Best of Addis Ababa City Tour
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Best of Addis Ababa City Tour

Active
(9 reviews)
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the vibrant heart of Addis Ababa with an expertly guided tour, featuring the city's most iconic landmarks. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia and see Lucy, the famous fossil that revolutionized our understanding of human origins. Discover the stunning Holy Trinity Cathedral, an architectural gem that holds deep spiritual significance.

Take in the breathtaking views from Mount Entoto, offering a panoramic perspective of the city. Immerse yourself in the bustling traditional markets and experience local culture, then head to Merkato Market, Africa’s largest open-air market, for a truly authentic experience.

With a knowledgeable guide to bring each location to life, this tour is the perfect way to experience Addis Ababa’s history, culture, and vibrancy. Don’t miss out—book today for an experience you won’t forget!

Available options

Best of Addis Ababa City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Ethiopian Coffee
Pick up and drop off
Admission fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The National Museum of Ethiopia is one of the country's most important cultural institutions. Located in Addis Ababa, it showcases Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and art. The museum is especially famous for its archaeological and anthropological collections, offering visitors a deep dive into Ethiopia’s past.

Lucy (Dinkinesh) – The museum’s most famous exhibit is the fossil of Australopithecus afarensis, a hominid that lived around 3.2 million years ago. This fossil, nicknamed "Lucy," is one of the oldest and most complete hominid skeletons ever discovered.

2
Stop 2

The Holy Trinity Cathedral (also known as Kidane Meheret in Amharic) is one of the most important and majestic churches in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It's not only an iconic religious site but also a significant historical landmark that draws both locals and tourists alike.

Tomb of Emperor Haile Selassie: The cathedral is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie, one of the most significant leaders in Ethiopian history. His tomb, along with the graves of other members of the royal family, is located inside the cathedral complex. It's a place of respect and reflection for those who visit.

3
Stop 3

Mount Entoto is one of the most iconic and historical mountains in Ethiopia, offering both a stunning natural landscape and significant cultural heritage. Located just 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Addis Ababa, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the capital and the surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

4

Shiro Meda Market is a bustling and vibrant market located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It’s one of the city's most popular destinations for traditional Ethiopian clothing and handmade textiles, particularly the famous "habesha kemis" (traditional Ethiopian dresses) and shawls.

5
Stop 5

Tomoca Coffee is one of Ethiopia's most famous and beloved coffee brands, especially in Addis Ababa. Known for its rich history and exceptional coffee beans, Tomoca has been serving some of the finest Ethiopian coffee for decades. It’s a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts looking to experience the depth of Ethiopia’s coffee culture.

6

Merkato is often considered Africa’s largest open-air market, covering a vast area of more than 1 square kilometer. It’s an overwhelming, fast-paced, and colorful place, where thousands of vendors sell a wide range of goods. From foodstuffs and spices to electronics, clothing, and handmade crafts.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Meskel Square is named after the Meskel Festival, one of the most important religious celebrations in Ethiopia, particularly among the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The festival commemorates the finding of the True Cross by Queen Helena in the 4th century.

8

The Lion of Judah is a historic and symbolic figure in Ethiopian culture, closely associated with the Solomonic Dynasty, which ruled Ethiopia for over 700 years. According to Ethiopian tradition, the Solomonic rulers are descendants of the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

What's not included

Lunch
Personal Needs and Gratitude

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
9 reviews
5★
9
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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

Adults
Age 7-8
1
Childs
Age 3-4
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook