Antananarivo

Antananarivo, also known as Tana, is the vibrant capital city of Madagascar. Sprawling over rolling green hills in Central Highland, the city is mostly famous for its French colonial architecture and bustling streets. French influences can still be observed; you will see many road signs in French and French is widely spoken by the native people. As the city is located near to country's major international airport, you will pass through either at the beginning or end of your holiday.

Walking through the streets, you will come across buildings in dilapidated conditions, houses packed one upon other, and busy street markets. Founded in 1610, the city was built on three levels. The key attraction here is the Queen’s Palace and associated Royal Village or Rova. Now a national monument, it was once the residency of the Merina Dynasty which, in the 19th century, united all Madagascar for the first time. For shopping, walk upto the Zoma Market, claimed to be the second-largest in the world, it is certainly worth a visit!