Hotels in Addis Ababa

Awakening the Spirit: Unveiling the Hidden Treasures of Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's vibrant capital, is a captivating blend of culture and history, perfect for group visitors seeking an enriching experience. Marvel at the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, explore the treasures of the National Museum, home to the iconic Lucy, and wander through the bustling Mercato market. Nearby, the ancient castles of Gondar and the stunning landscapes of the Entoto Mountains offer breathtaking views and adventure. With its rich heritage, warm hospitality, and dynamic atmosphere, Addis Ababa invites you to discover the heart of Ethiopia like never before. For our best hotel rates in Addis Ababa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Addis Ababa

Some of the best places to stay in Addis Ababa are Bole, Kirkos and Bishoftu. Addis Ababa is a vibrant city with diverse attractions. Bole is ideal for first-time visitors, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife. Kirkos features cultural sites and parks, perfect for relaxation and exploration. Bishoftu, a bit further out, boasts beautiful lakes and nature. In terms of accommodation, these areas offer a range of options, from luxurious hotels with extensive facilities to cozy guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller's budget. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Addis Ababa:

1. BoleOpens in a new window: Bole is a vibrant area in Addis Ababa, known for its mix of business and leisure attractions. It boasts major points of interest like Medhane Alem Church and Meskel Square, making it culturally rich and conveniently located. The hotels here cater to various needs, particularly for business travellers. Notable options include Capital Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel offering extensive business amenities and family-friendly services, including a children's pool. Getfam HotelOpens in a new window is another luxurious 5-star choice, featuring a full spa and pool services for relaxation after a busy day. Golden Tulip Addis AbabaOpens in a new window also offers premium services for business and family, with accessible amenities and meeting facilities.
2. KirkosOpens in a new window: Kirkos is a culturally vibrant district, home to the African Union Headquarters and ECA Conference Center. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's culture while having access to business facilities. Hyatt Regency Addis AbabaOpens in a new window is a 5-star hotel that provides excellent business amenities and childcare services, making it suitable for families. Another great choice is Sheraton AddisOpens in a new window, which offers spacious facilities for meetings and a children’s club, ensuring both work and leisure needs are met. The Grand Palace HotelOpens in a new window also stands out, featuring a luxurious spa to unwind after a day of exploring.
3. BishoftuOpens in a new window: Bishoftu is ideal for outdoor lovers, known for its scenic lakes and recreational areas. With attractions like Lake Bishoftu and Hora Lake Recreation Area, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Asham Africa Hotel and ResortOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that provides direct beach access and business amenities, catering to both tourists and business travellers. Liesak ResortOpens in a new window, also 3.5-star, focuses on business needs with multiple meeting rooms. For a slightly upscale experience, Nega Bonger HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel featuring diverse dining options and various recreational activities, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature.

Things to do in Addis Ababa for first times

Three days in Addis Ababa offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore lush parks, enjoy lively music and dance, and partake in outdoor activities like hiking and leisurely strolls through scenic areas, making it a worthwhile destination for any traveller. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Addis Ababa:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Meskel Square, a vibrant hub often bustling with activity, where you can witness local life and perhaps catch a cultural event. Just a short walk away is the Lion of Judah Monument, a symbol of Ethiopia's rich heritage and a great spot for photographs. Conclude your day at Africa Hall, a significant venue for African unity and diplomacy, where you can admire its architecture and reflect on the continent's history.
• Day 2: Start your morning at the impressive Medhane Alem Church, recognized for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, perfect for a moment of quiet reflection. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Friendship Park, a lovely green space where you can enjoy the outdoors and perhaps have a picnic. Later, visit Menelik II's Palace, where you can delve into the history of Ethiopia's emperors and their legacies, making for an enriching afternoon.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the fascinating remains of Lucy and other historical artifacts that tell the story of human evolution. Next, head to Sheger Park, a beautifully designed space for relaxation and leisure, ideal for a leisurely walk or enjoying a cup of coffee. Finish your day at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an architectural marvel that houses the tombs of many Ethiopian emperors, offering both beauty and historical significance.

4 tips to find a great Addis Ababa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Addis Ababa is from September to November, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travellers looking to save money, it's advisable to book your flight at least 3 months in advance. Domestic travellers can find better deals by booking at least 1 month ahead. To truly experience the city's highlights, plan for a stay of at least 3-4 days. Key attractions worth exploring include impressive churches, fascinating museums, and the historic castle, all of which offer great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for affordable accommodations in Addis Ababa, last-minute deals can be a great way to save money. To explore options on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, enhancing your chances of snagging the best prices on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the likelihood that you'll save on hotel expenses in Addis Ababa.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, it’s important to think about your location. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, keeping in mind the balance between cost and ease of access to the sites you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa experiences its lowest average temperature in October, at 58.1°F (14.5°C), while March and April are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 63.9°F (17.7°C). July is usually the wettest month. January, October, and November are the peak travel months in Addis Ababa, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no to light rainfall. On the other hand, April, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.