What Are the Main Attractions in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa offers a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Key highlights include the National Museum (home to Lucy), Holy Trinity Cathedral, Mount Entoto for city views, and the bustling Merkato market. Newer additions like Unity Park and Entoto Park provide modern recreational spaces.

Top Addis Ababa Tourist Attractions

1. National Museum of Ethiopia

Home to "Lucy", the famous 3.2-million-year-old hominid skeleton, this museum showcases Ethiopia’s ancient history, royal artifacts, and cultural heritage.

• Location: Near Addis Ababa University
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Entry Fee: ~200 ETB ($3.50)

2. Holy Trinity Cathedral

A stunning example of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture. It’s the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and a deeply spiritual site.

• Location: Arat Kilo area
• Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
• Entry Fee: ~100 ETB ($1.75)

3. Mount Entoto

Escape the city and enjoy panoramic views from this historical mountain. Visit Entoto Maryam Church and see Emperor Menelik II’s palace.

• Location: 10 km north of the city
• Getting There: 30-minute drive (taxi recommended)
• Entry Fee: Free (Donations at church)

4. Ethnological Museum

Located inside the former palace of Haile Selassie, this museum offers an excellent introduction to Ethiopia’s ethnic diversity and traditions.

• Location: Addis Ababa University (Sidist Kilo Campus)
• Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Entry Fee: ~200 ETB ($3.50)

5. Merkato (Mercato)

One of Africa’s largest open-air markets, Merkato is the place to experience local life, buy spices, coffee, fabrics, and handmade crafts.

• Location: Near the city center

6. Meskel Square

A major city landmark and gathering spot. If you’re lucky, catch a festival or parade, especially during the Meskel celebration in September.

• Hours: 8 AM- 9 PM daily

7. Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum

A powerful and emotional museum documenting the Derg regime’s atrocities and honoring victims of political violence.

• Location: 2Q67+272, Africa Ave, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM from Monday to Saturday (Closed Sunday)

8. St. George’s Cathedral

An iconic octagonal church known for its stained glass, history, and connection to Ethiopian royalty.

• Location:  2QP2+PG4, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Hours: Daily, from 9 AM–12 PM, 2–5 PM

How Many Days are Enough for the Main Attractions in Addis Ababa?

Half-Day Tour (4-5 Hours) for: Layovers or short visits

Route:

• National Museum (1 hour) – See "Lucy" & ancient artifacts
• Holy Trinity Cathedral (45 mins) – Imperial history & architecture
• Tomoca Coffee (30 mins) – Ethiopia's best coffee experience
• Drive through Meskel Square – Photo stop at iconic landmark

Full-Day Cultural Tour (8-10 Hours) for: First-time visitors wanting depth

Morning:

• Entoto Hill (8-9 AM) – Panoramic city views + Maryam Church
• Ethnological Museum (10 AM-12 PM) – Culture & former palace

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Habesha Restaurant (12:30-2 PM) – Traditional injera + live music
• National Museum (2:30-3:30 PM) – Archaeological treasures
• Merkato Market (4-5:30 PM) – Guided shopping for spices/crafts

Evening Option:

• Fendika Cultural Center (7 PM+) – Azmari music & dance

Two-Day Immersive Experience

Day 1: History & Landmarks

• Unity Park (Grand Palace)
• Holy Trinity Cathedral
• St. George Cathedral & Museum
• Dinner at Yod Abyssinia (Cultural show)

Day 2: Nature & Local Life

• Entoto Hill sunrise
• Shiro Meda Market (Textiles/souvenirs)
• Lunch at Kategna Restaurant
• Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum
• Sunset at Friendship Park

Addis Ababa is a city of intriguing contrasts, where ancient history meets modern development. Hope the list of main attractions in Addis Ababa offers you to make the most of your visit.