While Ghana is lesser known as a travel destination compared to its sister nations such as Egypt and Morocco, it should not be overlooked by wanderers. Over the years, tourism has slowly boosted businesses in the capital city of Accra. The people are also known to be warm and friendly and relish having a good time at the beach or at one of the nightclubs on the famous Oxford Street. The most important thing is not to feel like a stranger but to pace yourself to get used to a local’s way of life. And for that, a stay in an Airbnb vacation rental is ideal. However, there are also hotels in Accra that similarly serve as great gateways to the city’s heritage. If you are looking for a great time here, embark on these top things to do in Accra, Ghana.
1. Go on a shopping spree through the markets of Accra (from USD 126.0)
This tour is a diehard shopaholic’s dream come true, as you will be taken to most of Ghana’s famed markets and galleries to satisfy your shopping cravings. After picking you up from your accommodation at an agreed time, you will be visiting markets such as Makola, Arts Centre, Artist Alliance and others located at Oxford Street and the Tetteh Quarshie area. You are free to choose your pick-up time, so be sure to plan carefully. Happy shopping!
Accra Small-Group Shopping Tour
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
2. Revel in the casual ambiance at Republic Bar and Grill
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located just off Oxford Bar is the cozy Republic Bar and Grill, a cosmopolitan bar where friendly locals and tourists bond over traditional food and unique drinks. Entertainment is an absolute guarantee, as there is usually a live band performance or karaoke sessions that will keep the crowd buzzing. Try their Kokroko drink concoction which has a hibiscus flower in it, or an alcoholic ginger shot infused with Ghanaian herbs. Don’t forget to try some of the grilled meats here too.
Republic Bar and Grill
Address: Asafoatse Tempong St, Accra, Ghana
Website: Republic Bar and Grill
Opening hours: 12pm - 4am (daily)
Price: 11 - 30 USD
3. Take a leap back in time at the historic Osu Castle
This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 17th century and was once the property of numerous European nations before it officially became Ghana’s after her independence. At one point in time, it even served as the residential grounds of Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah. Today, it has been converted into a presidential museum where visitors can see important artifacts that paint a colorful history of a developing nation.
Osu Castle
Address: Castle Dr, Accra, Ghana
Website: Osu Castle
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed Sat - Sun)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. See the best views from Skybar 25
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Pork belly Bao buns with the view
Posted by Skybar25 on Wednesday, July 20, 2022
Indulge in the breathtaking views of Accra’s skyline at Skybar 25. Situated high above the city, this rooftop bar offers an unforgettable panoramic vista. Savor a refreshing cocktail as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and witness the city lights illuminating the night.
Whether it’s a romantic evening or capturing Instagram-worthy moments, Skybar 25 guarantees an unforgettable experience. With its contemporary ambiance, comfortable seating, and attentive staff, it’s the perfect destination to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the city from a new perspective.
Skybar 25
Address: N 16 N Airport Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Skybar 25
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 4pm - 12am; Thur: 4pm - 1am; Fri - Sat; 4pm - 2:30am; Sun: 4pm - 12am
Accra Tour Guide
Edem
My name is EDEM YAO KWAWU born and raised in GHANA WEST AFRICA in Accra the Capital In a small town called Nima. My heart is filled with love and affection. My close people say that I am a cheerful and bright Guy. I always try to share my good mood with other people. I like to smile. I love to give surprises and I think that attention and awe are key to a happy Volunteering. I care about the fe... Read more
Tours by Edem
5. Enjoy live music at Rockstone’s Office
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Just Music Tuesdays
Posted by Rockstone's Office/Grand Papazz/Afterwerk/Rockz Waakye on Monday, October 1, 2018
Immerse yourself in Accra’s vibrant music scene at Rockstone’s Office. This iconic venue is renowned for its lively atmosphere and top-notch live performances. Experience the rhythmic beats and electrifying energy as local and international artists take the stage. From Afrobeat to highlife, reggae to hip-hop, Rockstone’s Office offers a diverse range of musical genres to suit every taste. Let the music move you as you dance the night away and create unforgettable memories.
With its stylish decor, friendly staff, and an impressive lineup of talented musicians, Rockstone’s Office is a must-visit destination for music lovers in Accra. Discover the pulsating heartbeat of the city and be a part of the vibrant music culture at this renowned venue.
