Why visit
Accra is the capital of Ghana. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Accra at a glance
City population
2.4 million
Metro: 5.5 million
Elevation
61 m
200 ft
Time zone
UTC+0
Africa/Accra
Airport
ACC
Kotoka International
Founded
17th century
Getting around
Tro-tros (shared minibuses) + Uber/Bolt; limited formal transit
Signature dish
Jollof (fiercely disputed with Nigeria), waakye, kelewele, banku with tilapia, fufu
Neighborhoods for travelers
OsuLaboneJamestownEast LegonCantonments
Ghana at a glance
Country center
8.0°, -2.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
238,533 km²
92,098 mi²
Country population
34.1 million
143/km²
Subregion
Western Africa
Currency
Ghanaian cedi (₵)
GHS
Dial
+233
Language
English
Demonym
Ghanaian
Internet
.gh
UN
Member state
ISO code
GH / GHA
Where in the world
8.0° · -2.0°
Ghana
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Did you know
- The Ghanaian jollof rice vs. Nigerian jollof rice debate is so fierce that diplomatic meetings have jokingly included it.
- Accra's James Town district contains some of Ghana's oldest European-built forts: originally Dutch, Danish, and British trading posts.
- The African Union, ECOWAS, and many African-led initiatives use Accra as a meeting hub for its central West African location.
- Ghana was the first Sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from European colonial rule (1957).
- Kente cloth, worn for important ceremonies, originated with the Ashanti people and is woven in ~300 distinct patterns.
Bordering Ghana
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Accra
What currency is used in Accra?
Accra uses the Ghanaian cedi (₵), ISO code GHS.
What languages are spoken in Ghana?
The primary language is English.
What is the international calling code for Ghana?
The calling code is +233.
What airport serves Accra?
Kotoka International (IATA: ACC).
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