Best Things to do in Addis Ababa | Must-see attractions 2025

Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum

Mo-Su 08:00-18:30

Museum

Africa Ave

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The Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa honors victims of Ethiopia's 1977-1978 Red Terror. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome to support museum operations.

Kiddus Raguel Church

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Entoto

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Kiddus Raguel Church is an Ethiopian Orthodox church in Addis Ababa, noted for its unique architecture and rich history dating back to its foundation in 1929.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for maintenance and community activities.

Anwar Mosque

5:00 AM–8:00 PM

Church

Kenya Street

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Anwar Mosque in Addis Ababa is a prominent Islamic center, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance in Ethiopia's historical landscape.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free.

Asni Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Queen Elizabeth II Street

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Asni Gallery in Addis Ababa features contemporary Ethiopian art from both established and emerging artists, fostering cultural conversations through exhibitions and events.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Medhane Alem Cathedral

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Cameroon Street

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Medhane Alem Cathedral in Addis Ababa is the second largest Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral, known for its architectural significance and historical importance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry.

Addis Ababa University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Amist Kilo (King George VI St.)

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Addis Ababa University is the largest and most prestigious national university in Ethiopia, located in the capital city, known for its Ethnological Museum.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special events and exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Hager Fikir Theatre

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

John Melly St

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Hager Fikir Theatre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stages diverse performances including theatre, musicals, and dance, making it a hub of cultural expression.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Typically paid. Prices for specific shows may vary.

Friendship Business Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mall

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Friendship Business Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, serves as a hub for commerce, featuring modern architecture and various facilities for businesses and events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access to the business areas; event-specific tickets may apply.

Addis Ababa Museum

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

Meskel Square

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Addis Ababa Museum, established in 1986, explores Ethiopia's capital history through portraits and artifacts, showcasing its development over the last century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have an entry fee.

Laphto Mall

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Ethiopia

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Laphto Mall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, features diverse shopping areas, dining options, and entertainment facilities, catering to locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Dembel City Center

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Ethiopia

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Dembel City Center in Addis Ababa offers a variety of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it a central hub for both locals and visitors.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required to access the shopping and dining areas.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Aratkilo area Addis

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Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a historic 1930s cathedral and royal burial site featuring a copper dome, grand murals, and ornate architecture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Self-appointed guides may charge Birr20 to Birr30.

Ethnological Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Addis Ababa University

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The Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, showcases the country's cultural history through unique exhibits in Haile Selassie's former palace and lush gardens.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

50 ETB for adults, 25 ETB for students. Free for children under 12.

Addis Ababa Golf Club

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

7 (Old Airport)

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Addis Ababa Golf Club offers an engaging golfing experience in Ethiopia’s capital, surrounded by scenic landscapes and rich cultural history.

Duration: Around 4 hours.

Paid. Please check the club's website for details on green fees and membership options.

Washa Mikael Rock Hewn Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Addis Ababa

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Washa Mikael Rock Hewn Church, located a few kilometers east of Addis Ababa, showcases Ethiopia's exquisite rock-hewn architecture, dating back to the 12th century.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations may be appreciated for maintenance.

Zoma Contemporary Art Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Lesotho Street

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Zoma Contemporary Art Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia features a gallery, library, botanical garden, and community facilities showcasing traditional architecture.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Africa Hall

By appointment only

Event hall

Menelik II Ave

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Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, features Italian architecture and is home to the UN's Economic Commission for Africa, showcasing a monumental stained-glass window.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry with prior appointment; group visits preferred.

Zefmesh Grand Mall

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Megengna

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Zefmesh Grand Mall in Addis Ababa features diverse shopping options, dining, entertainment, and cultural spaces, catering to a wide range of visitors and locals.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Some events may charge a fee.

DinQ Art Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Gallery

Kazanches A–Z Building

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DinQ Art Gallery in Addis Ababa showcases contemporary Ethiopian art with a focus on local talent, offering a dynamic space for exhibitions and cultural events.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special workshops and private events may require a paid ticket.

