Things to do in Addis Ababa

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Chris Thompson
Photo by Chris Thompson
Photo by Marion MacQueen
Photo by Marion MacQueen
Photo by Travelholic Path
Photo by Travelholic Path
Photo by Discover Near and Far
Photo by Discover Near and Far
Photo by Travelholic Path
Photo by Travelholic Path

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 183 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.

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Most popular activities in Addis Ababa

Tours & day trips

See all 180 activities
2 Day Lalibela Tours

2 Day Lalibela Tours

Activity duration is 2 days
Free cancellation available
Price is $300 per adult
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Wildlife & nature

See all 14 activities
Addis Ababa: Monasteries, Wildlife, & Hike Day Trip

Addis Ababa: Monasteries, Wildlife, & Hike Day Trip

Activity duration is 7 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $140 per adult*
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 11 activities
3 Days Dankile Depression group Tours

3 Days Dankile Depression group Tours

Activity duration is 3 days
Free cancellation available
Price is $450 per adult
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Shopping & fashion

See all 6 activities
Addis Ababa City Tour

Addis Ababa City Tour

Activity duration is 7 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $80 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 3 activities
Ethiopian Cooking Class and Coffee Ceremony with a Local in Addis with tran...

Ethiopian Cooking Class and Coffee Ceremony with a Local in Addis with tran...

Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $226 per adult*
Ethiopian Cooking Class and Coffee Ceremony with a Local in Addis with tran...Opens in new tab

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!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Addis Ababa

Holy Trinity Church is a well known sight in Addis Ababa and arguably one the most important churches in Ethiopia. You can entered the church and pictures are allowed but you'll need to leave your shoes at the door. The middle door is considered the men's entrance and the one to the far right the woman's. Don't forget to take a walk behind the church to see the site of the old round church and this colorful gate.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

4.5/5(64 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Addis Ababa with a trip to Holy Trinity Cathedral. Discover the art scene and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Holy Trinity Cathedral
Ethiopian espresso! Always time for a lil macchiato in a #red room.

Addis Merkato

4/5(28 reviews)

You can enjoy retail therapy at Addis Merkato during your visit to Addis Ababa. Discover the art scene and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Addis Merkato
I was driving up the steep hill just out of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to visit the Christian churches at the top. There were many women bowed over by their heavy loads of sticks going down to sell their wood. One of the many reminders of how tough life can be for many women around the world. #ontheroad

Entoto Maryam Church

3.5/5(10 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Addis Ababa with a stop at Entoto Maryam Church. While in the area, you can find time to visit its spas.

Entoto Maryam Church

African Union Headquarters

4.5/5(39 reviews)

African Union Headquarters is just one of the places to see in Addis Ababa, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the mountain views and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

African Union Headquarters

Edna Mall

4/5(84 reviews)

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Edna Mall during your stay in Addis Ababa. Visit the area's spas, or simply enjoy its bars.

Edna Mall

U.S. Embassy

4/5(28 reviews)

After visiting U.S. Embassy, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Addis Ababa. Take some time to visit the spas in this culturally rich area.

U.S. Embassy

National Museum of Ethiopia

4.5/5(71 reviews)

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at National Museum of Ethiopia during your trip to Addis Ababa. Discover the museums and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

National Museum of Ethiopia

Addis Ababa Stadium

4/5(29 reviews)

Catch an event at Addis Ababa Stadium during your trip to Addis Ababa. Take in the art scene and mountain views in this culturally rich area.

Addis Ababa Stadium

Medhane Alem Church

4.5/5(25 reviews)

Find out about the history of Addis Ababa when you spend time at Medhane Alem Church. Visit the area's spas, or simply enjoy its bars.

Medhane Alem Church

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Addis Ababa

Going home for Christmas!!!!

Bole

4/5(258 area reviews)

Unique features of Bole include the spas and bars. Make a stop by Medhane Alem Church or Edna Mall while you're exploring the area.

Bole
Beautiful spiral today in my hot chocolate. Made with chocolate syrup oftwn used for Ice Cream. Turns out, it tastes better in a hot chocolate! #LifeAtExpedia #patterns #nofilter

Kirkos

3.5/5(59 area reviews)

You'll enjoy the mountain views and museums in Kirkos. You might want to make time for a stop at Meskel Square or Addis Ababa Stadium.

Kirkos
Beautiful spiral today in my hot chocolate. Made with chocolate syrup oftwn used for Ice Cream. Turns out, it tastes better in a hot chocolate! #LifeAtExpedia #patterns #nofilter

Kazanchis

While visiting Kazanchis, you might make a stop by sights like ECA Conference Center and Africa Hall.

Kazanchis
Default Image

Yeka

3.5/5(25 area reviews)

Yeka is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Shola Market and Zefmesh Grand Mall.

Yeka
Go to any Ethiopian restaurant across the country and ask for a beyayenetu aka fasting platter... so many flavours in one meal 😋 I learnt that for almost 200 days of the year, people across Ethiopia fast - which basically means they eat no animal products. Vegans

Nifas Silk-Lafto

5/5(4 area reviews)

Travelers like the art galleries in Nifas Silk-Lafto, and Zoma Museum is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Nifas Silk-Lafto
Outside the St. George Church in Addis on festival day a large number of vendors are selling colorful umbrellas. #LifeAtExpedia

Piazza

2.5/5(5 area reviews)

Piazza is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like National Museum of Ethiopia and St. George's Cathedral.

Piazza
See our Where To Stay guide

 

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

Photo by Discover Near and Far

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.