Meskel Square: The Heart of Addis Ababa
Explore the vibrant Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, a historical landmark where culture, community, and the spirit of Ethiopia come alive.
Meskel Square is a vibrant historical landmark in Addis Ababa, perfect for tourists seeking a taste of Ethiopian culture and the bustling life of the capital. This iconic square serves as a central hub for local gatherings, celebrations, and events, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the dynamic spirit of Ethiopia. Surrounded by significant buildings, including the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and government institutions, Meskel Square is an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the city.
A brief summary to Meskel Square
- Addis Ababa, Kirkos, ET
Local tips
- Visit during the Meskel festival in late September for a spectacular cultural experience.
- Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for photography with beautiful light.
- Try local street food from vendors around the square for an authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine.
- Be mindful of your belongings, as the square can get crowded, especially during events.
- Engage with locals; many are friendly and eager to share stories about the square and its significance.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Arbaminch to Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, start by heading north on the A1 highway. The journey is about 450 kilometers and will take approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Make sure to have a map or GPS on hand. Upon entering Addis Ababa, follow signs towards the city center. Meskel Square is located in the Kirkos neighborhood and is a central landmark, so it should be easy to find. Be prepared for potential tolls along the highway.
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach Meskel Square using public transportation, take a bus from Arbaminch to Addis Ababa. Buses leave frequently from the main bus station in Arbaminch. The fare is usually around 200-300 Ethiopian Birr. The journey can take 10-12 hours, so be prepared for a long trip. Once you arrive in Addis Ababa, you can take a taxi or a local minibus to Meskel Square. Taxis are available at the bus station, and the fare to the square should be around 50-100 Ethiopian Birr.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route after arriving in Addis Ababa, you can hire a taxi from the bus station to Meskel Square. This option is more expensive than the local minibus but offers convenience, especially if you have luggage. The fare should be negotiated beforehand, typically around 100-200 Ethiopian Birr depending on your bargaining skills.
Discover more about Meskel Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ghion Hotel Park
0.3 km
Discover the lush greenery and serene atmosphere of Ghion Hotel Park, a perfect escape in the heart of Addis Ababa's vibrant city life.
የአፍሪካ ጃዝ መንደር | African Jazz Village
0.5 km
Discover the heartbeat of Addis Ababa at African Jazz Village, where live music meets authentic Ethiopian cuisine for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Addis Ababa Stadium
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Ethiopian sports at Addis Ababa Stadium, a cultural hub for thrilling events and community celebrations.
Aberus Complex | Bole Dembel | አበሩስ ህንጻ | ቦሌ ደምበል
0.8 km
Explore the lively Aberus Complex in Addis Ababa for a unique blend of shopping, dining, and local culture in one vibrant location.
National Palace, Gate 3
0.8 km
Explore the grandeur of Ethiopia's National Palace at Gate 3, a landmark rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of Addis Ababa.
Inside Ethiopia Tours
1.0 km
Discover the wonders of Ethiopia with Inside Ethiopia Tours, your expert guide to unforgettable adventures in this captivating country.
Ethiopia park
1.0 km
Explore Ethiopia Park in Addis Ababa, a tranquil green space perfect for relaxation, picnics, and a taste of local culture amidst the vibrant city.
Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau
1.1 km
Explore the Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau, your gateway to discovering Ethiopia's rich heritage and vibrant cultural experiences in the Oromia region.
Ambassador Park
1.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Ambassador Park, an urban oasis in Addis Ababa, offering lush greenery and a peaceful retreat from city life.
Addis Ababa,Ethiopia
1.2 km
Explore the rich world of gemstones in Addis Ababa, a vibrant city where tradition meets modernity in Ethiopia's gem trade.
The Picnic Basket
1.2 km
Experience the rich culinary landscape of Ethiopia with a delightful menu at The Picnic Basket in Addis Ababa, perfect for every food lover.
Lion of Judah Monument
1.2 km
Explore the Lion of Judah Monument in Addis Ababa, a stunning tribute to Ethiopia's rich heritage and national pride.
Children's playground
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant Children's Playground in Addis Ababa, a perfect family-friendly destination filled with joy, laughter, and adventure for kids of all ages.
አዲስ ፓርክ | Addis Park
1.5 km
Explore the lush landscapes of Addis Park, a serene retreat in Addis Ababa perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Ethio-cuba
1.5 km
Explore Ethio-Cuba, a captivating monument in Addis Ababa that symbolizes the cultural ties between Ethiopia and Cuba, blending beauty and history in one landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
የደመራ ቦታ
0.0 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Entoto Park in Addis Ababa, a lush escape offering stunning views, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.
የደመራ ቦታ
0.0 km
Discover the cultural heart of Addis Ababa at የደመራ ቦታ, where history meets vibrant daily life in Ethiopia's capital.
