Best of Addis Ababa History and Culture City Tour
Active
6h - 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 Ethiopia's Capital City
Addis Ababa with Expert Guide
• Visit Important Historical, Religious
and Cultural Sites
• All Entry fees are included
• Travel in the Comfort of an air-
conditioned Vehicle
Explore Addis Ababa with an expert Guide. Visit historic sites, vibrant markets, and experience traditional coffee ceremonies. Discover rich culture and hidden gems of Ethiopia’s capital city.
As well as you can choose your favorite sights, museums, and churches, I will give you a taste of the "true" Addis Ababa.
Available options
Full Day Addis Ababa City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
In-person Guide: English
Coffee at the end of our tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
In the morning, we'll climb up to Mount Entoto through the eucalyptus trees, and see spectacular views of Addis Ababa from above.
2
Stop 2
While on Mount Entoto, we will also visit Entoto Maryam Church, the original palace of Emperor Menelik II.
3
Stop 3
The Ethnographic Museum at Addis Ababa University is housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie.
4
Stop 4
Here, we will visit the skeleton of one of our oldest hominid ancestors, Lucy, who lived 3.2 million years ago!
5
Stop 5
We will visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important cathedrals in the Ethiopian Orthodox church.
6
Stop 6
After Holy Trinity, we will then visit the crypt of Emperor Menelik, who is buried with his wife and daughter, at the tranquil Bata Miriam church.
7
Stop 7
We will stop briefly by St. George Church on our way to Merkato!
8
Stop 8
We finish the day at the bustling Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa!
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
You can choose anywhere in the city center where you want to meet!
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
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