Things to do in Addis Ababa

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A cityscape with a prominent building with a dome, surrounded by various other buildings and a bridge in the foreground.
A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, green fields, and a large body of water.
A historic church with a large dome, ornate columns, and a bell tower.
A church interior with red drapery, religious paintings, a wooden altar, and floral arrangements.
A rocky riverbed with sparse vegetation and a clear sky.

Addis Ababa Attractions

Addis Ababa has loads to offer. Whether you're seeking adventure or you're hoping to brush up on the local history, it'll take no time to fall in love with this place. With numerous sights to explore in this buzzing capital, we recommend you start planning your to-do list as soon as you can.

Discover the best sights in Addis Ababa with some unique tours & day trips, or try out our list of 512 fun activities in Addis Ababa. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can rest easy and concentrate on planning the ultimate vacation.

Things to do

Entoto natural park

Addis Ababa & Mount Entoto View Point, Museums Palace,Market Tour

$74
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Addis Ababa & Mount Entoto View Point, Museums Palace,Market Tour
Plaza Premium Lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airpor

Plaza Premium Lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport(ADD)

$39
per adult
Plaza Premium Lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport(ADD)
Uncovered Addis Ababa : Culture, History & City View Tour

Experience the Authentic Addis Ababa City tour

$51
per adult
Experience the Authentic Addis Ababa City tour
Addis Ababa: Cultural & Fashion Tour with Coffee Ceremony

Addis Ababa: Culture Fashion & Traditional Coffee Experience

$57
per adult
Addis Ababa: Culture Fashion & Traditional Coffee Experience
Addis Ababa: Night Walk, Dance, and Local Food Experience

Addis Ababa by Night: Ethiopian Food, Culture & Dance

$45
per adult
Addis Ababa by Night: Ethiopian Food, Culture & Dance
3 Days Visiting Lalibela Churches

Lalibela Churches visit 2 night and 3 Days

$45
per adult
Lalibela Churches visit 2 night and 3 Days
Addis Ababa Traditional Nightlife Experience

Addis Ababa Traditional Nightlife Experience

$46
per adult
Addis Ababa Traditional Nightlife Experience
Addis Ababa: City Tour with Souvenir Shopping

Addis Ababa: City Tour with Souvenir Shopping

$46
per adult
Addis Ababa: City Tour with Souvenir Shopping
Picture 3 for Activity Addis Ababa: Walking Tour with Lunch and Coffee

Addis Ababa: Addis Ababa Walking City Tour ( Flexible)

$34
per adult
Addis Ababa: Addis Ababa Walking City Tour ( Flexible)
See all activities in Addis Ababa

What to do in Addis Ababa

Free Things to Do in Addis Ababa

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you explore the following around Addis Ababa:

Addis Ababa University - Appreciate the design and ingenuity of this fantastic example of modern architecture.

World Bank Ethiopia - Get ready to feel like you've taken a step back in time while discovering the secrets of this historic attraction.

Meskel Square - Amble down the sidewalks and get lost in the ambiance of this buzzing area.

Lion of Judah Monument - Dig out your guidebook and discover why this place deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Holy Trinity Cathedral - No matter your religious leanings, this site is sure to inspire a sense of reverence in you.

Things to Do in Addis Ababa with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in Addis Ababa. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that are certain to make your getaway a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Addis Ababa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Addis Ababa attractions

Medhane Alem Church

9.0/10 (162 reviews)
This grand Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral, among Africa's largest churches, features impressive domes and stained glass. Inside, beautiful murals reveal Ethiopia's rich religious traditions and artistic heritage.
See properties

Where to stay in Addis Ababa

Find the best Addis Ababa areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Addis Ababa
Learn more about Addis Ababa
A cityscape with a mix of modern and older buildings, a clear sky, and distant mountains.

Bole

Spas and bars are highlights of Bole. Make a stop by Century Mall or Selam City Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Ayat Station to get around town.

A large building with a green dome and multiple arches.

Kazanchis

If you're spending time in Kazanchis, check out sights like ECA Conference Center or Africa Hall and hop on the metro to see more the city at St. Urael Station or Hayahulet 2 Station.

A historic yellow building with a dome and a bell tower.

Piazza

You might enjoy the restaurants on your visit to Piazza. Visitors recommend a visit to National Museum of Ethiopia, and you can get around town on the metro at Menelik II Square Station.

A modern cityscape with a prominent curved building and a tall skyscraper.

Kirkos

The mountain views and museums are just a few things visitors like about Kirkos. Meskel Square and Addis Ababa Stadium are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Riche Station or Meshwalekya Station to get around the larger area.

A historic church with a large dome, ornate columns, and a bell tower.

Arada

Arada is a destination travelers like for its restaurants, and you might hop aboard the metro at Menelik II Square Station or Atikilt Tera Station to explore sights like National Museum of Ethiopia.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Addis Ababa

A large lake surrounded by lush green hills and a mountain in the distance.

Bishoftu

Frequently asked questions

Is Addis Ababa worth visiting?
Renowned for its history and culture, finding awesome things to do in Addis Ababa is a cinch. Don't forget to add Medhane Alem Church to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Addis Ababa?
When you've checked off major attractions like National Museum of Ethiopia and Lela Gallery, spend the rest of your day exploring Addis Ababa's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Addis Ababa?
The top tourist attraction in Addis Ababa is Medhane Alem Church, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Addis Ababa?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as Medhane Alem Church, National Museum of Ethiopia and Holy Trinity Cathedral. The average stay in Addis Ababa is four days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Bishoftu isn't far away.
Is Addis Ababa a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Addis Ababa, including Medhane Alem Church and National Museum of Ethiopia, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 2 miles from central Addis Ababa is Bole and Kirkos is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Addis Ababa with kids?
Deciding what to do in Addis Ababa with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Addis Ababa for adults?
African Union Headquarters and World Bank Ethiopia are just two of the things to do in Addis Ababa. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Addis Ababa?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Addis Ababa is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can experience without taking your wallet out. Medhane Alem Church is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia