Asmara

Asmara

About Place

  • "A city where time stands still."
  • "Africa's hidden architectural gem."
  • "Where Italian elegance meets African resilience."

Reasons to Visit

  • Art Deco Architecture : Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, is renowned for its stunning array of well-preserved Art Deco architecture. Often referred to as "Africa’s Miami," Asmara's cityscape is dotted with buildings that showcase a blend of Italian Modernist, Futurist, and Rationalist styles, dating back to the 1930s when Eritrea was an Italian colony. Walking through the streets of Asmara feels like stepping back in time, with pastel-colored buildings, sleek lines, and geometric patterns creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and unique in Africa.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site : In 2017, Asmara was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding architectural heritage. The city's planning and design reflect a unique colonial era urban landscape, adapted to the local culture and environment. This distinction highlights Asmara’s significance not only as a historical site but also as a testament to the intersection of European and African influences, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
  • Vibrant Cultural Scene : Despite its small size, Asmara boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous cinemas, cafes, and theaters that have remained largely unchanged since the mid-20th century. The National Museum of Eritrea, local markets, and religious sites like the Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral offer visitors a deep dive into the local culture, history, and traditions. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with the city’s warm and hospitable residents, makes Asmara a uniquely charming destination in Africa.

Visa

  • From the U.S., Canada, and EU : Travelers from these regions require a visa to enter Eritrea. It is advisable to apply for a visa in advance through an Eritrean embassy or consulate.
  • From African Countries : Citizens of several African countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, need a visa. However, some African nationals can obtain a visa on arrival.
  • From Asian Countries : Most Asian travelers require a visa. For citizens of certain countries like China and India, it is necessary to obtain a visa before travel.
  • From the Middle East : Travelers from the Middle East, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, also need a visa, which should be obtained in advance.

Travel Expenses

1.Travel to & from Destination :

  • Estimated flight cost for two people from a major city like London to Asmara: $1,400 (round trip).

2. Hotel Cost :

  • Average hotel cost in Asmara for three nights: $120 per night.
  • Total for 3 nights: $360 for two people.

3. Food Cost :

  • Average meal cost in Asmara: $20 per meal per person.
  • Total for 6 meals (lunch and dinner for 3 days): $240 for two people.

4. Activity Cost :

  • Entry fees and guided tours (estimated): $100 for two people.

5. Near Destination Travel Cost :

  • Car rental and fuel for 3 days: $150.

Total Estimated Cost : $2,250.

Route Map

Best Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Asmara Arrive in Asmara in the morning, where you’ll start your day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s main boulevard, Harnet Avenue. Begin by visiting the iconic Fiat Tagliero Building, a Futurist-style gas station resembling an airplane, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Enjoy a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony at Asmara’s famous Cinema Impero Café from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. For lunch, head to Albergo Italia to try their delicious pasta, a nod to Asmara's Italian influence. In the afternoon, visit the Asmara Cathedral (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM) and take a short walk to the National Museum of Eritrea (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM). Enjoy dinner at Ghibabo Restaurant, where you can try the local dish zigni, a spicy meat stew, and then take a nighttime walk under the softly lit streets of central Asmara.

Day 2 : Exploring the Art Deco Heritage Start your day early with a visit to the Medeber Market from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, where old materials are recycled into new products. Continue your architectural tour by visiting the Cinema Capitol from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, a striking example of Art Deco design. For lunch, stop at Spaghetti & Pizza House to enjoy Italian-Eritrean fusion cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Opera House from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, followed by a visit to the Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. End the day with dinner at Roof Garden Restaurant with a view of the city, sampling shiro, a chickpea-based dish, and relax in a local café as you enjoy Asmara’s serene evening atmosphere.

