Asmara - Discovering Eritrea

Travelling to Asmara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Asmara, a pretty good destination in Eritrea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Asmara and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Asmara, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Eritrea, here's everything to know about Asmara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Asmara

Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea, a country located in the Horn of Africa. It is situated at an elevation of 2,300 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world. The city has a population of around 800,000 people and its architecture reflects a mix of Italian colonial and Art Deco styles. Asmara is known for its pleasant climate, markets, cafes, museums, and the St. Joseph's Cathedral. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved buildings and urban design.

What to visit in Asmara

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Asmara, Eritrea: 1. The Asmara Opera House: Built-in 1918, the Opera House is one of Asmara's most iconic buildings. It features stunning Art Deco architecture and is still used for concerts and special events.
2. The Fiat Tagliero Building: Built-in 1938, the Fiat Tagliero Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture. It was originally used as a gas station and is now a popular tourist attraction. The building's unique design makes it look like an airplane ready to take off! 3. The Biet Ghiorghis Zoo: Although it's not a traditional zoo, the Biet Ghiorghis Zoo is a must-see attraction for animal lovers. It's actually an animal rescue center where you can see a variety of animals, including lions, cheetahs, and baboons.
4. The National Museum of Eritrea: If you're interested in learning more about the history and culture of Eritrea, be sure to visit the National Museum of Eritrea. It has a collection of artifacts dating back to the prehistoric era, as well as exhibits on the country's struggle for independence.
5. The Cathedral of Asmara: The Cathedral of Asmara is a beautiful example of Italian colonial architecture. It was built-in 1922 and features stunning stained glass windows and intricate mosaics.
6. The Modern Art Museum: Asmara's Modern Art Museum is a must-see for art lovers. It features a variety of modern and contemporary art from around the world, as well as works by local Eritrean artists.
7. The Asmara Brewery: Do you enjoy beer? If so, be sure to visit the Asmara Brewery, which has been producing beer since 1939. You can take a tour of the brewery, learn about the beer-making process, and of course, sample some of their delicious beer.
I hope that helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Eritrea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Asmara.

When to go on holiday to Asmara

The best time to visit Asmara, Eritrea is during the dry seasons which run from December to February and June to August. During these months, the weather is more comfortable with less rain and lower humidity levels. The temperatures during these months range from approximately 20°C to 25°C and the skies are usually clear, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that Asmara is a high-altitude destination, so temperatures can be chilly in the evenings, especially during the winter months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Asmara

Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, can be reached by air travel. The only international airport in Eritrea is Asmara International Airport. You can check for flight options and schedules from your nearest airport with major airlines such as Turkish Airlines, EgyptAir, Qatar Airways, and Emirates. It's advisable to book your flight in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Asmara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Asmara

Sure, here are some typical foods of Asmara, Eritrea: 1. Injera - A staple food of the Horn of Africa, injera is a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour. It is often served with spicy stews and can be used as a utensil for scooping up food.
2. Zigni - A spicy beef or lamb stew cooked with berbere spice (a blend of chilli, ginger, and other spices), tomato, onion and garlic. Zigni is usually served with injera.
3. Shiro - A savory chickpea or lentil powder stew that is also cooked with onion, garlic, and berbere spice. It is one of the most popular vegetarian/vegan dishes in Eritrea and is commonly eaten with injera 4. Tibs - small pieces of meat, usually beef, sautéed with onion, garlic and peppers, seasoned with awaze and served with injera 5. Ful - a stew made from fava beans that is often served for breakfast with bread.
6. Dabo kolo - A snack made from spiced deep-fried dough balls often eaten with tea or coffee.
7. Suwa - A traditional Eritrean beer brewed from barley or sorghum. It is often served during festive occasions and is popular in local bars.
These are just a few of the delicious and popular foods that you can find in Asmara, Eritrea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Eritrea here.

Is Asmara an expensive destination for tourists?

Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, can be quite expensive for tourists due to various reasons such as limited tourism infrastructure, lack of competition, and high demand during peak season. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are relatively high compared to other destinations in Africa. However, it is important to note that the prices in Asmara may vary depending on the season and the type of trip you are planning. Additionally, traveling during the off-season and using local transportation such as buses can help you save money. Overall, Asmara may not be the most budget-friendly destination, but with proper planning and research, you can have an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Asmara

In Asmara, the best areas to find accommodation would be around the downtown area or in the vicinity of the Stadium area. These areas are well connected to major attractions and amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and historical sites. Another popular area is around the Harnet Avenue, which is also a good location for restaurants and shopping. It's important to note that Asmara is a small city, so most areas are easily accessible by foot or taxi.
You can check hotel prices at Asmara here:
Booking.com

Is Asmara a safe destination for tourists?

Asmara is considered to be a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Eritrea is generally low, and Asmara is considered to be one of the safest cities in Africa. However, it is always important to exercise the usual precautions and safety measures when traveling to any destination. It is recommended to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing expensive belongings or carrying large amounts of cash, and stick to well-lit areas at night. It is also advisable to take precautions against common travel illnesses like dehydration and mosquito-borne diseases.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Eritrea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Asmara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Asmara the most?

Asmara has something to offer for everyone, but it might be more suitable for couples and families than young people looking for wild nightlife. The city offers a unique mix of Italian and African culture, with beautiful architecture, museums, and galleries that are perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts. Families can enjoy exploring the lush gardens, the local zoo, and the colorful markets, while couples can enjoy romantic walks, cozy cafes, and the vibrant nightlife. However, it's worth noting that Asmara is more of a cultural destination than a resort town, so it may not suit those looking for beach activities and water sports.

How to get around Asmara

In Asmara, the most common means of transportation are buses, taxis, and minibusses. Buses are operated by Asmara Municipal Government and connect different neighborhoods within the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through a hotel or taxi stand. Minibuses, known as "furgons," are also a popular means of transportation and typically travel longer distances outside of Asmara. Additionally, rental cars and motorcycles are available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

What to see around Asmara

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Asmara: 1. Massawa: It's a port city located on the Red Sea coast, known for its ancient architecture and rich historical heritage.
2. Keren: It's a city situated in the highlands of Eritrea known for its market, film festival, and war memorials.
3. Dekemhare: This small town located south of Asmara is famous for its ancient churches and the amazing view of the plateaus.
4. Nakfa: This town was the headquarters of the Eritrean People's Liberation Front during the Eritrean War of Independence. It has some historical sites like the Nakfa Museum.
5. Serejaka: It's a small village located east of Asmara, where you can go for hiking and birdwatching. It's a famous spot for its natural hot springs as well.
6. Adi Keih: This small town is famously called "Little Rome" due to its architecture and vibrant street life. You can visit its markets, churches, and restaurants.
For every travel information about Eritrea you can click here.

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