Welcome to Accra, Ghana’s vibrant capital city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern urban life. Located along the Atlantic coast, this bustling metropolis offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. You’ll find historical landmarks and culinary delights here. These showcase the heart of West African hospitality. This is a full visitor’s guide to the top attractions in Accra.
Accra boasts numerous must-visit attractions. These include the iconic Independence Square and the serene Labadi Beach. At the National Museum of Ghana, visitors can explore the country’s fascinating history from prehistoric times to present day. The historic Jamestown neighborhood, with its colonial architecture and famous lighthouse, provides a glimpse into Ghana’s complex past. The vibrant Makola Market pulses with local commerce and authentic Ghanaian culture.
The city’s dining scene delights food enthusiasts. They can sample traditional Ghanaian dishes. These include jollof rice, waakye, and kelewele. Local spots like Buka Restaurant offer these delicacies. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront establishments. Between sightseeing adventures, travelers can shop for handcrafted souvenirs at the Arts Centre. They can also witness cultural performances at the National Theatre. These performances showcase Ghana’s rich artistic heritage.
Arrival in Accra
Accra welcomes visitors through its modern international airport, offering various transportation options to reach the bustling capital city center. Finding suitable accommodation is straightforward with choices ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Kotoka International Airport
Kotoka International Airport serves as the main gateway to Ghana, located about 10 km from downtown Accra. Terminal 3, the newest addition, handles most international flights with modern facilities including duty-free shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services.
Upon arrival, visitors can check their flight reservation status at information counters or via the airport’s Wi-Fi. Immigration procedures typically take 15-30 minutes, and baggage claim is located on the ground floor.
ATMs and mobile money services are available for immediate cash needs. The airport’s design incorporates elements of Ghanaian culture, giving travelers their first taste of local aesthetics.
Navigating the Capital
Getting from the airport to Accra’s city center offers several options. Authorized airport taxis (with orange “AUTHORIZED AIRPORT TAXI” signs) offer the safest transportation, with fares around 80-120 GHS (approximately $10-15).
Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt run in Accra and often offer competitive rates. Public transportation includes minibuses called “trotros,” though they can be challenging for first-time visitors.
Major attractions like Independence Square and Jamestown are accessible via main roads like Liberation Road and Ring Road. Traffic congestion is common during rush hours (7-9am and 4-7pm).
Rental cars are available but navigating Accra’s busy streets requires confidence and familiarity with local driving patterns.
Accommodation Options
Accra offers diverse lodging options across all price ranges. The Waterfront Hotel and Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City represent luxury accommodations, featuring swimming pools, restaurants, and business facilities.
Mid-range hotels include Holiday Inn Accra Airport and Best Western Premier Accra Airport Hotel, providing comfortable rooms at moderate prices. Budget travelers can consider Hotel Nicon or Afia African Village.
Many hotels offer airport pickup services, which can be arranged when making reservations. Booking ahead is essential during peak tourist season (November-March) or during major festivals.
Airbnb and guesthouse options have increased in recent years, particularly in neighborhoods like Osu and Airport Residential Area. Most accommodations accept major credit cards, though keeping some cash is advisable.
Historical Significance
Accra’s journey through time has shaped Ghana’s identity as a nation. The city holds powerful symbols of Ghana’s independence and showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Independence Square
Independence Square stands as Ghana’s largest public gathering space, covering nearly 31 acres. Built in 1961, this monument commemorates Ghana’s liberation from British rule.
The square features the Independence Arch, a massive concrete structure that bears the inscription “Freedom and Justice.” This iconic landmark hosts national celebrations, including the annual Independence Day parade held every March 6th.
During important state functions, the square transforms into a vibrant show of Ghanaian pride with colorful ceremonies and military parades.
Visitors can walk around the monument freely most days. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
This park honors Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president and a key leader in the independence movement. The 5-acre park holds Nkrumah’s mausoleum and a museum dedicated to his life.
The museum displays Nkrumah’s personal items, including books, clothing, and photographs that tell the story of his political journey. Visitors can view rare footage of independence celebrations and key moments in Ghana’s early history.
The mausoleum, designed to resemble a traditional sword from southern Ghana, serves as Nkrumah’s final resting place.
Water fountains surrounding the monument represent the positive energy that continues to flow from Nkrumah’s legacy. The park offers guided tours that give deeper insights into this influential leader’s contributions.
