Addis Ababa City Tours Culture History & Culinary Delights

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. National Museum of Ethiopia

   The National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa, is a treasure trove of Ethiopia's rich cultural and historical heritage. Renowned for its world class collection, the museum is home to the famous fossil Lucy, a 3.2 million year old Australopithecus afarensis that revolutionized your understanding of human origins. Visitors can explore four main sections: paleontology and prehistory, history, ethnography, and modern art, each offering a unique glimpse into Ethiopia's past and present. Highlights include ancient artifacts from the Aksumite Empire, royal memorabilia from Emperor Haile Selassie, and vibrant Ethiopian art spanning centuries. The museum also features fascinating exhibits of extinct creatures, such as the saber toothed feline Homotherium. With its diverse displays, the National Museum provides an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's natural and cultural legacy.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

2. Entoto Natural Park

   Entoto Natural Park is a breathtaking natural retreat located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Entoto in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Covering an expansive 1,300 hectares, the park sits at an altitude between 2,600 and 3,100 meters, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the city below. Visitors can explore lush forests, meandering streams, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park features cafeterias, restaurants, an art center, an amphitheater, and even free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience for guests. Additionally, it has five entrances, four public and one VIP, allowing easy access from different parts of the city.

   90 minutes here · Admission included

3. Holy Trinity Cathedral

   Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Kidist Selassie, is one of the most significant religious sites in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Built in 1942, it serves as the highest ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in the country. The cathedral was constructed to commemorate Ethiopia’s victory over Italian occupation and stands as a symbol of national pride and resilience. Inside, the cathedral houses the tombs of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen Asfaw, along with other members of the imperial family. The crypts and monuments within the compound also serve as a resting place for Ethiopian patriots who fought against Italian occupation. Additionally, the cathedral is home to the Holy Trinity Theological College, a museum, and a monastery, making it a center for religious and cultural learning.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

4. Mercato Market

   Mercato Market, also known as Addis Mercato, is the largest open air market in Africa, located in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Covering several square miles, it is a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and daily life, employing an estimated 13,000 people across 7,100 business entities. Originally established during the Italian occupation in the 1930s, Mercato has grown into a chaotic yet fascinating marketplace where visitors can find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles, electronics, and handcrafted goods. The market is particularly famous for its coffee trade, as Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee and one of the world's leading producers.

   90 minutes here · Admission included

5. Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum

   The Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of the Red Terror campaign carried out by the Derg regime between 1977 and 1978. Established in 2010, the museum is located near Meskel Square, a historically significant site in the city. Inside, visitors encounter powerful exhibits that include torture instruments, photographs of victims, blood-stained clothing, and human remains, all of which bear witness to the atrocities committed during this dark period. The museum also features a bronze statue at its entrance, depicting three crying girls, symbolizing the suffering endured by countless Ethiopians. The phrase "Never again" is inscribed in both English and Amharic, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

6. Meskel Square

   Meskel Square is a historic and cultural landmark in the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It serves as a major public gathering space, hosting religious celebrations, political rallies, concerts, and national events throughout the year. The square derives its name from the Meskel Festival, an annual Ethiopian Orthodox celebration commemorating the discovery of the True Cross. During this festival, thousands gather to witness the lighting of the Demera bonfire, a tradition that dates back centuries

   60 minutes here · Admission included

7. Tomoca Coffee is one of Addis Ababa’s most iconic coffee establishments, renowned for its rich Ethiopian coffee heritage. Founded in 1953, Tomoca was the first commercial coffee roaster in Ethiopia, pioneering the art of high quality Arabica coffee roasting. The branch near Laghar train station offers a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy expertly brewed coffee. The café is known for its strong, flavorful espresso and traditional Ethiopian coffee, often served in small cups that highlight the bold taste and aroma. The ambiance is simple yet inviting, with a steady flow of customers stopping by for a quick caffeine fix or a moment of relaxation.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

8. Ethnological Museum

   The Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a fascinating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. Located within the Addis Ababa University campus, the museum is housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, adding a layer of historical significance to its setting. Established in 1955, the museum features an extensive collection of over 13,000 artifacts, including religious manuscripts, ceremonial items, paintings, and intricately embroidered robes. Visitors can explore exhibits on anthropology, ethnomusicology, philately, and numismatics, offering a deep dive into Ethiopia’s diverse traditions and artistic expressions.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

Best Ethiopian Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos

Traveler reviews

5 verified traveler reviews for Addis Ababa City Tours Culture History & Culinary Delights. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.