The upscale neighborhood surrounding the airport with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.

About Bole District

Bole is Addis Ababa's most modern and internationally oriented district, stretching along the broad Bole Road corridor from the airport toward the city center. The neighborhood has transformed into the capital's premier dining, entertainment, and business hub, with glass-fronted office buildings, international hotel chains, and hundreds of restaurants representing cuisines from Ethiopian to Japanese.

The district is divided into several sub-areas. Bole Medhanialem, centered around the striking Medhane Alem Cathedral (one of the largest in Africa), is the commercial heart with Edna Mall and numerous cafés. Bole Atlas and Bole Rwanda are popular for nightlife and dining. The area caters extensively to the international community, with many establishments accepting US dollars.

For travelers, Bole is the most convenient base in Addis Ababa — close to the airport, filled with accommodation options at every price point, and offering the city's best selection of restaurants and services. The neighborhood is also home to many airline offices and travel agencies.

Nearby Landmarks

Medhane Alem Cathedral Edna Mall Bole Medhanialem Friendship Park

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost 150-250 ETB ($3-5)
Time 5-10 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost 100-200 ETB ($2-4)
Time 5-10 minutes

Arrivals hall exit

Step-by-Step Directions

Walk out of terminal and follow Bole Road north toward Bole Medhanealem

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi 150-250 ETB ($3-5) 5-10 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare 100-200 ETB ($2-4) 5-10 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Late-night transport from the airport to Bole is easy given the proximity. Taxis are always available at the airport rank (150-300 ETB). RIDE app works well for this short trip. Many Bole hotels offer complimentary airport pickups given the minimal distance. Walking is not recommended after midnight despite the short distance.

Luggage Tips

For this short trip, any taxi will do. Even the small blue Lada taxis can manage since the ride is under 10 minutes. If you have minimal luggage, this is the one Addis Ababa airport route where walking could be practical, though the road lacks dedicated pedestrian paths in some sections.

Accessibility

Bole Road has relatively good sidewalks by Addis Ababa standards, though uneven sections exist. The short distance makes this the most manageable route for travelers with mobility concerns. Hotels along Bole Road increasingly offer accessible rooms. Pre-arrange hotel pickup for wheelchair users.