Rockstone’s Office
Address: Osu Ave Extension, Accra, Ghana
Website: Rockstone’s Office
Opening hours: Mon - Thur: 8am - 10pm; Fri - Sun: 8am - 6am
6. Experience a wildlife safari at the Shai Game Reserve (from USD 289.0)
This half-day tour brings you straight into the heart of an African safari situated in the Shai Game Reserve, which was once occupied by the Shai people of the Osudoku district. You will get to experience wildlife in their natural surroundings, such as zebras, baboons, ostriches, antelopes and many other animals native to Africa. Do note that food and drinks are not provided during the tour.
Accra Safari
Duration: 5 hours
7. Enjoy the architectural sights of the Accra Central Mosque
Boasting amazing and intricate architectural designs with a hint of Turkish influence, the Accra Central Mosque is one of the biggest mosques in the capital. It is not surprising to see people getting awe-struck by this marvelous piece of structure. Those who belong to the Muslim faith are welcomed to go inside and participate in a round of prayers on Friday evenings.
Accra Central Mosque
Address: Abose-Okai Rd, Accra, Ghana
Opening hours: Mon & Fri: Open 24 hours (closed Tue - Thu, Sat - Sun)
8. Walk along the hallowed walls of Ussher Fort
Built by the Dutch in 1649 during Ghana’s colonial period, Ussher Fort was later converted into a prison where it housed many political prisoners. Thankfully, it no longer serves this function today. Instead, it houses a museum that educates the public on Ghana’s slave trade history. You can also walk the hallowed grounds of the fort to see some partially restored prison cells and imagine what life was like for its prisoners. Visiting this site is one of the unique things to do in Accra, so be sure to pin your map here as well.
Ussher Fort
Address: James Town, Accra, Ghana
Website: Ussher Fort
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 2 USD
9. Attend a worship service at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, La Bethel
Posted by Presbyterian Church of Ghana on Monday, 30 April 2018
This protestant church was started by Swiss missionaries in 1828 and has grown from strength to strength over the course of its hundred-year history. Today, it has over 500,000 members and has contributed to making Christianity the largest religion in Ghana. Worship services at the Presbyterian Church are usually lively and soul-soothing, and you should consider attending one no matter your religious faith.
Presbyterian Church of Ghana, La Bethel
Address: La Rd, Accra, Ghana
10. Learn about Afro-Brazilian colonial history at the Brazil House
Located in the vicinity of Jamestown is a little museum dedicated to a group of Tabon people, or Afro-Brazilian, who returned to Ghana after spending many years as slaves in Brazil. Known as the Brazil House, it was originally built by the Tabon as a tribute to their rich heritage and unique traditions. Today, visitors can visit the site to learn more about their history and community.
Brazil House
Address: Adjacent to Evans Anfom Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Brazil House
11. Sample some delicious Ghanaian staple food at Buka
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We are super happy today. Can you guess why? We get to serve you all your favorite Ghanaian and Nigerian dishes! We Are...
Posted by The Buka Restaurant Ltd on Monday, March 1, 2021
Come have a taste of modern Ghanaian cuisine at the trendy Buka restaurant, whose humble beginnings started in 2003. It is one of the go-to places for the international traveler who is new to the taste of Ghanaian staple food. We suggest trying a stew dish, as it is full of herbs and spices. The price is relatively affordable and should not burn a hole in your wallet. Do alert the staff if you are allergic to certain spices and they will gladly cater to your needs.
Buka Restaurant
Address: 10th Street ,Osu, Accra, Ghana
Website: Buka Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 11 - 25 USD
12. Explore the Aburi Botanical Gardens and Shai Hills Resource Reserve (from USD 338.0)
Fancy trading the urban walls and streets of Accra for more natural surroundings just for a day? Then you should check out this full-day guided tour that takes you on a trip to the extensive Aburi Botanical Gardens and Shai Hills Resource Reserve. You will see plenty of plant and wildlife that are native to Ghana, as well as unique archaeological sites. You will also stop by a local woodcarvers village, where you can try to do some woodcarving! Do note that food and drinks are not provided on this tour.
Aburi Botanical Gardens and Shai Hills Tour
Duration: 6 hours
13. Unfurl your senses at the Artists Alliance Gallery
Those who appreciate contemporary works of art, such as painting and sculptures, will probably spend quite some time at the Artists Alliance Gallery. Here, you will find three floors filled with colorful masterpieces crafted by established and aspiring local artists. Who knows, you might come across that missing ornament to make your home complete. Otherwise, it is a good place to seek some inspiration. Prices are fixed and non-negotiable as the proceedings greatly support the artist’s ambitions. Do look out for elaborately designed coffins!
