Flights to Addis Ababa
Discover Ethiopia's vibrant capital and gateway to the Horn of Africa
About Flights to Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's sprawling capital and Africa's diplomatic hub, sits majestically at 2,400 metres above sea level, making it one of the world's highest capitals. Home to the African Union headquarters and over 4 million residents, this bustling metropolis blends ancient Ethiopian traditions with modern urban life.
From the bustling Mercato, Africa's largest open-air market, to the fascinating National Museum housing the famous Lucy fossil, Addis Ababa offers extraordinary cultural experiences. The city's unique coffee culture, traditional injera cuisine, and vibrant music scene provide authentic Ethiopian encounters rarely found elsewhere.
As your gateway to Ethiopia's historic northern circuit including Lalibela's rock churches and the Simien Mountains, Addis Ababa combines excellent connectivity through Bole International Airport with affordable accommodation and genuine Ethiopian hospitality.
Airlines Flying to Addis Ababa
Ethiopian Airlines
Direct · Daily
£449
return
Turkish Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Istanbul
£519
return
Egypt Air
1 stop · Daily via Cairo
£489
return
Kenya Airways
1 stop · Daily via Nairobi
£539
return
Emirates
1 stop · Daily via Dubai
£569
return
Qatar Airways
1 stop · Daily via Doha
£589
return
Top Attractions in Addis Ababa
National Museum of Ethiopia
cultureHome to Lucy, the 3.2 million-year-old hominid fossil, and extensive collections of Ethiopian art and archaeological treasures spanning millennia.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
religiousEthiopia's most important Orthodox cathedral, featuring stunning stained glass windows and serving as the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Mercato Market
shoppingAfrica's largest open-air market covering several square kilometres, offering everything from traditional crafts to spices and textiles in a vibrant maze of stalls.
Ethnological Museum
cultureHoused in former Emperor Haile Selassie's palace, showcasing Ethiopia's diverse cultural heritage through traditional costumes, musical instruments, and ceremonial objects.
Entoto Mountains
natureOverlooking Addis Ababa at 3,200 metres, offering panoramic city views, eucalyptus forests, and the historic Entoto Maryam Church where Emperor Menelik II was crowned.
Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum
cultureSobering museum documenting Ethiopia's military regime period (1974-1991) through photographs, personal belongings, and testimonies from survivors.
African Union Headquarters
landmarkModern architectural landmark and continental political centre, offering guided tours of this impressive China-funded complex representing African unity.
Addis Ababa Bole Medhanialem Cathedral
religiousOne of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in Africa, featuring traditional Ethiopian architecture, beautiful murals, and hosting major religious celebrations.
Where to Stay in Addis Ababa
Sheraton Addis
Addis Ababa's flagship luxury hotel offering world-class amenities, extensive conference facilities, and impeccable service in the heart of the diplomatic district.
Radisson Blu Hotel
Contemporary luxury hotel featuring sleek Scandinavian design, excellent dining options, and convenient location near government offices and embassies.
Marriott Executive Apartments
Extended-stay hotel offering spacious suites with kitchenettes, perfect for business travellers and families requiring longer accommodation periods.
Capital Hotel & Spa
Elegant hotel showcasing Ethiopian culture through traditional architecture and locally-inspired cuisine, conveniently located near Bole International Airport.
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Contemporary business hotel offering reliable international standards with local Ethiopian touches, ideal for both business and leisure travellers.
Jupiter International Hotel
Well-established hotel combining traditional Ethiopian hospitality with modern amenities, featuring authentic local cuisine and peaceful garden surroundings.
Harmony Hotel
Comfortable mid-range hotel offering excellent value with clean accommodation, friendly service, and authentic Ethiopian dining experiences.
Local Tips for Addis Ababa
- Ethiopian time runs 6 hours behind international time - 12 noon is 6 o'clock Ethiopian time, so confirm meeting times carefully.
- Remove shoes when entering Ethiopian Orthodox churches and cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- The traditional coffee ceremony is an important social ritual - accept invitations graciously and expect the process to take 1-2 hours.
- Bargaining is expected at Mercato market, but start at roughly half the asking price and negotiate respectfully.
- Addis Ababa's altitude (2,400m) may cause mild altitude sickness initially - drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol for the first day.
- Injera (sourdough flatbread) is eaten with hands - use the right hand only and tear off pieces to scoop up stews and vegetables.
- Learn basic Amharic greetings like 'Selam' (hello) and 'Ameseginalehu' (thank you) - locals appreciate the effort enormously.
- Blue and white shared taxis are cheap for short journeys within the city, but agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Many restaurants close between 3-6pm, so plan lunch before 3pm or wait until evening for dinner service to resume.
- Ethiopian Orthodox fasting periods affect restaurant menus - during fasting times, many places serve only vegetarian dishes on Wednesdays and Fridays.