Addis Ababa Holidays

Things to do in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa offers a vibrant mix of city-themed activities perfect for business travellers and families alike. Explore the lively public markets and shopping centres, or delve into the rich culture with a palace tour and visits to fascinating museums. This bustling capital is sure to provide an unforgettable experience as you immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere.

Shopping

Addis Ababa offers diverse shopping experiences. Visit Edna Mall for a mix of business and entertainment vibes. For a local experience, explore Debre Zeyit Market and Addis Merkato, both bustling with city energy. If you're up for a drive, check out more distant markets for unique finds.

Recreation

Explore Unity Park for a serene escape amidst lush gardens and cultural exhibits, perfect for relaxation and mindful strolls. For a more active experience, head to Addis Ababa Stadium, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and participate in various sports activities or simply cheer on local teams.

Adventure

Entoto Park offers stunning views of Addis Ababa, perfect for hiking and picnics among the eucalyptus trees. Explore the Addis Mercato, one of Africa's largest markets, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, taste traditional foods, and find unique souvenirs.

Nightlife

Addis Ababa boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like Zoma Museum, blending art and cocktails, and the lively jazz scene at Addis Ababa Jazz Club. For a taste of local culture, visit the traditional Ethiopian restaurants featuring live music and dance performances, creating an unforgettable evening atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is a vibrant city perfect for family vacations and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy iconic attractions such as cathedrals, picturesque lakes, and modern civic buildings. The city offers a blend of outdoor activities and urban experiences, catering to various interests. Don't miss the chance to visit the Addis Ababa Museum for a deeper understanding of the local heritage. Whether you're seeking culture or adventure, this city has something for everyone.

• African Union Headquarters: Experience the heart of African diplomacy at this modern government building. The African Union Headquarters showcases impressive architecture and offers a glimpse into the continent's political dynamics, making it a must-visit for those interested in international relations.
• Meskel Square: This vibrant public space is a hub of culture and activity in Addis Ababa. Known for its lively events and gatherings, Meskel Square is perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere, with street vendors and cultural performances adding to its charm.
• Medhane Alem Church: As the largest cathedral in Ethiopia, Medhane Alem Church is a stunning example of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture. Its serene atmosphere and beautiful artwork provide a unique insight into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the country.

Best time to go to Addis Ababa

The best time to visit Addis Ababa is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March and April are its hottest month on average. At the time of April, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny. October is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	59.9°F (15.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
November	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
December	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Addis Ababa

For an affordable trip to Addis Ababa, take advantage of free attractions like Meskel Square and Medhane Alem Church. Utilize public transport options such as minibuses and the Light Rail Transit for budget-friendly travel. Visit during the cheaper months of September to November, and consider booking your accommodation on Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-certified hotels and sort by price to uncover great deals. Bundling your flights and activities with your hotel stay can also lead to significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Addis Ababa are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and June, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Addis Ababa is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Addis Ababa is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by bundling your hotel stay in Addis Ababa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.