DISTANCE FROM ACCRA AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The Kotoka International Airport located at a distance of about 8 km from the city centre and is the main airport that caters to the needs of Ghana residents. Roughly, you will be requiring 30 minutes to go from the airport to the city centre. However, the exact time to travel from the airport to the city will depend on a variety of different factors:-

The specific route taken

The exact mode of transportation utilized for commuting

The traffic conditions which are there on the route

You might be flying on business class flights or economy flights, but you will be assured of finding transportation to the main city.

ACCRA AIRPORT TRANSPORT

If you are looking for flights between Belfast to Accra, then rest assured that there is very good connectivity with the Airport. To go to your chosen destination from the airport you can make use of:-

Taxi: A taxi will charge you roughly 30 to 40 GHS and you will be able to reach the centre of the city in about 25 to 30 minutes.

Bus: The bus stop is located about 800 to 1200 meters away from the airport, and operates between 5 AM to 11 PM. Another economical mode of transport, which you can take to go to the airport. Roughly it will take you 50-60 minutes to complete the journey.

Pick and Drop Services: If you plan to travel to Accra from Belfast, then you can request the airline management to take you from the airport to the destination of your choice. First class flights as well as economy flights provide this facility to all passengers using their services.

FLYING TIME FROM LIVERPOOL TO ACCRA

It takes roughly 10-13 hours to travel from Belfast to Accra.

The exact time to travel between these two cities depends on a variety of factors such as:-

Weather patterns

Prevailing traffic Conditions at the airport

Conditions at stopovers

Also, neither of the two cities is on prominent air traffic routes, so there are no airlines that operate direct flights between them. Some of the prominent stopovers on this route are:-

Amsterdam

Cairo

Istanbul

Are you short on time? If so, you should book premium economy flights.

The main benefits of flying in this class are:-

Accelerated check-in

Upscale eating

Larger and superior seats

ATTRACTIONS IN ACCRA

Steeped in history yet having embraced modernity with gusto, there are innumerable locales in this vibrant metropolis that a tourist can go and visit. The people of Accra are well-known for their welcoming and friendly nature and the administration has also put in conscious efforts to properly preserve the attractions of Accra. Below is a brief list of the different places which you can go during your stay.

WEB DU Bois Centre: Named after the famous African-American activist and scholar, who was the most important Black protest leader in the United States during the first half of the 20th century. His struggles in the civil rights movement as well as his contributions to ending racial discrimination and contributions to Pan-Africanism are demonstrated here.

Osu Castle: The castle may be traced back to a lodge built by Swedes in 1652. Nine years later, the Danish built a fort on the location, naming it Fort Christiansborg ("Christian''''s Fortress") after King Christian IV of Denmark. The fort was expanded and changed into a castle over the years. Built during the colonial period, it has served multiple roles as a prison, and presidential palace and is currently the seat of government. 

Independence Arch: Ghana was one of the first nations in the African continent to gain independence from colonial rule. Built to commemorate the struggle of the Ghanaian people to overthrow the oppressive British colonial rule, the monument stands as a testimony to the valiant efforts of the freedom fighters of the nation. As of now, it is home to many monuments including the Independence Arch, Black Star Gate, and the Liberation Day Monument.

Labadi Beach: Frequented by tourists and locals alike, you will have a lovely time enjoying the live music concerts as well as cultural events that this beach hosts. Some of the other draws to this beach are delicious street food from vendors, water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling or just enjoying a game of beach volleyball. Worth a visit owing to its historical significance as well as the immaculate gardens and beautiful surroundings.

Accra Arts Center: This cultural centre is a well-known hub for shopping for traditional crafts as well as unique handmade Ghanaian goods. If you are interested in arts, then you will have a lovely time shopping for paintings, textiles, jewellery, and hand-made sculptures. ull of bronze statues, fountains, and wandering peacocks, this provides a tranquil location where tourists can enjoy themselves.

Ghana’s capital city will surely leave you in awe with the diverse range of experiences to be had. Over centuries it has grown from an obscure settlement into a thriving metropolis. A must-visit location for everyone looking to have an authentic West African experience.

SHOPPING IN ACCRA

If you truly wish to discover how the people in any city live, then there is no way better than going shopping in its markets. From ultra-modern high-end malls to small mom-and-pop shops selling ethnic items, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in this city. A small list of the places where you can go and shop for mementos are for are:-

Wild Gecko Handicrafts: Do you want to keep positive recollections of your time in Accra? There is no better way to accomplish this than by shopping for traditional handicrafts. Located in the upmarket Osu, this handicraft outlet is an absolute favourite for anybody who might be looking for ethnic goods, gifts, and souvenirs. 

Makola Market: One of the largest markets of its type in West Africa, you can make use of your bargaining abilities to buy quality products at very competitive prices. If you are going to buy mementos and souvenirs then you should decide on paying a visit to this market. Makola Market offers products of great quality and unrivalled diversity from Ghana and other African countries. 

