. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning

  • Arrive at Bole International Airport (ADD)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel (~30-40 minutes, ~200-300 ETB / $7-10 USD)

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia (~100 ETB / $3.50 USD) to learn about the country’s rich history and culture
  • Explore the nearby Taitu Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local shops

Evening

  • Dine at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant (budget-friendly, ~150-200 ETB / $5-7 USD) for traditional Ethiopian cuisine and live music
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Zeist (~1,500-2,000 ETB / $50-70 USD per night) or similar

Day 2: Historical Landmarks and Markets

Morning

  • Visit the iconic Trinity Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in Africa (free admission)
  • Explore the adjacent Menelik II Square, named after Ethiopia’s former emperor

Afternoon

  • Wander through the bustling ** Merkato Market** (~100 ETB / $3.50 USD), one of Africa’s largest open-air markets
  • Visit the nearby St. George’s Cathedral, a beautiful example of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at 2000 Habesha (mid-range, ~300-500 ETB / $10-18 USD) for traditional Ethiopian cuisine with modern twists
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Zeist or similar

Day 3: Nature and Entertainment

Morning

  • Visit the Addis Ababa Zoo, home to various African animals (~100 ETB / $3.50 USD)
  • Take a stroll in the nearby Entoto Park, offering panoramic views of the city (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Catch a movie at Ras Theatre (budget-friendly, ~50-100 ETB / $1.80-3.50 USD) or enjoy live music and comedy performances
  • Explore the trendy Bole Medhanealem area, known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops

Evening

  • Dine at Gusto Ristorante (mid-range, ~500-800 ETB / $18-28 USD) for Italian cuisine with an Ethiopian twist
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Zeist or similar

Day 4: Day Trip to Debre Libanos and Blue Nile Gorge

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Debre Libanos, a historic monastery and one of Ethiopia’s most important pilgrimage sites (~200-300 ETB / $7-10 USD, ~1-hour drive)
  • Visit the stunning Blue Nile Gorge (~100-200 ETB / $3.50-7 USD), offering breathtaking views

Evening

  • Return to Addis Ababa and enjoy dinner at Karamara Restaurant (mid-range, ~300-500 ETB / $10-18 USD) for traditional Ethiopian cuisine
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Zeist or similar

Day 5: Last-Minute Explorations and Departure

Morning

  • Visit the Ethiopian Railway Museum (~50-100 ETB / $1.80-3.50 USD) to learn about the country’s railway history
  • Explore the nearby Sidama Coffee (budget-friendly, ~50-100 ETB / $1.80-3.50 USD) for a coffee tasting experience

Afternoon

  • Last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting in the city
  • Depart for Bole International Airport (~30-40 minutes, ~200-300 ETB / $7-10 USD)

Things to Know

  • Ethiopia uses the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) as its currency. You can exchange money at banks, hotels, or currency exchange offices.
  • Addis Ababa is a high-altitude city (2,350m/7,700ft). Take necessary precautions against altitude sickness.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Haggle prices when shopping at markets.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Use reputable taxi companies like Anbessa or Tewodros. Negotiate prices before departing.
  • Ride-hailing apps: Ride and ZayRide are popular options.
  • Walking: Addis Ababa is a walkable city, but be mindful of traffic and pedestrian infrastructure.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Amharic phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages.
  • Try local fruits like papayas, mangoes, and avocados.
  • Respect the environment and keep Addis Ababa clean.

Enjoy your trip to Addis Ababa!