Accra isn’t the kind of city you simply visit; it’s the kind you feel.
The bustling capital of Ghana is a city where history, culture, and modern life dance together in harmony.
It’s a place where golden beaches meet busy markets, where the scent of grilled street food mingles with sea breezes, and where vibrant art sits side by side with deep-rooted history.
In 2025, Accra feels more alive than ever, with new attractions opening, old favourites being restored, and a growing food scene that continues to impress travellers from around the world.
If you’re craving an adventure that stirs your soul and awakens your senses, Accra should be at the top of your list.
From cultural landmarks and natural escapes to unforgettable dining experiences, this guide will take you through the best things to do in Accra, the top places to see, and the best restaurants to try in 2025.
Pack your bags, because Accra isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
What to See in Accra
Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum
A trip to Accra isn’t complete without standing in the heart of Ghana’s history at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
The park was reopened in July 2023 after major repairs. It is named after Ghana’s first president, who led the country to independence.
The site has a beautiful marble mausoleum where Nkrumah is buried, with fountains and gardens that are expertly landscaped.
The museum has been upgraded with digital archives, historic photographs, and artifacts that tell the powerful story of Ghana’s fight for freedom.
Walking through the grounds feels like stepping back into a pivotal chapter of African history.
Statues of Nkrumah, including his famous hand-raising pose, stand tall as a reminder of Ghana’s pride and resilience.
This memorial is a must-see for anyone interested in Ghana’s history or just wanting to learn more about its journey. It’s more than just a monument; it’s a living sign of freedom and hope.
Take lots of pictures at Black Star Square (Independence Square)
Only a short walk from the memorial lies Black Star Square, also called Independence Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. It is one of the most photographed places in Accra.
The huge open square with the Black Star Gate in the middle stands for freedom and unity in Ghana.
On regular days, the square is peaceful and solemn, and the iconic black star makes it a great place to take pictures.
But during national celebrations, like Independence Day on March 6, the area fills with parades, music, and cultural displays that bring the space alive.
Even outside holidays, the square’s symbolism is powerful.
Standing beneath the Black Star Gate, you feel a sense of pride and strength that reflects Ghana’s history and its future.
It’s one of those Accra attractions that might only take a short visit, but the memory lasts much longer.
Entrance is free but tipping the keeper of the stairs afterward is encouraged.
Explore Jamestown & the Lighthouse
Jamestown is the center of Accra’s old town. It’s where history, culture, and art all come together.
The Jamestown Lighthouse, built by the British in the 1930s, stands tall as a reminder of the city’s colonial past.
If you climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the busy fishing harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
There are narrow streets around the lighthouse with colonial buildings, colourful murals, and busy street scenes.
Jamestown is also famous for the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, held every August, where artists from across the globe fill the area with color, music, and performance.
If you visit outside the festival, you’ll still catch glimpses of striking street art and the energy of local boxing gyms. For those who want to experience the raw, authentic side of Accra, Jamestown is a must.
Tour the Historic Osu Castle
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Osu Castle, also known as Christiansborg Castle, holds centuries of history.
Built by the Danes in the 17th century, it later became a seat of government and even housed Ghana’s first president after independence.
Today, the castle stands as a solemn reminder of Ghana’s colonial past, including its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Touring the castle takes you through old chambers, dungeons, and offices that echo with untold stories. Guides bring the place to life with powerful narratives that balance both pain and pride.
Located right in the Osu district, it’s easy to combine a visit here with a stroll along Oxford Street afterward.
This site is where history, memory, and resilience come together.
Visit the Accra Zoo
Photo source: greenviewsresidential
For a family-friendly stop, the Accra Zoo near Achimota Forest offers a refreshing escape into nature.
Originally established by Kwame Nkrumah in the 1960s, it was relocated and reopened in 2007, and today it’s home to animals like lions, monkeys, crocodiles, and rare birds.
Walking through the leafy grounds feels like a calm break from the city’s bustle, and it’s also a chance to see Ghana’s conservation efforts in action.
Entry tickets are affordable, around 20 GHS ($1.50 USD) for adults, and the zoo often organizes educational visits for children.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a safe and enjoyable way to spend a few hours. The zoo might not be as large as others around the world, but its local charm and greenery make it a worthwhile stop.
READ ALSO: Cultural Festivals in West Africa
What to Do in Accra
Relax at Labadi Pleasure Beach
Photo source: Ghana Fixer
Labadi Pleasure Beach is one of Accra’s most famous hangout spots, where golden sands meet lively culture.
