Photo coming — National Museum of Ethiopia
National Museum of Ethiopia
Lucy (Australopithecus) and 3 million years of history.
Guides › Addis Ababa
Things to do in Addis Ababa: the local short list
Africa's diplomatic capital at 2,355 m: museums of deep history, the continent's biggest market, and coffee culture at its source.
Photo coming — Holy Trinity Cathedral
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Haile Selassie's cathedral; stained glass and royal tombs.
Photo coming — Addis Mercato
Addis Mercato
The continent's largest open market; go with a guide.
Photo coming — Entoto Hill
Entoto Hill
Panoramic views, St Mary's church, eucalyptus air.
Photo coming — Unity Park
Unity Park
Palace, zoo and gardens; book ahead.
Photo coming — Ethnological Museum
Ethnological Museum
Inside Haile Selassie's palace; superb crafts collection.
Photo coming — Red Terror Martyrs Memorial
Red Terror Martyrs Memorial
Moving museum of the Derg years.
Photo coming — Traditional coffee ceremony
Traditional coffee ceremony
Jebena-brewed buna; Tomoca (Piassa) is the classic roastery café.
Planning the trip?
Primary airport: Addis Ababa ADD (Bole International), ~8 km southeast of the centre. Taxis ~20 min; the airport is Ethiopian Airlines' mega-hub. Fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) — see the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport airport guide for terminals, real transport prices and layover itineraries.
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Good to know
What airport serves Addis Ababa?
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Primary airport: Addis Ababa ADD (Bole International), ~8 km southeast of the centre. Taxis ~20 min; the airport is Ethiopian Airlines' mega-hub.
What is Addis Ababa known for?
Africa's diplomatic capital at 2,355 m: museums of deep history, the continent's biggest market, and coffee culture at its source.
What sport does Addis Ababa live for?
Football and the world's greatest distance-running culture. Football: Saint George SC ('the Horsemen') dominate the Ethiopian Premier League at Addis Ababa Stadium. Running: Addis sits at 2,355 m; the Great Ethiopian Run (Nov, ~40,000 runners) is Africa's biggest road race. Morning training groups on Entoto are open to visitors.
When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?
Check the festival calendar above — timing a trip around the town's big festivals is the insider move.
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