Aksum: The Ancient Heart of Ethiopia
Experience the rich history of Aksum, Ethiopia, where ancient obelisks and archaeological treasures reveal the heart of a once-great civilization.
Aksum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of history and culture, offering tourists a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich past with its awe-inspiring obelisks, ancient ruins, and vibrant local life.
A brief summary to Aksum
- Akisum Town, Aksum, ET
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool weather while exploring the ancient sites.
- Don't forget to try local dishes at nearby restaurants for an authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine.
- Hire a local guide to enhance your understanding of Aksum's rich history and cultural significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the ancient ruins.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially if you're visiting during the warmer months.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Axum, start walking east on the main road. Continue straight for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the outskirts of the town. Look for signs pointing towards Aksum and follow the path leading in that direction. Walk for another 2 kilometers until you reach the entrance of Aksum.
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Public Transportation
Head to the nearest bus station in Axum and look for a minibus or shared taxi going towards Aksum. Make sure to confirm with the driver that they are heading to Aksum. Once on board, the journey will take approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance of Aksum.
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Hiring a Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from a local shop in Axum and head east towards Aksum. Follow the main road out of town and continue for about 2 kilometers until you reach the entrance of Aksum. Enjoy the scenic ride and explore at your own pace.
Discover more about Aksum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aksum
0.0 km
Experience the rich history of Aksum, Ethiopia, where ancient obelisks and archaeological treasures reveal the heart of a once-great civilization.
ቤተክርስቲያን እንዳየሱስ | Jesus Church
0.2 km
Discover the spiritual and architectural wonders of the Jesus Church in Aksum, a cornerstone of Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage.
ቤተ ክርስትያን እንዳ ኣርባዕተ እንስሳ / Arabtu Ensessa Church
0.4 km
Explore the Arabtu Ensessa Church in Aksum, a stunning architectural marvel steeped in rich history and spiritual significance.
ጥንታዊ እንዳ ፬ እንስሳ ቤተ ክርስትያን |The Ancient Church of Arbaetu Enssa
0.9 km
Discover the profound history and spiritual significance of the Ancient Church of Arbaetu Enssa in Axum, Ethiopia's ancient capital.
Kahsay Beyene, Axum, Tigray
1.1 km
Immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical heritage of Ethiopia at Kahsay Beyene, a stunning church in the ancient city of Axum.
Nyala Hotel Axum
1.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culture at Nyala Hotel Axum, your gateway to the wonders of historical Ethiopia.
Abba Pentalewon
2.4 km
Discover the spiritual and historical essence of Aksum at Abba Pentalewon Church, a remarkable example of Ethiopian religious architecture.
Atranos Fantasy Hotel and Spa
2.6 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and rejuvenation at the Atranos Fantasy Hotel and Spa, your serene retreat in Aksum surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
ጎቦዱራ ምስለ ኣንበሳ Lioness of GobeDura
4.4 km
Discover the Lioness of GobeDura in Medego, Ethiopia - a historical landmark rich in culture and architectural splendor.
Rahwa Middle School
55.8 km
Explore Rahwa Middle School in Adi Kuala for a unique insight into Eritrea's educational landscape and cultural heritage.
Adi Quala Bus Station
56.8 km
Experience local culture at Adi Quala Bus Station, the gateway to exploring Eritrea's stunning landscapes and vibrant communities.
Adi Quala Hospital
57.6 km
Explore the heart of Eritrea's healthcare at Adi Quala Hospital, a vital institution offering essential medical services in a welcoming community.
Eyamo ኢያሞ
57.7 km
Discover the tranquil Eyamo Church in Adi Kuala, Eritrea, where stunning architecture meets deep cultural heritage in a serene setting.
Adi Hihi
58.2 km
Experience the authentic culture of Eritrea at Adi Hihi, a charming village hall that showcases local traditions and community spirit in a serene setting.
Shum Agame Sebhat Subagadis Castle
82.5 km
Explore the historical marvel of Shum Agame Sebhat Subagadis Castle in Adigrat, a captivating site that reveals the rich heritage of Ethiopia.
Unmissable attractions to see
ኣኽሱም ሓውልት | ሓወልቲ ኣኽሱም ቑፅሪ-1 | Akhsum Obelisk No-1
0.0 km
Explore the Aksum Obelisk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that embodies the grandeur of ancient Aksumite civilization through its stunning architecture and historical significance.
መቓብር ንጉስን ቤተሰቡን | The tomb of Mausoleum
0.1 km
Explore the Tomb of Mausoleum in Aksum, a remarkable archaeological site that unveils the grandeur of Ethiopia's ancient civilization.
