Addis Ababa features a subtropical highland climate (Cwb), a variety of the temperate oceanic climate, with wet summer (comparable to Mexico City). The average highs are between 21 °C (70 °F) and 25 °C (77 °F), the average lows between 7 °C (45 °F) and 11 °C (52 °F). The warmest months are February to May, but not "hot" as people imagine Africa; most hotels do not have air-conditioning. Temperatures and climate can vary due to elevation. Addis Ababa has 132 rainy days per year and records 1,165 mm (45.9 in) of rainfalls annually.

Temperatures in Addis Ababa are remarkably constant from month to month: the annual temperature variation is low with around 4 °C (7.2 °F). However, due to its altitude of 2,400 m (7,900 ft), the diurnal temperature variation is high with around 14 °C (25 °F) difference between day and night in average. It is often 27 °C (81 °F) at lunchtime and 3 °C (37 °F) at night; always take a second layer with you during the evening.

Main article: Bole International Airport

8.9838.81 Addis Ababa [Bole International Airport (ADD  ^IATA) is the busiest airport in East Africa. It is the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines.

There are two terminals. Terminal 1 (the older, smaller one) is for all domestic flights and most flights to cities in neighbouring nations (Djibouti, Nairobi, Khartoum, etc.). Terminal 2 (the newer 2003 building) is for all other international flights of Ethiopian Airlines and most other companies (arrangements may change so check first). Terminal 2 is said to be the largest terminal in sub-Saharan Africa. There are ATMs accepting Visa and Mastercard and forex services taking a wide range of currencies.

There are several Ethiopian ticket offices in Addis; including the main one at Churchill Road near the Ethiopian National Theatre and another one in the Hilton Hotel. By regulation, foreigners must pay in US dollars at these offices as well.

Most of the major roads are in good condition:

• From Asmara and Dese: Highway 1
• From Axum and Bahir Dar: Highway 3
• From Djibouti and Nazret (Adama): Highway 4
• From Gambela National Park and Gambela: Highway 5
• From Jimma and Giyon: Highway 6

Trans-African Highway 4 from Cairo and Bahir Dar passes through Addis Ababa en route to Nairobi and Cape Town.

The railway line connecting Addis Ababa with the port city of Djibouti, via Dire Dawa opened in 2016/17. Journey time is about 6.5 hours from Dire Dawa, a mandatory overnight stay and another 12 hours to Addis and as of 2024 there is a train every second day. Tickets can be bought at the railway station or at a ticket office next to the old colonial Legehar station (a portmanteau of the French name for station, la gare) on Churchill Ave.

• 8.93235338.6879385 Addis Ababa Furi-Lebu railway station. This impressive station is almost 20 km (12 mi) south of the city center, far away from anything. Taking a taxi is the best option, expect up to 45 minutes for a trip to the central city. (updated Jun 2019)

Blue and white minibuses

Blue and white minibuses/taxis travel quite efficiently around town. Since they are full with people most of the time, it is very cheap too; usually between a few birr depending on how far you are going. To catch a minibus, stand on the side of the road and hail it. This can be done anywhere it is possible for the bus to stop. The conductor inside will call out the destination, and if that's where you want to go: get on. You pay the conductor when he signals to you that he wants money (which might take a few minutes). To get change. To get out say "woraj alle", or just "woraj". It is worth having an Ethiopian guide with you if it is your first time using these taxis, since it can be quite chaotic to find out what minibuses go where, and from what places.

Orange/yellow public buses

These buses connect the whole city for a fare of 0.5–3 birr (2016). There are no schedules or maps available, however if you wait on a major street where a crowd gathers you can ask other people or the cashier – which is always in a cabin at the back door – for your destination. Line 31 for example is a convenient line from Meskel Square to the National Museum or Trinity Church. The buses are often overcrowded, so watch your belongings

Uber does not operate here yet, but there are a few alternatives. Ride is by far the most popular ridehailing app, followed by Feres. You need an Ethiopian mobile number to use both. For safety reasons, it's not advisable to just hail a cab on the street, but if you do so the driver can manually input the trip into Ride. Make sure that the plate numbers match before getting in, and that the driver starts the trip on the app before departure. Payment is usually done by cash, but you can register a credit card on the app and pay through it as well.

Drivers are generally not very proficient in English or reading maps. They will usually accept trips without looking at the origin and destination, and will call you as soon as they accept your trip to ask where you are. Occasionally if you do not speak Amharic or Arabic, they will give up on finding you and cancel the trip on their end. Asking a local to help communicate your location to them helps greatly. Be prepared for the driver to have trouble following the route on the app, as well as finding your final destination. Often they will drive to the general neighbourhood or landmark, and rely on you to get them to the destination (or just call it quits and get off early).

It is common for locals and international immigrants alike to ask for the driver's mobile number after a pleasant ride, and call them directly for future rides.

As of October 2024, the base fare for Ride is 130 birr, with an additional 17 birr per km and 210 birr per hour.

