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Attractions

There is plenty to see and do in Addis Ababa - but the journey to the attractions is frequently more interesting than the sights themselves. This is particularly the case should you choose to walk the city and navigate your way to the main museums and buildings yourself. It is probably a good idea to hire a taxi driver for a daily fee and have him drive you around.

You are likely to be offered seats at an alleged 'cultural show' which takes place at a backstreet restaurant or venue. Refuse these offers - they are the opening bid in a classic scam that ends with a thorough fleecing of their tourist victims. If you do wish to see traditional dancing and music simply dine at any decent and reputable restaurant where such attractions are provided free.

As for Addis Ababa's mainstream attractions, don't miss paying Lucy a visit at the National Museum, doing a bit of shopping at the Merkato - largest market in Africa, and seeing the wonderful cultural artefacts in the Ethnological Museum and relics of the early city in the Addis Ababa Museum. Its also worth keeping your eyes open for the numerous concrete Soviet statues and buildings that dot the city. The most overrated attraction in town is the Zoo - avoid it unless drawn to macabre sights.

There is a good tourist information booth off Meskel Square if you need some impartial advice or want a reliable tour guide.

Mercato

The Mercato is the largest outdoor market in Africa and Addis' most colourful sight. There are tinkers, tailors, spice merchants, camel traders, and purveyors of just about every possible commodity under the sun - including, of course, wonderful Ethiopian coffee. Needless to say, it...  see full details

National Museum

The museum has a varied range of exhibits across three floors covering a wide scope of Ethiopian history. The most famous exhibit is the replica statue of Lucy, at 3.18 million years old, the oldest hominid skeleton ever found. The fragile original skeleton is...  see full details

St George Cathedral

St George Cathedral was founded by the great Emperor Menelik to commemorate his 1896 victory over the invading Italian army. The outer walls of the building are covered in wonderful artwork and mosaics, including work by Afewerk Tekle. Inside beautiful stained glass windows enhance...  see full details