Axum Tsion St. Mary
0.1 km
Explore Axum Tsion St. Mary, a historic Orthodox church in Aksum, Ethiopia, renowned for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
ንግስቲ ሳባ ማይ ሹም Queen of Saba’s Bath, Mai Shum
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Queen of Sheba's Bath in Aksum, a historical landmark rich in legend and ancient architecture, perfect for history lovers.
Queen of Sheba's Bath
0.4 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Queen of Sheba's Bath in Aksum, a serene natural lake steeped in Ethiopian legend.
Aksum Old Quarter
0.6 km
Explore the historic Aksum Old Quarter, where ancient obelisks and vibrant local culture come together to tell the story of Ethiopia's rich past.
Ezana Stone
0.8 km
Explore the Ezana Stone in Aksum, an iconic historical landmark showcasing ancient inscriptions and the rich heritage of Ethiopia's Aksumite Empire.
Ta'akha Myryam Place
0.9 km
Explore the ancient splendor of Ta'akha Myryam Place, a historical gem in Aksum, Ethiopia, reflecting the grandeur of a bygone era.
TOMB OF KING BAZEN
1.0 km
Explore the Tomb of King Bazen in Aksum, a remarkable testament to Ethiopia's ancient Aksumite Empire and rich cultural heritage.
Addi Guatiya cruciform tombs
1.2 km
Discover the ancient Addi Guatiya Cruciform Tombs in Aksum, a stunning testament to Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage and history.
Holly Land of Aksum | ምድረ ፅዮን ከተማ ኣኽሱም ኣጋግዘ ዝተለዓለ ፎቶ
1.5 km
Discover Aksum, Ethiopia: An ancient city rich in history, home to monumental obelisks and sacred churches that unveil the secrets of a lost civilization.
ቤተ መንግስቲ ንግስቲ ሳባ | Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
1.5 km
Discover the majestic Dungur Palace, a historical landmark in Aksum, where the legends of the Queen of Sheba come alive amidst stunning ancient architecture.
Kaleb tomb
1.6 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Tombs of Kings Kaleb & Gebre Meskel in Aksum, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in rich Ethiopian history and culture.
King Kaleb Palace
1.6 km
Discover the majestic remnants of King Kaleb Palace, a historical landmark in Aksum, Ethiopia, that reflects the glory of the Aksumite Empire.
May ako outdoor park ማይዓኮ መናፈሻ
1.7 km
Explore the serene May Ako Outdoor Park in Aksum, a blend of natural beauty and rich history perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Essential places to dine
Tsega Cafe & Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Tsega Cafe & Restaurant in Aksum – where tradition meets flavor.
Memina Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover Memina Restaurant in Aksum - where traditional Ethiopian chicken dishes meet warm hospitality.
Central cafe Restaurant and pastry
1.0 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Central Cafe Restaurant and Pastry in historic Aksum - where every bite tells a story.
AB Cultural Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience the flavors of Ethiopia at AB Cultural Restaurant in Aksum - where tradition meets taste in a vibrant setting.
Mini-Pastry
1.1 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Mini-Pastry in Aksum—where delicious pastries meet warm hospitality.
Antica Special Cultural Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Antica Special Cultural Restaurant in Aksum – where tradition meets flavor.
Prima Restaurant and Pizzeria
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Ethiopia with traditional dishes and pizzas at Prima Restaurant and Pizzeria in Aksum.
ገዛ ያታ / Geza Yeta
1.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopia at Geza Yeta in Aksum - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Hber cafe & restrant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Hber Cafe & Restaurant in Aksum - where tradition meets flavor.
Hani Pastry Shop
1.4 km
Discover Hani Pastry Shop in Aksum for an authentic taste of Ethiopian pastries amid historical wonders.
Empire Resturant Former Aste Yohanns 1v
1.5 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopian cuisine at Empire Restaurant in Aksum – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Habesha Traditional Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Habesha Traditional Restaurant in Aksum - where every meal tells a story.
Lucy Traditional Restaurant
1.7 km
Savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Lucy Traditional Restaurant in Aksum—where every dish tells a story.
Yordanis Cafe
1.7 km
Experience the heart of Ethiopian cuisine at Yordanis Cafe in Aksum—where tradition meets taste.
Messi snack
1.8 km
Savor authentic Ethiopian breakfasts at Messi Snack in Aksum – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
መሽጢ ቕርፃ ቕርፂ | Souvenir Shop|
0.1 km
Explore Aksum's vibrant souvenir shop, where unique gifts and traditional Ethiopian crafts await to enrich your travel experience.