The Chinese built a system of light rail lines (one of the first in sub-Saharan Africa) in the 2010s. There are two lines that cross near Meskel square:

• West–East green line 1 is from Tor Hailoch station to Ayat.
• North–South blue line 2 is from Kality station to Menelik II Square station (aka Piazza).

The fare starts at 10 birr. During peak hours the light rail is so crowded as to be almost dangerous. Pickpocketing and molestation are common, and riders are not used to the concept of letting people off before they get on. As a result, you may need to physically shove passengers out of your way to get off the train – if not, it may be several stops until you can get off! Some stations like Urael have an island platform, meaning that the left doors open.

• 9.009438.7631 Addis Ababa Museum, Bole Rd / Airport Rd / Africa Ave (near Meskel Square). Tu–F 08:30–12:30, 13:30–17:30; Sa 08:30–11:30. Focuses on artefacts and exhibits from Addis Ababa. The building was once a palace where Ras Biru Habte-Gabriel, a former Minister of War, resided.  
• 9.0094438.753172 Ethiopian Railway Museum, Yima Dernisse Street (La Gare), ☏ +251 11 111 2343. In the old French-built railway station of the city. There is no formal office within, but you can see 1930s carriages and locomotives on display outside. There is also a restaurant and a cafe. Much of the area around the station are under construction for a new high-rise residential district. (updated Oct 2024)
• 9.04661938.7576243 Ethnological Museum, Algeria St. M–F 08:00–17:00; Sa–Su 09:00–17:00. Also known as the Museum and Library of the Institute of Ethiopian Studies, this is a fascinating museum with exhibits about the history and culture of Ethiopia. There are many displays of the various ethnic groups found in Ethiopia with information about each of their lifestyles. Ethnic outfits, instruments, tools, and other artefacts accompany each ethnic exhibit, making it one of the most interesting museums in the city. It is housed in the former palace of the Emperor Haile Selassie, and you can visit his bedroom. The museum is on the university campus. 250 birr for adults, 150 birr for students (for foreigners). (updated Oct 2024)
• 9.0383338.76194 National Museum of Ethiopia, King George VI St (between Arat Kilo Ave and the University of Addis Ababa Graduate School). 08:30–17:00. A poorly displayed but interesting museum. The most famous exhibit is the replica of Lucy, an early hominid. With Ethiopian civilization being one of the oldest in the world, the artefacts within the museum span thousands of years, including some from its earliest days. A wide variety of artefacts are featured, from sculptures to clothing to artwork. Both traditional and modern art are featured. Much of the museum is undergoing renovation and closed. (updated Oct 2024)
• 9.03338.7655 The Zoological Natural History Museum, Queen Elizabeth II St (at the University campus). Tu–Su 09:00–11:45, 13:30–16:30. Founded in 1955, the museum reportedly displays about 1100 species of African animals. 
• 9.010138.7636 "Red Terror" Martyrs Memorial Museum, Bole Rd, Meskel Sq (adjacent to Meskel Sq), ☏ +251 11 850 6730. Daily 08:00–18:30. About those who lost their lives in the time of the Derg. Opened in 2010 with an excellent, modern style of display. Visited in 2019 the building was in a fairly poor state with none of the lights seemingly working. Worth a quick visit, won’t take more than 15 minutes. The memorial does not set out to be an encyclopaedic collection but to be a simple and powerful reminder. Donation. (updated Jan 2020)

• 9.03338.7417 Anwar Mosque, Mercato district. It's quite impressive, with its arcades and several minarets. Has been repainted at least twice in the 2010s and early 2020s.  
• 9.025338.74928 Gola Saint Michael Church, city centre (next to the Federal immigration office). Very interesting place and one of the many old churches in Addis Ababa. One can see old paintings by many Ethiopian celebrity artists. Has a museum displaying church articles given by many famous people of the country including the emperor Haile Selassie and his Empress. 
• 9.030838.7669 Holy Trinity Cathedral, off Niger St, Arat Kilo area, Arada subcity. 08:00–13:00, 14:00–18:00; museum: 08:00–12:00, 14:00–17:00. It was built to commemorate the country's liberation from the Italians, and many victims killed by the Italians during occupation are buried here. The locals call the church Haile Selassie Church because Emperor Haile Selassie's body was moved here in 2000. Surrounding the cathedral is a cemetery with notable Ethiopians, including Patriarchs, Prime Ministers, athletes, musicians, and football commentators! The suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst is buried in the churchyard. There is a small museum in the site and a number of smaller churches. As with all churches in Ethiopia shoes must be left outside. (updated Dec 2019)
• 8.995938.789910 Medhane Alem Cathedral, Cameroon St, Bole subcity (near Bole International Airport). This cathedral, whose name means "Saviour of the World", is the largest cathedral in Ethiopia and the second largest in Africa. Built in 1890, it has a relatively plain exterior but a wonderfully colourful interior, particularly inside the dome. (updated Dec 2019)

