Addis Ababa Ethiopia 4 Day Itinerary
Travel advisory: Ethiopia is in an active conflict, with fighting in the north resumed in late September 2026. The UK FCDO advises against all travel to Tigray, Amhara and Gambela and to parts of Oromia, Afar and other regions, and the US State Department rates Ethiopia Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). Check the current UK FCDO and US State Department advice before you book and again before you fly. Addis Ababa itself is not in the FCDO’s advise-against list, but it warns of a high terrorism threat, crime hotspots including Meskel Square, Bole and Entoto, and security checkpoints. This guide covers Addis Ababa and the Bishoftu corridor only; the northern historic sites are not currently visitable.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: History and Culture
Morning
- National Museum of Ethiopia: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and relics that showcase the country’s rich history and culture. (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
- Holy Trinity Cathedral: Head over to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important Orthodox churches in Ethiopia. Take in the stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes adorning the walls. (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Afternoon
- Lunch at 2000 Habesha: Savor traditional Ethiopian cuisine at 2000 Habesha, a restaurant serving injera-based dishes. Try their famous “Tibs” (stir-fried meat). (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
- ** Merkato Market**: Visit the Merkato Market, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, in daytime with a guide and minimal valuables. Be prepared to haggle, and avoid the market after dark. (3:00 pm - 4:30 pm)
Evening
- Stay at Taitu Hotel: Unwind at Taitu Hotel, a comfortable and centrally-located hotel with cozy rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Dinner at Yod Abyssinia: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner at Yod Abyssinia, complete with live music and dancing. (9:00 pm - 11:00 pm)
Day 2: Nature and Entertainment
Morning
- Entoto Hill: Drive up Entoto Hill for views of Addis Ababa; the hill is also home to the Entoto Maryam Church and a museum of Menelik II’s belongings. The FCDO names Entoto as a crime hotspot, so go by car in daytime and in company. (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
- Bihere Tsige Dereja Orthodox Church: Visit this beautiful church, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Afternoon
- Lunch at Gusto Ristorante: Treat yourself to a delicious Italian lunch at Gusto Ristorante, a popular spot among expats and locals alike. (3:00 pm - 5:00 pm)
- Ethiopian National Theatre: Catch a performance at the Ethiopian National Theatre, which hosts a range of productions, from traditional music and dance to contemporary plays. (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
Evening
- Dinner at La Parisienne: Enjoy French-inspired cuisine at La Parisienne, a cozy restaurant with a charming atmosphere.
- Evening music: End your day with live music at Fendika@Hyatt on Meskel Square, travelling door to door by car; the FCDO names Bole Atlas and Meskel Square as crime hotspots, so avoid walking there after dark. (9:00 pm - 11:00 pm)
Day 3: History and Architecture
Morning
- Anwar Mosque: Visit the beautiful Anwar Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Africa. Take in the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. (9:00 am - 10:30 am)
- Addis Ababa University: Explore the campus of Addis Ababa University, which features several historic buildings and monuments. (11:00 am - 12:30 pm)
Afternoon
- Lunch at Savor: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Savor, a restaurant serving international cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients.
- St. George’s Cathedral: Visit St. George’s Cathedral, a beautiful Orthodox church built in the early 20th century. (2:00 pm - 4:00 pm)
Evening
- Dinner at Yeka Restaurant: Savor traditional Ethiopian cuisine at Yeka Restaurant, known for its delicious “Tibs” and cozy atmosphere.
- Stay at Jupiter International Hotel: Unwind at Jupiter International Hotel, a comfortable hotel with modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Day 4: Markets and Shopping
Morning
- Pikolo Market: Explore Pikolo Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from handicrafts to souvenirs. (9:00 am - 11:30 am)
- Shola Market: Visit Shola Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of goods on offer. (12:00 pm - 2:00 pm)
Afternoon
- Lunch at Kaffa Royale: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Kaffa Royale, a popular spot serving traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
- Tiwong Coffee: Visit Tiwong Coffee, a local coffee shop with a cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee. (3:00 pm - 5:00 pm)
Evening
- Dinner at Addis Ababa Restaurant: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Addis Ababa Restaurant, serving traditional Ethiopian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Departure: End your trip with a transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Things to Know
- Ethiopia is 3 hours ahead of GMT.
- The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), at about 160 to 165 birr to the US dollar in October 2026.
- The UK FCDO warns of a high terrorism threat, crime hotspots including Bole Medhanealem, Bole Atlas, Meskel Square and Entoto, and security checkpoints. Travel door to door by car after dark.
- Amharic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Be prepared for crowds and chaos at markets.
Transportation
- Use hotel transfers or yellow or app-based taxis rather than blue-and-white ones, and negotiate prices before you start your journey.
- Use reputable taxi companies like Anbessa or Negest Taxi.
- Keep to short daytime walks, and be mindful of heavy traffic and hazardous crossings.
Tips
- Bargain when shopping at markets - it’s part of the experience!
- Try local street food, such as injera and wot (stew).
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Be prepared for power outages and internet connectivity issues.
This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, giving you a well-rounded experience of Addis Ababa. Enjoy your trip!