Black Star Gate
The Black Star Gate stands as the centerpiece of Independence Square. This massive arch features the Black Star, Ghana’s national symbol representing African freedom.
Built in 1961, the gate commemorates Ghana becoming the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from colonial rule. The Black Star itself stands for unity and freedom for all African people.
Inscribed on the monument are the words “AD 1957,” marking the year Ghana achieved independence. The gate’s design blends modernist architecture with traditional African elements.
Visitors can walk through the arch and appreciate its historical significance. Photography is permitted, making it an excellent spot for memorable travel pictures.
Jamestown and Lighthouse
Jamestown stands as one of Accra’s oldest districts, established in the 17th century as a British trading post. This historic fishing community offers a glimpse into colonial Ghana.
The iconic Jamestown Lighthouse was built in the 1930s. It stands 28 meters tall. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Guinea. It also overlooks the bustling fishing harbor below. Visitors can climb the 98 steps to the top for a small fee.
The neighborhood features colonial buildings, including the old Jamestown Fort (James Fort), which served as a prison until 2008.
Local fishermen still mend their nets and paint their wooden boats along the shoreline. The area’s vibrant street art tells stories of local history and culture.
Jamestown hosts the annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival, bringing together artists who transform the streets with performances and installations.
Cultural Exploration
Accra offers rich cultural experiences. These include museums that tell Ghana’s story, vibrant markets full of traditional crafts, and restaurants serving authentic Ghanaian dishes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s heritage through these cultural touchpoints.
National Museum
The National Museum of Ghana stands as Accra’s premier cultural institution. Founded in 1957, it houses artifacts that trace Ghana’s history from prehistoric times to the current day.
The museum’s collection includes traditional regalia, ancient pottery, and historic textiles that showcase Ghana’s diverse ethnic groups. Visitors can examine archaeological finds from across the country and learn about Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Exhibits on Ghana’s independence movement highlight key figures like Kwame Nkrumah. The museum also features displays on traditional Ghanaian crafts and musical instruments.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM. It offers guided tours that give deeper context to the exhibits.
Arts and Craft Markets
Makola Market buzzes with energy as Accra’s largest commercial center. Here, shoppers find colorful kente cloth, handmade beads, and carved wooden figurines from artisans across Ghana.
The Arts Centre (Centre for National Culture) offers a more focused craft shopping experience. Visitors can watch artisans create traditional items and purchase directly from creators. Look for adinkra cloth printed with symbolic patterns and authentic cocoa pod carvings.
For high-quality contemporary Ghanaian art, visit Artists Alliance Gallery in Labadi. The gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works from established and emerging artists.
Haggling is expected at markets, so start by offering about half the initial price. Most vendors accept cedis (local currency), but some take US dollars for larger purchases.
Local Restaurants and Cuisine
Accra’s food scene showcases Ghana’s flavorful cuisine centered around staples like fufu, banku, and jollof rice. For authentic local dishes, visit Buka Restaurant in Osu. You can sample groundnut soup with goat meat there. Another dish to try is red-red (bean stew with fried plantain).
Streetside chop bars offer affordable, delicious meals. Try kelewele (spiced fried plantains) or waakye (rice and beans) from vendors throughout the city. The Makola Market area has numerous food stalls serving quick meals and snacks.
Ghana’s cocoa heritage appears in desserts and drinks. Visit 57 Chocolate for handcrafted treats made from Ghanaian cocoa beans.
For a high-end dining experience with traditional ingredients, Azmera Restaurant serves creative takes on classic dishes in an elegant setting. Their fufu with light soup and specially seasoned tilapia receive high praise from visitors.
Notable Attractions
Accra offers visitors a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty. These attractions provide insight into Ghana’s colonial past, architectural heritage, and natural environment.
Osu Castle
Osu Castle, also known as Fort Christiansborg, stands as one of Accra’s most significant historical landmarks. Built in the 1650s by the Danes, this white-walled fortress has served various functions throughout history.
The castle served as a trading post during the colonial era. It later became the seat of Ghana’s government until 2013. Its striking white exterior contrasts dramatically with the blue Atlantic Ocean behind it.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds and learn about Ghana’s complex colonial history. The museum inside houses exhibits on the transatlantic slave trade and Ghana’s journey to independence.
