How to Plan a Trip to Addis Ababa
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Ethiopia needs.
Your 4-step Addis Ababa plan
Step 1 — Book flights to ADD
Bole International Airport (ADD) is the main gateway to Addis Ababa. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to ADDStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Merkato Market for the best first-time visit — Largest open-air market in Africa — coffee, spices, and textiles in a labyrinthine grid.
Where to stay in Addis AbabaStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Merkato Market, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Addis Ababa.
Things to do in Addis AbabaStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Light Rail (LRT, to Churchill Ave) is $0.30 and takes 30 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
ADD arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Ethiopian e-Visa available online at evisa.gov.et ($52 USD). Some African nationalities need visa on arrival. Most nationalities require advance visa.