Things To Do
in Accra
Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and commerce located along the Gulf of Guinea. Known for its rich heritage, Accra features a mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era buildings, reflecting its diverse architectural landscape. The city is home to a warm and welcoming population, with a lively atmosphere that is particularly evident in its bustling markets and lively street scenes.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring historical sites to experiencing the lively music and art scenes that define this dynamic city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, a beautiful memorial dedicated to Ghana's first president, followed by a stroll through the nearby gardens.
Head to the Arts Centre for National Culture to shop for local crafts and souvenirs, then visit the Osu Castle, a historic site with a rich history.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Ghanaian dishes, followed by a night out at a nearby bar featuring live music.
Visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Center to learn about the life of the famous African-American scholar and activist.
Take a relaxing walk along Labadi Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and local beachside eateries.
Conclude your trip with a visit to the popular Bukom area for traditional music and dance performances.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10-$20 |
🏨Mid-range Hotel per Night | $50-$100 |
🚌Public Transportation Ticket | $0.50 |
☕Coffee | $2-$5 |
🛍️Souvenirs | $5-$50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture and friendly locals
- Rich history and diverse attractions
- Delicious and varied cuisine
- Traffic congestion can be challenging
- Street infrastructure may be lacking in some areas
- Weather can be hot and humid
- "Akwaaba" - Welcome
- "Medasi" - Thank you
- "Yɛyɛ" - We are fine
- "Me pɛ sɛ me kɔ" - I want to go
- "Nana" - Grandparent/Respectful title
Places to Visit in Accra
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning memorial surrounded by beautiful gardens, ideal for capturing historical architecture.
An excellent location for sunset photography, with vibrant beach scenes and local activities.
A significant historical site offering dramatic views and a rich backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Accra
Accra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in a rich tomato sauce, often served with chicken or fish.
Must-Try!
A starchy side made from cassava and plantains, typically served with a variety of soups.
Spicy fried plantains seasoned with ginger and pepper, a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market filled with fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.
A lively night market where you can sample a variety of street foods, from grilled meats to traditional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, often followed by a snap of the fingers; greetings are important in social interactions.
Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in rural areas and during visits to religious sites.
Showing respect to elders is a cultural norm, often done through language and gestures.
Safety
Tipping in Accra
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, usually around 10-15% of the bill if service isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in larger establishments; ATMs are available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Be prepared for heavy rains, particularly in June and July, which can disrupt travel plans.
This season brings cooler temperatures and dusty winds from the Sahara, creating hazy skies.
A lively time with numerous festivals and celebrations, perfect for experiencing the local culture.
Accra at Night
Hiking in Accra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 30 km from Accra, these mountains offer scenic trails with lush vegetation and stunning views.
A short drive from Accra, this reserve offers hiking trails through savannah and rocky terrain, with opportunities to see wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Accra by plane.
The main international airport serving Accra, located about 10 km from the city center, providing connections to major cities worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the major ethnic groups in Ghana, known for their rich traditions and cultural practices, particularly in the Volta Region.
The largest ethnic group in Ghana, encompassing various sub-groups, including the Ashanti and Fante, with significant influence on the country's culture and politics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ghana, with many local teams and a passionate fanbase, and matches attract large crowds.
Ghana has a rich boxing heritage, producing several world champions, and boxing matches are popular events in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Accra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, but it's advisable to ask for no meat or fish.
While traditional Ghanaian dishes are largely gluten-free, it's essential to confirm with the vendor or chef.