These days, things move so quickly in Ethiopia’s capital, it’s difficult to keep up. Buoyed by foreign investment and a youthful verve, Addis Ababa sees new infrastructure projects cropping up yearly; its arts scene expanding at speed; and its young, plugged-in residents vaulting Addis into the future.

The city’s culture scene is a regional powerhouse, and you can see this reflected in its fine museums. The Ethnological Museum is considered one of the best in Africa – set in a former palace, its 13,000-strong collection charts Ethiopia's epic history as a the cradle of civilisation. Similarly significant, the National Museum contains some of the continent’s most precious artefacts – including Lucy, the earliest-discovered humanoid. For a taste of what Ethiopia’s young artists are up to, pay a visit to the Zoma Museum, a strikingly modern mud-built arts centre that exhibits works from resident artists.

Spirituality and religion have strong currents in Ethiopian life. The country is home to many faiths, which are all represented in its capital. The city’s places of worship are remarkable – like the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a massive, ornate cathedral and one of the most important religious sites in the country. The St George Cathedral is equally beautiful, with art-daubed walls and gold-accented everything. And the impressively large Anwar Mosque is where the city’s Muslim population gathers.

But if you’re looking for a real sense of daily life here, Addis’ markets should be your first port of call. Merkato – the city’s largest – is bursting at the seams with colourful handicrafts, silver jewellery, and all sorts of paraphernalia. In the market, locals meet, haggle, and fill their boots, then refuel with silty Ethiopian coffee at a nearby cafe – a blissful day in the capital.