La Gare area
Explore the historic La Gare area, once the heart of Ethiopia's first railway, featuring vintage trains and French architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
La Gare area
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic La Gare area, once the heart of Ethiopia's first railway, featuring vintage trains and French architecture.
"A beautiful historical building where time seemed to stand still, offering delicious coffee."
📸 Capture the History
Photograph the vintage trains and French architecture before modern developments overshadow them.
☕️ Coffee Break
Stop by the Tomoca coffee shop inside La Gare for a delightful and authentic Ethiopian coffee experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Station Building
La Gare Area
Admire the French-style architecture of the original train station, a testament to a bygone era.
Vintage Train Exhibits
La Gare Area
See old trains, some belonging to the Royal family, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia's railway past.
Tomoca Coffee Shop
Inside La Gare
Enjoy a delicious coffee break in a unique setting, a perfect spot for a moment of reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the History
Photograph the vintage trains and French architecture before modern developments overshadow them.
☕️ Coffee Break
Stop by the Tomoca coffee shop inside La Gare for a delightful and authentic Ethiopian coffee experience.
🚶♂️ Explore the Area
Walk around to see the historical station and the ongoing urban development.
⚠️ Be Aware of Changes
The area is rapidly developing; appreciate the historical elements while they last.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the History
Photograph the vintage trains and French architecture before modern developments overshadow them.
☕️ Coffee Break
Stop by the Tomoca coffee shop inside La Gare for a delightful and authentic Ethiopian coffee experience.
🚶♂️ Explore the Area
Walk around to see the historical station and the ongoing urban development.
⚠️ Be Aware of Changes
The area is rapidly developing; appreciate the historical elements while they last.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Gare is a historically significant site, celebrated for its French-style architecture and vintage train exhibits that offer a glimpse into Ethiopia's past. Visitors enjoy the authentic atmosphere and the delicious coffee at the on-site Tomoca shop. However, some find the modern advertising on the station building to be inappropriate and note the significant urban development changing the surrounding area.
"Very interesting old French train station where trains used to connect to Djibouti. Beautiful historical building. Unfortunately the “Eagle Hills” Construction company is using the building for advertising which is inappropriate and tacky.
Located inside is a Tomoca coffee shop for a nice break."
Lindsay Harkness
"13 Months of Sunshine (Ethiopian calendar has so many months) — an amazing place with a traditional and unique atmosphere: vintage coaches, old gauges, a train platform where time seemed to stand still, and countless cherished memories. The coffee was exceptionally delicious. I first visited in spring 2022. When I returned in September 2025, the area was almost unrecognizable. Only the station building still holds a connection to its historical past. Interestingly, the '13 Months of Sunshine' poster remains in the exact same spot as it was in 2022."
Sigitas Brazinskas
"The first station in East Africa connecting Addis Abeba with Djibouti . The station stopped operating as the main hub of the rail way route which was changed some time ago.
But you can experience the place and take a tour to witness the history how it used to operate during the old times.
There is also an exhibit of old trains that are properties of the Royal family of King Haile Selassie I"
Fikir A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Gare is centrally located in Addis Ababa. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available to take you to the area.
While the old railway operations have ceased, the area is accessible by local buses and taxis. The Addis Ababa Light Railway also has nearby stations.
Walking is a great way to explore the historical station building and its immediate surroundings. For longer distances, consider a taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, exploring the exterior of the station building and the surrounding area is free. Access to specific exhibits or private areas might require a fee.
The historical station building and its grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. The Tomoca coffee shop has its own operating hours.
Information on specific entrance fees for train exhibits can vary. It's advisable to inquire locally or check for any posted signs upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The vintage trains, the French-style architecture of the station, and the old railway tracks offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted in public areas. However, always be respectful of any private offices or ongoing restoration work.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
The Tomoca coffee shop within La Gare offers coffee and light snacks. The surrounding areas of Addis Ababa have numerous restaurants and cafes.
Yes, Tomoca coffee is renowned for its delicious and authentic Ethiopian coffee, making it a must-try.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring, keep in mind that the area is undergoing development, so supervision is key. The Tomoca coffee shop provides a good spot for a family break. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure a comfortable experience for younger ones.
🚂 Railway Enthusiasts
Appreciating the French architectural style of the station building and understanding the historical context of its construction will add depth to your visit. The presence of trains that belonged to the Royal family is another highlight for those passionate about railway heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of La Gare
The station itself is a beautiful example of French architectural style, reflecting the colonial influence of the era. Inside, you can find offices that showcase these typical architectural elements. The area was once bustling with activity, a gateway to the world for landlocked Ethiopia.
While the original railway operations ceased about 20 years ago due to aging infrastructure and operational issues, the historical significance of La Gare remains. The Ethiopian Railway Corporation was reorganized in 2007, and new railway lines have since been constructed, but the legacy of the original Ethio-Djibouti railway is deeply embedded in this location.
Experiencing La Gare Today
The station building itself, with its distinct French architectural style, is a sight to behold. Although the 'Eagle Hills' construction company has used the building for advertising, which some find inappropriate, the historical structure still stands. The area evokes a sense of nostalgia, with elements like old gauges and a train platform where time seems to have stood still.
For a relaxing break, the Tomoca coffee shop located within La Gare is highly recommended. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of exceptionally delicious Ethiopian coffee while soaking in the unique atmosphere. Many visitors find the experience to be a cherished memory, appreciating the blend of history and local culture.
The Evolving Landscape of La Gare
This evolution presents a dual experience for visitors. On one hand, you can appreciate the preserved historical elements and imagine the station in its prime. On the other hand, you witness the city's growth and modernization. The '13 Months of Sunshine' poster, for instance, remains in the same spot, a poignant reminder of continuity amidst change.
Travelers should be prepared for a mix of old and new. While the core historical essence of La Gare is still present, the urban development is a prominent feature. This makes it a dynamic place to visit, offering insights into both Ethiopia's rich past and its forward-looking present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit