DISTANCE FROM ACCRA AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The main airport serving the citizens in Accra and Ghana is the Kotoka International Airport. Situated about 8 km from the heart of the capital Accra, it is the gateway to the nation. The main advantage of travelling to Accra is that you can reach the heart of the city in approximately 30 minutes. The exact time will depend on a variety of factors such as traffic, weather and road conditions. You might be travelling by premium economy flights or any other flight class be rest assured of finding suitable means to your chosen destination in the city.

ACCRA AIRPORT TRANSPORT

There is excellent connectivity between the Kotoka International Airport and Accra. The different modes of transportation serving visitors coming to Accra are:-

Taxi: The most popular mode of transport which tourists can utilize to travel from the airport. The fare which will be charged to you is about 35-40 Ghanaian Cedi and it will take you about 25-30 to fully cover the distance.

Bus: Another widely used and popular way to travel from the airport. The bus stations are located at a short distance from the airport. The working hours of the bus are from 5 AM to 11 PM. On an average it will take you roughly 50 minutes to 1 hour in order to reach the city centre, hour if you travel by bus.

Pick and Drop Services: If you have booked your ticket on a first class flights or business class flights, then you have the added advantage of requesting the airline staff to pick you up and drop you off at the airport. This facility is provided with this particular class of an airline.

FLYING TIME FROM BIRMINGHAM TO ACCRA

No direct flights are going between Accra and Birmingham and the flying time ranges between 10-13 hours. Most of the flights have about 2-3 stops along the way.

Some of the common stops along this route are:-

Lisbon

Brussels

Munich

There are many airlines offering flight deals from Birmingham to Accra. You will be easily to go for a refreshing break.

If you are short on time, then you have the following advantages:-

Upscale eating

Accelerated check-in

Comfortable seats

Added requirements like in-flight entertainment and internet facilities provided

Discounts are provided on economy flights tickets

ATTRACTIONS IN ACCRA

Accra is a very tourist-friendly destination due to the affable nature of its residents as well as its numerous natural and historical tourist attractions. Additionally, the administration has also made conscious efforts to develop this city into a prominent West African tourist destination. A brief list of the locales which are popular with visitors from Britain are:-

Kaneshie Market Complex: The market is one of the largest of its kind in West Africa. As a visitor, you will be able to have a merry time shopping the extensive variety of goods on display. The best one to visit if you wish to shop for ethnic clothing, electronics, and traditional herbal medicines. The shopkeepers are open to bargaining and you will definitely be able to pick up lovely deals here. Surely the place to visit if you wish to take home mementos to remind you of the good times spent. 

Osu Castle: Built during the colonial period, Osu Castle (also known as Fort Christiansburg) has held multiple positions as a colonial fort as well as a presidential palace. Today it is the seat of the government of Ghana. Though entry is restricted, some of the nearby places that are worth paying a visit to due to the historical significance they have are the immaculate gardens as well as the beautiful surroundings.

Accra Arts Center: A hub for shopping for traditional and crafts, visitors coming to Accra can surely shop for unique Ghanaian goods like handmade textiles, wood carvings, and jewellery while enjoying shopping in the vibrant atmosphere of the market. Some of the most popular items on sale are paintings, textiles, jewellery, and sculptures.

Jamestown: Jamestown, a neighbourhood in the heart of Accra, Ghanas capital city, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Jamestown, formerly known as British Accra, was the site of the earliest British settlement in Ghana and played an important role in the regions history of colonization and resistance. The main attraction here is the lighthouse and the Ussher Fort which provides panoramic views of the city and its colourful street art and murals. The arts scene in this area is extremely vibrant and you will surely love to explore this beautifully decorated locality.

Labadi Beach: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Accra. Frequented by tourists and locals alike you will have an amazing time listening to the live music and cultural events which it hosts. The things that visitors can do are take a dip in the ocean, gorge on delicious Ghanaian street food from nearby vendors, and enjoy a game of beach volleyball.

