Ghana’s capital and largest city, Accra, sits on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, part of the Atlantic Ocean. In this 13th-largest metropolitan area in Africa, travelers can get a taste of everything Africa offers: traditional and contemporary cultures, 17th-century architecture alongside modern skyscrapers, beaches and safaris. Take in the colorful, vibrant experience of Accra, also a hotbed for artists and grassroots enterprises.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Accra Kotoka International Airport, located around 5 miles from city center, lies about 20–30 minutes from central Accra by car. Labour Enterprise Trust Co. Ltd. runs metered taxis to and from the airport, available at Car Park 5. Buses and Ubers also operate to and from the airport. Within Accra and Ghana, public buses are the main form of transportation for short-haul and long-distance travel; buy tickets online in advance. The two main bus companies are State Transport Corp. and VIP. If traveling by taxi, negotiate and confirm fares before the trip begins. Uber arrived in Accra in 2016 and proves a popular option for getting around.
LODGING
Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast Accra
This 5-star hotel is one of superlatives: largest guestroom size in Accra; largest meeting facilities in Accra; and ReSense, the largest spa in the city. Its 269 guestrooms, 24 suites and multiple eateries are conveniently located in the downtown business district.
Ministries PMB, 66 Gamel Abdul Nasser Ave., Accra, Ghana, tel 233 24 243 6000
Offering a private beach with 24-hour surveillance adjacent to popular Pleasant Beach, Labadi Beach Hotel boasts 164 guestrooms across seven room types. Enjoy tranquility amid the property’s landscaped gardens, 10 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes to the Central Business District.
No. 1 La Bypass, Accra, Ghana, tel 233 302 772 501
Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra
These modern guestrooms and suites feature state-of-the-art amenities with garden or city views. A tropical oasis in the middle of the city, Mövenpick offers complimentary breakfast, multiple dining outlets and the largest outdoor swimming pool in Accra.
Ridge, PMB CT 343, Independence Avenue, Accra, Ghana, tel 233 30 261 1000
DINING
Designed to appeal to discerning international travelers, Buka opened in 2004, serving a fusion of local foods with fine ingredients. Buka serves authentic dishes from Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Togo and Nigeria on an open-air terrace and in two indoor dining rooms.
10th Street, Osu, Accra, Ghana, tel 233 24 484 2464
bukarestaurant.com
To the Ewe people, Midunu means “let us eat,” and this space is dedicated to the intersection of African culture, community and cuisine. Offerings include a bespoke event space, on- and off-site private dining, nomadic dining experience pop-ups and artisanal chocolates.
21 Silica St., Accra, Ghana, tel 233 59 343 3843
Santoku brings a taste of Tokyo to Accra with its minimalist interiors across the restaurant, bar and terrace. Staples include sushi, sashimi and gyoza, or guests can indulge in the tasting menu. Champagne, whiskey and lots of creative cocktails complement the cuisine.
Villaggio, 16 N. Airport Road, Accra, Ghana, tel 233 54 431 1511
ATTRACTIONS
Aburi Botanical Gardens
About 45 minutes outside Accra at the top of Akwapim-Togo Range sits the 160-acre Aburi Botanical Gardens. With only 3 acres developed and the rest a botanical reserve, visitors can tour the gardens and attractions like Bush House, Rock Garden, School of Horticulture and more.
VR2G+FRG, Aburi, Ghana, tel 233 20 585 4949
Makola Market
Since 1924 Makola Market has served as a market place and shopping district in the center of Accra. Across an array of products and women traders, shoppers can find everything from fresh produce, foods and clothes to tools; pots and pans; and jewelry made from local, hand-crafted beads.
A20 Kojo Thompson Road, Accra, Ghana
Also known as Christiansborg Castle, this 17th-century castle sits on the shores of Osu Township. Built by the Danes and rebuilt several times, the UNESCO World Heritage site was under the control of Denmark, Norway, Portugal and Britain before being handed over to Ghana. Today it houses the Presidential Museum.
Osu, Accra, Ghana
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: U.S. Virgin Islands
GCGB 2023
Aug 5, 2023All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jan 17, 2025Michelin-Starred Chef Rolls Out New Menu at Albert Hotel in Fredericksburg, Texas
MICHELIN-starred Chef Michael Fojtasek, whose accolades include three times as a James Beard finalist for Best Chef: Southwest, introduced his seasonal menu at The Restaurant at Albert Hotel. Local ranchers, farmers and food artisans representing the Texas Hill Country region are showcased in dishes including Raw Gulf tuna with grilled kabocha, benne seed, black butter and fumet; red snapper with smoked trout roe and fennel fumet; and peach-blackberry crostata with crème fraîche whip.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Jan 17, 2025Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Goes Big for Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, skip the traditional gift and give the gift of travel and lifelong memories with a romantic getaway to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Thanks to its beautiful weather, delicious dining options, stunning scenery and relaxing wellness offerings, this property offers a one-of-a-kind escape for couples.
Daily
Jan 17, 2025Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort Unveils Newly Refurbished Guestrooms
Following a four-week renovation, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort recently unveiled its newly refurbished guestrooms, furthering the resort’s commitment to offer one of the most luxurious guest experiences on the island. Next up, the resort will introduce a new Kids and Teens Club and state-of-the-art Technogym fitness facility later in 2025.
Sponsored Content
A Word with Nat Pieper, oneworld CEO
Name: Nat Pieper Title: CEO at oneworld City: Dallas, Texas First job: Stadium vendor
Daily
Jan 16, 2025Get a Glimpse Into One of the Busiest Transportation Stations in Europe: Roma Termini
Rome's Termini Station is a true icon of modern Roman architecture, serving as the city's largest rail station and one of Europe's major transit centers. One of the key aspects of the structure’s recent transformation was opening up the view toward the sixth century B.C. Servian Walls from the main hall, restoring visitors' visual connection to this historical legacy.
W Hotels Opens First Property in Brazil
Daily
Jan 15, 2025eFlyer News
Jan 15, 2025Uber to Be Exclusive Rideshare, Delivery Partner of Delta Air Lines
Beginning this spring, Uber will be the exclusive rideshare and delivery partner of Delta Air Lines. This new, multiyear partnership allows SkyMiles members to earn miles when riding with Uber and ordering with Uber Eats throughout the United States.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
eFlyer News
Jan 15, 2025Mandarin Oriental to Sign 2 European Hotels
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group announced the expansion of two iconic hotels: Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam and Hôtel Lutetia in Paris. Following the completion of the transaction with relevant Works Councils, both properties will be rebranded, with Hôtel Lutetia transforming to Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, and Conservatorium Hotel changing to Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium, Amsterdam.
ShareThis