By day, you can stretch out under an umbrella, sip fresh coconut juice, or get a relaxing massage by the shore.
Horse rides along the beach are a favorite, especially for families and couples. But it’s in the evenings that Labadi truly comes alive, with live drumming, traditional dance performances, and Afrobeat rhythms that fill the air.
Food vendors serve up delicious grilled fish, kebabs, and refreshing drinks, creating the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment.
You can enjoy a peaceful morning by the water or a lively evening with lots of music and art at Labadi Beach. It’s the best spot to see how Ghanaians combine fun and tradition, and you can’t leave Accra without going there.
Unwind at Legon Botanical Gardens and Take a Nature Break
Photo source: Wikipedia
If you’re craving fresh air and greenery, the Legon Botanical Gardens is your perfect escape from Accra’s busy streets.
This peaceful spot is close to the University of Ghana and offers a mix of rest and fun.
Tall trees provide shaded paths for walking, and the lake is a great place to relax and think. Families often bring picnic baskets, while kids enjoy the rope courses and adventure playgrounds.
For thrill-seekers, the canopy walkway gives a breathtaking view of the gardens. This space is also great for birdwatchers and yoga lovers, which makes it a great place for many people.
The gardens aren’t just about nature; they’re about balance: relaxation for some, energy for others.
Spending a few hours here is a great way to get back to nature while still being close to the city, whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or with your family.
Relax at Bojo Beach
For a quieter beach experience away from the city buzz, Bojo Beach is a true hidden gem.
Located just 30 minutes from central Accra, it begins with a short canoe ride across a calm lagoon, an adventure in itself.
On the other side, you’ll find soft sand, clean waters, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for those who want a break from crowded city beaches.
Families love it for its safety and space, while couples enjoy the privacy and scenic beauty.
Beach bars serve fresh seafood and chilled drinks, while loungers invite you to stretch out and soak in the sun.
The view of the lagoon meeting the Atlantic is breathtaking, especially at sunset. Unlike the energetic vibe at Labadi, Bojo Beach is all about calm, making it one of the best spots to relax in Accra.
Shop for Handicrafts at the Accra Arts Center
Photo source: TouringGhana
The Accra Arts Center is a treasure trove of Ghanaian creativity, where every stall tells a story.
It is the best place to get handmade gifts and authentic crafts, and it’s close to the National Theater.
Walk along rows of bright kente fabrics, carved wooden masks, beaded jewelry, and traditional drums that were all made by people in the area.
Shopping here is more than a transaction; it’s an experience.
Many vendors are eager to share the history behind their work, from the symbolism of Adinkra designs to the rhythms of the djembe.
Bargaining is part of the fun, always done with smiles and laughter.
Beyond shopping, the Arts Center is also a cultural hub where you can watch artisans at work and even join in on a drumming session.
For travelers wanting to bring home a piece of Ghana’s culture, this is the best place to start.
Explore the Markets of Accra, Including Makola Market
Photo source: Rhelat
To feel the true pulse of Accra, head straight to Makola Market, the city’s busiest and most colorful marketplace.
The atmosphere is electric, with stalls overflowing with bright fabrics, baskets of spices, handcrafted beads, and just about everything else you can imagine.
The chatter of bargaining mixes with the scent of local street food, creating a vibrant, unforgettable experience.
Makola is the best spot for souvenirs and local crafts, but Accra has other markets worth exploring too.
Kaneshie Market offers traditional foods and produce, while Osu Night Market is perfect for evening street food adventures.
Each market has its own rhythm and character, but together, they show you the heart of local life.
Bring cash, your bargaining skills, and a sense of adventure; exploring Accra’s markets is one of the most authentic things you can do in the city.
Stroll Along Osu Oxford Street
Osu Oxford Street is always busy because it is the center of shopping and nightlife in Accra.
By day, it’s a lively strip filled with shops selling clothes, souvenirs, and accessories. By night, the street transforms into a social hub, with restaurants, bars, and clubs that stay open until late.
Street vendors sell grilled meats and kebabs, while local fashion boutiques line the sidewalks with colorful displays.
It’s one of the best places to experience Accra’s modern vibe, with a mix of locals, expats, and travelers all coming together.
Osu Oxford Street is a lively and exciting place to be, whether you want to shop, eat, or just watch people.
