. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia-2-day-itinerary

2-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and fascinating destination that offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions. Here’s a suggested 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1:

Morning

  • 8:00 am - 9:00 am: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kaffa Royal, a popular restaurant serving traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
  • 9:00 am - 10:30 am: Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, which showcases the country’s rich history and culture.

Afternoon

  • 11:00 am - 12:30 pm: Explore the Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful Orthodox church with stunning architecture and ornate decorations.
  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Take a break for lunch at Yod Abyssinia, a local restaurant serving traditional Ethiopian dishes like injera and tibs.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Visit the Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you can find everything from souvenirs to clothing.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Tomoca Coffee, a cozy café with a rich atmosphere.
  • 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: For dinner, head to 2000 Habesha, a restaurant serving modern Ethiopian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 2:

Morning

  • 8:00 am - 9:30 am: Visit the Entoto Hill, which offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot for hiking.
  • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Explore the Ethnological Museum, which showcases the traditional cultures of Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Take a break for lunch at Gusto Ristorante, an Italian restaurant with delicious pasta dishes.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Visit the Addis Ababa Museum, which features exhibits on the city’s history and development.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Enjoy a drink at Wudasie, a trendy bar with a great selection of cocktails.
  • 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: For dinner, head to La Parisienne, a French bakery and café serving delicious pastries and sandwiches.

Accommodation:

  • Sheraton Addis Hotel: A luxurious hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Hotel Lobelia: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a friendly staff.

Things to Know:

  • Ethiopia has its own calendar, which is 7-8 years behind the Western calendar.
  • The local currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB).
  • Amharic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the markets and streets.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
  • Local buses (minivans) are a cheap and convenient way to get around the city.
  • Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are also available.

Tips:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and mosques.
  • Bargain politely when shopping in markets.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-6 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Addis Ababa University: A prestigious institution with a beautiful campus.
  • Piassa: A historic neighborhood with a mix of traditional and modern architecture.
  • St. George’s Cathedral: A beautiful Orthodox church with stunning stained-glass windows.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Addis Ababa!