Accra City Guide — Attractions, Food & Tips

Accra City GuideA vibrant, fast-growing capital where colonial forts and slave castles sit beside booming nightlife, Afro-futurist art, and some of the warmest hospitality in Africa. Accra is the cultural heartbeat of Ghana and the epicenter of the Year of Return movement.Key Facts

Country: Ghana

Currency: GHS (Ghanaian Cedi)

Language: English & Akan (Twi)

Time Zone: UTC+0

Best Time to Visit: November–March

Top Places to Visit

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park — A grand memorial to Ghana's founding father and Africa's independence hero, with his mausoleum, a museum of his life, and the spot where Ghana declared independence on March 6, 1957.

Jamestown Lighthouse — The historic heart of Accra — a vibrant fishing community with colonial-era buildings, the iconic lighthouse, boxing gyms, and the hustle of fishermen landing their daily catch on the beach.

Makola Market — A sprawling, chaotic, and exhilarating open-air market where you can buy everything from fabric and beads to electronics and spices. An overwhelming but authentic Accra experience.

National Museum of Ghana — Houses important archaeological, ethnographic, and artistic collections including Ashanti gold weights, kente cloth, and traditional regalia. A good introduction to Ghana's diverse cultures.

W.E.B. Du Bois Center — The final home of American civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois, who became a Ghanaian citizen and died in Accra in 1963. His grave, personal library, and memorabilia are preserved here.

Local Food

Jollof Rice & Waakye — Ghana's jollof rice — smoky, tomato-rich, and the source of friendly rivalry with Nigeria. Waakye (rice and beans) is equally beloved, served with spaghetti, shito (hot pepper sauce), and protein.

Banku & Tilapia — Fermented corn and cassava dough (banku) served with grilled tilapia, hot pepper sauce, and fresh sliced tomatoes and onions. Best enjoyed at chop bars (local eateries) or beachside grills.

Kelewele — Spiced fried plantain cubes seasoned with ginger, chili, and cloves — Ghana's most irresistible street snack. Sold at roadside stalls in the evening, often paired with roasted groundnuts.

Fufu & Light Soup — Pounded cassava and plantain (fufu) served in a spicy, tomato-based light soup with goat, chicken, or fish. Eaten by tearing off pieces and dipping — no chewing the fufu, just swallow.

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