Edd

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Edd's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Asmara
morning
:

Arrive at Asmara International Airport and take a taxi to your hotel in the city center. After checking in, enjoy a traditional Eritrean breakfast at a local cafe, savoring the flavors of injera and shiro. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the city's elevation before heading out for exploration.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the unique architecture of Asmara, known for its Italian colonial buildings and Art Deco style. Visit the National Museum of Eritrea, which houses significant artifacts and exhibitions on Eritrean culture and history. Don’t forget to stop by the vibrant markets to experience local life and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can enjoy Eritrean cuisine, accompanied by traditional music and dance. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great way to engage with locals and other travelers. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets to appreciate the city's charm at night.

day 2
Explore Asmara
morning
:

Start your day with a fresh coffee, a staple in Eritrean culture, before setting out to visit the famous Fiat Tagliero Building, an iconic piece of modernist architecture. Then, head to the nearby St. Joseph's Cathedral, a stunning example of early 20th-century religious architecture. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you take in the intricate details and the history behind the site.

afternoon
:

After lunch, make your way to the Asmara Cathedral, a majestic structure with beautiful stained glass windows that tell the story of Christianity in Eritrea. Spend some time at the local craft markets, where you can find handmade jewelry and woven baskets that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts.

evening
:

Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets. Try local dishes that highlight the variety of spices used in Eritrean cuisine. Wrap up your day by enjoying some live music or a cultural performance at a local venue.

day 3
Day trip to Keren
morning
:

Travel to Keren, Eritrea's second-largest city, located about 90 kilometers from Asmara. Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast at a local eatery before visiting the stunning Keren War Memorial, which commemorates those who fought in the liberation struggle. Explore the vibrant local market to experience the bustling atmosphere and interact with friendly vendors.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the surrounding mountains and valleys, taking in the beautiful landscapes that Eritrea has to offer. Visit the nearby Debre Bizan Church, a historical site perched on a hill, known for its scenic vistas. Enjoy some leisure time in Keren, mingling with locals and sampling street food delicacies.

evening
:

Return to Asmara for dinner, where you can sample some grilled meats and fresh vegetables. Reflect on the day's adventures with new friends over a shared meal. Consider visiting a local café to wind down with a cup of Eritrean coffee and engage in conversation about your experiences.

day 4
Visit Massawa
morning
:

Depart early for a drive to Massawa, a coastal city known for its stunning Red Sea views. Enjoy breakfast along the way, where local cuisine offers a refreshing start to your beach adventure. Upon arrival, take in the beautiful architecture of the old town and visit the Massawa Museum.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beaches or snorkeling in the clear waters of the Red Sea, where you can witness vibrant marine life. Explore the historic sites, including the ancient Fort of Massawa that signifies the area’s colonial past. Make sure to try fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant for lunch.

evening
:

As the sun sets over the ocean, enjoy a serene dinner at a waterfront restaurant, feasting on local fish dishes. Experience the rhythm of coastal life with the gentle sounds of waves and local music serenading you. Reflect on the breathtaking scenery and relaxed atmosphere of Massawa before heading back to Asmara.

day 5
Adventure in Nakfa
morning
:

Embark on a journey to Nakfa, an important historical site during the Eritrean War of Independence. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and take in the changing landscapes as you drive through the rugged terrain. Visit the Nakfa Hydro Power Station to learn about the energy sources of Eritrea.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical significance of Nakfa, with visits to its remarkable underground caves and the resilient communities that once thrived here during the war. Engage with locals who share stories from the past, allowing you to grasp the spirit of resilience deeply rooted in the area. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Asmara and savor dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can reflect on the rich history you’ve experienced. Choose dishes that highlight the fusion of African and Italian influences in Eritrean cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps playing a game of cards with fellow travelers.

day 6
Cultural Heritage in Asmara
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Eritrean National Museum to discover the country's artistic heritage. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring traditional pastries and local fruits while discussing the rich history with fellow travelers. Afterward, head to the nearby Tigrinya Market to witness daily life in Asmara.

afternoon
:

Partake in a cooking class where you'll learn to make classic Eritrean dishes, adding a hands-on experience to your cultural immersion. Enjoy the camaraderie of sharing meals you cooked with fellow participants. Spend some time crafting your own souvenir with local artisans before heading back to explore more of the city.

evening
:

As evening settles in, visit a cultural performance venue for a glimpse of traditional Eritrean music and dance. Enjoy local snacks and drinks as you immerse yourself in the lively environment. Reflect on your experiences over dinner at the same venue, feeling the connections made through food and culture.

day 7
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

Spend the morning at a nearby spa, indulging in traditional treatments that focus on relaxation and revitalization. Enjoy a healthy breakfast before your appointment, setting a serene tone for the day. Take your time soaking in the tranquility.

afternoon
:

After your spa experience, stroll through the lush gardens of Asmara, reflecting on your journey and the memories you've created. Enjoy lunch at a quaint café, letting the calm ambience enhance your reflections. Spend the afternoon capturing final moments in photos as you wander through the city.

evening
:

Experience a farewell dinner at a restaurant that serves a fusion of Eritrean and modern international cuisine, creating a perfect end to your trip. Share stories and laughs over delightful dishes, reflecting on your adventures. End the night by visiting a local bar for a traditional tej drink, bidding farewell to new friends.

day 8
Departure from Asmara
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before doing last-minute shopping for souvenirs to take home. Take a stroll through your favorite parts of Asmara, soaking in the final views of this beautiful city. Prepare yourself for your departure, ensuring you have all travel documents in order.

afternoon
:

Visit the airport with plenty of time to spare, taking a moment to absorb the experiences you’ve had. Reflect on the connections made with locals and fellow travelers throughout your journey. As you wait for your flight, enjoy the last tastes of Eritrean coffee.

evening
:

As you board your flight, hold onto the memories of Eritrea's charm, resilience, and beauty. Think of the stories you'll share and the experiences that will stay with you forever. Departing with a full heart and mind, you look forward to the next adventure.

Discover Edd

Read more in our Edd 2025 Travel Guide.

Edd Travel Guide