Why visit
Accra is Ghana's coastal capital, mixing independence history, markets, music, beaches, and a fast-growing food and art scene. It is one of West Africa's easiest urban introductions.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Accra is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Ghana. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Accra, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Ghana better matches the trip style.
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
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
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
Traveler notes
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park anchors independence history
- Jamestown adds lighthouse, boxing, and old coastal streets
- Osu and Labone are useful bases for restaurants and nightlife
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
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
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.
When is the best time to visit Accra?
Nov–Mar. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Accra?
Kotoka International (IATA: ACC).
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