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Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa (Amharic: አዲስ አበባ) is the capital and largest city of Ethiopia. With an estimated population of more than 6 million in 2026, it is growing very rapidly like many African cities. The city is an important center of diplomacy, and despite being a relatively young city, Addis is a good introduction to Ethiopia and its culture.

See
22
Do
7
Eat
31
Drink
6
Buy
14

2 places match

  1. Buy

    Shiromeda Market

    If the madness of Mercato isn't for you, Chiromeda is a pleasant alternative. Haggling and bargaining is still the status quo, but you could walk away with a traditional dress from as cheap as 100 birr.

  2. Buy

    The mercato

    (Italian for market, as the main covered market still in use dates from the colonial administration of the late 1930s) is the largest outdoor market in the world, and you can get anything from tourist goods (t-shirts, wood crafts, etc.) to fabric to metal goods there. Haggling and bargaining are standard procedure, and foreigners (especially those of European ancestry) should expect to be charged higher prices. To ensure a positive experience, maintain a sense of humour, don't be afraid to negotiate aggressively, and above all don't let yourself be bullied by the many "brokers" who frequent the market, and will try to steer you towards certain stores in exchange for a kick-back from the merchant. You will be able to negotiate lower prices if you can avoid brokers, and especially if you have a local friend or guide to buy things on your behalf.

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