Day 3 : Day Trip to Keren Take a day trip to Keren, Eritrea’s second-largest city, starting at 7:00 AM. Keren is known for its camel market and Ottoman-era architecture. Visit the Monday Camel Market from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a visit to the historic Debre Sina Monastery (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM). Enjoy lunch at Samba Restaurant where you can try kinche, a traditional Eritrean dish made from cracked wheat. In the afternoon, explore the remnants of Italian colonial buildings and the War Cemetery before heading back to Asmara in the late afternoon. Return to Asmara for a quiet dinner at Milano Restaurant, savoring fresh seafood, and enjoy a quiet evening stroll before your last night in the city.

Nature Beauty Image

Safety Tips

  • Carry copies of your passport and visa.
  • Avoid political discussions or taking photos near government buildings.
  • Use bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly.
  • Be mindful of Eritrea's strict regulations on photography.
  • Carry some local currency (Nakfa) as credit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Stay in well-reviewed hotels and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Use reputable taxis or arranged transportation.
  • Register your travel with your embassy.

Flights

  • Turkish Airlines : London to Asmara, one stop in Istanbul, 11 hours total, approx. $700 per person.
  • EgyptAir : New York to Asmara, one stop in Cairo, 15 hours total, approx. $850 per person.
  • Qatar Airways : Doha to Asmara, direct flight, 7 hours total, approx. $600 per person.

Hotels

  • Hotel Asmara Palace : Luxury stay with modern amenities.
  • Albergo Italia : Historic hotel with colonial charm.
  • Crystal Hotel : Affordable with good city views.
  • Savanna International Hotel : Centrally located, great service.
  • Sunshine Hotel : Comfortable and budget-friendly.

Contacts

Country

Eritrea

Closet Airport

  • Asmara International Airport (ASM)

Nearest City

  • Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)

Heritage Sites

  • Asmara, UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Modernist architecture.

Airlines

  • Turkish Airlines
  • EgyptAir
  • Qatar Airways
  • Ethiopian Airlines

Currency

  • Eritrean Nakfa (ERN)

Languages Spoken

  • Tigrinya
  • Arabic
  • English

Real Story

The Battle for Asmara: A Turning Point in Eritrea’s Independence

The battle for Asmara was a decisive moment in Eritrea’s long struggle for independence. After decades of resistance against Ethiopian rule, the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF) made a final push towards liberating the capital in 1991. Asmara, then under the control of the Ethiopian Derg regime, was a fortified city, but the EPLF’s strategy of surrounding the city and cutting off supply routes proved effective. The victory in Asmara paved the way for the eventual independence of Eritrea in 1993, marking a significant chapter in the nation’s history.

Cuisine

Asmara’s cuisine is a unique blend of Eritrean and Italian influences. Traditional dishes include injera, a sourdough flatbread typically served with a variety of stews such as zigni (spicy beef stew) and shiro (chickpea stew). Italian-inspired dishes like pasta and pizza are also common, reflecting the city’s colonial past. The coffee ceremony, an essential part of Eritrean culture, involves roasting, grinding, and brewing coffee beans, often served with popcorn or kolo (roasted barley).

Real Story Image

Culture and History

Asmara’s culture is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse history, blending African traditions with Italian colonial influences. The city’s architecture is its most visible cultural artifact, with buildings that narrate the story of Eritrea’s past under Italian rule. The Italian legacy is not just in the buildings but also in the everyday life of Asmarinos, who enjoy cappuccinos in the city’s many cafes, and celebrate life in a European-style yet distinctly Eritrean manner.

The Tigrinya language is widely spoken, and traditional Tigrinya music is a vital part of the city’s cultural identity, with its melodies often heard in homes and public spaces alike. The social fabric of Asmara is strengthened by a deep sense of community, hospitality, and resilience, characteristics honed during Eritrea’s struggle for independence.

Religion plays a significant role, with Christianity and Islam being the two dominant faiths. The city’s landscape is dotted with beautiful churches and mosques, symbolizing the coexistence of these communities. The Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark, with its unique architectural style.

Asmara’s cuisine is a fusion of Italian and Eritrean flavors, with pasta dishes served alongside injera, a sourdough flatbread. The coffee ceremony is an integral part of social life, reflecting the city’s love for this age-old tradition.

Geographical Coordinates

15.3229, 38.9251