• 9.030538.748811 Roman Catholic Cathedral of Nativity, Wawel St, Mercato district. Brick church with a square tower. Masses in Amharic and Ge'ez.  
• 9.036838.751312 St George's Cathedral, north end of Churchill Rd, Piazza area, Arada subcity (north-west side of Menelik Sq). Museum: 09:00–12:00, 14:00–18:00. Built in 1896 to commemorate Ethiopia's victory over the Italians. The cathedral is a octagonal building. As you walk around it, you will notice people praying beside the walls, but it is unlikely that you will find an entrance. The Cathedral can only be visited with a guide. The interior is nicely decorated with huge paintings and mosaics. The near museum has an interesting and well displayed collection including ceremonial clothes and ancient manuscripts. No photography is allowed in the museum, but you can take photos inside the cathedral without flash 200 birr for museum, another 200 birr or more for a guide for museum and cathedral entry. (updated Jan 2020)
• 9.025238.7649613 Bata Maryam Church. Also known as the Menelik mausoleum, is located just south of the Menelik palace. (updated Feb 2020)

• 9.01452938.76626714 Africa Hall (located across Menelik II Avenue from the Palace). This is where the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa is headquartered as well as most UN offices in Ethiopia. It is also the site of the founding of the Organization for African Unity (OAU) which eventually became the African Union. Security is tight and you won't be admitted unless you have an appointment.  
• 9.0201438.75131715 Tiglachin ("Our Struggle") monument. Sometimes erroneously called Derg Monument, which Ethiopians find offensive because it is not a monument to honour the Derg regime. This massive statue monument was built in the 1980s. The sides have a tribute to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers who died in the 1977-1978 war against Somalia. If you want to take pictures, there is a guy asking for a small fee.  
• 9.0180638.7516 Ethiopian National Library. The national library and archives of the country was opened by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1944, who also donated the first books.  

• 9.01086138.75311117 Lion of Judah of Menelik (near the former railway station). Commemorates Emperor Menelik. It was erected in 1930 and looted by the Italians a few years later. It remained in Rome for 30 years before being returned in the 1960s.  
• 9.016638.752418 Lion of Judah of Haile Selassie, Gambia St (outside the National Theatre). A carved statue commemorating the silver jubilee of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1955.  
• 9.02497238.76419 Unity Park. 09:00–16:00 daily, last entry at 15:00. Opened in October 2019 this is one of the must see sights in Addis Ababa. The expansive site is home to the Palace of Emperor Menelik II, including his Throne Room and Banquet Hall, along with a zoo, exhibitions, sculptures, and wonderful beds of flowers. It is probably the best presented site in Ethiopia, the pet project of the Prime Minister, whose office is also on the site. Allow 2-3 hours to visit. Security is extremely strict, with no food or water allowed to be brought in (but can be bought inside) and cameras and power banks have to be left in a cloakroom, but mobile phones are fine. You will need to show your passport to enter. For non-Ethiopians US$20 for normal entry, or US$70 for VIP entry with a guide allowing access into the Palace on a three-hour tour. Payment in both US dollars and birr are accepted, with the daily exchange rate applied. Credit card payments are done in US dollars.. (updated Oct 2024)
• 9.016538.76047220 National Palace. Built as the Jubilee Palace to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee in 1955, it is the residence of the President of Ethiopia. Taking pictures is prohibited and even pausing to peer over the wall will attract security.  
• 9.03012438.76237521 Parliament Building (Near Holy Trinity Cathedral). Built during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie, with its clock tower, it continues as the seat of Parliament. Photography is prohibited.  
• 9.028738.764722 Shengo Hall. Built by the Derg regime of Mengistu Haile Mariam as its parliament hall, as of 2024 the known as the Office of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. The Shengo Hall was the world's largest pre-fabricated building, which was constructed in Finland before being assembled in Addis Ababa. It is used for large meetings and conventions. 

Ethiopia traditionally operates a cash economy, however acceptance of cards is increasing. Credit cards are now accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Cash is preferred if the amount is small and there is no guarantee the card machine will be working.

ATMs/cash machines are found throughout Addis Ababa. Dashen Bank is a principal member of both VISA and MasterCard International and has ATMs. Commercial Bank has ATMs that accept international cards and does not charge a fee. Not all cards are accepted everywhere, Dashen Bank ATMs accept Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus, while Zemen bank ATMs do not accept MasterCard. Most ATM machines have a 4,000–6,000 birr limit per day, but most do not charge a local ATM fee (international or third-party ATM fees from your financial institution may apply).

Warning: Some ATM machines are targeted for "skimmer" scams, allowing thieves to steal your ATM card information. To protect yourself, the safest ATMs to use are the ones located at the Hilton (Dashen, Zemen, CBE); Radisson Blu (Dashen, Zemen, Wegagen); or Sheraton (Dashen) hotels.

There is an illegal black market where you can get a slightly better rate, especially if you bargain. Check your money very carefully before you leave and do not allow it to leave your hand after your final count. Most souvenir shops off Churchill Rd and Zambia St do it.

Addis has hundreds of cake and coffee cafes. They sell various coffees, tea - black unless you ask for "machiatto" - and sometimes fruit juices. There are also juice beits. The cafes along Bole Road and around the Piassa area are of a high standard and relatively inexpensive. Most are very similar to each other.