ቅዱሰ ጀወርግሰ ቅርፃቕርፂ መሸጥን መጎብነይን | St. George Sculpture Sales and Tours |
0.2 km
Explore the unique artistry of Aksum with stunning sculptures at St. George Sculpture Sales and Tours, a must-visit gift shop for authentic Ethiopian treasures.
Hadas Berhe basket shop
0.4 km
Explore Hadas Berhe Basket Shop in Aksum for exquisite handmade basket ware, showcasing rich Ethiopian craftsmanship and culture.
Tsegredabasket and hand craft shop Aksum
0.5 km
Explore the rich artistry of Aksum at Tsegredabasket, home to exquisite handwoven baskets and unique Ethiopian crafts that embody the local culture.
Girmay kahsay axum tibeb
0.5 km
Explore the unique offerings of Girmay Kahsay in Aksum and take home a piece of Ethiopian culture and craftsmanship.
Area where clothes are sewn እንዳ ክዳዉንቲ
0.6 km
Explore the rich textile heritage of Aksum at the Area Where Clothes Are Sewn, where traditional craftsmanship meets vibrant designs.
Meaza
0.7 km
Discover Aksum's rich cultural heritage through fashion at Meaza, a premier women's clothing store offering unique and stylish attire.
Essential mobile and computer solution
0.8 km
Discover modern technology amidst the ancient wonders of Aksum at Essential Mobile and Computer Solutions, your one-stop electronics shop.
ቤተ ቡን ሪች Rich Coffee
1.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopian coffee at ቤተ ቡን ሪች Rich Coffee, a cozy haven for coffee lovers in historic Aksum.
Tesfalem Dabo
1.0 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Tesfalem Dabo, Aksum's charming bakery offering traditional Ethiopian baked goods and sweet treats.
Meskel Electric & Glass Work Shop , Near Ezana Park
1.1 km
Discover unique craftsmanship at Meskel Electric & Glass Work Shop in Aksum, where traditional artistry meets modern design in a captivating shopping experience.
Akhsum market place አኽሱም ዕዳጋ
1.1 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant local life at Akhsum Market Place, a must-visit destination for an authentic Ethiopian experience.
kdus
1.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopia at Kdus Bakery in Aksum, serving traditional pastries and breads that delight the senses.
St Mary Pharmacy
1.1 km
Explore Aksum with confidence; St Mary Pharmacy offers essential health products for every traveler’s needs.
Traditional Cloth Shops
1.1 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Aksum's traditional cloth shops, where vibrant textiles and cultural heritage come together in a unique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tela House
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tela House, Aksum's top bar, where Ethiopian culture meets a lively atmosphere and delightful beverages.
ትግራይ ባር እና ሬስቱራንት
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Tigrai Bar in Aksum, where local culture and refreshing drinks await your visit.
Nati Juice
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of freshly squeezed juices at Nati Juice in Aksum, a refreshing oasis for all travelers.
Bar Gima
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and refreshing drinks at Bar Gima, Aksum's premier spot for relaxation and local charm.
ኩዳ ፒዛን ዳጁስን | Kuda Juice And Pizzeria
1.3 km
Experience the best of Aksum with delicious pizzas and refreshing juices at Kuda Juice And Pizzeria, a culinary gem for tourists.
Fikada
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Fikada in Aksum, where local culture meets refreshing drinks in a lively bar setting.
Deamat
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aksum at Deamat, a bar offering an exquisite selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
ሳቢያን ኢንተርናሽናል ሆቴል | Sabean International Hotel
1.5 km
Experience the charm of Aksum at Sabean International Hotel, where modern comfort meets rich cultural heritage in the heart of Ethiopia.
Africa Hotel
1.6 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopia with a stay at Africa Hotel in Aksum, where history meets hospitality amidst breathtaking landscapes.
ሆቴል ኢትዮጲስ ኣክሱም | Ethiopis Hotel Aksum
1.7 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Aksum while enjoying the comfort and local charm of Ethiopis Hotel Aksum.
Yared Zema International Hotel
1.8 km
Experience comfort and culture at Yared Zema International Hotel, your gateway to the ancient wonders of Aksum, Ethiopia.
Obelisk Hotel Aksum
2.3 km
Unwind in the heart of Aksum at Obelisk Hotel, combining modern comfort with a rich cultural experience in Ethiopia's historic city.
Tomas
44.8 km
Discover the essence of Ethiopian culture at Tomas, a charming bar in Shire, where friendly vibes and local drinks await.
Dream Bar shire
46.6 km
Discover the lively spirit of Shire at Dream Bar, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sendel
46.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Sendel, a cozy bar in Shire where drinks flow and friendships blossom.