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Antananarivo

Antananarivo, also known as Tana, is the capital and largest city of Madagascar, sitting at 1,280 metres above sea level in the centre of the island. As the highest national capital by elevation among island countries, it serves as the political, cultural, and economic heart of Madagascar.

Quick facts

Population
1,391,433 (city, 2022)
Currency
Malagasy ariary (MGA)
Language
French, Malagasy
Timezone
EAT (UTC+3)
Local time now
06:00:39

Hotels in Antananarivo

Antananarivo offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit different travellers. Options in the city include Le Pavé, La Ribaudière, Hôtel du Louvre, Colbert, and Aina, providing visitors with varied choices for their stay in Madagascar's capital. 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 airport connecting the capital to destinations around Madagascar and internationally. This airport is the main aviation hub for travelers visiting the city and the surrounding region. 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 capital and beyond. Services including Budget, Trans Denis, and other local rental providers are available to help you arrange vehicle rentals during your stay. 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 visitors a rich blend of cultural and historical experiences. From the Musée d'art et d'archéologie to iconic landmarks like the I Love Antananarivo Sign and the Stèle MDRM 29 mars 1947, the capital presents plenty of opportunities to explore Malagasy heritage and local attractions. 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 across the city. Whether you're looking for local cuisine or international fare, restaurants like Le Buffet du Jardin, La Ribaudière, Le Saint Germain, Restaurant Kanana, and Le SteakHouse provide options for visitors and residents alike. 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 pool facilities for residents and visitors. Notable options include Piscine Betongolo, Piscine du Lycée Français de Tananarive, and Piscine privée Enceinte COMINOR, providing recreational and leisure opportunities throughout the city. 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 variety of nightlife venues for visitors and locals to enjoy after dark. From intimate bars to lively night clubs, the city's nightlife scene includes popular spots such as Le Six, Le Caveau, Suite 101, Palladium, and Palmó Night-Club. 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 variety of bars where visitors and locals can enjoy drinks and socialize. Notable establishments 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's cafe scene offers welcoming spaces to enjoy refreshments and local atmosphere. Popular spots include Noir et Blanc, Café de la Gare, Librairie café Cannelle, Le Café du Coin, and COOKIE SHOP, where you can experience the city's cafe culture. 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 retailers like COSMOS Megastore, L'Arcadian, Gallerie Hermes, and Maison Monlou. Whether you're seeking local crafts or everyday goods, the capital's shopping districts provide a range of 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 opportunities to experience nature within the city, from the verdant Jardin d'Ambohijatovo and Jardin d'Andohalo to the lush Palmeraie. These green spaces provide visitors with a chance to connect with the region's botanical heritage. 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 climate due to its elevation of over 1,280 metres. The city generally has mild temperatures year-round, with cooler conditions typical at this altitude, and seasonal variation in rainfall patterns throughout the year.

Interesting Facts About Antananarivo — Weird & Wonderful

  • Antananarivo is the highest national capital by elevation among all island countries, situated at 1,280 metres (4,199 ft) above sea level.
  • The city has been Madagascar's largest population centre since at least the 18th century.
  • Antananarivo is home to more universities, nightclubs, art venues, and medical services than any other city on the island.
  • The championship-winning national rugby team, the Makis, are based in Antananarivo.
  • All major state institutions—the Presidency, National Assembly, Senate, and Supreme Court—are located in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antananarivo

What is the currency used in Antananarivo?

The currency used in Madagascar, including Antananarivo, is the Malagasy Ariary. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before your visit.

What language is spoken in Antananarivo?

Malagasy is the official language of Madagascar and is widely spoken in Antananarivo. French is also commonly used, particularly in business and tourism sectors.

How high is Antananarivo above sea level?

Antananarivo sits at 1,280 metres (4,199 feet) above sea level, making it the highest national capital among island countries.

What region is Antananarivo in?

The administrative area of the city, known as Antananarivo-Renivohitra, is the capital of Analamanga region.

What cultural attractions does Antananarivo offer?

Antananarivo has more universities, nightclubs, and art venues than any other city on the island, along with numerous medical services and diplomatic missions.

Map of Antananarivo

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