Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is a coastal city on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, known for its dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. From bustling markets and colonial-era architecture to cutting-edge art galleries and lively music scenes, Accra offers a rich cultural experience shaped by centuries of history and innovation.
The city is home to key landmarks such as Independence Arch, Jamestown, and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, each reflecting Ghana’s journey from colonial rule to independence. With its warm hospitality, energetic street life, and growing creative industries, Accra is an ideal destination for travellers seeking both cultural depth and urban adventure.
A Brief History
Founded as a trading post, Accra attracted Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, and British interest due to its strategic location along the Gold Coast. Forts like Jamestown and Ussher Fort were built to control trade routes, especially in gold and enslaved people.
In 1877, Accra officially became the capital of the British Gold Coast colony, replacing Cape Coast. The city expanded rapidly, blending colonial architecture with indigenous settlements and becoming a centre for commerce, governance, and education.
The 20th century saw Accra emerge as a hub for independence movements. Kwame Nkrumah and other leaders rallied support in the city, leading to Ghana’s independence in 1957, the first in sub-Saharan Africa.
Today, Accra is a thriving metropolis known for its creative industries, historic landmarks, and vibrant street life. From Makola Market to the National Theatre, the city celebrates its past while shaping the future.
For more, visit the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board or explore the Accra history timeline.
Accra, Ghana
Attractions and Activities
Jamestown
Jamestown is one of Accra’s oldest districts, known for its colonial-era architecture, boxing gyms, and vibrant street art. The Jamestown Lighthouse and annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival make it a cultural hotspot for walking tours and photography.
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
This memorial honours Ghana’s first president and independence leader. Set in landscaped gardens, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park includes a museum with personal artefacts and historical exhibits.
Makola Market
Accra’s busiest market is a sensory experience of colour, sound, and commerce. Visitors can shop for kente cloth, spices, and handmade jewellery. The Makola Market is ideal for street photography and local interaction.
Independence Arch and Black Star Square
Located near the coast, Black Star Square is Ghana’s main ceremonial ground. The Independence Arch and Black Star Gate symbolise freedom and national pride, often used for parades and public events.
W.E.B. Du Bois Centre
Dedicated to the Pan-Africanist scholar, the Du Bois Centre includes a research library, museum, and mausoleum. It’s a quiet space for reflection and learning about African unity and civil rights.
Labadi Beach
Accra’s most popular beach offers horse rides, drumming sessions, and grilled seafood. Labadi Beach is lively on weekends and ideal for sunset walks and local entertainment.
Arts Centre for National Culture
This waterfront complex features artisan workshops, craft stalls, and live performances. The Arts Centre is perfect for picking up souvenirs and watching traditional drumming and dance.
National Museum of Ghana
The National Museum houses ethnographic, archaeological, and historical exhibits. Highlights include royal regalia, musical instruments, and colonial-era artefacts that trace Ghana’s cultural evolution.
Culture
Arts and Performance Spaces
Accra’s arts scene is anchored by venues like the National Theatre of Ghana, a landmark for drama, dance, and music. The Nubuke Foundation in East Legon showcases contemporary Ghanaian art through exhibitions, poetry readings, and film screenings. For traditional and modern African art, the Artists Alliance Gallery offers three floors of sculpture, painting, and textiles curated by renowned artist Ablade Glover.
Live Music and Local Sound
Accra pulses with rhythm — from highlife and hiplife to Afrobeat and gospel. +233 Jazz Bar & Grill is a top venue for live music, offering open-air performances and local cuisine. The Alliance Française Accra hosts multilingual concerts, dance nights, and cultural showcases that blend Francophone and Ghanaian influences.
Culinary Diversity
Accra’s food scene blends traditional dishes with global flavours. Street vendors serve jollof rice, kelewele, and grilled tilapia, while upscale restaurants in Osu and East Legon offer fusion menus and rooftop dining. Events like the Food and Lifestyle Expo highlight Ghanaian ingredients, culinary innovation, and regional specialities.
Festivals and Cultural Events
The Chale Wote Street Art Festival transforms Jamestown into a living gallery with murals, performances, and installations. The Homowo Festival celebrates Ga heritage with drumming, kpokpoi feasts, and community rituals. December brings AfroFuture, a multi-day celebration of African music, fashion, and tech. Accra Fashion Week showcases designers from across the continent, blending tradition with global trends.
Best Time to Visit
Accra is a year-round destination, but the dry season from November to March offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, festivals, and beach outings. Each season brings its own rhythm and cultural flavour.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Accra is warm and breezy, with the harmattan winds fading and clearer skies returning. It’s a great time for outdoor photography, coastal walks, and exploring markets like Makola and Osu. Sunsets over the Atlantic are especially vivid, and cultural venues begin hosting seasonal exhibitions and performances.
Summer (June to August)
Summer marks the start of the rainy season, with short but lively downpours that refresh the city’s greenery. While some outdoor activities may be affected, Accra’s museums, galleries, and cafés offer shelter and culture. The city’s creative scene thrives indoors, with fashion pop-ups, music showcases, and art installations.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings drier air and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and coastal exploration. Events like the Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Jamestown and Accra Fashion Week showcase the city’s artistic energy. It’s also a great time to visit Labadi Beach, the National Museum, and the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is peak travel season in Accra, with warm days, low humidity, and a festive atmosphere. December brings AfroFuture, street parties, and cultural celebrations across the city. It’s perfect for beach outings, rooftop dining, and exploring Accra’s historic districts in comfortable weather.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Start your day in Jamestown, one of Accra’s oldest districts. Explore colonial-era architecture, the iconic lighthouse, and vibrant street art. If visiting in August, catch the Chale Wote Street Art Festival for murals, performances, and pop-up galleries.
