Book flights to Addis Ababa (ADD)

Book your visit to Addis Ababa

An enchanting city full of colour, history and wonder, Addis Ababa is a fabulous introduction to the culture and personality of Ethiopia. While the city itself is relatively new, Ethiopia is regarded as the cradle of humanity and the area around Addis Ababa has been settled for thousands of years.

Today’s metropolis is a busy, bustling city, filled with lively markets, sleek new shopping malls and retail districts, and excellent restaurants serving delicious food. It’s an affordable travel destination for adventurers who want to experience North Africa, but also works as an enjoyable city break destination for a long weekend with a difference. With museums, parks and palaces as well as mountains and hiking trails, there’s plenty to discover in Addis Ababa too.

Things to do in Addis Ababa

Once you’ve snapped a picture of the symbol of the city, Menelik, the Lion of Judah statue, it’s time to explore the rest of the city’s attractions. Addis Ababa has a fine selection of museums including the National Museum, with one of the most important collections of artefacts in Sub-Saharan Africa. Here you can meet ‘Lucy’, the world’s oldest hominid.

A taxi ride up to Entoto Mountain gives you some magnificent panoramic views of the capital and the surrounding lush landscape.

Embrace the culture of Abyssinian heritage with an evening of music and dance, but don’t expect to be a mere spectator, there’s a good chance you’ll be joining in with the celebrations!

Visit the splendour of Emperor Menelik II’s palace in Unity Park, including his throne room and banquet hall.

Activities in Addis Ababa

Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia, so taking part in a coffee ceremony is a must while you’re here. It’s a lengthy ritual, but the results are well worth the wait.

Addis Ababa is home to the Hager Fikir Theatre, the oldest in Ethiopia. A performance introduces you to the culture and music of the country and is not to be missed.

If you’re a keen golfer, the Addis Ababa Golf Club has a superb 18-hole course with some of the best backdrops in the country. The club also has an excellent restaurant after you’ve sunk that final putt on the 18th.

Horse racing is popular in Ethiopia, so a day at the Jan Meda Race Ground is an exciting diversion. The venue also holds other events including concerts.

Entoto Mountain is crisscrossed with hiking trails, with magnificent views around every corner.

Food in Addis Ababa

Almost every meal in Ethiopia includes the national dish of injera, a flatbread with a unique spongy texture. It’s ideal for mopping up some delicious juices from a stew such as spicy chicken Doro Wat. A popular meal is Fit-fit, which is shredded injera mixed with spices, meat and vegetables.

Don’t be surprised to see raw beef on the menu, as it’s been eaten in Ethiopia for hundreds of years. Usually served with a fiercely spicy sauce, some lime juice and of course, injera - it’s a unique dining experience.

Throughout Addis Ababa, you will also find plenty of international restaurants serving Asian, Turkish and European cuisine, as well as plenty of street vendors selling hot snacks like spicy sambusas, kolo (a bag of roasted barley or corn), and fresh fruit juices.

Shopping in Addis Ababa

Shopping in the city is a mix of a mix of traditional markets, modern malls, and boutiques. Merkato is reported to be the largest market in Africa where you can buy everything from spices to souvenirs, clothing and electronics, all surrounded by a bustling crowd.

If you prefer it a little less busy, Shola Market is a great alternative with handmade crafts and fresh fruit, while Chiromeda Market is famous for its authentic Ethiopian textiles. Be prepared to haggle, it’s part of the shopping experience in Addis Ababa!

The city has plenty of malls too, including Edna Mall and Dembel City Center, for a mix of stores, dining and entertainment.

Throughout the city you’ll find plenty of galleries selling work by local artists, as well as jewellery and traditional Ethiopian crafts.