It’s also a great place to find nightlife, from live music venues to rooftop lounges. If you want to experience Accra’s modern lifestyle, this is where it all happens.
Shop at Accra Mall
Photo source: Accra Mall Limited
If you’re in the mood for a modern shopping experience, Accra Mall is the city’s premier destination.
Located along the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, this air-conditioned complex is perfect for when you need a break from the heat.
Inside, you’ll find international brands alongside local boutiques, making it easy to shop for clothes, electronics, and accessories.
The mall also has a food court with both Ghanaian and international options, plus a cinema for a relaxed night out.
On weekends, it’s a popular spot for young people to hang out, shop, and socialize.
For travelers, Accra Mall is convenient for picking up essentials, enjoying a meal, or simply seeing how locals blend modern lifestyles with Ghanaian culture.
READ ALSO: 20 Things I Learnt Living in Kenya
What to Eat in Accra
Taste Authentic Flavors at Buka Restaurant
For many travelers, no trip to Accra is complete without dining at Buka Restaurant, a top choice for authentic Ghanaian food.
Buka is a popular spot in Osu for both locals and tourists who want to enjoy traditional dishes in a casual, friendly setting.
The menu is packed with classics like jollof rice, grilled tilapia, fufu with light soup, and banku served with okro stew.
The restaurant’s rooftop setting and casual vibe make it perfect for both lunch and dinner.
Buka balances authenticity with comfort; the food feels homemade, but the service and atmosphere make it a polished dining experience.
For anyone wanting to taste Ghana on a plate, Buka is one of the best restaurants in Accra to start with.
Savor Street Food and Waakye in Osu Night Market
Photo source: saveur
If you want to experience Ghana like a local, head to Osu Night Market, a small but lively spot that comes alive after dark.
Here, the star of the show is waakye, a beloved Ghanaian dish of rice and beans, usually served with fried plantains, spaghetti, boiled eggs, and a choice of meat or fish.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and very affordable. Beyond waakye, you’ll find kelewele (spiced fried plantains), grilled tilapia, and smoky suya skewers that capture the essence of Accra’s street food culture.
The atmosphere is energetic, vendors cooking over open fires, the sound of bargaining, and locals lining up for their favorite meals.
Eating here isn’t just about the food; it’s about being part of the community.
For travelers who want authenticity at its best, Osu Night Market delivers an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Other Places to Eat in Accra
Photo source: Homesweethome
Accra offers a mix of traditional and modern dining spots that give you a real taste of Ghana.
Chez Afrique in East Legon serves the iconic banku with grilled tilapia.
Banku is a soft dough made from fermented corn and cassava.
The tilapia is seasoned with spices, grilled to perfection, and served with fresh pepper sauce and vegetables.
In the evenings, live bands play highlife and Afrobeat music, creating a lively atmosphere.
For a truly local experience, head to Heavy Do Chop Bar.
This traditional chop bar serves fresh fufu with light soup, often paired with goat or fish. The soup is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Heavy Do offers generous portions at fair prices, and dining here lets you share in Ghana’s communal food culture.
If you prefer a modern setting, Skybar25 offers Ghanaian and international dishes high above the city.
Enjoy seafood platters, grilled meats, and creative fruit cocktails while watching the Accra skyline light up at sunset.
DJs play on weekends, giving the spot a lively nightlife vibe. It costs more than local options, but the experience is worth it.
Exchange Rate & Money in Ghana (Approximate 2025 Figures)
The currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi, symbol GHS or GHC.
As of mid-2025, 1 U.S. dollar ≈ 10.3 Ghanaian Cedis.
Note: exchange rates fluctuate, especially in smaller forex bureaus.
Use bank or well-known exchange services.
Sometimes mid-market rates (what you see on Google or fintech apps) differ slightly from what actual cash exchangers offer.
Final Thoughts
Accra has a way of drawing you in with its warmth, energy, and soul.
It’s a city where every smile feels like a welcome, and every moment leaves a lasting impression.
The rhythm of the streets, the taste of local dishes, the sound of music at night, and the stories hidden in its landmarks all weave together to create something unforgettable.
Traveling through Accra feels like opening a window into both the past and the future of Ghana.
It is vibrant yet grounding, lively yet comforting.
Accra isn’t just a destination; it’s a connection, an embrace, and a reminder of the beauty found in culture, history, and community.
Once you experience it, you’ll always want to return.