Most cafes serve the common drink called 'sprice juice' (fruit pulp served in layers in a glass). There are usually three layers from a selection of avocado, mango, papaya, banana, guava etc. The juice is eaten with a spoon. It is colourful and tastes delicious. Single fruit juices are also great, such as orange, papaya, mango, and pineapple - beautifully fresh. 7 birr up to 25 birr in Hilton.

• 9.0035238.768261 Purple Cafe (City Cafe on Bole), Africa Ave. has delicious cakes and pastries as well as high quality Ethiopian espresso coffees or machiattos. You can sit on the porch and watch the activity on one of the main roads in Addis. 
• 9.0163638.752172 National Cafe (National Theater Menafesha), at the end of Churchill Ave (in the National Theatre building). Reasonable prices and good food. From injera to club sandwich. 
• 9.0311438.739693 Finfine Restaurant (Near Filwuha), ☏ +251 11 551 47 11. open daily. Ethiopian restaurant, vegetarian menu available. 10-20 birr. (updated Feb 2020)

• 9.0107338.784184 Yohannes Kitfo Bet (Kassanchis Road behind Bekelesh Kitfo Bete), ☏ +251 91 152 8876. open daily. Ethiopian restaurant with outdoor seating. 10-20 birr. (updated Feb 2020)

Restaurants that do not have an English menu are cheaper. Example: Connection between Bole Road and Tele-Bole, next to Bole roundabout, at NOC-Fuelstation, close to German Kantine. You can have lunch (local food, spaghetti) for less than 20 birr. If you don't have a translator, ordering is a lot of fun.

• 8.9963838.779295 Antica, off Cape Verde St / EU Rd, Bole (in the residential area just behind the Sudanese restaurant, near Desalegn hotel). Decent pizza, and one of the only delivery services available in Addis that does not require bulk orders. Pizza tends to arrive cold. 
• 8.9951838.766476 Bruno's, Gabon St, across from the Dreamliner hotel (look for the Italian themed gate). A quiet, tucked-away Italian restaurant, it has some of the best pizza in the city, on a beautiful compound. Parking is extremely limited both on the street and within the restaurant; if you plan on dining in, take a taxi. 
• 9.0013938.781457 2000 Habesha Cultural Restaurant (Habesha 2000), TeleBole Rd (between Atlas Hotel and Edna Mall). One of Addis Ababa's famous cultural restaurants, it has traditional singing and dancing at night. If you're feeling brave, try the gored gored (cubes of heavily salted and spiced raw beef). Waiters are well mannered and kind, and most are very talented dancers. Features a large buffet with many kinds of wat/wot (Ethiopian stew), injera, shiro, vegetables, and other dishes. Their "fasting" menu (meatless or vegan dishes typically served to religiously observant diners) is excellent and will satisfy most vegetarians and vegans. 
• 8.990638.7848 Lime Tree, Boston Partners Building, Bole Rd (above the Boston Day Spa). While Ethiopian food is delicious there comes a time when you might want to try something else. Extensive menu, ranging from Arabic to Ethiopian food. They do have a consistency which is quite hard to find here. Own brand of coffee, which is a more bitter version of the general Ethiopian coffee you find, but if this appeals to you then you can not find this coffee anywhere else. Limetree owns several other restaurants in town, ask them for recommendations for a bit more variety. 
• 8.989438.78419 Hanoi Hanna, Zimbabwe Street; Bole Japan neighborhood (inside Atmosphere Bar and Cultural Center, In the residential neighborhood behind Alem Cinema, off Africa Avenue/Bole Road), ☏ +251995301679. Classic Vietnamese dishes including Banh Mi, Pho and Bun Thit Nuong. 
• 8.999338.768110 Sana'a Restaurant, KL_02_246 St, Gabon St, Olympia area, Kirkos Subcity (next to Deluxe Furnitures Bldg, not far from Bole Rd), ☏ +251 911 51 4899, +251 11 466 8237. A very popular restaurant with amazing Yemeni food, visited by locals and middle-east customers. But indoor room can be a little bit noisy. 250 birr. (updated Jul 2017)
• 8.9873238.7447211 Sishu, Alexander Pushkin St (another location Mickey Leland St near Ghana St). Fabulous burgers (often called the best in Addis), nice salads and juices. Designed like a living room, with little bookstore. They only serve American coffee. 
• 9.0323538.7532212 Trianon Cafe and Restaurant, Piazza Area, Cunnigham St. Huge hall where the locals gather to enjoy pizza, pasta and meat dishes. Decent price. 
• 8.9966638.7319113 Yod Abyssinia, Seychelles St. A traditional cultural restaurant, favored by expats and the diplomatic community for treating visitors. Serves Hakim Stout, an excellent (even by international standards) dark Harari beer produced by Heineken that can be difficult to find. Multiple locations, but the popular ones are in Bole and in Mekanisa/Sar Bet area (Old Airport, on Seychelles St. about 600 m due west of Adams Pavilion). 
• 8.995638.785314 Cupcake Delight Bakery, Djibouti St, Bole (Across from the Beer Garden Inn). A bright, vibrant, bustling cafe serving cupcakes, cakes, fruit juices and coffees. 20–30 birr per baked product. (updated Jun 2014)
• 8.99638.773715 Rodeo Addis, Bole Rd, Wollo Sefer area, near crossing Ethio-China Friendship Rd (leaving Wollo Sefer roundabout toward Meskel square on Bole Rd, turn on first left just after the "Rodeo" signboard, then turn on first left again), ☏ +251 11 551 0694, +251 911 39 2868. Texas-style restaurant with meat and American specialities. Good ambiance at night. 200 birr. (updated Jul 2017)

