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1-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Bahir Dar in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Bahir Dar, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Bahir Dar attracts visitors with its setting on the shores of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile and Ethiopia’s largest lake. Boat trips take you to centuries‑old island monasteries known for their colorful religious art and manuscripts. Just outside the city, the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat) offer a dramatic natural sight in the rainy season. In town, wide, tree-lined streets, a lakeside promenade and busy local markets give the city a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
With favorites like Lions Art Gallery, Bahir Dar University peda campus, and Blue Nile Resort Hotel, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Blue Nile Resort Hotel so you can get the best taste of Bahir Dar while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Bahir Dar?
  • 2-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary
  • 3-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary
  • 4-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary
Visiting Bahir Dar? See our Bahir Dar Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Bahir Dar in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Bahir Dar University peda campus and Lions Art Gallery with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Bahir Dar without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 5 hours of your day.
1

Bahir Dar University peda campus

4.1
(100)
University
Bahir Dar University's Peda Campus is part of a leading institution of higher education in Ethiopia, founded in 1963. The campus, located in the city of Bahir Dar, is known for its lush greenery and spacious grounds. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful vegetation and trees that provide a comfortable environment for walking and are also home to various bird species and monkeys. The university itself is a combination of two smaller institutes and has grown to offer degree programs since 1996.
I was 2011 E.C college graduate and our bach name was ሀ-ግዕዝ and everybody in the campus notice me by the name of ''Dagi Popcorn " ĐPÇ. its been agreat time.
Sirak A — Google review
Bahir Dar university, university in the city of bahir Dar,the capital amhara region in Ethiopia.the university is the combination of two small institute formed earlier,after the department gradually raised to a degree level starting from 1996.
Robert — Google review
We venerate Bahir Dar University due significantly to the quality of education it offers. The faculties are qualified, committed, and dedicated to their profession.
Ataklti W — Google review
Bahir dar university is one of the first generation universities in Ethiopia founded in 1963 in the capital city of Amhara region , Bahir dar city. The university has around 8 campuses found in the city of Bahir dar. One of the campus is peda campus which we will find in the university Rd in Bahir dar city. Peda is well know in the greenness and beauty of the campus. Along that there are a lot of apes found here in the campus . The students and the university community give them a food especially bread 🍞🥪 (ye peda dabo), is well known along the city because of its best size, taste . We students sometimes go there when we have a lesiure time . I love all the places if the campus. Peace ✌️
Explore E — Google review
The food too reptitive and awful to eat(keke for 5 days at dinner, pasta for four days), and the beds are infested with bedbugs. But on the upside there is always water, the compund is nice and clean, the teachers are very nice( at least in the medical school).
Biniyam L — Google review
As a short time visitor it's one of the greenest and spacious campus I saw. Considering the warm and strong sunny weather of Bahirdar city the amazing vegetation and trees is comfortable to walk around that is also friendly to the birds and monkies too.
Fikir A — Google review
Entering Bahir Dar University is my dream. Now I am expecting results but I hope to see it in person at Bahir Dar University.
Kiru — Google review
The place where I live in the near future,I think after 2 weeks. In Ethiopia the most loveable place.😍🤩🥰😍🤩✌️
Tewodros ( — Google review
H9FX+Q62, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia•+251 58 226 5360•Tips and more reviews for Bahir Dar University peda campus
5 min · 2 mi
2

Lions Art Gallery

4.8
(37)
•
5.0
(23)
Shopping
Art Galleries
Lions Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse and captivating collection of original artworks. The gallery features stunning pieces created with unique, homemade paints that add an extra layer of depth and beauty to the art. Visitors are sure to be impressed by the talent and creativity on display at Lions Art Gallery.
Amazing artist! You def should pay a visit and see different and interesting arts!
Marija A — Google review
Gorgeous and originally home made paints for the art works!!!
Menilk F — Google review
I admired you, what you are doing go ahead !! Nice art work.
Temesgen N — Google review
In front of St. George Church, at Protection House bldg 2nd floor, BZeleke Rd, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia•http://www.ethiopianartgallery.com/•+251 93 355 2727•Tips and more reviews for Lions Art Gallery
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Where
When

