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Ethiopia Ethiopia

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is Ethiopia's capital and largest city, home to the headquarters of the African Union and numerous other international organizations. This has earned it a reputation as the political center of the African continent.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Addis Ababa
Gateway airport
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
Best season
Oct–Mar
Time zone
Africa/Addis_Ababa
Sights covered
29 places

Sights worth seeing

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National Museum of Ethiopia

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Ethiopia

This national museum is located in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, near the graduate school of Addis Ababa University. It's a great place in the city center to explore the country's heritage.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa is the highest-ranking cathedral of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Built to commemorate the victory over Italian occupation, it offers a window into Ethiopia's history.

St. George's Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St. George's Cathedral

An Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral at the northern end of Churchill Road in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Its distinctive octagonal structure makes it a striking place to admire the architecture.

Mount Entoto

Nature

Mount Entoto

The highest peak of the Entoto range overlooking Addis Ababa, rising to about 3,200 meters. It's a scenic spot offering sweeping views of the entire city.

Meskel Square

Parks & gardens

Meskel Square

Meskel Square is a plaza in downtown Addis Ababa where Ethiopian Orthodox events and festivals are frequently held. Visiting during the Meskel Festival in particular lets you experience the local atmosphere at its liveliest.

Addis Mercato

Shopping & districts

Addis Mercato

Addis Mercato is a large open-air market in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa. Its lively atmosphere and wide range of goods make it a great place to soak up the local vibe.

"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

Museums & galleries

"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

This museum opened in 2010 to honor those who lost their lives during the "Red Terror" under the Derg regime. It displays torture instruments, remains, and photographs of victims, and free guided tours offer a detailed account of that history.

Yekatit 12 monument

Heritage & monuments

Yekatit 12 monument

This obelisk monument stands at the center of the roundabout in Siddist Kilo Square in Addis Ababa. It was erected to honor the victims of the Italian occupation.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

15° Jan
16° Feb
16° Mar
16° Apr
16° May
15° Jun
14° Jul
14° Aug
14° Sep
14° Oct
14° Nov
14° Dec

Getting there

Check flights to Addis Ababa first

Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD).

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Getting around the city

Book transport

Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

Addis Ababa Tours & Experiences Booking

Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.

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Local data

Get an eSIM for Ethiopia before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Where to stay

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