Luxury Addis Day: Palaces, Heritage, Authentic Flavors and Jazz
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience Addis Ababa in ultimate style and comfort. Your professional driver and expert guide will greet you in a state-of-the-art, luxury Toyota Land Cruiser VXR upon arrival at your Addis Ababa location or Bole International Airport, ensuring unparalleled service.
Our standard full-day tour includes iconic sights such as the National Museum of Ethiopia, Holy Trinity Cathedral, the bustling Mercato Market (or Sholla Market), a coffee experience at oldest Tomoca Coffee Shop, Entoto Maryam Church, and concludes with a vibrant live jazz night experience at Fendika.
Alternatively, choose our Imperial Addis Ababa City Tour, skipping the standard itinerary for visits to the Adwa Victory Museum, Unity Park (within the former palace grounds), and the newly renovated National Palace (formerly Jubilee Palace).
Regardless of your stay's length, this is the definitive way to discover Addis Ababa's allure. Book your exclusive tour with Tanian Ethiopia Tours for an extraordinary adventure.
Available options
Day trip experience of Addis Ababa I Tanian
Pickup included
Imperial Addis Ababa
New face Of Addis Ababa: Visit Adwa Victory Museum, Unity Park & to the newly renovated National Palace (formerly Jubilee Palace)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Admission fee
Government Fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Ethiopian Traditional coffee Ceremony and oldest Tomoca cafe experience
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover the cradle of humanity at the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the world-renowned "Lucy" skeleton. This must-visit museum showcases a vast collection of ancient artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage.
2
Stop 2
Holy Trinity Cathedral, a magnificent structure nestled in the heart of Addis Ababa, stands as a testament to Ethiopia's deep-rooted Christian faith. As the second-most important place of worship in the country, after the Old Church of St. Mary of Zion in Aksum, the cathedral holds a special place in the hearts of Ethiopians.
3
Nestled in the heart of Addis Ababa, Mercato Market is a bustling hub of activity that offers a glimpse into the vibrant Ethiopian culture. This sprawling marketplace, one of the largest in Africa, is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an authentic Ethiopian experience.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Meskel Square, smack in the middle of Addis Ababa, isn’t just concrete and space—it’s where the city breathes. Every September, thousands pack in for Meskel Festival, lighting bonfires and chanting under smoky skies to celebrate the True Cross. But it’s not all ancient tradition: protests erupt here, concerts blast through the night, and daily life swirls around its edges. It’s messy, loud, and unapologetically alive—a place where Ethiopia’s past and present collide.
5
Stop 5
Tomoca Coffee House: Experience the rich heritage of Ethiopian coffee at Tomoca, one of the oldest coffee shops in Addis Ababa. Enjoy freshly brewed traditional coffee or indulge in a modern espresso, prepared with the finest locally sourced beans.
6
Stop 6
Entoto Maryam Church: Begin your day with a visit to the historic Entoto Maryam Church, situated on the scenic Entoto Hills. Enjoy the panoramic views of Addis Ababa while exploring this significant church with its traditional Ethiopian Orthodox architecture and historical importance, including its connection to Emperor Menelik II.
7
Stop 7
Live Ethiopian Jazz at Hyatt Regency Fendika: Experience the vibrant contemporary Ethiopian music scene by enjoying a live Ethiopian jazz performance at the new location of Fendika, now situated within the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa. Immerse yourself in the unique rhythms and melodies of Ethiopian jazz, providing a perfect end to your day of exploration.
What's not included
Please note: meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner are not included in this tour experience.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.
Top Attractions
Entoto Mountain
A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Addis Ababa Museum
A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)
Mercato
One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.
Market
Half day
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
St. George's Cathedral
A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.
Staple
Vegan
Tibs
Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Shiro
A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.
Stew
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Entoto Mountain
Boating in Lake Bishoftu
Coffee ceremony
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
N/A
Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Best Time to Visit
October to June
This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F)
54°F to 79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Oromo
- English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus
Addis Ababa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza District
Bole District
Mercato District
Day trips
Debre Berhan
130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day
A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.
Lake Bishoftu
40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day
A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.
Festivals
Timket (Epiphany) • January 19
Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
- Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
- Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
- Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