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When
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When
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Travelers
2
Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
Travelers
2
2 min · 1.7 mi
3

Blue Nile Bridge

3.7
(52)
Bridge
Historical landmark
The Blue Nile Bridge in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, offers a picturesque spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. The Tana lakeshore and the surrounding Lake Tana region, including the Blue Nile gorge, provide diverse habitats for a wide variety of endemic and migratory birds. Fasilides Island on the eastern side of the lake is particularly renowned as a breeding ground for numerous wetland species, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
Very good bridge
Kuki G — Google review
I used to ride on this bridge by my bike to my work place bahir dar TVET institute from kebele no 13 hospital area
SRIDHAR M — Google review
An Italian made bridge during emperor Haile Selassie regime. It has been giving service for the last 60+ years and need restoration now.
Mengistu A — Google review
Nice place in Bahir Dar Ethiopia 🇪🇹. Good place to spot hippos and birds.
Gerrit H — Google review
Very nice place beauty of nature 😍
Hariom U — Google review
Very poor condition it's really sad but such a beautiful place poor government
Habesha L — Google review
It's a bridge that isolates Bahirdar city from Gonder.
Tewodros K — Google review
Its an outdated old Bridge.over 50 year its not safe to use it
Henok Y — Google review
JC35+W9W, A3, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia•+251 93 964 7516•Tips and more reviews for Blue Nile Bridge
2 min · 1.7 mi
4

St. George Church | ቅዱስ ጊዮርጊስ ቤተክርስቲያን

4.7
(81)
Orthodox church
St. George Church, also known as ቅዱስ ጊዮርጊስ ቤተክርስቲያን, is an Ethiopian Orthodox Church located in the heart of Bahir Dar, the capital city of the Amhara region in northern Ethiopia.
St.george church at Bahir dar is close to down town its old and pleasant! Its the oldest and Cathedral the mass service is taking place every Sunday and annual festivals!
Abebaw E — Google review
Had a great time at this church. Unfortunately a man named Daniel Lakew took me here. He is a tour guide registered in Bahir Dar. He scammed me afterwards.
Diego F — Google review
St. Saint George is located at the southern part of Digo Tseyon specifically called Addis Alem. It's destination has blessing of good air conditioning and constructed at the hub of mountainous parts of the city which looking and praying just like you are at the heaven. You can come and join or help the church.
Nahom T — Google review
Bahir Dar is the capital city of the Amhara region in northern Ethiopia. It’s a port on the south shore of the huge inland Lake Tana. Dek Island is one of many islands in the lake that are home to medieval monasteries. Bahr Dar St, George church is found on the heart of the town.
Kifle W — Google review
st. George Church is very historical church
Tinsae Y — Google review
An Ethiopian Orthodox Church in the middle of the city. Very restful and peaceful from the hectic life of the city. If you are in Bahardar and wants to see the MOST Ancient form of Christianity that has NOT CHANGED AT ALL for 2 milliniums, Then please go to St. George's Church. It is important to note that Ethiopian Orthodox Christians still practices the same Christianity as it was in the time of OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!
Michael Y — Google review
An orthodox Holy church of Saint George Peaceful and charming place in the heart of bahirdar city
Danny G — Google review
🙏🙏🙏
Yonas B — Google review
H9WQ+4HF, A3, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia•+251 95 325 6414•Tips and more reviews for St. George Church | ቅዱስ ጊዮርጊስ ቤተክርስቲያን
2 min · 0.74 mi
5