Afternoon: Head to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, where Ghana’s first president is laid to rest. The museum and gardens offer insight into the country’s independence movement and Pan-African legacy.
Evening: Dine in Osu, a lively neighbourhood known for its rooftop lounges, street food, and Afrobeat rhythms. Try local dishes like jollof rice, grilled tilapia, or kelewele at Buka Restaurant, a favourite for Ghanaian cuisine.
Day 2
Morning: Visit the National Museum of Ghana to explore ethnographic and archaeological exhibits, including royal regalia, musical instruments, and colonial-era artefacts.
Afternoon: Head to the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, a peaceful space dedicated to the African-American scholar and civil rights activist. The site includes a mausoleum, research library, and rotating exhibitions.
Evening: Catch a live performance at the National Theatre of Ghana, where local drama, dance, and music take centre stage. Alternatively, enjoy live jazz and highlife at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill, a popular open-air venue.
Day 3
Morning: Relax at Labadi Beach, Accra’s most popular stretch of sand. Enjoy a morning swim, horse ride, or fresh coconut while local drummers and dancers perform along the shore.
Afternoon: Explore the Arts Centre for National Culture, where you can shop for kente cloth, wood carvings, and handmade jewellery. Many artisans offer live demonstrations of their craft.
Evening: Wrap up your trip with dinner and cocktails in East Legon. Venues like Skybar25 offer panoramic views, fusion cuisine, and a stylish send-off to your Accra adventure.
Local Tips
Start Early
Accra’s heat and humidity build quickly, especially from midday onward. Start early to enjoy markets, museums, and beach walks before peak temperatures and traffic set in.
Stay Hydrated
Accra’s tropical climate can be draining. Carry bottled water, especially when exploring outdoor sites like Jamestown or Labadi Beach. Coconut water is widely available and refreshing.
Mind the Heat
While Accra isn’t at high altitude, the combination of heat and humidity can affect energy levels. Take breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned cafés, especially during the afternoon.
Dress in Layers
Light, breathable clothing is ideal during the day, but a light jacket or wrap is useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned venues. Modest dress is appreciated at cultural and religious sites.
Respect Cultural Sites
Places like the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre and Jamestown’s historic forts hold deep cultural significance. Follow posted guidelines, ask before taking photos, and be mindful of local customs.
Try Local Dishes
Ghanaian cuisine is rich and flavourful. Try jollof rice, waakye, and kelewele from street vendors or chop bars. Ask for spice levels, some dishes pack serious heat.
Use Local Markets
Markets like Makola and the Arts Centre are great for textiles, crafts, and fresh produce. Bargaining is common, and shopping directly from artisans supports local livelihoods.
Tipping Is Appreciated
Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, taxis, and for guided tours. 10–15% is considered generous and helps support service workers.
Plan for Sun
The sun in Accra can be intense year-round. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential, especially when visiting coastal areas or walking through open-air markets.
Ask Locals
Accra residents are welcoming and proud of their city. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions, food recommendations, or tips on where to catch live music or cultural events.
Travel Tips
Emergency Services
In case of emergency, dial 191 for police, 192 for ambulance, and 193 for fire services. Response times can vary, so it’s helpful to know the location of nearby clinics or hospitals such as Nyaho Medical Centre or Ridge Hospital, both commonly used by travellers.
Nearest Train Station
Accra’s Central Railway Station is located near the Kwame Nkrumah Circle. While passenger rail services are limited, the station connects to regional lines and is undergoing modernisation as part of Ghana’s rail revival efforts. Most intercity travel is handled by buses and shared minivans.
Nearest Airport
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is Accra’s main airport, located about 7 km from the city centre. It offers domestic and international flights, with access to taxis, ride-hailing apps, and shuttle services. The airport is modern and traveller-friendly, with lounges, currency exchange, and SIM card kiosks available on arrival.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Accra?
A: Accra is a year-round destination, but the dry season from November to March offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, festivals, and beach outings. December is especially lively, with major events like AfroFuture and festive street celebrations.
Q: What are must-visit attractions in Accra?
A: Highlights include the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Jamestown, Labadi Beach, and the National Museum of Ghana. For arts and culture, visit the Nubuke Foundation and Artists Alliance Gallery.
Q: Is Accra family-friendly?
A: Yes — Accra offers family-friendly experiences like beach days at Labadi, cultural visits to the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, and shopping at the Arts Centre. Many restaurants and cafés are welcoming to children, and guided city tours can be tailored for all ages.
Q: What are the best outdoor activities in Accra?
A: Top outdoor activities include swimming and horseback riding at Labadi Beach, exploring Jamestown’s historic streets, and shopping at open-air markets like Makola. For nature lovers, the Legon Botanical Gardens offers canopy walks, kayaking, and picnic spots.
Q: How can I get around Accra?
A: Accra’s main transport options include taxis, ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yango, and shared minivans known as tro-tros. Walking is ideal in central areas like Osu and Ridge. For longer trips, private drivers or intercity buses are widely available.
Accra, with its dynamic blend of heritage, creativity, and coastal charm, offers an unforgettable travel experience. From historic landmarks and vibrant markets to live music, art festivals, and golden beaches, the city invites you to explore its rhythm and soul. Whether you're drawn by its cultural depth or its modern energy, Accra promises something for every kind of traveller.
So pack your bags and get ready to discover the heartbeat of Ghana’s capital city!
Happy travels! 🌍✈️
