Addis Ababa Holidays

Things to do in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa offers a delightful mix of city-themed and family-friendly activities, perfect for any traveller. Explore the vibrant public markets and shopping centres, immersing yourself in local culture. Don't miss the opportunity to take a palace tour, which provides insight into the rich history and heritage of Ethiopia. Whether you're on a business trip or a leisurely holiday, Addis Ababa has something to captivate everyone.

Shopping

Addis Ababa offers a vibrant shopping experience. Visit Edna Mall for entertainment and family-friendly vibes, or explore the bustling Shola Market for local goods. Zefmesh Grand Mall combines shopping and leisure, making it a perfect spot for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Addis Ababa Stadium, where you can engage in various sports activities or simply soak up the lively vibes. For a more tranquil experience, visit Unity Park, a serene space perfect for relaxation, offering beautiful gardens and a peaceful ambiance to unwind.

Adventure

The Entoto Mountains offer breathtaking views of Addis Ababa, where you can hike through lush landscapes and explore historical churches. For a cultural adventure, visit the Addis Mercato, one of Africa's largest markets, to immerse yourself in local life, vibrant colours, and tantalising aromas.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the renowned Jazzamba Lounge, where you can enjoy live jazz performances while savouring traditional Ethiopian dishes. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Bole Sky Bar, offering stunning city views and a selection of exquisite cocktails.

Find the best attractions in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa offers a diverse range of experiences for city-themed, business, and family vacations. Visitors can explore captivating sites such as cathedrals, lakes, and urban parks, which cater to those seeking cultural, outdoor, and urban adventures. Don't miss the Addis Ababa Museum for a deeper understanding of the city's rich heritage and history, making your trip truly memorable.

• African Union Headquarters: This modern architectural marvel serves as the epicentre of African diplomacy and showcases the continent's commitment to unity and development. Visitors can admire its sleek design and learn about the vital role it plays in regional governance.
• Addis Ababa University: As one of the leading educational institutions in Ethiopia, it boasts stunning campuses and rich history. Stroll through its grounds to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of student life and explore the cultural heritage of Ethiopia's intellectual hub.
• Lake Bishoftu: A picturesque destination perfect for relaxation, with sandy beaches and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy outdoor activities, romantic picnics, or simply unwind by the shimmering waters, making it an ideal escape from the city bustle.

Best time to go to Addis Ababa

The best time to visit Addis Ababa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Addis Ababa falls in March and April. April has moderately low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Addis Ababa falls in October, 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	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain	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	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
December	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free entry to attractions like Meskel Square, Lake Bishoftu, and Medhane Alem Church. For public transport, opt for minibuses, buses, or the Light Rail Transit for economical travel. The ideal time to visit is from September to November, when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Saturdays. Utilise Expedia to compare hotel deals, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings. Keep an eye out for the best hotel deals to maximise your budget while exploring this vibrant city.

• 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 refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Addis Ababa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.