Desset Lodge / ደሴት ሎጅ

4.1
(60)
•
3.9
(154)
Temporarily Closed
Restaurant
Desset Lodge, located by Lake Tana, offers a serene dining experience with beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings. The garden setting provides a perfect spot to observe the diverse birdlife and local fishermen in their canoes. While the food is described as okay, with some dishes receiving mixed reviews, the large menu selection ensures options for all tastes. The wooden dining hall and spacious outdoor area by the lakeshore create a tasteful ambiance for visitors to enjoy.
Amazing view to lake Tana & nice salad
Ephrem M — Google review
The best spot in Bahirdar 😎. The lake Tana view makes it perfect. Desset lodge is in my list of must seen places in Bahirdar. The food + The Garden and Nature view + The service makes it fit to for everyone who needs a happy & relaxing moment.
Eman I — Google review
Great place for lunch due to the garden and lake view. The food was fine. The prices are above average.
Lars — Google review
Good food, large choice. No outages on the menu! The location, a wooden dining hall with large outdoor area directly beneath lake shore is tasteful. Service was nice, even not the quickest on sunday. They only serve wines in large bottles, but to western tourists even those are affordable. Higher price range, quality and ambience are justifying this.
Rainer J — Google review
Great place for dinner or late breakfast, quiet and clean, with beautiful sunset.
Javier F — Google review
The place itself is well maintained and clean. Food was just okay and the waiter asked for additional money due to his personal hardship. Would recommend it for drinks only.
Julian S — Google review
At the lake side of Tana , there is a huge fig tree and next to it you will find this gorgeous and beautiful restaurant called Deset Lodge. They both serve Ethiopian and European meals.
Mengistu A — Google review
Nice place for lunch along the lake. Beautiful flowers and grounds. Fish goulash was delicious.
Good J — Google review
J92J+WM2, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia•Tips and more reviews for Desset Lodge / ደሴት ሎጅ
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Where to eat

Under a 9-minute walk from Desset Lodge / ደሴት ሎጅ, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.

