Things To Do
in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the highland capital of Ethiopia, sits at about 2,355 meters above sea level and blends ancient history with a fast-changing modern pulse. The city thrums with markets, museums, coffee ceremonies, and a dynamic arts scene that sits alongside new cafes and fashion boutiques. Ottoman-era churches, rock-hewn Orthodox traditions, and vibrant street life converge in neighborhoods around Meskel Square and Bole Road.
With panoramic views from Entoto Hills and a gateway to Ethiopian culture, Addis Ababa is a launching point for exploring the Horn of Africa.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, where you can marvel at the famous fossilized remains of Lucy. Take your time to explore the rich history of Ethiopia through its captivating artifacts and exhibits. Afterward, stroll through Meskel Square, where you can witness the vibrant local life and enjoy the fresh morning air.
Head to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an architectural gem and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Spend time wandering the grounds and appreciating the beautiful stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes. For lunch, savor traditional Ethiopian cuisine at a local restaurant, trying dishes like injera and doro wat.
As the sun sets, visit the bustling Mercato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with the sounds and scents of local vendors. Conclude your day with a traditional coffee ceremony at a nearby café, experiencing the rich coffee culture of Ethiopia.
Begin your day early with a drive to Entoto Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Addis Ababa. Explore the Entoto Maryam Church, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Take a moment to absorb the serenity of the surrounding forests and the fresh mountain air.
After your morning exploration, visit the Menelik II Palace, learning about the life and legacy of one of Ethiopia's most celebrated emperors. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of the city below. Then, explore the local villages around the mountain, engaging with the friendly residents and learning about their traditional lifestyles.
Return to the city and relax at a traditional restaurant where you can enjoy live Ethiopian music and dance performances. Savor a sumptuous dinner featuring various local dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to experience the nightlife of Addis Ababa.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚶♂️One-way local transport | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-50 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Excellent coffee and vibrant markets
- Mild highland climate and scenic viewpoints
- Growing food and arts scene with authentic experiences
- Traffic congestion and crowded markets can be intense
- Variable service language in smaller eateries
- Infrastructure in some districts may feel busy or uneven
- Seasonal rain can affect travel plans and street conditions
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Amesegnallo" - Thank you
- "Dehna neh?" - Are you well? / How are you?
- "Yikirta" - Please
- "Betam amesegnallo" - Many thanks
Places to Visit in Addis Ababa
Visit one of these nice places.
Home to Lucy and other archaeological exhibits, with galleries and natural light ideal for documentary photography.
Majestic viewpoints over Addis Ababa offering sweeping cityscapes, perfect for sunrise shots and nature photography.
Architectural grandeur with stained glass and historic surroundings—great for architectural and ceremonial photography.
One of Africa’s largest markets; a hub of color, texture, and daily life—ideal for candid street photography.
A lively corridor with modern storefronts, cafes, and traffic scenes that capture contemporary Addis.
Food in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sourdough flatbread served with spicy chicken stew; a quintessential Ethiopian dish often enjoyed at communal meals.
Must-Try!
Finely minced raw or lightly cooked beef seasoned with spices and mitmita; typically served with injera and cooled with a side of ayibe (fresh cheese) or gomen (collard greens).
Sautéed meat (often beef or lamb) with onions, peppers, and spices; common in many restaurants and great for sharing.
A smooth, chickpea or bean-based stew, rich in flavor and commonly enjoyed with injera, especially for vegetarians.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you can sample fresh fruit, spices, coffee, and street snacks amid a vibrant, bustling atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a courteous 'Selam' or 'Amesegenallo' (thank you). Offer a handshake or a slight bow in traditional settings; show respect in religious sites.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques; remove hats and avoid loud behavior inside sacred spaces.
If invited to a ceremony, participate with interest and patience; coffee rituals are social and ceremonial experiences.
Safety
Tipping in Addis Ababa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and for tour guides; check whether service is included, and round up or leave a modest extra (around 5–10%).
Cash (Birr) is widely used; many hotels, larger shops, and some urban restaurants accept cards. Mobile money (e.g., Telebirr, M-Birr) is growing; carry small denominations for markets and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Rainy season brings lush greenery, cooler mornings, and occasional downpours; expect humid conditions and slick streets. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and keep electronics protected.
Dry and cooler with crisp mornings and comfortable daytime heat; layer clothing recommended. This is a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing.
Shorter rains and warm days start; days can be sunny with sporadic showers. Suitable for outdoor activities with a light rain layer.
Addis Ababa at Night
Hiking in Addis Ababa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hiking and viewpoints on the northern edge of the city offering expansive city panoramas and a cooler climate.
Airports
How to reach Addis Ababa by plane.
Main international gateway to Ethiopia; located about 6–10 km southeast of the city center with a range of international and domestic flights and airport transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse city with Amhara, Oromo, Gurage, Tigre, and others; Amharic is the dominant language, with English commonly spoken in urban areas and in administrative and hospitality settings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
National passion with local clubs and league matches in stadia around the city.
Track events and training are common; many residents follow regional competitions and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Addis Ababa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most wats can be prepared as vegetarian versions using legumes and vegetables. Ask for geenet (no meat) or request dishes without butter or meat-based fats; many places offer shiro and lentil stews as staples.