Where to stay
Hotels in Asmara
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At a glance
Climate
Arid
Languages
Tigrinya and Arabic and English
Local currency
ERN
(ERN)
Local time
(GMT+3)
Ideal trip length
3–7 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
City Center
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Optional, appreciated
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
45 · Moderate
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Injera
Zigni
Shiro
Ful Medames
When to visit Asmara
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: October
Busiest: Oct-Mar
-
Jan75
Dry, cool, pleasant
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Feb78
Dry, mild, clear skies
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Mar80
Dry, warming, sunny
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Apr70
Dry, warm, pre-rainy
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May65
Warm, dry, dusty
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Jun60
Start of rains, warm
-
Jul55
Rainy season, mild
-
Aug58
Peak rains, mild
-
Sept65
Rains subside, mild
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Oct85
Dry, pleasant, post-rain
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Nov82
Dry, cool, comfortable
-
Dec78
Dry, cool, festive
Things to do in Asmara
8 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 8 of 8 places ·
Best in the morning
4 places
Asmara Cathedral
City Center 1 hr
Visit the impressive Roman Catholic Cathedral, a prominent city landmark with a bell tower.
National Museum of Eritrea
City Center 2 hrs
Explore Eritrea's rich history, archaeology, and diverse cultural heritage.
Tank Graveyard
Outskirts 1.5 hrs
Witness the poignant collection of military vehicles from the Eritrean War of Independence.
Medebar Market
Medebar 2 hrs
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of a traditional market, known for recycling.
Best in the afternoon
2 places
Stroll Harnet Avenue
City Center 2 hrs
Walk the tree-lined main boulevard, admiring colonial-era buildings and local life.
Eritrean Coffee Ceremony
Various 1.5 hrs
Experience the traditional, elaborate, and social Eritrean coffee ritual.
Any time of day
2 places
Fiat Tagliero Building
City Center 0.5 hrs
Marvel at the iconic futurist petrol station, a masterpiece of rationalist architecture.
Cinema Impero
City Center 0.5 hrs
Admire the stunning Art Deco facade of this historic cinema, a symbol of Asmara's past.
Asmara itineraries
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Asmara — First-Timer Highlights
Discover the captivating Art Deco architecture and vibrant culture of Eritrea's unique capital.
This 3-day itinerary is designed for first-time visitors eager to explore the UNESCO-listed modernist architecture, rich history, and distinctive culture of Asmara. From bustling markets to serene cathedrals, you'll experience the city's unique blend of African and Italian influences. Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the 'Africa's Secret Modernist City'.
3 Days
13 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Asmara — Family with Kids
Discover the charm of Africa's 'Little Rome' with an itinerary designed for curious families.
This 3-day itinerary invites families with children to explore Asmara's unique blend of Italian colonial architecture and vibrant Eritrean culture. From historic buildings and bustling markets to green parks and engaging cultural experiences, it offers a balanced trip that caters to both adult interests and children's curiosity, ensuring memorable moments for everyone.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Asmara — Romance
Discover the timeless charm and Italian elegance of Asmara, perfect for a romantic escape.
This two-day itinerary invites couples to explore the unique Art Deco architecture, vibrant cafe culture, and historical sites of Asmara, Eritrea's captivating capital. Designed for those seeking a blend of cultural immersion and intimate moments, it promises a memorable journey through a city often called 'Little Rome'.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Asmara — Culture & History
Step back in time amidst Asmara's stunning modernist architecture and rich historical tapestry.
This 3-day itinerary invites you to uncover the unique charm of Asmara, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkably preserved Italian modernist buildings. Perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, this journey delves into Eritrea's past while experiencing the vibrant daily life and diverse cultural heritage of its capital.
3 Days
14 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Asmara — Food & Wine
A culinary journey through Eritrea's Art Deco capital, savoring traditional flavors and Italian influences.
This 2-day itinerary invites food and wine enthusiasts to discover the unique gastronomic landscape of Asmara, Eritrea. Explore the city's rich history through its stunning Art Deco architecture while indulging in a fusion of traditional Eritrean dishes and classic Italian fare. Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive cultural and culinary experience.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Getaways from Asmara
Places people from Asmara travel to, from our own travel research.
