How to get to Asmara

Planning a trip to Asmara means setting off for the amazing capital of Eritrea, situated on the edge of a highland plateau and famous for its unique modernist architecture. Reaching this "Little Rome" is easiest by air, as the city is served by an international airport connecting the country to the outside world. Despite limited overland routes due to regional specifics, the journey promises an unforgettable immersion into an atmosphere of living history and Italian heritage.

The main gateway to the country is Asmara International Airport (ASM), located just a few kilometres from the city centre. Since direct flights operate from a limited number of destinations, most travelers will face a connecting flight via major regional hubs such as Dubai, Cairo, Istanbul, or Addis Ababa.

The airport is well connected to the city, and you can reach your hotel via official taxi. Using airports in neighboring countries for subsequent ground transfer is not recommended due to difficulties with crossing land borders, so flying directly into Asmara remains the only reliable option.

Arriving in Asmara by train from abroad is impossible, as the country lacks international railway connections. There is no active station in the city for long-distance passenger transport linking the capital with neighboring states.

However, within the country itself, there is a legendary historic railway connecting the capital to the port city of Massawa. This route featuring vintage steam locomotives is used exclusively as a tourist attraction, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, rather than as a regular mode of transport for arriving in the city.

Regular international bus service to Asmara is practically non-existent or unpredictable. The main flow of buses and shared taxis arrives from other cities in Eritrea, for example, from the port of Massawa or the city of Keren, departing as the vehicle fills up.

Travelers should be prepared for schedules often being tentative, and the comfort level in local transport may be basic. To move between cities within the country, tourists often rent private minivans with a driver, which ensures greater flexibility and safety on the road.

Traveling by car to the capital is possible from other regions of the country, with the road from the port of Massawa considered the most scenic route. The distance is about 115 km, but the journey along the steep and winding mountain road will take at least 3–4 hours, offering stunning views of the change in climate zones.

There is also a road from the city of Keren passing through picturesque highlands. It is important to remember that land borders with neighboring states (including Ethiopia) are often closed or difficult to cross for tourists, so planning to enter Asmara by car from abroad should not be attempted — this method is suitable only for trips within the country.

Visiting Asmara is an immersion into a unique cultural environment where safety combines with strict rules. To ensure a smooth trip, it is worth preparing for local specifics in advance.

1. Clothing and Climate: The city is located high above sea level (over 2300 m), so an "eternal spring" reigns here year-round. It can be warm during the day, but evenings are always cool — be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket. A modest and neat style of dress is preferred.
2. Transport: The historic city centre is compact and ideal for walking tours to admire the Art Deco architecture. For longer distances, use yellow taxis, but always negotiate the fare with the driver in advance.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Nakfa. Foreign bank cards are accepted almost nowhere, and there are no ATMs for international cards. Bring US Dollars or Euros (new banknotes) with you and exchange them only at official exchange bureaus (Himbol). Keep your exchange receipts until departure.
4. Connectivity and Internet: Mobile internet for tourists is often unavailable or works extremely slowly. Wi-Fi exists only in some hotels and internet cafes, and it is also very slow. Download offline maps and translation apps in advance.
5. Photography: This is a critically important point. It is strictly prohibited to photograph government buildings, police stations, military personnel, and the airport. This can lead to serious problems with the police. Always ask for permission before photographing people.
6. Drinking Water: Drinking tap water is not recommended. Buy bottled water, which is sold everywhere, to avoid health issues.
7. Coffee Culture: Do not miss the chance to try a local macchiato. The Eritrean coffee ceremony and Italian espresso traditions intertwine here in an amazing way, and cafes are the centre of social life.

Observing these simple recommendations and respecting local laws will ensure you a warm welcome and allow you to enjoy the beauty of one of Africa's safest cities.