Marina Mall: One of the biggest malls in Ghana, numerous national and international brands have established their presence here. An added draw is the presence of a food court selling a wide variety of cuisines. After a tiring day spent shopping, you can surely visit this food court to go and savour lip-smacking food. By all accounts, a wonderful location for truly experiencing the bustle of local trade.

Kaneshie Market Complex: A vibrant hub of commerce, this market complex must be on the itinerary of anybody wishing to pay a visit to this beautiful city. You will be able to buy a wide variety of clothing, fabrics, shoes, and much more at really reasonable prices. The centre, which occupies a huge terrain is home to over 10,000 businessmen and women who deal in a wide range of items. 

Palace Shopping Mall: Located in the Spintex locality, the shopping mall hosts a large variety of shops selling clothing, electronics, and useful household items. A really popular destination which you can visit for purposes of entertainment and shopping. In a stunning environment, the ultimate African handcraft experience. This shop, which sells a wide range of ethnic goods, jewellery, and textiles, is a must-see for all tourists.

With a large variety of shops selling awesome memorabilia, you are definitely in for an awesome time while shopping in Accra. If you are good at haggling then it is a bonus, as there are numerous lively markets in this city where you can go and test your skills.

NIGHTLIFE IN ACCRA

There are many things to do and places to see in Accra while the sun goes down in this amazing city. An absolute haven for night owls and people who looking for a place to party, you will not be short of things to do. Some of the most popular destinations for tourists to go and visit are:-

Republic Bar and Grill Ghana: Often remarked by many as a revolutionary spot in Accra, this nightclub regularly welcomes many talented musicians and artists. The Republic Bar and Grill Ghana is more than just a bar. It is a creative movement, a space, and a place where like-minded people can flock and fold together and share a unity of purpose. Surely the spot to visit if you are looking for a memorable evening.

Carbon Night Club: Amongst the finest nightclubs in Ghana, you will surely love its cutting-edge architecture, exquisite atmosphere, and interior design. This is one of Accra top nightclubs, located in the Airport City Area. The big dance floor, top-tier DJs that come here to perform, and fashionable ambiance make it one of the best in town. 

Rooftop Bars: The bar Skybar 25, situated in the Villaggio Vista complex, is a wonderful spot to enjoy cocktails and socialize. The ambiance is perfect for spending a relaxed evening with your friends listening to live Afrobeat, Caribbean, and Jazz music. Themed parties and special events are some of the added attractions, making it a terrific go-to destination for anyone looking to dance the night away. 

Lounge Bars: There are numerous stylish lounge bars in Accra where you will get a relaxed setting for drinks and opportunities to socialize. The major draws in these bars are the DJs that perform as well as the great atmosphere in which you get to dance the night away. Having received very favourable feedback from visitors, anybody who walks here goes back with fond memories.

Beachfront Entertainment: Located on the Gulf of Guinea, Accra is home to numerous beaches that come alive at night. These are perfect spots where you can go and enjoy local street food as well as experience live music and traditional dance performances. Indeed, this is an opportunity that you should not miss out on.

You might be looking for a venue to go dancing, listen to live music, or just go for a drink with your travel buddies, this city surely has everything. Boasting a vibrant nightlife scene, you will find plenty of activities to do. Weekends are especially lively when people from all walks of life come and have a gala time.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN ACCRA

Looking to explore the city, in a relaxed and carefree manner? Then you must carry some local Ghanaian cedi along with you. Given below is a list of places where you can convert the British Pound into Ghanaian Cedi:-

Airport: Money exchange facilities which are there in the international arrivals and departures area within the airport square.

Banks: The GTBank is without doubt the best bank within Ghana offering services for the sale and purchase of foreign currency. The exchange rate for exchanging foreign currency is somewhere within the range of 2-3%.

Hotels: Many hotels in Ghana also offer currency exchange services for the guests who put up there. The only drawback of going there is that the conversion costs can be excessively high.

Currency Exchange Kiosks: In the city too, there are many places where you can go and change the British Pound for Ghanaian Cedi.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN ACCRA

Settled along fertile river valleys, Accra organically grows its food free of harmful pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Consequently, you will find the food offered by its shacks and restaurants to be fresh, nutritious, and tasty. Indeed, the culinary scene in this city is extremely diverse and you can easily find many venues where you can go and savour delicious local and international cuisines.

Coco Lounge: A restaurant and lodge known in Accra well for its stylish décor as well as a menu where you can go and enjoy a variety of choicest continental dishes. The place to go and visit if you are looking for a venue providing you with the opportunity for a sophisticated dining experience. 

Skybar25: Accra’s premier rooftop venue, the main draw about this restaurant is that you will be able to enjoy dinner and cocktails while getting breathtakingly beautiful views of the Accra skyline. Additionally, the menu is extremely diverse containing an eclectic variety of international and local dishes.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City: A luxury business and lifestyle destination situated right in the heart of Accra. The Papillon restaurant is especially popular with expatriates visiting Accra as the staff here puts in a lot of effort to ensure that you get offerings of the best quality as well as presentation. If you are looking for famous varieties of international cuisines such as Lebanese, Thai, and Indian then this is the place to visit.