Accra offers you a diverse range of experiences - from exploring its history and culture to enjoying shopping in its lively markets and beautiful beaches. The unique blend of modernity and tradition that is there in this city makes it a complete hit with everybody on the lookout for an authentic West African experience.

SHOPPING IN ACCRA

No trip to a new destination is complete without shopping there. This is especially true of Accra. Well known for its friendly populace, you will love every moment of exploring its vibrant streets. Some of the most popular destinations which you can visit to shop in Accra are:-

Ghana Craft and Curio Shop: Situated just a stones throw away from the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, this outlet is well known for offering tourists an extensive selection of crafts, souvenirs, and carvings. A convenient stop for everybody interested in exploring the historical attractions of the city.

Palace Shopping Mall: A really popular shopping destination for shopping and entertainment for both locals and tourists. Some of the merchandise unique to Accra that you can pick up are clothing, household items, and electronics. Located in the Spintex suburb of Ghana, it is an absolute hit with tourists and locals alike.

Wild Gecko Handicrafts: Ghana produces a great number of goods that are easily available for you to purchase to take back home. Most crafts in Ghana are quite beautiful and serve a functional purpose. Situated near Osu Castle, this particular outlet specializes in serving handmade crafts and traditional Ghanaian artefacts. A lovely place to shop for gifts and souvenirs unique to Ghana like jewellery, masks, and textiles.

Marina Mall: In this mall, a large number of well-known international and local brands have established their presence. In this mall, you will find many outlets that specialize in selling items such as fashion accessories and electronics. After a tiring day spent shopping, you can also go and grab a bite at the restaurants in the food court of the supermarket.

Makola Market: Accra’s largest open-air market which overflows with goods, people, scents and sounds, hustle and bustle. It is the best place to absorb the atmosphere of a West African market. The most iconic and visited market in Accra, offering a wide variety of products such as fresh farm produce, textiles, clothing, footwear, cosmetics, and traditional fabrics. If you are a skilled negotiator then you can be fully assured of getting wonderful bargains. 

If you want to get a sense of Accra, there is no better way to do so than by strolling the bustling streets of this flourishing metropolis. From roadside mom-and-pop businesses to ultra-modern malls, there is something for everyone. Also, if you are adept at haggling, you will have an even more enjoyable time in this city.

NIGHTLIFE IN ACCRA

Accra, the capital city of Ghana truly comes alive at night. Accra is the capital of Ghana and a place of culture, beauty, and natural wonders. For those in search of entertainment, this city is replete with innumerable places where you can go and have a gala time. The night owl in you will not be disappointed with the experiences that this place offers you.

Carbon Nightclub: Situated in the Airport City Area, this is one of Accra’s premier nightclubs. The spacious dance floor, top-notch DJs who come and perform here, and the trendy atmosphere make it one of the best in the city. Whether you''re looking for an elegant evening out or a rowdy night with friends, Carbon has it all. Some added attractions are the themed parties and special events, which make it a great go-to spot for all looking to dance the night away.

Skybar 25: This chic rooftop experience provides stunning and panoramic views of Accra. If you''re looking for something more intimate, there are plenty of cosy seating areas as well as VIP sections. The ideal location to go and visit for a relaxed evening and lively nights with live music performances.

Bella Roma: An Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Osu, this also has a lively bar area. An extremely popular spot for enjoying typical Italian items such as pasta, and spaghetti and watching live sports performances on big screens. It offers a nice variety of drinks, good company, and a spacious dance floor. If you go with friends and are ready to dance, this might just be the place for you.

Purple Pub: Known for its cosy and intimate atmosphere, it is the best place you can go and visit for just enjoying drinks and having a casual conversation with your friends and colleagues. With friendly staff and a relaxed vibe, this is the best place for those who might be looking for a more laid-back yet enjoyable evening. When it comes to a great atmosphere and exciting nightlife venues it''s hard not to beat Purple Pub.