የደመራ ቦታ
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Entoto Mountains, a serene retreat near Addis Ababa perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Addis Ababa Museum | መስቀል አደባባይ
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and diverse culture of Ethiopia at the Addis Ababa Museum, a key destination for every traveler.
Addis Ababa Museum | Meskel Square | አዲስ አበባ ሙዚየም | መስቀል አደባባይ
0.2 km
Explore the Addis Ababa Museum to uncover Ethiopia's rich history and vibrant culture through captivating exhibits and stunning artifacts.
Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum የቀይ ሽብር መታሰቢያ ሙዚየም
0.2 km
Explore the profound history of Ethiopia at the Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum, a tribute to resilience and the fight for justice.
Galma Giddu-gala Aadaa Oromoo | Oromia Cultural Center | ኦሮሚያ ባህል ማእከል
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Oromo culture at the Oromia Cultural Center in Addis Ababa, showcasing art, music, and rich traditions for a remarkable experience.
Addis Ababa park
0.6 km
Discover tranquility in Addis Ababa Park, a lush urban oasis that offers a perfect blend of nature and culture in Ethiopia's bustling capital.
Aman Ethiopia Tours
0.9 km
Explore the beauty and culture of Ethiopia with Aman Ethiopia Tours, your trusted partner for unforgettable adventures in Addis Ababa and beyond.
Lion of Judah Statue
0.9 km
Discover the Lion of Judah Statue in Addis Ababa, a powerful emblem of Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage and resilience, perfect for captivating photographs.
St George Gallery
1.2 km
Explore the essence of Ethiopian culture at St George Gallery, where contemporary art meets rich tradition in the heart of Addis Ababa.
Ethiopian Science Museum
1.3 km
Explore Ethiopia's rich scientific heritage at the Ethiopian Science Museum, where history meets innovation in the heart of Addis Ababa.
4 Kilo Unity Park
1.3 km
Experience the historical charm and tranquil beauty of 4 Kilo Unity Park, a must-visit landmark in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Science Museum Meeting Hall ሳይንስ ሙዝየም መሰብሳቢያ አዳራሽ
1.3 km
Explore the intersection of science, culture, and innovation at the Science Museum Meeting Hall in Addis Ababa, a vibrant hub for learning and discovery.
Friendship Park
1.3 km
Experience the lush greenery and cultural richness of Friendship Park, a serene haven in the bustling heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Essential places to dine
The Oriental
0.0 km
Discover exquisite international cuisine blended with authentic Ethiopian flavors at The Oriental in Meskel Square, Addis Ababa.
Upscale Kitchen & Cocktails | Estifanos | አፕ ስኬል ኪችን እና ኮክተል | እስጢፋኖስ
0.3 km
Discover Upscale Kitchen & Cocktails in Addis Ababa: Where Traditional Ethiopian Flavors Meet Modern Culinary Excellence.
Pepper And Spice Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopia at Pepper And Spice Restaurant in Addis Ababa—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Gusto Trattoria Restaurant P L C
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gusto Trattoria in Addis Ababa – where every meal is a celebration of taste and culture.
Henom Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience fine dining at Henom Restaurant in Addis Ababa - where local flavors meet global cuisine in an elegant setting.
Belvedere Restaurant best of beat | Kazanchis | ብሊቭደር ሬስቶራንት | ክሳንቺስ
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Belvedere Restaurant in Kazanchis, Addis Ababa - where tradition meets local charm.
Verres en Vers
1.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine in Addis Ababa's Kazanchis Business District at Verres en Vers.
Trattoria Gusto
1.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Gusto in Addis Ababa—where every dish tells a story.
Trattoria Gusto | Kazanchis | ትራቶሪያ ጉስቶ | ካሳንቺስ
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Gusto in Kazanchis, Addis Ababa - where every dish tells a story.
Gazebo Restaurant on the Park
1.0 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Gazebo Restaurant on the Park, where nature meets delightful flavors in Addis Ababa.
Lime Tree Restaurant | Kazanchis | ላይም ትሪ ምግብ ቤት | ካዛንቺስ
1.0 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Lime Tree Restaurant in Kazanchis—where every dish tells a story.
Kaffa House
1.0 km
Experience the essence of Ethiopian cuisine at Kaffa House in Addis Ababa – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Marcus Addis Restaurant & Sky Bar
1.0 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Marcus Addis Restaurant & Sky Bar in the heart of Addis Ababa.
Center Point Addis 360° Revolving Restaurant
1.1 km
Savor exquisite flavors while enjoying breathtaking views at Center Point Addis 360° Revolving Restaurant in Ethiopia's vibrant capital.