• 8.992838.784716 Istanbul International Restaurant, BL_03_646 St, off Bole Rd, Bole subcity (500m south from Edna Mall, in front of Ukraine Embassy), ☏ +251 91 017 4728, +251 91 047 4717, istanbulrest.20@hotmail.com. Turkish cuisine with various dishes, feature classical "mixed kebab" as well as less known specialities like "tray kebab". The appetisers are tasty. 200 birr. (updated Jul 2017)
• 8.990838.782317 Asli Mendi Ethio-Arabic Restaurant, Zimbabwe St, off Bole Rd, Rwanda area, Bole subcity (next to Aladdin restaurant, near Japan Embassy), ☏ +251 91 182 0129. Yemeni-style cuisine, decorated as a Bedouin tent, quiet ambiance. 190 birr. (updated Aug 2017)
• 9.023238.777618 Five Loaves Bistro and Bakery, Côte d'Ivoire St, Aware area, Yeka subcity (near Ethiopian Woman Federation Memorial Sq, around Aware Adebabaye), ☏ +251 91 122 2976, +251 91 341 6161 (Theo), +251 91 120 3207 (Lili). W-M, closed on Tuesday. A bakery which also propose lunch with high quality product, including strawberry tartlets, French cheese, hams and a "Gorgonzola burger". Brunch on Sunday. 250 birr. (updated Aug 2017)
• 9.021538.77419 Dashen Terara Traditional Restaurant, D.A.R Sahara St, Aware area, Yeka subcity (in front of Meles Zenawi Foundation, near Ethiopian Woman Federation Memorial Sq), ☏ +251 11 554 1437, +251 91 120 1723, +251 93 251 3395, tsegedagnew@yahoo.com. High-quality traditional Ethiopian cuisine, in a nice house and garden. One of the oldest restaurant in Addis Ababa, it was relocated in 2015. Probably one of the best option for farenjis to discover in quiet ambiance Ethiopian dishes: chikena tibs, beyayentu. 210 birr. (updated Aug 2017)
• 9.005938.782620 Yilma, BL_03_519 St, off Mike Leyland St, Chechenia area, Bole subcity, ☏ +251 91 149 0909. The best restaurant for Ethiopian traditional beef meat, it serves only tibs (cooked) and tresega (raw), as well as many different style of meats. Local drink speciality is called "punch". Populated with upper-class of Addis Ababa. 200 birr. (updated Sep 2017)
• 9.02538.78721 Café du Louvre, Louvre Grand Hotel, off Togo St, Aware area, Yeka subcity (near British Embassy, in front of Mesrak Tvet Collage, logo on top visible from Togo St), ☏ +251 11 618 7755, +251 91 191 9382, +251 91 082 8747, info@louvregrandhotel.com. A French restaurant decoration them on old Paris. Special dish is Coucous every Thursday for 350 birr. As at 2020 the hotel was a pleasant spot but the food was not exciting best to come here for red wine and cheese. 220 birr. (updated Sep 2017)

