Addis Ababa

At 2,400m above sea level Addis Ababa is one of the highest capital cities in the world. Its name literally translates to "new flower", which paints a picture of what you can expect from the city. Acting as the commercial and cultural hub of Ethiopia, it has historic museums, churches and neighbourhoods, which give you a feel for the area's varied ambiance. Explore parks, shop at markets or spend some time in the abundant surrounding nature, including forest parks and botanical gardens.

Catch a breeze at a hostel in Addis Ababa with a huge outdoor terrace or somewhere that has balconies on every floor, letting you take in the evening sunshine. An Addis Ababa hostel with a garden provides a quiet space to unwind with a book as a respite from city touring. Choose from hostels in Addis Ababa that include a free breakfast or laundry facilities – ideal if you're on a long trip. Accommodation with free Wi-Fi means keeping in touch with home is easy.

To start exploring head to central Kirkos, one of Addis Ababa's main neighbourhoods – here, you'll find shopping opportunities and places to eat. Piassa is one of the oldest parts of the city. It's home to plenty of coffee houses and patisseries, and the architecture shows the lasting influence of the Italian invasion of Ethiopia. For an upmarket district, try Bole. This luxurious district is quickly transforming with modern restaurants and boutiques, not to mention a thriving nightlife with lots of clubs.

Learn about the country's arts and culture at the National Museum of Ethiopia. The Holy Trinity Cathedral highlights the best of the city's architecture with its gleaming golden dome. For a festival-like experience, visit in September to celebrate the annual colourful religious ceremony Meskal. You can hunt for souvenirs and taste traditional dishes at Addis Mercato in the centre of town. If you want to go further, hike through the eucalyptus trees of Mount Entoto.

From Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, it takes around 15 minutes to reach the centre. You can get a taxi or bus from the front of the arrivals terminal. Autobus Tera is the main bus station for intercity travel. To travel between sights, there's a tram that serves much of the city, or you can hail minibuses and taxis that will stop wherever it's safe for them to do so.