Accra Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, getting around, day trips, safety, and food—how to plan Accra in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Accra is a warm, welcoming gateway to Ghana—known for beaches, live music, markets, and a growing creative scene. This guide focuses on the decisions that make a trip smoother: where to base yourself, how to move around, and how to structure 2–4 days without overplanning.
Best areas to stay
- Osu — Central for restaurants, shops, and easy transport.
- Labadi / Cantonments — Beach access and higher-end hotels; good for first timers.
- East Legon — Cafés and a residential feel; useful if you want a quieter base.
Tip: choose accommodation with clear reviews on noise, walkability, and late-night transport—those details matter more than star ratings.
Getting around
Use a mix of ride-hailing, metered taxis (where reliable), and walking in dense districts. Build buffers for traffic and plan a “two-anchor” day: one major activity in the morning, one in the afternoon, with flexible time between.
Top things to do
- Start with a walking orientation: markets, main squares, and a museum/gallery to understand the city’s story.
- Schedule one “viewpoint” or waterfront/elevated spot for golden hour photos.
- Pick one signature experience (cooking class, live music, crafts, or architecture tour).
Neighborhoods and local culture
Think in zones: a historic core for sights, a modern district for restaurants and cafés, and a quieter base for sleep. If you’re visiting on a weekend, confirm what closes early and plan an indoor option in case weather shifts.
Day trips and extensions
- Beach afternoon + live music night—classic Accra pairing.
- Short cultural day trip to a historic coastal site if you have time.
- Add one ‘slow’ morning for markets and crafts to avoid heat fatigue.
If you’re tight on time, pick just one day trip. Two day trips often turns a 3-day city break into a transport-heavy sprint.
Common scams, safety, and etiquette
Accra is friendly, but traffic and petty theft are the main issues. Use trusted transport after dark and keep a small day bag rather than flashy backpacks. Keep valuables out of sight, use reputable transport at night, and avoid “too good to be true” offers for tours or currency exchange.
Food highlights
- Try a mix of grilled street food and sit-down Ghanaian staples.
- If you’re trying spicy dishes, start mild and build up.
- Busy evening spots are often safer and more atmospheric.
For a confident first meal, choose busy restaurants with clear menus and strong hygiene reviews. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask what’s hot and what’s mild.
Suggested 2–4 day itinerary
- Day 1: Orientation walk + signature market + one museum.
- Day 2: Neighborhood day + food highlights + sunset viewpoint.
- Day 3: One day trip (or a second museum + slow café day).
- Day 4 (optional): Shopping, wellness, or a short excursion before onward travel.
Sources and references
For up-to-date advisories and logistics, cross-check official sources such as national tourism boards, municipal transport sites, and your embassy travel advice before departure.