Jewel of India Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Jewel of India Restaurant in Addis Ababa – where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ethiopian Tourism Enterprise Gift Shop
0.2 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia through unique handicrafts and souvenirs at the Ethiopian Tourism Enterprise Gift Shop in Addis Ababa.
Stunning Ethiopia Tours
0.5 km
Explore the heart of Ethiopia with Stunning Ethiopia Tours, your gateway to unique adventures and unforgettable experiences in a breathtaking landscape.
Dembel City Center
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Dembel City Center in Addis Ababa, blending modern retail with local culture.
Store251
1.0 km
Explore Store251 in Addis Ababa for unique fashion accessories and handcrafted treasures that capture the spirit of Ethiopian artistry.
Gift shop Treasure House
1.0 km
Explore authentic Ethiopian culture at Treasure House, your go-to gift shop in Addis Ababa for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts.
FOOTPRINTS Ethiopia Tour & Travel
1.1 km
Experience the Magic of Ethiopia with Footprints Ethiopia Tour & Travel - Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures.
Kirkos Market
1.1 km
Explore Kirkos Market, a vibrant shopping destination in Addis Ababa, showcasing Ethiopian culture, crafts, and culinary delights.
Shoa Dabo | Dembel | ሸዋ ዳቦ | ደምበል
1.2 km
Explore the delightful flavors of Ethiopian baked goods at Shoa Dabo, a must-visit bakery in the heart of Addis Ababa.
Happy Place Gift Shop
1.2 km
Explore unique Ethiopian gifts and crafts at Happy Place Gift Shop—your gateway to local culture and artisan treasures in Addis Ababa.
KS BOUTIQUE
1.2 km
Experience the essence of Ethiopian fashion at KS Boutique, Addis Ababa's premier women's clothing store, offering unique styles and personalized service.
Getu Commercial Center.
1.3 km
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at the lively Getu Commercial Center in Addis Ababa, a must-visit for every traveler.
Obsa Special Khat
1.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Ethiopia at Obsa Special Khat, a must-visit store for an authentic Khat experience in Addis Ababa.
Palace Commercial Center
1.3 km
Explore the Palace Commercial Center in Addis Ababa—your gateway to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in Ethiopia's bustling capital.
Hailu Negash Souvenir Shop
1.3 km
Explore the essence of Ethiopian culture with unique handcrafted souvenirs at Hailu Negash Souvenir Shop in Addis Ababa.
Gwangwa
1.4 km
Discover unique Ethiopian handicrafts and souvenirs at Gwangwa, a vibrant store in the heart of Addis Ababa, showcasing local artistry and culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Union Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Addis Ababa at Union Cocktail Bar & Restaurant, where grilled delights meet refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Noble House Cocktails | Kazanchis | ኖብል ሃውስ ኮክቴል | ካሳንቺስ
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Addis Ababa at Noble House Cocktails, where innovative drinks meet a warm atmosphere in Kazanchis.
Lyan Bar and Restaurant | Kazanchis | ሊያን ስፖርት ባርና ሬስቶራንት | ካዛንቺስ
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia at Lyan Bar and Restaurant in Kazanchis, a perfect blend of local and international cuisine.
Hilton Addis Ababa
1.0 km
Discover the luxurious elegance of Hilton Addis Ababa, where comfort and Ethiopian hospitality come together for an unforgettable stay.
Viking Bar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Addis Ababa at Viking Bar, where great drinks and friendly faces await.
Stanley's Bar
1.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Stanley's Bar, a must-visit nightlife spot in Addis Ababa.
alona bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Addis Ababa at Alona Bar, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together for an unforgettable evening.
Tele bar | Mexico | ቴሌ ባር | ሜክሲኮ
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tele Bar in Addis Ababa, where culture and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
ادم للقات المسماري
1.3 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopia's nightlife at ادم للقات المسماري, a vibrant bar serving traditional drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Vikings Bar
1.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Addis Ababa at Vikings Bar, where vibrant decor meets a friendly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local culture.
Eyariko bar and restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Eyariko Bar and Restaurant in Addis Ababa, a perfect blend of culture and flavor.
Homie Lounge
1.6 km
Discover the flavors of Ethiopia at Homie Lounge, a vibrant grill restaurant in Addis Ababa, where delicious food meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Hotspot Addis bar and restaurant
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Addis Ababa at Hotspot Addis, where exquisite cocktails meet delicious Ethiopian cuisine in a lively setting.
Surrender night club
1.7 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Surrender Night Club in Addis Ababa, where music, dance, and vibrant energy create unforgettable experiences.
Toro Grill and Lounge
1.8 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopian cuisine at Toro Grill and Lounge, a top-rated grill and yakiniku restaurant in Addis Ababa.