Azmera Restaurant: Your trip to Ghana will surely be incomplete if you do not taste authentic local cuisines. Well-known for offering Ghanaian dishes such as jollof rice, fufu, and banku, in this restaurant you will surely be able to enjoy all forms of traditional flavours in a very relaxed and congenial atmosphere.

Bazaar Restaurant: In this hotel, you will be able to get a variety of Turkish, Lebanese, and Middle Eastern dishes in a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Located in the upmarket Osu neighbourhood of Accra, this is a must-visit restaurant if you are in Accra. The skill of Ghanaian chefs combined with the exotic spices used in preparation result in mouth-watering dishes. 

Ghana truly is a foodie’s delight and the above-mentioned outlets represent only a tiny fraction of the culinary diversity which you will be able to find in the country. The city is home to a variety of restaurants that can satisfy even the most inquisitive gastronome.

HOTELS STAY

You might be looking for award-winning luxury or something more affordable, but you will surely find places of your liking in Accra. This city surely has accommodations to cater to every budget as well as taste. A brief list of the local hotels where you can go and put up during your stay is given below:-

Labadi Beach Hotel (5 Star)

Address: La Rd, Accra, Ghana

Situated on the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Guinea, this resort is popular with tourists for its scenic views, pool, and lush gardens. The first choice for somebody who might be looking for a venue where he can get a luxurious stay at the same time enjoying the beautiful views of the sea coast. Containing exceptional service, spacious, well-appointed rooms as well as personalized room service you are bound to love every moment spent here.

Kempinski Hotel Goal Coast City (5 Star)

Address: Ministries PMB, 66 Gamel Abdul Nasser Ave, Accra, Ghana

Situated a stone throw away from the business district of Accra, this hotel is popular with tourists who have come to Accra for some official purpose. The unique selling points of this hotel are its elegant rooms, excellent dining options, fitness centre as well and a large and spacious pool area. Also, the hotel comes equipped with Wi-Fi, conference halls as well and projector rooms making it an ideal venue for somebody who might be interested in hosting conferences as well as meetings.

The African Regent Hotel (5 Star)

Address: 237/238 N Airport Rd, Accra, Ghana

Located in the upscale Airport residential Area, this hotel is a lovely blend of old-world African charm as well as contemporary luxury. The presence of comfortable rooms, and a stylish restaurant serving international as well as African dishes, it is well regarded for expatriates visiting Ghana. An added advantage that expatriates can enjoy here is that is located a small distance of only 5 minutes from Kotoka International Airport, so transportation will not be an issue for people who decide to put up here.

Holiday Inn Accra Airport (4 Star)

Address: Plot 19 & 20, Accra, Ghana

Situated at a reasonable distance from the Kotoka International Airport as well as tourist attractions such as the Independence Arch and Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, this is a hotel popular with tourists. It has obtained favourable ratings from all tourists who have visited it and is without doubt one of the best hotels in Accra. The perfect balance between amenities, comfort and cost. A must visit for all tourists coming to Accra.

La Villa Boutique Hotel (4 Star)

Address: HR88+PP8, E960 13th Ln, Accra, Ghana

Located along a tree-lined street, the hotel gives you a cosy and stylish place to come and stay for your holiday. Well known for the personalized service that it offers to residents, comfortable rooms, and sought-after facilities like valet parking, complimentary breakfast as well as WiFi within hotel premises. Over the years this hotel has established a solid reputation for being one of the leading hotels in Accra. Definitely a place where you should try out.

Tomreik Hotel (4 Star)

Address: JRJG+MVR, Lagos Ave, Accra, Ghana

All visitors to this hotel will be assured of a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where you will be able to stay comfortably. Other additional draws are comfortable rooms, restaurants serving local and international dishes, a bar, event facilities, and warm and attentive service from hosts. The ideal venue where you for the seasoned and adventerous traveller like yourself.

Niagara Hotel (3 Star)

Address: JRJG+MVR, Lagos Ave, Accra, Ghana

Located right in the heart of Accra, you will be provided with a frugal yet comfortable accommodation where backpackers, students as well and people from middle-class backgrounds can go and live. Really popular with tourists who are on the lookout for quality as well as competitively priced accommodations while touring Accra.

Pempamsie Hotel (3 Star)

Address: 2nd Ridge, Cape Coast, Ghana

Well-known for its personalized service, beautifully designed rooms, and gourmet restaurant the hotel is hit with people from Britain looking to get accommodations that are not too heavy on the pocket. In addition, guests can enjoy more world-class amenities including room service, free breakfast, pool, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and Laundry service.

The mentioned hotels are loved by guests who have experienced their services. These facilities are bound to add more fun and excitement to your trip and help you rejuvenate during your holiday. The above-mentioned list is by no means exhaustive. There are many other properties where you can go and stay in the city. With nearly two decades of experience behind us. We at Pack and Fly will surely be able to help you out to zero down on the accommodation that meets any of your specific needs.