Living in Addis
Things to Do in Addis Ababa
A plan for a free day or a weekend in the city, for you and your visitors.
People who live in Addis Ababa often say they never see the city. The week goes to work, school and traffic. This page is a plan for a free day or a weekend: the museums and landmarks of the north, the parks, a long lunch and an evening out.
The plan follows the map. The north of the city, around Entoto, Sidist Kilo, Arat Kilo and Piassa, has the oldest landmarks and most of the museums. The centre has the large parks and Meskel Square. Bole, in the south-east, has the most restaurants, cafes and nightlife.
Start early. The morning is the clearest time for the view from Entoto, and the museums are quiet. Check the hours and the entry fee of each place before you go, because many close on one day of the week.
A day in the city
Morning
History and the view
Start in the north while the air is clear. See a landmark, then a museum before it gets busy.
Lunch
A long lunch
Share a big plate of injera with friends, or try one of the other cuisines of the city.
A weekend
Saturday evening
Dinner out
Book a table for a group. Some restaurants have a music and dance show.
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Addis Ababa?
Visit the National Museum to see Lucy, walk around Piassa and St George's Cathedral, see the view from Entoto, spend an afternoon in a city park, eat a traditional meal and hear live music in the evening. This page groups places into a plan for a day and for a weekend.
What can I do in Addis Ababa at the weekend?
On Saturday, see a museum or a landmark in the morning, have a long lunch and spend the afternoon in a park. On Sunday, go to a resort near the city for the day, or take it slowly with brunch and a spa. The plan on this page shows places for each part of the weekend.
What can I do in Addis Ababa when it rains?
The rainy season runs from June to September, with rain most afternoons. Plan outdoor visits for the morning and keep museums, cinemas, malls, cafes and spas for the afternoon.
More of Living in Addis
- Living in Addis AbabaEvery theme, with ideas for the week and the places near each area.
- Restaurants in Addis AbabaWhere to eat in the city, by area and by cuisine, with hours and prices where the restaurant publishes them.
- Places to Visit in Addis AbabaChurches, monuments, squares and viewpoints, by area.