Addis Ababa City Tour: Museums, Holy Trinity & Merkato Market

Summary

Explore Addis Ababa’s History, Culture & Local Markets

You’ll see ancient fossils at the National Museum, walk through royal palaces on Mount Entoto and at Addis Ababa University, and dive into local life at Merkato market—all with stories from a knowledgeable guide who brings Ethiopia’s history alive.

What’s the experience like?

Stepping out into Addis Ababa’s morning buzz, we headed straight for the National Museum. The building’s a bit unassuming from the outside, but inside? You’ll find Lucy—her tiny bones displayed quietly in a glass case. Our guide, Dawit, explained how she changed what scientists knew about human origins. There’s also this odd mix of ancient tools and modern art upstairs; you get a real sense of Ethiopia’s long story.

We wandered over to Holy Trinity Cathedral next. The air smelled faintly of incense and fresh grass from the grounds. Inside, sunlight filtered through stained glass onto old wooden pews. Dawit pointed out Emperor Haile Selassie’s tomb—people still leave flowers there. I noticed a small museum tucked behind the altar; it had old crowns and faded robes that looked like they’d seen centuries.

Driving up to Mount Entoto was a bit of an adventure—the road winds and you pass women hauling firewood on their backs. At the top, the city stretches out below in every direction. It’s cooler up here; I had to pull my jacket tighter. There’s Menelik II’s old palace too—simple stone walls but so much history packed inside.

Back in town, Merkato is wild—honking horns, shouts in Amharic, bright piles of spices everywhere. We squeezed past stalls selling everything from coffee beans to plastic buckets. I tried some local bread from a street vendor (a little sour but really good). If you’re into people-watching or photography, this place is gold.

The last stop was the Ethnological Museum at Addis Ababa University—used to be Haile Selassie’s palace. You actually walk through his old bedroom (the bed is surprisingly small). Each room highlights different Ethiopian cultures; I learned more here than any textbook could teach me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Addis Ababa Highlights

• Visit National Museum of Ethiopia
• Explore Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Panoramic view from Mt. Entoto
• Shop at Mercato Market
• Tour Ethnological Museum
• See Emperor Menelik's old palace

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The tour works for all ages and fitness levels—there are options for wheelchairs and strollers too.

How long does the tour take?

The full experience usually takes most of the day (about 7–8 hours), depending on your pace and interest at each site.

Will we get to try Ethiopian coffee or food?

Absolutely—you’ll have chances to taste fresh Ethiopian coffee and sample local dishes during breaks or lunch stops.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes, all entrance fees for museums and sites are covered in your booking price.

What’s included

You’ll get picked up by an air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed driver and professional guide. All entrance tickets are included. We handle transfers from your hotel or airport—and there are options for wheelchairs or strollers if needed.