• 8.991138.78222 Aladdin restaurant, Zimbabwe St, off Bole Rd, Rwanda area, Bole subcity (near Japan Embassy), ☏ +251 11 661 4109, +251 11 861 7731, +251 92 992 3492, aladdinrestaurantplc@gmail.com. Armenian and Mediterranean restaurant. Serves fine Middle-Eastern food, various mezzes including a gorgeous tabbouleh. In quiet atmosphere, perfect for a romantic diner. Very expensive but authentic and delicious. 290 birr. (updated Jul 2017)
• 9.0318338.7527923 Castellis in Piazza, Churchill St/Piazza area. Top Italian restaurant here since 1942. With famous guests such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt there is a reason that Castelli's manages to attract such a crowd. This is where the Italian embassy staff goes to eat. Amazing food, amazing desserts, call for a reservation or risk disappointment, even at lunch time, as this is a trendy place to be seen. 
• 9.0033438.779824 Green-view Italian Restaurant / Pizzeria, Bole Mickey Leland St (near Atlas Hotel). Excellent pizza. There is another location near CMC. 
• 8.99938.770625 Sangam Restaurant, Bole Rd. Excellent place for Indian food and sweets, often used by the Indian embassy. Loads of variety with rice, chapati, naan. Pleasant atmosphere and price is very good. 
• 9.022538.803426 Top View Restaurant, Megenagna area, above the Diaspora Roundabout, crossing of Ring Rd with Fikre mariam Aba Techan St (near the Israeli embassy). Very good food but can be expensive for dinner. But the view is not so "top" since new buildings. (updated Jun 2017)
• 9.0107938.78227 La Mandoline, Chechenia, next to Caravan Hotel. Delicious French cuisine. Great outdoor seating area. Breakfast on weekends. As at 2020 food here was great but not cheap. Main course plus a few drinks and dessert cost $60-70 for two. 
• 9.02238.751928 Gusto Ristorante, ZTE Tower, 3F, Churchill Ave, Posta Bet area (at crossing with Zambia St, near Tiglachen monument, in front of Tikur Anbessa Secondary School), ☏ +251 11 126 2126, +251 93 449 7861, +251 93 449 7862, reservation@gustoaddis.com. A luxury Italian restaurant, with meats pizzas and seafood. Tagliatelle Bolognese for 200 birr & Ossobuco for 350 birr. (updated Jul 2017)
• 8.998938.76829 Jewel of India, KL_02_246 St, Gabon St, Olympia area, Kirkos Subcity (Facing Sana'a, not far from Bole Rd), ☏ +251 11 557 2510, +251 91 121 3795, +251 91 121 4320, +251 91 120 0230, fax: +251 11 553 3489, info@jeweladdis.com. Indian restaurant with 500+ entry on it menu. Eating is possible inside and in terrace. 300 birr. (updated Jul 2017)
• 9.012538.75930 China Bar and Restaurant, Ras Desta Damtew St, Meskel Sq, POBox 3601 (facing the Stadium, next to Ghion hotel entrance), ☏ +251 11 551 3772, +251 11 552 6650. Chinese restaurant with various dishes and soups, sometimes pork is also available. 260 birr. (updated Aug 2017)
• 8.995138.76731 Sky Steak House, Dreamliner Hotel, 8F, Gabon St, Meskel Flower area, Kirkos subcity, ☏ +251 11 467 4000. Best steak house in Addis Ababa, the menu have few items including American Black Angus steak, South African tenderloin and T-bone steak. Pleasant view over the city, the restaurant is Airplanes-themed as the owner also have the East African Aviation company. 600 birr. (updated Sep 2017)

As of 2020, it is still possible to find "rooms" for 300-1000  birr, most of them have running hot water.

• 9.003838.78891 Addis Guest House, Djibuti St. The restaurant at Addis Guest House run by an American raised Ethiopian named Yonas serves a good selection of Western foods including great French toast for breakfast. It is worth the trip just to meet Yonas who may be the best tour guide you can find in the city. 

• 9.030638.75432 Itegue Taitu Hotel, St between Cunningham St and Dejazemach Jote St, Piazza area, Arada subcity, ☏ +251 913 803224, +251 929 308230, +251 963 979797. Rooms are mostly clean and have good and large beds. Good value for money, very quiet. Only toilets and shower are in despicable condition. The main building is the oldest stone-building in Addis, and the hostel is the first hotel in Ethiopia: it was built by Empress Taitu Betul around 1906.; As at late 2019 it was impossible to book this hotel through their website -you need to ring them.; There is a large restaurant and nice outside cafe. Vegan lunch buffet for 105 birr every day (2020). The toilets in the restaurant are excellent. The buffet is something of an institution and popular with locals and tourists (updated Nov 2020)
• 9.0307138.75343 Baro Hotel, Mundy St (Piazza and across from Wutma Hotel), ☏ +251 11 155 1447, +251 11 157 4157, fax: +251 11 553 7439, abenet@baro.com.et. One of the cheapest options in Piazza. Small restaurant on site but very limited and expensive food selection. Old decor and cramped, but decent value. Accept Visa without commission. They might not confirm your booking until you arrive. (updated Nov 2020)
• 9.0308638.753164 Wutma Hotel, Mundy St (Piazza and across the Baro Hotel). Some good and clean rooms, some not so much, so have a look first. Restaurant downstairs that often has UK Premier League and other foodball games on a big screen with lots of locals coming to watch, so expect noise. (updated Nov 2020)
• 9.008938.79885 Mad Vervet Backpackers Hostel, BL-03-552 Steet Hayahulet, ☏ +251 923577808, info@madvervet.com. 15 minutes drive from the airport. 4-bed dormitory rooms have en-suite bathroom. free wifi. garden. bar restaurant. shard kitchen. 300 birr per person. 