Century Mall Cinema

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

Shopping Mall In Gurd Shola

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Century Mall Cinema in Addis Ababa offers the latest films in a modern setting, featuring multiple screens and state-of-the-art sound systems for a premium viewing experience.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Normal tickets range from 250 to 400 Ethiopian Birr based on the format; discounts for children and families may apply.

Mafi City Center

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Bole Medhanialem (Tele Bole)

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Mafi City Center in Addis Ababa offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, serving as a central hub for both locals and tourists.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

St. Mary's University College

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Ethiopia

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St. Mary's University College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, offers diverse educational programs with a focus on cultural and historical significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some specific programs may have associated costs.

beza international church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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Beza International Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, offers spiritual services and community programs. It's known for its modern architecture and vibrant congregation.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory.

Beale weld Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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Beale Weld Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a significant religious site known for its unique architecture and rich historical background.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

St.Amanuel Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Mesalemya

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St. Amanuel Church, located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a remarkable place of worship established in 1941, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and support of community activities.

St. Gabriel Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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St. Gabriel Church in Addis Ababa showcases unique architecture and rich history, offering spiritual solace and cultural significance to visitors and locals alike.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Saint Matthews Anglican Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Addis Ababa

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Saint Matthews Anglican Church in Addis Ababa features stunning architecture and rich history, serving as a spiritual and cultural hub for the community.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Addis Ababa National Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Ethiopia

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Addis Ababa National Museum houses Ethiopia’s cultural treasures, including ancient artifacts and the famous fossil Lucy. Experience the essence of Ethiopian heritage.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

50 Ethiopian Birr for adults, 25 Ethiopian Birr for students with ID.

National Museum of Ethiopia

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

King George VI Street

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The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa houses ancient relics, contemporary art, and the famous fossilized skeleton of Lucy, dating back 3 million years.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

German embassy

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Mali st

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The German embassy in Addis Ababa represents Germany's diplomatic mission in Ethiopia, engaging in international relations and cultural exchanges.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free for public visits, but events may have specific requirements.

UNECA Addis Ababa

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

meskel

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UNECA Addis Ababa serves as a vital hub for economic and social development discussions across Africa, founded in 1958 by the United Nations.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Access to some events may require registration.

St Salite Mariam Church

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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St Salite Mariam Church is an ancient Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Addis Ababa, known for its unique architecture and historical significance dating back to 1916.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Kebena Kidanemhiret Church

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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Kebena Kidanemhiret Church in Addis Ababa is a revered Ethiopian Orthodox site known for its unique architecture and rich history, attracting both worshippers and tourists alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the church.

Guramayle Art Galary

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Gallery

Ethiopia

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Guramayle Art Gallery in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, showcases contemporary art, emphasizing local talent. Visitors can view diverse artistic expressions in a vibrant environment.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

International Lutheran Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

Lideta

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International Lutheran Church in Addis Ababa is an English-speaking congregation of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus, fostering community with diverse activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations welcome but not mandatory for entry.

IES Ethnographic Museum and Library

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Ethiopia

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IES Ethnographic Museum and Library in Addis Ababa houses extensive collections on Ethiopian culture, history, and biodiversity, with an emphasis on educational resources.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a fee.

St. Urael Orthodox Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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St. Urael Orthodox Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a revered site known for its unique architectural style and deep cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance.

Mekane Yesus Evangellical Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Addis Ababa

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Mekane Yesus Evangelical Church, located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a pivotal religious site known for its unique architecture and vibrant community involvement.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a prepaid ticket.

Lebu Meserete Kristos Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ethiopia

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Lebu Meserete Kristos Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, serves as a pivotal evangelical center, known for its vibrant community and unique architectural design.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community projects.

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

24 hours

Airport

Ring Rd (Bole Rd)

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Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the primary gateway to Ethiopia, serving as a hub for numerous international flights and connecting travelers to Africa and beyond.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for check-in and security.

Free access to the airport. No ticket fees required for entry.