Antananarivo

Welcome to Tana – Madagascar’s Capital

Antananarivo — nicknamed Tana by locals and those who can’t cope with the full name — is Madagascar’s high-altitude capital. 'Tana is a brightly coloured melange of French colonial architecture, multi-storied houses, and narrow alleys. It’s sprawled over the rolling hills of the central highlands of Madagascar, overlooking  rice paddies below.

Perched at 1,280 metres (4,200 ft) in, it enjoys a mild climate with cool nights and crisp mornings, particularly in the winter months of June to August.

The city is a blend of French colonial architecture, tiled-roof houses, narrow cobbled alleys, and stone staircases linking one street to another. Traders line each street with the array of merchandise on offer in the stalls. And the markets are in a class of their own.

Tana is divided into an Upper and Lower Town, each offering its own perspective on this fascinating city. It’s a city made for walking, so we recommend flat shoes!

 What’s Antananarivo Really Like?

I enjoy its romantic charm and bustling streets, but the city is quite often a shock to many first time visitors. There are throngs of people, buildings in a state of decay, and hectic traffic in a warren of streets. Everywhere the narrow cobblestone streets are packed with houses.

But there’s a richness here too: in the street markets, the layered history, and the daily rhythm of Malagasy life. Tana may not be beautiful in the traditional sense, but it’s real — and deeply atmospheric.

Antananarivo Hotels

You’ll usually need to stay in an Antananarivo hotel for at least one or two nights — due to flight timings and logistics. But not all hotels are created equal, and your experience can vary widely depending on where you stay.

Our Top Tips:

If you are flying in and out the following day? Stay near the airport at reliable properties like Relais des Plateaux or Nosy Manga Hotel.

Want a real taste of Tana? Spend at least night in the city at one of their uniquely characterful hotels. Tana  Hotels offer panoramic views, a stronger sense of place, and access to city walking tours and markets.

Just want to relax? Antananarivo hotels close to the ‘Waterfront’,  such as the Radisson Blu, offer more of an international vibe.

What to do in Antananarivo

If time permits, we include a half day tour of the Old city, including a stop off at one of the chocolatiers. But it can be easily explored under your own steam.

• Walk through the Old Upper Town

Wander through narrow cobbled alleys, stone staircases, and pastel-coloured houses that climb the hills. The architecture is uniquely Malagasy-colonial, and the street life is endlessly watchable. Here you’ll find the Queens Palace (see next)

• Queen’s Palace (Rova of Antananarivo)

Perched on the city’s highest hill, this once-majestic royal compound offers sweeping views over the capital. It’s been partially restored after a fire and gives insight into Madagascar’s monarchy and complex colonial past.

• Chocolaterie Robert

Tana has a bean-to-bar chocolate scene! This local institution offers chocolate tastings and insight into Madagascar’s fine cocoa — a surprisingly delicious stop in the city centre.

• Andravoahangy Artisan Market

A treasure trove of Malagasy crafts: embroidered linens, wood carvings, handmade baskets, vanilla, and semi-precious stones. Bring cash — and prepare to bargain!

• Half Day Trip to Ambohimanga

A short drive from the city, this sacred royal hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — once the spiritual and political heart of the Merina kingdom. Peaceful and leafy, it’s a refreshing contrast to the capital’s bustle.

Planning a Stay in Antananarivo?

We’ll help you choose the right Antananarivo hotel for your Madagascar tour — whether it’s a quick stopover, a base for a couple of days, or a final night before flying out.