for a fee of 20,000 MGA per item per day.
Step-free access to the main entrance, wheelchair-accessible rooms available on request, but some structural limitations in the historic section.
On-site parking available for 20,000 MGA per night. Nearest public car park: Parking de la Gare (15,000 MGA per night). No EV charging facilities available.
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: Mandatory city tax: 30,000 MGA per person per night.
Deposit & card hold: Advance deposit: 100% of the total stay amount, plus a credit card hold of 50,000 MGA for incidentals at check-in.
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary (425 m · ~5 min walk)
- Church: FJKM Mahalavolona (908 m · ~11 min walk)
- Church: FLM Mahalavolona (1.0 km · ~13 min walk)
- Church: EKAR Masindahy Filipo sy Jakoba Malaza Tanjombato (1.2 km · ~14 min walk)
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 1.8 km · ~22 min walk
Pharmacie d'Andoharanofotsy — 27 m · ~1 min walk
Epicerie Ranaivo Andoharanofotsy — 72 m · ~1 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
Currency exchange is readily available at airports, hotels, and banks. Be cautious of poor rates at airports and tourist bureaux.
Credit cards are widely accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still king. Mobile payments like Orange Money and Momo are also popular.
Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill or leaving 1,000-2,000 MGA for good service is appreciated.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A cup of coffee at a local café costs around 500-1,000 MGA (~ $0.15-$0.30 USD).
A traditional Malagasy dish like 'romazava' at a street food stall costs around 3,000-5,000 MGA (~ $0.90-$1.50 USD).
A bowl of 'lahana' (rice and vegetables) at a local restaurant costs around 8,000-12,000 MGA (~ $2.40-$3.60 USD).
The Anosikely and Analakely markets offer a variety of street food options.
Most supermarkets in the area are operated by international chains like Carrefour and Casino.
Local markets like the Antananarivo Central Market offer affordable clothing options.
A day pass for the city's bus system costs around 1,500 MGA (~ $0.45 USD). The cheapest way to get from the airport is by taxi, costing around 20,000-30,000 MGA (~ $6-$9 USD).
Avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist areas, as rates are often poor.Use local banks to exchange currency or withdraw cash with a debit card.Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets to get the best deals.
Emergency Contacts
AntananarivoFrom mobile: dial these numbers directly. Landlines: 020 22 357 69 for police stations, 020 22 357 69 also connects to central dispatch. Consider Gendarmerie Nationale (022 24 69 00) in rural areas. Carry your embassy’s local number too.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Antananarivo, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Résidence Beaulieu
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 1.8 km · ~22 min walk — pharmacy · Pharmacie d'Andoharanofotsy — 27 m · ~1 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Talatamaty roundabout (nearest brousse stop to airport) → Analakely market (city centre, near Le Grenat)
💡 Not good with luggage. Sit window-side to pay the collector; hand your fare in small bills. Get off at 'Jumbo Score' and walk five minutes east to Ankorondrano.
Ivato Airport arrivals hall door → Le Grenat Hotel
💡 Download 'Beb' (B.e.b) before landing—it's the only ride-hail that works reliably here. Initial quote is in Ariary; confirm the car model because plate numbers are often faded.
Ivato International Airport (TNR) → Le Grenat Hotel, Ankorondrano
💡 Ignore touts inside arrivals. Buy a fixed-price coupon at the official taxi counter just outside baggage claim before walking to the rank.
Ivato airport bus stop (left of terminal, near gas station) → Jovena petrol station, Ankorondrano
💡 Only reliable if you have a local SIM (takes cash only, no change given). Stand at the front to signal the driver. From Jovena it's a 10-minute walk west to Le Grenat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Résidence Beaulieu?
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd or above) to minimize street noise. The hotel's location in Antananarivo means you can expect some traffic noise, especially during rush hour. The concrete floors throughout the hotel will help to dampen the noise somewhat, but a higher floor will be quieter. Additionally, the rooms with a north-facing orientation may receive some morning sunlight, but be aware that the sun rises early in Antananarivo, so it may not be a concern for late risers.
Which rooms should I avoid at Résidence Beaulieu?
Avoid rooms on the lower floors (1st or 2nd) as they may be more prone to noise from the street and the service entrance. Rooms near the lift may also experience more noise from the lift's operation.
Is Résidence Beaulieu noisy?
Be aware that Antananarivo is a bustling city, and some traffic noise is to be expected. The hotel's concrete floors will help to reduce the noise, but a higher floor will be quieter.
Which rooms have the best views at Résidence Beaulieu?
Unfortunately, the hotel's location in Antananarivo does not offer spectacular views. However, rooms on the higher floors may have a view of the surrounding cityscape, which could be a decent compromise.
What are insider tips for staying at Résidence Beaulieu?
1. If you're driving, be aware that parking may be limited in the surrounding area. Consider arriving early to secure a spot. 2. The hotel's reception staff may not speak fluent English, so it's a good idea to learn some basic Malagasy phrases to help with communication.
What time is check-in at Résidence Beaulieu?
Check-in at Résidence Beaulieu is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Résidence Beaulieu have Wi-Fi?
Free WiFi available on all floors, with speeds up to 100 Mbps. No login constraints.
Is there a city or tourist tax at Résidence Beaulieu?
Mandatory city tax: 30,000 MGA per person per night.
Where can I eat cheaply near Résidence Beaulieu?
A traditional Malagasy dish like 'romazava' at a street food stall costs around 3,000-5,000 MGA (~ $0.90-$1.50 USD).
What is the cheapest way to get around from Résidence Beaulieu?
A day pass for the city's bus system costs around 1,500 MGA (~ $0.45 USD). The cheapest way to get from the airport is by taxi, costing around 20,000-30,000 MGA (~ $6-$9 USD).
When is the best time to visit Antananarivo?
The best months to visit Antananarivo are April and May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. June and July are also good options, with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. These periods make for ideal conditions to explore the city's markets, historic sites, and surrounding countryside without the peak-season crowds.
Top Attractions in Antananarivo
💡 Go in the morning for best selection. Don't pay more than half the initial price. Bring small notes.
💡 In November the trees bloom purple - spectacular for photos. Avoid dusk when mosquitoes are active.
💡 Go early morning to avoid midday heat and crowds. The path up via Analakely market is steep but scenic.
💡 Entry is about 10000 ariary (£2). The collection includes a remarkable 19th-century crown and jewellery. Quiet on weekday afternoons.
💡 Entry costs about 4000 ariary (under £1). The lemur enclosure is best visited at feeding time, around 10:00.