Blue Nile Resort Hotel

4.0
(206)
Resort hotel
Boat rental service
Blue Nile Resort Hotel in Bahir Dar offers a laid-back stay with casual quarters, dining options, a cosy bar, and a garden. The hotel is situated on the waterfront, providing stunning views of Lake Shore and Blue Nile Bridge. Guests can enjoy onsite massages and access to a 24-hour fitness center. The hotel features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. While the rooms are simple yet comfortable and quiet, the friendly staff are always willing to help.
The hotel is good but needs to improve on European food, wi-fi in the rooms and hot water. Friendly staff.
Tony D — Google review
We had a very pleasant 2-day stay at this hotel. Our room was completely renovated and super clean, although slightly small. The staff very polite and tried to accommodate all our requests. What was really challenging was the restaurant… It took two hours to serve us, and please mind that we were almost the only guests…. The food though was tasty!
The S — Google review
I enjoyed my stay at the Blue Nile. The rooms are simple but very comfortable and quiet. The staff are all friendly and willing to help. Situated right by the lake, it offers a great view especially in the evening. They have a number of meeting halls for the corporates. The meals consist of mostly local cuisine with a limited range of continental cuisine. The only missing piece is they do not have a swimming pool but that doesn't take away anything from the experience. I would definitely go back for their great hospitality.
David W — Google review
Have not checked out yet. Wonderful lake view if you get rooms with even numbers you face the lake and welcome the sun ad it rises. They have 2 bars a restaurant and s pizzeria.2 BIGGEST PROBLEM IS INTERNET CONNECTIVITY AND NOISY AIRCONS. The staff are wonderful and the rooms clean. Other restaurants are within walking distance and is safe to walk during the day. Have not heard of any problems from night walkers of late.
Niber T — Google review
Stunning views of Lake Tana, and incredibly well maintained grounds that only add to the experience. Waking up to the sight of fishermen on the lake and chanting from nearby churches is really special. In terms of the facilities, there is definitely some updating needed (bathrooms are definitely tired). As others have noted, food options leave something to be desired. Staff are very kind
Colton V — Google review
The only good thing was the location and view. The shuttle service was poor, had to wait at the airport for over an hour. The rooms didn't have hot shower and when I finally found one to change, the power breaker kept going off everytime the heater was on. The AC in all the rooms was placed right next to the window and made it hard to fully open the windows, checked multiple rooms and all the beds were made of two mattresses put together and worn out bedsheets, which made the sleeping experience unpleasant. No hairdryer in the rooms and no plugs closer to the bed. Very poor wifi connection in the rooms, kept going on and off. Mosquitoe net should've bee available given the mosquitoes in Bahirdar. The breakfast buffet had very limited options especially when it comes to Ethiopian dishes but the fresh watermelon and papaya juice and dessert was good. Tried their kuanta firfir, tibis, chicken, lamb and pasta dishes and can't say I was pleased but the dinner buffet was better and the waiters were friendly. The bar was stacked with a variety of wine and liquor selection, they did well on that part. Over all, I had a zero star experience in a four stars hotel and resort. Given the location and view, I recommend the place for some quiet time and admiring nature but not to dine or spend a night.
Rediet K — Google review
Do not stay at this Hotel. My siblings and I stayed here for 1 night on Sept 24th (supposedly for 2 nights but checked out the next day). #1. No hot shower. We have called the main office, including the manager, about 4 times to have that fixed. Every time we called, they kept saying they will send maintenance guy to have a look, but nobody came. It was just all a lie. #2. Very very low water pressure in the shower. I went ahead and took shower in a very cold water but it took me 30 to 35 minutes to finish because of the low pressure. It was just a dribbling water. We called the front desk about that too but they told us the same lie that someone will come look at it. #3. Water was leaking underneath the shower walls making the whole bathroom floor wet. #4. The showering area space was so small to the point I kept hitting the walls multiple times while showering. I haven't seen anything like that before. #5. There was no Wi-Fi in our rooms. Found out that Wi-Fi works only in the rooms closest to the main office. As you go further, which our room was at, Wi-Fi stops working. #6. The twin beds are so small to the point if you want to turn, you would have to scoot your butt first to the opposite direction before turning. Otherwise, you would end up on the floor. I have expressed my concern to the receptionist during checkout the next day. I regret staying there. We stayed at Sky Resort few blocks away for a full service but cheaper price, and was beautiful new built hotel. So, I don't recommend Blue Nile Hotel especially if you're travelling from abroad.
Seblu S — Google review
Service is good. Staff is friendly and attentive. The rooms and the interiors are dated. Food whilst good is consistently inconsistent for example presentation and quantity would be different from day to day. A case of too many chefs and too many cooks.
Iqbal G — Google review
J93H+9X4, Fasilo kifle ketema kebele 03, Bahir Dar 1387, Ethiopia•https://bluenileresorthotels-avanti.com/•+251 93 598 2475•Tips and more reviews for Blue Nile Resort Hotel
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Bahir Dar to
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Bahir Dar to
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What's the weather like in Bahir Dar?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Bahir Dar for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Bahir Dar in January
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in February
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in March
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in April
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in May
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in June
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in July
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in August
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in September
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in October
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in November
  • Weather in Bahir Dar in December

All road trips from Bahir Dar

  • Bahir Dar to Gonder drive
  • Bahir Dar to Addis Ababa drive
  • Bahir Dar to Lalibela drive

Explore nearby places

  • Bahir Dar
  • Gonder
  • Lalibela
  • Axum
  • Addis Ababa
  • Arba Minch
  • Jinka
  • Khartoum

All related maps of Bahir Dar

  • Map of Bahir Dar
  • Map of Gonder
  • Map of Lalibela
  • Map of Axum
  • Map of Addis Ababa
  • Map of Arba Minch
  • Map of Jinka
  • Map of Khartoum

Bahir Dar throughout the year

  • Bahir Dar in January
  • Bahir Dar in February
  • Bahir Dar in March
  • Bahir Dar in April
  • Bahir Dar in May
  • Bahir Dar in June
  • Bahir Dar in July
  • Bahir Dar in August
  • Bahir Dar in September
  • Bahir Dar in October
  • Bahir Dar in November
  • Bahir Dar in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Bahir Dar?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

  • 2-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary
  • 3-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary
  • 4-Day Bahir Dar Itinerary

Day itineraries for nearby cities

  • 1-Day Addis Ababa Itinerary
  • 1-Day Lalibela Itinerary
  • 1-Day Gonder Itinerary
  • 1-Day Khartoum Itinerary
  • 1-Day Axum Itinerary
  • 1-Day Arba Minch Itinerary
  • 1-Day Jinka Itinerary
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