GH
Accra
Ghana’s coastal capital, with independence landmarks, the old fishing district of Jamestown and busy markets
Ghana’s coastal capital, with independence landmarks, the old fishing district of Jamestown and busy markets
The mausoleum of Ghana’s first president stands on the site where he declared independence. The park and its museum reopened in July 2023 after a major renovation.
Photo: Fquasie, CC BY-SA 4.0
One of Accra’s oldest districts, with the red-and-white lighthouse, the 17th-century James Fort, Ussher Fort and a busy fishing beach. Local guides lead walking tours.
Climb the lighthouse for a view over the fishing harbour.
Photo: Gereon K., CC BY-SA 4.0
Also called Independence Square, this huge parade ground by the sea is framed by the Black Star Gate and the Independence Arch. National parades are held here on Independence Day.
Photo: Fanti Salms, CC BY-SA 4.0
Accra’s biggest market spreads over several blocks, selling fabrics, food, household goods and almost everything else.
Go in the morning and keep valuables close.
Photo: Benggriff, CC BY-SA 3.0
The city’s best-known beach, with bars, music and horse rides at weekends. Strong currents make swimming risky.
Photo: Afus199620, CC0
Try jollof rice, waakye (rice and beans), banku or fufu with soup, grilled tilapia and kelewele (spiced fried plantain).
Osu and East Legon have many restaurants and bars, while chop bars and street stalls serve cheap local food.
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is about 10km from the centre, with flights from Europe, the Middle East, the US and across Africa. Traffic in Accra is heavy, so allow time for airport transfers.
Ride-hailing apps work well in the city. Most non-African visitors need a visa; Ghana launched an e-visa in May 2026, and African nationals are exempt from visa fees. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Ghana. Check current rules before you travel.
Ghana uses the cedi (GHS), whose exchange rate changes often, so prices here are given in US dollars as a guide. Mobile money is widely used; carry cash for markets and small towns.
Prices are approximate; the cedi fluctuates.
Independence history, Jamestown and the markets.
Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Black Star Square, then take a guided walk through Jamestown and climb the lighthouse.
Explore Makola Market in the morning, then spend the afternoon in Osu and the evening at Labadi Beach.
Avoid rush hours when you can; journeys across the city can take over an hour.
Beaches have strong currents; swim only where locals do.
Bring a yellow fever certificate and take malaria precautions.
Mobile money and cards work in the city; carry cedi for markets.
Quick answers for planning time in Accra.
Most non-African visitors do; an e-visa is available. African nationals are exempt from visa fees.
Kotoka International Airport is about 10km from the centre, 20 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
On 6 March 1957.
Currents are strong, so take care and stay close to shore.
November to March, the dry season.
English is the official language, so translation is rarely needed.
Free
Guides, drivers and guesthouses arrange almost everything by WhatsApp.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Ghana travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.