Kona Café & Grill: This locale seamlessly transforms into a bustling night time spot at night. The major draw of this place is that it hosts numerous themed parties and events, which makes it a versatile choice for a memorable night out.

The city boasts a vibrant nightlife scene complete with a variety of options to cater to a large variety of tastes and preferences. You might be looking for live music, dancing or just getting a drink in a lively atmosphere, Accra has something for everybody.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN ACCRA

If you wish to go about touring Accra in a carefree manner, then you must carry some local currency along with you. Though Accra is popular amongst British tourists, the British pound is not accepted by shops and outlets. Additionally, if you are planning a trip out of the capital region, then it becomes all the more imperative, to carry ample amounts of local currency to properly tide you over. The different places where you can go have currency exchanged while traveling in Accra are written below:-

Airport: You will be able to exchange the British pound for Ghanaian Cedi in the international arrivals area and departures area at the airport square. The only drawback of this alternative is that airport currency exchanges come with extra fees as well as whopping exchange charges.

Hotels: Many of the bigger hotels such as La Palm, Labadi Beach, and Golden Tulip have foreign exchange bureaus within their premises.

Banks: Leading banks in Accra, such as Standard Chartered Bank, Barclays Bank, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), and a few more, provide their customers with trustworthy and useful foreign exchange services. As service charge, they will be charging you roughly 2.99% of the transaction amount.

Some of the businesses where you can go and have currency exchanged while visiting Ghana

GREAT EATING PLACES IN ACCRA

Offering all visitors a wide range of eating points, there are many locales in Ghana where you can go and savour delicious Ghanaian and international cuisines. The fertile soils of the area surrounding Ghana combined with proximity to the Atlantic Ocean ensures that you can go and have mouth-watering foods. Some of the eating points which are the most popular with tourists in this city are:-

Mama Mia Italian Restaurant: It is well known in Europe that Italian food is the tastiest. If you wish to go and savour quintessential Italian cuisine, then the Mama Mia restaurant located in East Legon can be considered to be a very popular option. This restaurant is famous for serving a wide range of classic Italian dishes in an environment that reminds you of the country.

Nkran Kwanso: With dishes prepared with utmost care and made as per traditions followed for generations, this is a charming restaurant that serves authentic Ghanaian cuisine prepeared using locally procured ingredients. In this restaurant, you will definitely get the best combination of  quality, ambience and taste. Situated in the East Legon locality, you can visit this place to try out famous dishes like Banku, Omo Tuo as well and Wasawasa. A must visit if you wish to pamper the gastronome in you.

Tea Garden Restaurant: Situated in Labone, the Tea Garden restaurant is well known for its lush garden setting as well as a menu that includes a variety of international and Ghanaian cuisines. The unique selling point of this restaurant is that it is a serene spot for having a relaxed meal. In addition to being a place to eat and drink, it is also a popular hub of creativity and conversation.

Azmera Restaurant: The place to go and visit, if you want to go and have traditional Ghanaian culinary excellence. By dining in this restaurant, you will be able to get a first-hand experience of the rich culinary heritage of this country, where every single bite tells an exhaustive tale of taste and tradition.

Elle Lokko Café (Accra): A really hip and artsy café in the Jamestown, locality of Accra. Extra draws of this destination are the art exhibitions and cultural exhibitions which it hosts. All visitors to this place will be able to enjoy the fresh juices, coffee, and light bites in an amazingly creative and contemporary space. All interested in tasting authentic West African cuisine should decide to pay a visit to this iconic hotel. 

The above-mentioned eateries just represent only a small glimpse of the culinary diversity that can be found in Ghana. You might be interested in exploring the cuisines of West Africa or having some international cuisines, the dining scene in this city, surely has something to fully satisfy every palate.

