Antananarivo, or Tana as it is more commonly known, is the busy, bustling capital of Madagascar. With a population of about 1.25 million inhabitants, it is also the largest city in the country. It is here that most international flights arrive and depart, and as such you will no doubt spend some time here. There are numerous things to keep you occupied, from the infamous Zoma (markets), to the King's Palace, to the interesting zoo, filled with unique Malagasy flora and fauna.

A city ringed by rice paddies and built on the sides of numerous hills, Tana can be a very attractive city, although the numerous stairs and regular hassling by beggars and vendors can get tiresome, especially in the heat.

Originally founded in 1610, when a king invaded several local villages, it got its name of Antananarivo, meaning town of 1,000, as 1,000 men were left behind to defend the newly conquered lands. The King's Palace (or Rova) was constructed on the highest hill, and although the modern version burnt down in the 1990s (under suspicious circumstances), it is still the most recognisable symbol of the city, and a must see for visitors.

Although just a few hours drive from Antananarivo, Antsirabé is an interesting destination in itself and deserves a visit. Check out the Destination Guide for Antsirabé for all there is to see and do.

Fianarantsoa has a population of about 145,000, and is located at an average altitude of 1200 metres. Madagascar's elite Betsileo tribe are based here, and it is their cultural, intellectual and historical centre.

More recently, it has become the centre of Madagascar's wine country, with a number of excellent wines being produced in the surrounding region. Nearby is the Ranomafana National Park, which is an inspiring example of an altitude rainforest.

Fianarantsoa is the capital city of the province of the Fianarantsoa, and it is also the largest city in the highlands south of Antananarivo. The city is extremely hilly, and, as such, getting around town can be quite tiring, as some of the climbs up and down the city streets are very steep.

Some of the key highlights of a trip to Fianarantsoa include:

- Visiting Ranomafana National Park, which is located nearby to Fianarantsoa and features a dense forest, thermal hot springs, mountain ranges and an abundance of Madagascar's famous lemurs.
- Taking the train from Fianarantsoa to Manakara on the east coast. This is probably the best train journey in all of Madagascra, as it winds its way through some absolutely stunning mountain scenery.
- Checking out the local market. Although not as busy as the markets of Antananarivo, it still features a wide range of products and gives an interesting look at a slice of life in Fianarantsoa.
- Visiting Antaimoro paper factory, where you can witness a family going through all the stages of production of the very unique paper. Finished products are on display and for sale in the attached shop.

There are a few markets (also known as Zomas) worth visiting around Antananarivo. One of these is the Flower Market, located at the northwestern edge of Lake Anosy. It should be visited on Sundays; early morning is the best.

The Handicraft Markets, which are open every day except Sundays, feature a wide range of products for sale, including woodcarving, minerals, leatherwork, embroidery and hand-made baskets. The food market located next to the train station is also of particular interest, due to the hundreds of little benches displaying a whole host of local and foreign fruits and vegetables.

Warning: At all of the markets, you should pay close attention to your belongings and keep an eye out for pickpockets.

There are a number of different areas around the capital that offer some relaxation and a change of pace from the city.

One of these is Ambohimanga, located about 21 kilometres northeast of Antananarivo. It is considered to be the birthplace of Madagascar, and it was here that the monarchs of Madagascar first originated. Ambohimanga is known by many names, including 'the holy city', 'the forbidden city' and 'the blue city'.

It is surrounded by forests, and this location, combined with the strength of the citadel, meant that it was a powerful Merina stronghold. A number of ceremonial structures built in Ambohimanga can still be seen to this day.

Of particular interest is the main gate, which is an enormous stone disc. It required 40 men to roll it into its position. Ambomihanga was a regular place of rest and relaxation for the kings and queens, and today it is a particularly nice picnic area.

Another place worth a visit is the Domaine de Croix Vallon, a private reserve made up of 2,500 hectares in the Anjozorobe Forest Corridor, which is one of the last remnants of dense rainforest remaining in the haut plateau.

Other interesting areas to visit around Antananarivo include the cemetery of Ambohimalaza, Lake Mantasoa, which offers rewarding walking tracks and a traditional village.