Artists Alliance Gallery
Address: La Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Artists Alliance Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
14. Learn about the life of Pan-Africanist W.E.B Du Bois
William Edward Burghardt Du Bois (W.E.B Du Bois) was a well-known American activist who campaigned for equal civil rights and increased political representation for the African-American communities in the U.S. He first set foot in Ghana in 1960 to celebrate the country’s creation. Touched by his unrelenting dedication and service for the minority voice, the first Ghanian president gave him Ghanaian citizenship and invited him to help on an encyclopedia project for the African diaspora. William Edward would continue his work for another two years before passing away at the age of 95. The W.E.B Du Bois memorial center was constructed in memory of him. The center also acts as a tourist attraction, where visitors are able to see displays of W.E.B Du Bois’s life works that have inspired many who are looking to making a difference in their community.
W.E.B Du Bois Memorial Center
Address: NO.22 First Circular Road, Cantonment, Accra, Ghana
Website: W.E.B Du Bois Memorial Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 4:30pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm (closed on Sun)
15. Acquire knowledge at the National Museum of Ghana
Opened on the eve of Ghana’s independence in 1957, the National Museum of Ghana features unique and colorful exhibits that have deep roots in Ghanaian culture and history. Be sure to take your time and explore numerous artifacts like musical instruments, archaeological finds, textiles, and tribal masks from other African countries. This tourist attraction in Accra, Ghana, is open daily so do put this in your itinerary if this is of interest to you.
National Museum of Ghana
Address: 2 Barnes Road, Accra, Ghana
Website: National Museum of Ghana
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
16. Visit a fantasy coffin workshop at Kane Kwei Carpentry
We won’t blame you if you went on an internet search for an image of a fantasy coffin and let out a gasp of surprise. At first glance, these coffins seem bizarre but their beauty slowly endears as you keep looking at them. Here is a bit of trivia knowledge for you. These truly unique masterpieces were exclusive to Ghana for a period of time until they were shown to a wider audience in Paris in 1989. The Ghanaian artist Kane Kwei is said to be a pioneer in fantasy coffin making and he paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps. Visit his workshop, which is now owned by his descendants, to see more of these coffins.
Kane Kwei Carpentry workshop
Address: Teshie-Nungua, Teshie Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Kane Kwei Carpentry workshop
17. Pay your respects at Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
The late Kwame Nkrumah was Ghana’s first prime minister and the president who led the country to independence from the British in 1957. A firm believer of Pan-Africanism, he went on to establish a strong national education system for his people among many other notable achievements that established key infrastructures for the nation. The memorial park was erected in memory of his life’s work. You can also visit the subterranean mausoleum and museum, where the mortal remains of Kwame Nkrumah are housed. A separate part of the museum houses personal artifacts and publications that once belonged to this great man.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Address: High St, Accra, Ghana
Website: Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
18. Climb the famous Jamestown lighthouse and explore the district
One of the oldest districts in Ghana, Jamestown is a lively and vibrant coastal district that is frequented by locals and international visitors alike. Here, you will find many old colonial buildings and historical traces that tell a story of an old fishing community during its colonial days. If you’re looking to have a slow day in Accra, Jamestown is the place to unwind. Have a cool and refreshing beverage at one of many cafes, start a friendly chat with some of the locals or visit its famed red and white lighthouse for a quick Instagram photo.
Jamestown lighthouse
Address: 600 Bruce Rd, Accra, Ghana
19. Shop till you drop at Makola Market
Want to experience beauty in the midst of organized street chaos? If you are game for it, then you should make a trip to the buzzing Makola Market that is just south of Jamestown. It is easy to get daunted by the busy street traffic but you should be safe as long as you keep a close lookout for oncoming vehicles. Once you reach the market, you will be able to find a wide array of goods, ranging from food ingredients to textiles and other unique items. Feel free to bargain for lower prices but be prepared to exercise a bit of patience to get the price you want. Above all, be nice and leave a good impression behind!
Makola Market
Address: Osc 384 Makola Shopping Mall, Kojo Thompson Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Makola Market
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
20. Visit the vibrant bars and nightclubs at Oxford Street
Life in Accra does not stop when the sun goes down over the horizon. In fact, it is quite the opposite. The locals and tourists would usually flock to their favorite watering hole that is located along the famous Oxford Street. You can find many cafes and pubs with live music bands and nightclubs that play the latest Afrobeats hits. Let your hair down, get your party shoes on and go dance as the locals do.
