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Antananarivo

Antananarivo, also known as Tana, is the capital and largest city of Madagascar, sitting at 1,280 meters above sea level in the center of the island. Home to the country's government institutions, diplomatic missions, and cultural attractions, it serves as the heart of Madagascar's economy and intellectual life.

Quick facts

Population
1,391,433 (city, 2022)
Currency
Malagasy ariary (MGA)
Language
French, Malagasy
Timezone
EAT (UTC+3)
Local time now
00:19:38

Hotels in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a range of hotel accommodation options for visitors to Madagascar's capital city. From establishments like Le Pavé and La Ribaudière to classic properties such as Hôtel du Louvre, Colbert, and Aina, there are choices available for different traveler needs and preferences. See all hotels →

Le Pavé
76 m from centre
La Ribaudière
80 m from centre
Hôtel du Louvre
87 m from centre

Airports in Antananarivo

Antananarivo is served by Aéroport International d'Ivato, the primary gateway for international and domestic flights to and from Madagascar's capital city. This airport connects Antananarivo to destinations across the Indian Ocean region and beyond. See all airports →

Aéroport International d'Ivato
13.6 km from centre

Car Hire in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers several car hire options for visitors looking to explore the city and beyond. Services like Budget and Trans Denis provide rental vehicles to help you navigate Madagascar's capital. See all car hire →

Budget
766 m from centre
Trans Denis
1.1 km from centre
holy nirina
2.1 km from centre
fenosoa rajaona
2.1 km from centre

Things to Do in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions for visitors to explore. From the Musée d'art et d'archéologie showcasing local heritage to historical sites like the Stèle MDRM 29 mars 1947, the capital provides insight into Madagascar's rich past and vibrant present. See all things to do →

Stèle MDRM 29 mars 1947
338 m from centre
Musée d'art et d'archéologie
531 m from centre
I Love Antananarivo Sign
563 m from centre
Société Tsara Anjara
696 m from centre
Anjely Mainty
740 m from centre
Musée des Pirates Antananarivo
814 m from centre

Restaurants in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual eateries to established restaurants. Notable venues include Le Buffet du Jardin, La Ribaudière, Le Saint Germain, Restaurant Kanana, and Le SteakHouse, each bringing their own culinary character to Madagascar's capital city. See all restaurants →

Le Buffet du Jardin
31 m from centre
La Ribaudière
80 m from centre
Le Saint Germain
101 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers several swimming pools for residents and visitors. Notable facilities include Piscine Betongolo, Piscine du Lycée Français de Tananarive, Piscine privée Enceinte COMINOR, and Piscine Antsaha. See all swimming pools →

Piscine privée Enceinte COMINOR
1.3 km from centre
Piscine Betongolo
1.8 km from centre
Piscine
3.2 km from centre

Spas in Antananarivo

We're still gathering spas listings for Antananarivo — check back soon.

Nightlife in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs scattered throughout the city. Venues such as Le Six, Le Caveau, Suite 101, Palladium, and Palmó Night-Club provide locals and visitors with options for evening entertainment. See all nightlife →

Le Six
101 m from centre
Le Caveau
185 m from centre
Suite 101
211 m from centre

Bars in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a selection of bars where locals and visitors can enjoy drinks and socialise. Notable venues in the city include Le bistrot, La Bonne Cave, Madagascar Underground, Le Garage, and Le Glacier. See all bars →

Le bistrot
172 m from centre
La Bonne Cave
204 m from centre
Madagascar Underground
218 m from centre

Cafes in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a variety of cafes where you can enjoy a coffee break or light meal. Popular options include Noir et Blanc, Café de la Gare, Librairie café Cannelle, Le Café du Coin, and COOKIE SHOP, each providing a unique atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. See all cafes →

Noir et Blanc
coffee_shop · 792 m from centre
Café de la Gare
879 m from centre
Librairie café Cannelle
987 m from centre

Shopping in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers diverse shopping experiences across the city, from the bustling City Center to established stores like COSMOS Megastore, L'Arcadian, Gallerie Hermes, and Maison Monlou. Whether you're looking for everyday essentials or local goods, the capital's shopping districts provide a variety of retail options for visitors and residents alike. See all shopping →

City Center
264 m from centre
COSMOS Megastore
327 m from centre
L'Arcadian
373 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers several green spaces and gardens for visitors to experience local nature and wildlife. From the botanical gardens including Jardin d'Ambohijatovo and Jardin d'Andohalo to natural areas like Palmeraie and Zaridainan'Antanimena, the capital provides opportunities to connect with Madagascar's natural environment. See all nature & wildlife →

Jardin d'Ambohijatovo
516 m from centre
Jardin d'Andohalo
1.1 km from centre
Kianja Maitsoririnina CUA
1.4 km from centre
Zaridainan'Antanimena
1.5 km from centre
Palmeraie
2.1 km from centre
Karahobato
2.2 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Antananarivo experiences a highland tropical climate at its elevated location. The city enjoys cooler temperatures year-round compared to coastal regions, with distinct wet and dry seasons typical of the island's weather patterns.

Interesting Facts About Antananarivo — Weird & Wonderful

  • Antananarivo is the highest national capital by elevation among all island countries, positioned at 1,280 meters above sea level.
  • The city has been Madagascar's largest population center since at least the 18th century.
  • Antananarivo hosts more universities, nightclubs, art venues, and medical services than any other city on the island.
  • The championship-winning national rugby team, the Makis, is based in Antananarivo.
  • The city is home to 21 diplomatic missions and headquarters of numerous national and international businesses and NGOs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antananarivo

What is the official language spoken in Antananarivo?

Malagasy is the primary language of Madagascar. French is also widely spoken, especially in business and government sectors.

What currency is used in Antananarivo?

The currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA), which is used throughout Antananarivo and the country.

What is Antananarivo's population?

Antananarivo has a population of 1,391,433 as of 2022, making it Madagascar's largest city.

What region is Antananarivo in?

Antananarivo is the capital of the Analamanga region and is located in the center of Madagascar.

What are the main attractions in Antananarivo?

The city is home to numerous universities, art venues, nightclubs, and medical facilities. It also houses the country's government institutions including the Presidency, National Assembly, Senate, and Supreme Court.

Map of Antananarivo

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