Addis Ababa

Visit the National Museum

Explore several museums to suit your interests. For a moving experience, check out the Museum of the Martyrs (Red Terror Museum), which pays tribute to the victims of the Marxist Derg regime. Or, head to the National Museum of Ethiopia, widely regarded as the city's best museum. The museum boasts a rich collection of artistic, historical, and archaeological exhibits, including Lucy, the famous skeleton of Australopithecus, and our oldest hominid ancestor.

Don't Miss St. Mary Church of Entoto

Visit the stunning St. Mary Church of Entoto, located at an elevation of 3,200m. Take a scenic drive up the hill to reach the church, which hosted Menelik's coronation. Nearby, you'll find Menelik's modest palace and stunning views of the city.

Beata Maryam Church: Embrace the Echoes of History, Experience the Majesty of Faith.

Nestled in the heart of Addis Ababa stands Beata Maryam Church, a timeless tribute to Ethiopia's rich and regal heritage. Built-in 1911 by Empress Zewditu, this awe-inspiring structure captures the essence of Ethiopian architecture and resonates with the nation's soul. A mere glimpse of its four Axumite-style colonnaded arches that grace each exterior wall, and the intricately carved lions guarding the entrance, will transport you to a realm of profound beauty. Inside, your eyes will be drawn to a series of mesmerizing murals, each a vivid canvas of important events in Ethiopian history.

These artworks tell stories of faith, royalty, struggle, and triumph, each intricately woven into the very fabric of the nation's identity. The grandeur extends into the mysterious subterranean realm, where a dimly lit staircase leads to the hauntingly beautiful Menelik II Mausoleum. Here, etched in carved marble, rests the tomb of Addis Ababa's founder, Menelik II, flanked by his beloved family and eminent figures.

Beata Maryam Church is not just a monument but an enduring symbol of Ethiopian culture and faith. Whether a pilgrim seeking spiritual solace or a traveler thirsting for historical knowledge, this magnificent edifice invites you to explore, discover, and connect with a legacy that transcends time and space. Come, walk the hallowed halls of Beata Maryam Church, where history lives, and legends breathe.

Kidus Raguel-: Where History Whispers and Beauty Resonates

Nestled just a short distance west of Entoto Maryam, the historical Kidus Raguel Church stands as a timeless sentinel of Ethiopia's rich past. Founded by Menelik II in the 1880s, it is considered the oldest extant church in the immediate vicinity of Addis Ababa. With its handsome whitewashed octagonal structure adorned by a domed roof and a charming wooden balcony, Kidus Raguel is a masterful blend of tradition and artistry. Step inside, and the atmospheric interior will captivate you with its elaborate and well-preserved paintings dating back to the late 19th century. Near the main building, the remnants of the original Kidus Raguel whisper tales from the 12th or 13th century, its rock-hewn structure partially destroyed but holding a solemn grace.

Just 200 meters away from Kidus Raguel, another historical marvel awaits you: the impressive remains of a lha pentagonal fort. Standing strong with a 520-meter stone perimeter wall reaching up to 5 meters high in parts, this majestic ruin once boasted a dozen towers. Thought to date back to around 1515, the fort's enigmatic design and significant stature stir intrigue and speculation. Some believe it may have been a part of the mysterious medieval city of Barara. Even if not, its commanding presence among recently rediscovered ruins serves as compelling evidence of Entoto's importance as an imperial power center in medieval times. The fort silently invites you to explore its history, unravel its mysteries, and connect with a past that shaped the nation.

Indulge in Coffee

Savor premium quality Arabica coffee, discovered by an Ethiopian goat herder in the Kaffa region around the 6th century. Try Kaldi's, a chain modeled on Starbucks, or experience the local favorite, Moye Coffee.

Explore Merkato

Discover the largest open-air market in Africa, Addis Merkato. This giant sprawling market offers everything from electronics to imported clothes. While security is sound, be mindful of pickpockets and avoid carrying unnecessary belongings.

Visit the Grand Palace of Menelik or Unity Park

Unity Park, also known as the Grand Palace of Menelik, is a historic and vibrant symbol of Ethiopia's diverse culture and rich heritage. This resplendent park, situated in the heart of Addis Ababa, is a transformation of the Ethiopian palace compound which boasts over a century of imperial history.

With its refurbished palaces, lush gardens, zoos, and fascinating exhibitions, Unity Park is a kaleidoscope of Ethiopia's past, present, and future. As you saunter through the elegantly restored Menelik Palace, you can relive the grandeur of Ethiopian royalty while learning about the nation's history.

Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens filled with endemic plants and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the capital city. Witness the menagerie of indigenous Ethiopian fauna in the park's zoo, including lions, monkeys, and various bird species.

As for activities, visitors can engage in educational tours, bird-watching, photography, and picnicking. You can also indulge in Ethiopian coffee culture at one of the park's stylish cafes.

Enjoy a Night Out at African Jazz Village or Fendika Cultural Center

For an unforgettable night out, head to the African Jazz Village. This premier jazz location features Ethio jazz, and followers of the genre gather at the cozy circular auditorium on Wednesdays and most weekends. Fendika Cultural Center is also a great spot to experience Ethiopian culture and music.

Indulge in some 'Tej'

Tej (or Ethiopian honey wine) could be the oldest alcoholic beverage in Ethiopian history, with early records of the drink dating over 1,000 years.

Often made at home or “Tej bet”, Tej is a honey wine flavoured with indigenous herbs much like hops, and could easily be mistaken for orange juice on account of its hue and slight viscosity.

Just don't start drinking it in the afternoon, you might just lose the rest of your day…

Don't leave without trying the 'Shiro'

Shiro is a delicious stew whose primary ingredient is powdered chickpeas or broad beans combined with special herbs and spices. Depending on the region, the stew is complimented with a whole host of additional spices ranging from chili peppers to ground ginger.

It is typically served atop injera, a large sourdough flatbread, which is produced with teff, a local gluten-free millet.

Shiro is perhaps the most nourishing, ubiquitous and affordable dish in Ethiopia and is pretty much found in every restaurant in Addis. Our recommendation? Head over to Tikus Shiro, where they serve some of the best in town.