• 8.9950938.78646 Beer Garden Inn. Near the airport, its menu specialises in German delicacies such as cheese noodles and grilled chicken washed down with wheat beer. A half litre costs 11 birr. 
• 8.99638.75847 GT Guest House, Sierra Leone St (a mile from Mesqel Sq), ☏ +251 922 451639, lewamgebre@gtguesthouse.com. Provides accommodation for business, leisure travellers, families and groups. 
• 9.0028338.779528 Martin's Cozy Place-German Guesthouse (near the Atlas and almost opposite the side of the hotel). Popular for business people or expats based in the city. Offers a range of services for tourists and it is a homey place for a few nights. (updated Apr 2013)
• 9.0149738.752289 Ras Hotel, Churchill Ave/Gambia St (just north of the railway station), ☏ +251 11 517060, +251 11 447060. One of the oldest hotels in Addis. 
• 8.982738.731110 Yilma Hotel (Mekanessa area). Costs about US$25 per night for tourists. Restaurant/cafe with cableTV that plays news and sports channels. They serve food until c. 22:00-23:00. The staff is very nice and friendly. They have room service for no added charge. The rooms are minimal but have decent bathrooms with hot water heaters for the shower, flush toilets and tiled floors. 
• 9.04138.758111 Z Guest House. This a nice family-run bed & breakfast in a quiet residential area has clean rooms and beautiful furnished apartments with fully-equipped kitchens and satellite TV. Is less than one mile from Piassa, only about 12 minutes from the airport. From US$29.95/night for a single suite. 
• 9.032238.783912 Keba Guest House, Yeka Subcity, Wereda 8, Kebele 13/14, Houseno 556,Yeka 34155 Addis Ababa (near the UK embassy), ☏ +251 910137131, +251 921332889. Family run place,reasonable rooms and very helpful staff. Only downside a little distance from major sights. Can book with internet booking sites. Tucked away in back street very near the Le Louvre Hotel and near to UK embassy. If you don't have GPS you need to familiarise yourself with the route from the embassy as taxis will have trouble finding the guest house but will know the embassy. 25 per double$. (updated Feb 2020)
• 9.010338.780113 Tirago Hotel, off Mike Leyland Street (Not far from Haile Gebreselassie Rd). This hotel is newish as of 2020 and everything works. The staff are very helpful and the manager speaks fluent English. Can book on internet booking sites. 1495ETB per double. (updated Feb 2020)
• 8.9988138.7832914 Sheger Royal Hotel, near Namibia St (in Bole northwest of airport), ☏ +251 90 318 2555. Wi-Fi, breakfast, bar, airport shuttle, some rooms with balconies. 1792 birr. (updated Sep 2020)
• 9.0104138.7814115 Marcen Addis Hotel, Mickey Leland St, ☏ +251 92 240 2464. New modern hotel with breakfast and wifi and gym. 1061 birr. (updated Sep 2020)
• 9.0135638.7841316 C-Fun Addis Hotel (in Bole), ☏ +251 93 033 7133. Mid-range hotel with wifi and breakfast. Hospitable even though the name sounds a bit questionable. 1463 birr. (updated Sep 2020)

• 9.01878538.76501917 Addis Ababa Hilton, Central Menelik Ave, ☏ +251 11 518400, fax: +251 11 510064. Airline agents, money changing, restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, swimming pool, internet access. 
• 9.024238.825418 Dimitri Hotel, Kebele 16-18 CMC Road, ☏ +251 11 645 3282. Yeka district. Peaceful surroundings in contemporary city area. Many free services, including in-room wireless internet and premium satellite TV. 
• 8.9962138.7861919 Harmony Hotel, Bole Sub city Kebele 03 House # New, ☏ +251 11 618 3100, info@harmonyhotelethiopia.com. Comfortable 4-star hotel in Bole (near airport). Rooms of a good international standard. Fast wired and wireless internet in rooms. There is a good restaurant, plus fast food outlet and Indian restaurant. There is also a swimming pool and health centre. US$70. 
• 8.9875638.7904820 Bole International Hotel, 2221 Cameroon St (downtown near beginning of Bole Rd), ☏ +251 11 663 3000. About US$40 per night. Clean and rooms are huge with living room, separate bedroom, many bathrooms include large tub. Staff is very nice and rooms have enormous balconies overlooking the green open areas of the Sheraton hotel and views of Mt. Entoto. A great place to stay if you need easy access to the Bole Airport without risking traffic delays. From US$65 for a single, US$85 for a small double, payment in cash only, no Visa.. (updated Nov 2008)
• 8.989138.785521 Jupiter International Hotel, Africa Ave, Airport Rd, ☏ +251 11 661696 (Bole), +251 11 5526418 (Cazanchise), Info@jupiterinternationalhotel.com. An aspiring 4-star hotel with two locations in Addis Ababa. The largest property located in the Cazanchise area in walking distance from the UNECA building, near the airport. USD90–200. 
• 8.988938.805622 Panorama Hotel (Bole Sub-city Kebele), ☏ +251 91 183 6692. Nice, clean rooms. 4-star dining and bar. Very nice lobby area. From US$59/night. (updated Jul 2017)
• 9.0203138.75995723 Sheraton Addis, Central Yohanis St, ☏ +251 11 517 1717, fax: +251 11 517 2727, reservationsaddisethiopia@luxurycollection.com. Known to expats as the "Sheza", this huge luxurious hotel was built by an Ethiopian billionaire, who is also Ethiopia's largest employer after the government. This is the place to go for 5-star opulence. It also one of few places in Addis where you can get cash from an ATM or credit card. 
• 8.9920838.7818124 Wassamar Hotel, Bole Rd, ☏ +251 11 661 0059, info@wassamarhotel.com. Comfortable three/four star hotel in Bole (near airport). Several floors of rooms all of good standard. Wired and wireless internet are available. A courtesy bus is available to and from the airport. USD95. 