Tours typically last about 90 minutes. Photography is restricted in certain areas for security reasons.
Botanical Gardens
The Aburi Botanical Gardens, located just outside Accra’s city center, offers a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. Established in 1890 during British colonial rule, these gardens cover 64.8 hectares of lush landscape.
Visitors can wander through well-maintained pathways lined with exotic plants, towering palm trees, and colorful flowers. The gardens feature over 300 plant species from across Ghana and beyond.
Notable sections include:
- The palm garden with diverse palm varieties
- Medicinal plant collection showing traditional healing plants
- Ornamental garden with decorative species
The cool mountain air makes this spot particularly refreshing during hot days. Many locals visit on weekends for picnics and family outings.
Jamestown Lighthouse
The Jamestown Lighthouse stands as a distinctive landmark in one of Accra’s oldest districts. This tower was built in the 1930s to replace an earlier structure from the 1870s. It is 28 meters tall and has a white and red stripe pattern. The tower remains operational today.
Visitors can climb the 92 steps to reach the top. Panoramic views of the fishing harbor await. Visitors will also see colorful fishing boats and the Gulf of Guinea. The surrounding Jamestown neighborhood features colonial-era architecture and vibrant street life.
The lighthouse area has become a cultural hotspot with:
- Street art murals depicting local history
- Traditional fishing activities visible throughout the day
- Markets selling fresh seafood and crafts
Morning visits offer the best photography opportunities when fishermen return with their catches. The lighthouse stands as a symbol of Jamestown’s maritime heritage and continues to guide vessels along Ghana’s coast.
Shopping and Commerce
Accra offers diverse shopping experiences from traditional open-air markets to modern air-conditioned malls. Visitors can find everything from handcrafted souvenirs to designer brands across the city’s varied commercial spaces.
Makola Market
Makola Market stands as the heart of Accra’s commercial life. This sprawling marketplace buzzes with activity from dawn till dusk. Traders sell an impressive array of goods including food, clothing, household items, and traditional crafts.
The market is organized into sections. The fabric section displays vibrant African prints including Ghana’s famous kente cloth and colorful wax prints. The food area offers fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.
Bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Start by offering about half the stated price and negotiate from there. Mornings provide a cooler, less crowded shopping experience.
Visitors should keep valuables secure and bring small denominations of cedis. Hiring a local guide helps navigate the labyrinthine passages and communicate with vendors who not speak English.
Modern Malls and Shopping Centers
Accra boasts several contemporary shopping centers catering to those seeking air-conditioned comfort and fixed prices. Accra Mall, located near Kotoka International Airport, houses over 70 stores including international brands and a Shoprite supermarket.
West Hills Mall is the largest in West Africa. It features a diverse range of shops and restaurants. A cinema shows the latest international and Ghanaian films. Marina Mall offers upscale shopping with ocean views and specialty stores.
The Junction Mall and Oxford Street Mall offer extra options with clothing boutiques, electronics stores, and food courts. Most malls open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Credit cards are widely accepted in these establishments, though carrying some cash remains advisable. Free Wi-Fi and clean restrooms make these malls convenient rest stops during a day of exploration.
Fabrics and Best Deals
Accra’s textile scene offers some of West Africa’s most stunning fabrics at competitive prices. Woodin and Vlisco stores sell premium African prints with fixed prices. For better deals, visit Makola Market or the smaller Kaneshie Market.
Best Fabric Buys:
- Kente cloth (ceremonial woven fabric)
- Ankara/wax prints (colorful patterned cotton)
- Adinkra cloth (stamped with traditional symbols)
For souvenirs, the Arts Centre near Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park offers woodcarvings, jewelry, and leather goods. Prices here start high, so negotiate confidently.
Osu’s Oxford Street includes boutiques with unique Ghanaian-designed clothing and accessories. The Global Mamas store sells fair-trade items made by women’s cooperatives.
Remember that authentic crafts cost more than mass-produced imitations. Quality kente cloth can be expensive but signifies a valuable investment in Ghanaian heritage.
Leisure and Relaxation
Accra offers many ways to unwind after exploring the city’s bustling markets and historical sites. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, waterfront activities, and modern entertainment options throughout Ghana’s capital.
