Flights to Addis Ababa

From the airport

Taxis and ride-hailing cars reach the centre in about 20 minutes outside rush hour, and many hotels offer free transfers. Bole, the district around the airport, is full of hotels, restaurants and cafés. A light rail system crosses the city, though taxis are easier for visitors, and traffic can be heavy at peak times, so allow extra time for airport runs.

Museums, cathedrals and history

The National Museum displays a cast of Lucy, the famous 3.2-million-year-old skeleton, alongside royal treasures. Holy Trinity Cathedral holds the tomb of Emperor Haile Selassie, and the Ethnological Museum, in his former palace on the university campus, explores Ethiopia's many cultures. Unity Park, in the grounds of the Grand Palace, opens up former royal buildings and gardens to visitors.

Markets, coffee and food

Merkato is one of the largest open-air markets in Africa, a maze of stalls selling spices, baskets and almost everything else. Coffee is central to life here, from traditional ceremonies to modern cafés. Try injera, a spongy flatbread served with spicy stews, and evenings with live music and dance in traditional restaurants. Many Ethiopians fast from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays, so menus offer plenty of vegetarian dishes made with lentils, chickpeas and greens.

When to plan your visit

At around 2,350 m, Addis has spring-like weather much of the year, though nights are cool. October to March is drier, while June to September brings heavy afternoon rain. Meskel celebrations in September fill Meskel Square with bonfires and processions. Mount Entoto, on the northern edge, offers forest walks and views across the city, and a day or two is enough to see the main sights before flying on.

Heading on to Harar or the Rift Valley? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll add your onward flights.