• Canada, Old Airport Area, Nefas Silk Lafto Sub-City, Kebeli 04, House No. 122, ☏ +251 11 371 3022. 
• China, Jimma Road, Higher 24, Kebele 13, House No.792, ☏ +251 11 371 1959, fax: +251 11 371 2457, chinaemb_et@mfa.gov.cn. (updated Feb 2024)
• Egypt, Sidist Kilo, Gulele Sub-City, Kebela 02, ☏ +251 11 122 6422, fax: +251 11 122 6432, embassy.addisababa@mfa.gov.eg. 08:00–16:00. 
• Finland, Mauritania Street, Nifas Silk Lafto Kifle Ketema (Old Airport Area), Kebele 12, House No 1431, ☏ +251 11 320 5920, fax: +251 11 320 5923, anomat.add@formin.fi. M–W 08:00–16:30, Th 08:00–16:00, F 08:00–13:00. 
• 9.05238.771 France, Angola Street, Kabana, ☏ +251 11 140 0000, +251 935 998 535, fax: +251 11 140 0020. M–Th 08:30–12:30 & 14:00–18:30, F 08:30–12:30 only. Security GSM phone (emergency only): +251 911 210 087 or +251 911 210 056 or +251 911 208 894. 
• 9.0438.782 Germany, Yeka Kifle Ketema (Khebena), ☏ +251 11 123 5139 (Chancery), +251 11 123 5162 (Consular), +251 911 20 4020 (24-hr emergency), toll-free: +251 11 123 5152. M–F 09:00–12:00. (updated Jul 2017)
• Greece, Off Debre Zeit Road, ☏ +251 11 465 4911, fax: +251 11 466 5588, greekeembassy@ethionet.et. 
• Ireland, Kazanches, Guinea Conakry Street, ☏ +251 11 518 0500. 
• Italy, Villa Italia, Kebena', ☏ +251 11 123 5717. 
• Kenya, Fikre Mariam Road, High 16 Kebelle 01, ☏ +251-11-66110033, fax: +251 11 661 1433. 
• New Zealand, Apt 381, Hilton Hotel, Menelik II Ave, Kirkos subcity, ☏ +251 11 515 1269, fax: +251 11 552 6115, aue@mfat.govt.nz. M–F 09:00–12:00 & 13:00–16:00. Emergency outside of office hours: +251 93 502 1436. 
• Nigeria, Senegal Street, W-9, K-21 Gulele KK, Kebele- 06, H No. 001, ☏ +251 111 55 06 44, addis_nigeria@yahoo.com. M-F 09:00-17:00. (updated Aug 2024)
• Romania, Kirkos sub-city, Woreda 04 (Wollo Sefer) 3_583 Street, House No. 1142, P.O. Box: 247, ☏ +251 116 610 156, addisabeba@mae.ro. Embassy 
• Sweden, Ras Tessema Sefer, Higher 3, K-53, House No. 891, ☏ +251 11 518 0000. 
• Serbia, W15 K26, House No.923, ☏ +251 11 551 7804, fax: +251 11 551 4192. 
• United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland, Comoros Street, ☏ +251 11 661 2354, Britishembassy.addisababa@fco.gov.uk. 
• United States of America, ☏ +251 11 130 6000, pasaddis@state.gov. 

The country code for calling Ethiopia is 251. The city code for Addis Ababa is 011 (or +251 11 from outside Ethiopia).

In Addis Ababa, especially in Bole Subcity, you can find quite a number of internet cafes. Some still use dial-up connections, but broadband is becoming more popular. Most of the high-end hotels have internet connections (either Ethernet or Wi-Fi), which are reasonably fast and often free for hotel guests.

A general problem with the Internet in Ethiopia is the unstable international high-speed connection. If it is not working, even broadband cafes only deliver dial-up speeds and less. The local definition of highspeed broadband is 128Kb! Another general problem is the shortage of electricity, forcing daytime blackouts of whole areas 1–2 days a week, so it is good to plan ahead where you are going for internet access.

Skype and VoIP service are legal in Ethiopia. According to local press, Ethiopia today has the fourth worst internet in the world.

• Dembel City Center on Bole Rd has "Hut Internet Cafe" on the 2nd floor with over 30 Internet capable computers for use every day 10:00-19:00.
• Arkies Business Center, Piazza, next to 'Taitu Hotels'
• Broadband Internet in DH Geda Tower, next to Friendship City Center / Bole Rd. 128kbit/s, many seats, but mostly completely occupied. The good thing is that it is easy to find.
• Nina Internetcafe, across from Baro Hotels, inside Wutema Hotels
• TG Business Center, Bole, from Airport (big roundabout) to the right, junction with Cameroon Rd (locally known as "Bole-Tele") has broadband but only 3 seats. Most of the time it is not crowded, so a good connection can be expected.
• DMG Internet Center, near Edna Mall next to Kaldi's Cafe just off Djibuti St (the road leading from Tele Bole towards 22), has broadband connection and 11 terminals. 2 MB speed Internet, which translates to pretty decent speed for the country. Open M–Sa 08:30–20:00.