Labadi Beach
Labadi Beach (officially La Pleasure Beach) stands as Accra’s most popular beach destination. Located along the Gulf of Guinea, this vibrant stretch of golden sand attracts both locals and tourists throughout the week.
The beach charges a small entrance fee that helps keep its cleanliness and security. Weekends bring live music, cultural performances, and horseback riding opportunities along the shoreline.
Food vendors sell fresh seafood, cold drinks, and local delicacies like kelewele (spiced fried plantains). Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. This makes it easy to spend a full day enjoying the Atlantic Ocean breeze.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the nearby Labadi Beach Hotel offers day passes. These passes give access to their private beachfront and pool.
Waterfront Leisure
Beyond Labadi, Accra’s coastline features several waterfront leisure options. Kokrobite Beach, located about 25 kilometers west of the city center, offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Labadi.
The Accra Marina is located near the city’s port. It provides boat tours and fishing trips. These activities are for those wanting to experience the Gulf of Guinea from the water. Many tours include refreshments and opportunities to see marine life.
Several beachfront restaurants along the coast serve fresh seafood with ocean views. Sandbox Beach Club at Laboma Beach combines dining with swimming pools and beach access for a full day of relaxation.
Water sports enthusiasts can find surfing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding rentals at most major beaches. Classes are available for beginners wanting to try these activities.
Cinemas and Entertainment
Accra boasts modern entertainment facilities for those seeking indoor leisure activities. Silverbird Cinemas at Accra Mall and West Hills Mall show the latest international films. They also feature Ghanaian movies in comfortable, air-conditioned theaters.
The National Theatre regularly hosts cultural performances, plays, and concerts that showcase Ghanaian artistic talents. Check their schedule for events during your visit.
Several bowling alleys and arcade centers offer family-friendly entertainment options. Titan Gaming at Marina Mall offers video games, pool tables, and virtual reality experiences.
For evening relaxation, +233 Jazz Bar and Grill presents live music most nights of the week. The venue serves Ghanaian cuisine and cocktails while patrons enjoy performances by local musicians.
Many shopping malls also feature entertainment zones with games and activities for children and adults alike.
Planning Your Tour
Exploring Accra requires some preparation to make the most of your visit. The city offers many guided options, special events, and cultural experiences throughout the year.
Accra Tour Packages
Several companies offer comprehensive Accra tour packages to suit different interests and budgets. Landtours Ghana offers half-day city tours covering major landmarks for $50-75 per person. These typically include the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Independence Square, and Jamestown.
For more extensive experiences, Sunset African Tours creates 2-3 day packages ($150-250) that combine city sightseeing with cultural immersion. These often include visits to the University of Ghana campus and interactions with local artisans.
Family-friendly options are available through Accra City Tours, featuring educational visits to the National Museum and beach activities. Most packages include transportation, guide services, and entrance fees, but always confirm what’s covered before booking.
Local Tour Guides
Hiring a knowledgeable local guide enhances your Accra experience tremendously. The Ghana Tourism Authority certifies official guides who show skill in the city’s history and culture.
Rates typically range from $35-50 per day for individual guides. Many speak multiple languages including English, French, and local Ghanaian languages. To find reliable guides:
- Check reviews on TripAdvisor or Tour by Locals
- Ask your accommodation for recommendations
- Contact the Tourism Information Center near Independence Square
University of Ghana students occasionally work as part-time guides, offering fresh perspectives on local culture. For specialized interests like culinary tours, guides with specific skill can be arranged. Photography walks also have expert guidance available through Accra Walking Tours or similar services.
Festivals and Events
Timing your visit around Accra’s vibrant festivals adds remarkable depth to your experience. The Homowo Festival (August-September) celebrates the harvest with traditional drumming, dancing, and feasting in Ga communities throughout Accra.
Chale Wote Street Art Festival transforms Jamestown each August with murals, performances, and installations by local and international artists. This free event draws thousands of attendees.
For music enthusiasts, Accra hosts the annual High Vibes Festival in December, featuring Afrobeat, highlife, and contemporary Ghanaian artists. The National Theatre regularly presents cultural performances throughout the year.
Important religious celebrations include:
- Christmas (December)
- Eid al-Fitr (varies yearly)
- Easter (March/April)
Check event dates before planning your trip, as some festivals follow lunar calendars and dates change annually.
