Handy Tips For Exploring Asmara
Start with the Cathedral of Asmara
This iconic Catholic cathedral, built in the 1920s, stands as a beautiful example of Italian colonial architecture and is a must-see when exploring the city.
Stroll Down Harnet Avenue
Harnet Avenue, the main street of Asmara, offers a snapshot of the city’s history, lined with cafes, restaurants, and architectural gems.
Marvel at the Fiat Tagliero Building
A futuristic gas station from the 1930s, this masterpiece of Art Deco architecture looks like an airplane and is one of the most famous landmarks in Asmara.
Visit the Asmara Opera House
Built in 1920, the Opera House is a striking blend of Italian and local architectural styles. Even if you’re not attending a performance, it’s worth visiting for its beauty.
Check Out Cinema Impero
This beautifully preserved Art Deco cinema from the 1930s offers a glimpse into the Italian influence on the city. It’s still operational, so you might catch a film screening.
Explore the Tank Graveyard
A haunting reminder of Eritrea’s war for independence, the Tank Graveyard is a collection of rusting tanks and military vehicles left behind from the conflict.
Don’t Miss the Asmara National Museum
For a deeper understanding of Eritrea’s history, including its ancient civilizations, the National Museum of Asmara offers exhibits and artifacts that showcase the country’s rich past.
Stop by the Al Khulafa Al Rashiudin Mosque
This mosque, built in 1938, reflects Asmara’s diverse cultural and religious landscape and is an impressive example of Islamic architecture in the city.
Enjoy Coffee at a Traditional Eritrean Café
Asmara has a vibrant café culture, and sitting down for a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony is a must. Experience the slow brewing process and the delicious, rich coffee flavor.
Take a Day Trip to the Eritrean Highlands
Asmara is surrounded by the breathtaking Eritrean Highlands. A short trip outside the city will reward you with stunning views and peaceful landscapes.
Explore Asmara’s Market (Medebar Market)
Asmara’s bustling market is a sensory experience. You’ll find everything from traditional handicrafts to fresh produce. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and mingle with locals.
Visit the Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral
This striking Orthodox church is one of Asmara’s most important religious sites. Its serene surroundings and beautiful architecture make it a peaceful stop on your tour.
Check Out the City’s Art Deco Architecture
Asmara is known for its vast collection of Art Deco buildings. Take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s architecture to appreciate its unique blend of styles.
Learn the History of Independence
Eritrea’s fight for independence from Ethiopia is a significant part of its modern history. Learn about the independence movement through museums and conversations with locals.
Sample Eritrean Cuisine
Don’t leave Asmara without trying some local food. Dishes like injera (spongy flatbread), zigni (spicy stew), and shiro (chickpea stew) are flavorful and essential to the Eritrean dining experience.
Ride the Asmara-Massawa Cableway
If operational during your visit, the Asmara-Massawa Cableway offers spectacular views over the mountains and valleys between Asmara and the Red Sea port of Massawa.
Walk Through Cinema Roma
Another excellent example of Asmara’s Italian past, Cinema Roma is an Art Deco theater that offers a step back in time to the city’s colonial days.
Visit the Tank Monument
A key landmark in Asmara, the Tank Monument commemorates Eritrea’s struggle for independence. It’s a meaningful site for understanding the country’s past.
Attend a Festival or Cultural Event
If you’re lucky enough to be in Asmara during a festival or cultural celebration, be sure to attend. The city comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant displays of Eritrean culture.
Explore Asmara’s Churches and Religious Diversity
Asmara is home to a wide variety of religious buildings, from Catholic cathedrals to Orthodox churches and mosques, reflecting the city’s rich cultural diversity.
A Day in Asmara: Exploring Eritrea’s Capital
Asmara, Eritrea’s capital, is a city that effortlessly blends the past with the present, offering visitors a unique experience through its modernist architecture, historical significance, and vibrant culture. Spending a day in Asmara gives you the opportunity to dive into its rich heritage, explore hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. Here’s how to spend a day exploring this remarkable city.
Morning: Coffee and Architecture
Start your day in Asmara with a cup of the city’s famous coffee. Asmara has a deep coffee culture, and there’s no better way to begin your exploration than by participating in a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony. Find a local café where you can watch the slow roasting of beans, enjoy the rich aroma, and sip on fresh, strong coffee brewed to perfection. This experience will give you a taste of the city’s welcoming spirit and the importance of coffee in everyday life.
Once energized, take a leisurely walk down Harnet Avenue, the main thoroughfare of the city, lined with palm trees and iconic Italian-era buildings. Make sure to stop by the Fiat Tagliero Building, a stunning example of Futurist architecture designed to resemble an airplane. You’ll be amazed at the boldness of its design, which still draws admiration from architects worldwide.
Late Morning: Cultural and Historical Highlights
Your next stop should be the National Museum of Eritrea, where you can immerse yourself in the country’s ancient history and its more recent struggle for independence. The exhibits will give you a deeper understanding of Eritrea’s rich cultural heritage and its significant place in African history.
From here, head to the Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral. This important religious site is a testament to Eritrea’s diverse cultural and religious history. The beautiful architecture of the cathedral, combined with its peaceful grounds, offers a tranquil break from the city’s bustling streets.
Midday: Exploring Markets and Local Flavors
It’s time to explore Asmara’s Central Market, also known as Medebar Market, one of the liveliest spots in the city. Wander through the stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. The market is also a great place to find souvenirs, such as traditional woven baskets or intricately carved wooden pieces. This vibrant scene provides a true insight into daily life in Asmara and a chance to engage with the locals.
After working up an appetite, indulge in some traditional Eritrean cuisine at a local restaurant. Sample dishes like injera (spongy flatbread) served with a variety of stews such as zigni (spicy beef stew) or shiro (chickpea stew). Eritrean meals are typically communal, and dining with friends or locals is a warm, inviting experience.
Afternoon: Exploring Asmara’s Art Deco Heritage
Asmara’s unique appeal lies in its well-preserved Art Deco buildings. In the afternoon, explore more of the city’s architectural gems, including Cinema Impero, a 1930s theater that’s still in use today. The simple yet elegant design of these buildings tells the story of Eritrea’s Italian colonial past, making it a living museum of modernist architecture.
Next, visit Cinema Roma, another iconic landmark, where the interiors transport you back to the glamour of early 20th-century cinema. Even if you’re not attending a screening, walking through the beautifully designed cinema is an enriching experience.
Evening: Panoramic Views and Relaxation
As the day begins to wind down, take a trip to the nearby Eritrean Highlands for breathtaking views of Asmara. The journey offers a refreshing escape from the city’s streets, and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains is unforgettable. If you have time, stop by a local viewpoint to watch the sunset over the city.
For dinner, head to Bole Road, where you’ll find an array of trendy restaurants and cafés. Relax with a light meal or grab a drink at one of the stylish spots that line the street. If you’re in the mood, you might catch some live music or simply enjoy the laid-back evening ambiance that characterizes this part of the city.
Final Thoughts
Asmara is a city full of surprises, with its blend of stunning architecture, historical depth, and warm hospitality. A day spent exploring the city will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Eritrea’s unique capital and the stories it holds. Whether you’re marveling at Art Deco buildings, enjoying the bustling markets, or savoring a cup of traditional Eritrean coffee, Asmara offers a truly unforgettable experience.
