Leg 1 — 4 Killo to Piassa (15–30 minutes)
- Route: Leave 4 Killo and head towards the Piassa area following the main roads. Ask locals for “Piassa” if unsure; it’s the old commercial heart of the city.
- What to expect: Busy streets, shops selling textiles, electronics, cafes and traditional restaurants. Piassa is lively and a good introduction to old Addis Ababa.
- Stops:
- Quick coffee/snack at a local café to start the tour.
- Window-shopping through small markets and traditional shops.
Leg 2 — Piassa: Adwa Victory Museum (30–45 minutes)
- Location: The Adwa Victory Museum is near Piassa; it commemorates Ethiopia’s victory over Italy at the Battle of Adwa (1896).
- Why it matters: The battle is a cornerstone of modern Ethiopian national identity and pan-African pride. The museum displays artefacts, documents, photos and narratives about the war and resistance.
- What to do: Spend 20–30 minutes inside reading exhibits;
Leg 3 — Piassa: St. George Cathedral (20–40 minutes)
Route: A short walk from the Adwa Museum. Follow signs or ask locals for “St. George” (Seyum or Giorgis).
Why it matters: St. George (Giorgis) is one of the most important Orthodox churches in Addis, known for its octagonal shape and historical significance. The current cathedral (early 20th century) houses relics and the tombs of some national figures.
Leg 4 — Piassa down to Meskel Square and Meskel Flower market (20–40 minutes)
Route: From St. George, descend towards Meskel Square following the main arterial roads. The walk is downhill but can be steep in parts.
Meskel Square significance: One of Addis Ababa’s main public spaces and a key transport hub. The Meskel Flower market (Meskel Flower) is around the square—flower sellers and garland makers congregate there.
What to expect at Meskel Flower: Colourful bundles of flowers, garlands used in religious and celebratory events, street vendors, and local life. This is a great place for photos and to buy small bunches of local flowers.
Stops:
Take in the view of city traffic and people-watching at the square.
Leg 5 — Meskel Square to Bole (45–90 minutes walking; shorter by taxi)
Route: From Meskel Square, continue east towards Bole along the main road (often referred to in parts as Africa Avenue or Bole Road depending on exact alignment). Bole is a long stretch — consider a short taxi if you prefer.
Stops in Bole:
Bole Medhanealem area: modern shopping, cafés and restaurants.
If heading to Bole International Airport area, you’ll find large hotels and business centers.
Relax at a café or restaurant in Bole to finish the tour — it’s a good place for lunch/dinner.
End of Tour.