HOTELS STAY IN ACCRA

Thanks to the diligent efforts of the Ghanaian administration, this city has evolved into a place that attracts travellers from all corners of the globe. “Gateway to Africa”, is another name for this destination and it is a prominent destination for businessmen, traders, and entrepreneurs as well as many people coming for official purposes. To cater to people coming here, a thriving hotel industry has also come up. A brief list of the locales where you can go and put up while in Accra are:-

Labadi Beach Hotel (5 Star)

Address:- La Rd, Accra, Ghana

Situated right on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel is the one to visit if you are looking for a wholesome beachfront experience. Boasting well-appointed rooms, private beaches, classic restaurants, and a very lovely nightlife scene this is the place for somebody looking for comfort combined with class. over the years Labadi Beach Hotel has established a solid reputation for providing an oasis of comfort in midst of the hustle and bustle of this sprawling metropolis.

The African Regent Hotel (5 Star)

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

In this luxury hotel guests can experience spacious rooms and modern luxury decorated with African-inspired décor. Some unique aspects of this hotel are the presence of a serene courtyard as well as restaurants serving a mesmerizing combination of international and local cuisine. Other popular features are facilities like valet parking, Wi-Fi as well as conducted tours being done to prominent destinations in and around the Ghanian capital.

Kaya Palazzo Hotel (5 Star)

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

A truly luxurious and grand hotel which is located at a strategic location right in the heart of the city. Featuring a variety of attractions such as opulent rooms, exceptional dining options as well as extensive meeting and event facilities you will relish every moment of the time spent here. An added draw of this hotel is that pick up and drop off facilities to the airport are also provided, which makes it exceedingly popular with travellers coming for official work.

Villa Monticello Boutique Hotel (4 Star)

Address:- 1A Mankata Ave, Accra, Ghana

The major draw of this hotel and what makes it a suitable choice for travellers is that it is located very close to the Kotoka International Airport. As a guest, you will be able to enjoy dining in the on-site restaurant, relax by the pool, and use the conference facilities. Thanks to the untiring efforts of the management, this outlet has obtained top ratings on numerous blogs, mazazines and platforms covering developments in Accras hospitality sector. Surely an intrepid traveller like you should pay a visit here.

Holiday Inn Accra Airport (4 Star)

Address:- Plot 19 & 20, Accra, Ghana

The hotel of choice if you are looking for a venue where you can get facilities such as spacious rooms, fitness centres, and an outdoor pool. Located a short distance away from key attractions in Accra and the international airport the hotel is sought after by all who might be looking for a true feel of the city’s attractions. Dining options in the in-house restaurants where you can find a variety of international and local cuisines are some of the other chosen attractions.

Tang Palace Hotel (4 Star)

Address:- Borstal Avenue, Accra, Ghana

Situated in the thriving Airport City District, the Tang Palazzo Hotel fully defines modernity as well as sophistication. Offering authentic African décor as well as lavish rooms and suites, this caters to every traveller’s indulgence. The Tang Palace welcomes guests with all comforts and attention. Special attention is paid to minuscule details tailored to give residents an experience befitting royalty.

Ibis Styles Accra Airport Hotel (3 Star)

Address:- Plot 24, Enclave, Ghana

In this hotel, you will be surely getting modern comforts at extremely affordable prices. Voted by many travel magazines as one of the best three-star hotels, you can get all the amenities that you can dream of at extremely competitive rates. Special attention has been paid by the management to ensure that all rooms have aesthetically pleasing décor and are comfortable. Additional facilities such as a fitness centre, Thai massage, and Spa room are other attractions.

Paloma Hotel Ring Road Central (3 Star)

Address: 11 Ring Rd Link, Accra, Ghana

This location offers wallet-friendly options for all travellers who might be seeking comfortable lodgings. A really practical choice for leisure, backpackers, and business travellers you must seriously consider putting up here while in Accra. Especially popular among tourists coming to Accra on account of the 24-hour shuttle services which are provided to tourists travelling from the airport.

There is no finer place in the world for a British traveller to unwind than Accra. As a former colony, the English language is widely spoken, and you will have no trouble talking with the natives. Join the hundreds of visitors who have visited Accra and returned home with wonderful experiences.