Nightlife along Oxford Street
Address: Oxford Street, Accra, Ghana
21. Soak in the sun at Labadi Beach
If golden sunsets over glistening ocean waters are your thing, Labadi Beach is a great place to visit in Accra. It is situated along the shimmering Ghanaian coastline and is officially known as La Pleasure Beach to the local community. You can expect to do many beach activities, like swimming in the sea or playing some volleyball or beach soccer. Quenching your thirst should not be an issue, as you can find many beach bars ready to offer you a cool drink.
Do note that the beach is usually more crowded on Fridays and Saturdays as rave dance parties take center stage when the night falls.
Labadi Beach
Address: Along La Road, Accra, Ghana
22. Catch some soccer fever at the Astros Ghana
Posted by Astros on Thursday, 8 October 2015
Ask a local about his favorite sport and chances are high that the reply would be soccer. In fact, the whole of Africa is soccer crazy. There are thousands of aspiring players aim to become professionals to represent their national team or to even go abroad to play with the elites in Europe. This is no exception in Ghana, where you can find both children and adult playing the sport with a passion. If you too are soccer crazy and would like to have a casual game with the locals and foreigners alike, you can stop by the Astros Ghana pitch for a kickabout.
Astros Ghana
Address: Kojo Ashong Ave, Accra, Ghana
Website: Astros Ghana
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
23. Take a walk at the Legon Botanical Gardens
What do you get when you combine a safe outdoor activities space with lush and scenic greenery? The answer is the Legon Botanical Gardens, a one-of-a-kind adventure park that people of all ages and sizes can enjoy. You can embark on a canopy walk, row a canoe in the lake or conquer your fear of heights at the high rope course! Each activity comes with a fee and it is also recommended that you wear the appropriate clothing to prevent injuries.
Legon Botanical Gardens
Address: Agbogba Junction, Off Haatso-Atomic Rd, Accra, Ghana
Website: Legon Botanical Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 6pm
Price: 7 USD onwards
24. Check out the Black Star Gate monument
Situated across from the Accra sports stadium is a beautiful monument that has four distinct black stars on top of its structure. The words ‘Freedom and Justice’ are etched firmly across the wall. This is none other than Black Star Gate and it was built in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Ghana. The monument is part of Independence Square, which is also the site that holds the celebrations of Ghana’s independence day on 6th March every year. Other national festivals and events are held here throughout the year. This is a fantastic spot to take some nice photos to commemorate your visit.
Black Star Gate
Address: 28th February Rd, Bossman Street, Independence Square, Accra, Ghana
Website: Black Star Gate
Opening hours: 24/7
Tip from tour guide
This is a most important site when you visit Accra, as without visiting this star, it is assumed you have never been to Accra. Black Star Square is a site for Ghana's Independence Day parade, which falls on the 6th of March every year. These monuments include the Independence Arch to the south with the Gulf of Guinea in the backdrop. Facing the arch is the statue of a Soldier, which honors the Ghanaian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the country.
25. Have some fun at the Millionaires Casino Accra
Located inside the upmarket and elegant Golden Tulip Accra hotel, the intimate Millionaires Casino is a tourism award-winning establishment that attracts over 50,000 guests per year. The casino prides itself in having the latest gaming technology and providing quality service to entertain guests. Try your hand at the slots machine or think of a winning strategy at a high stakes poker game. We wish you the best of luck and we also encourage you to gamble responsibly too.
Millionaires Casino Accra
Address: Liberation Road, Accra, Ghana
Website: Millionaires Casino Accra
Opening hours: 1pm - 5am (daily)
26. Taste delicious chocolates at '57 Chocolate
Experience the sweet richness of true artisanal chocolate created by two sisters who are passionate about their craft. Naming their business ‘57 Chocolate, their product is well-known in Ghana and has also been featured extensively in various international blogs. If you have the chance and the right amount of people, you can request to have a special chocolate-tasting session organized for your party. You will savor five different types of chocolate and also get to take home a box of chocolates too.
'57 Chocolate
Website: ‘57 Chocolate
Price: 12 USD onwards
Have an awesome time in Accra
As you can probably tell by now, the key to enjoying Accra is to simply revel in the small joys that this city offers. It may not have the bright lights of other city capitals, but it definitely has its own charm. We hope you have a splendid time in Ghana with this comprehensive list of activities in Accra.
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