Passing in less than a century  from the middle-ages to modern times and from 50,000 inhabitants to nearly 2 million, it  gives a disconcerting  image of itself along the steep- sloped streets, endless stairways, traditional houses nestling one against another and offering their verandas to the setting sun.  

• The Sacred Hills. 12 in total, a number which has always been unanimously accepted, although the list often varies depending on the sources. The most reputed ones are: the set of 3 hills forming Analamanga, the initial site of Antananarivo. Ambohimanga, where Andrianampoinimerina’s conquests started and classified as a World Heritage by Unesco.  Ilafy, to the north of the capital, where Radama II used to withdraw with his play mates. Ambohidrabiby where consumption of zebu meat was first introduced by King Ralambo around 1600. Antsahadinta to the south-west, with its trees the « amontana » symbolising the kingdom and the « aviavy » symbolising nobility as well as the various choices of hiking tours it offers.
• Along the National Roads. Along RN1 leading to the volcanic region of Itasy, the Lemurs’Park and its 9 species of lemurs reinserted in an enchanting environment. Antongona, a hill at the entrance of Imerintsiatosika with two royal huts transformed into museums on its top.   
• Along RN2 or road to Tamatave, Ambohimalaza, a historical village famous for its immense necropolis and its tombs surmounted by a small house or   « tranomanara ».  At Nandihizana, turning to the Massif of Angavokely which offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Central Highlands. At Ambatolaona, the recommended access to Mantasoa, its lake, its slopes studded with pretty secondary residences, its historical vestiges. The Gorges of Mandraka from PK 62, where the road winds down literally to a  grandiose and magnificent scenery.
• Along RN3, Anjozorobe and its forest corridor, highly appreciated by birdwatchers as it has the advantage of also having aquatic birds. 
• 140 km to the north -west along RN4, the Special Reserve of Ambohitantely, comprising relics of a natural forest where reigns the Royal Palm tree, endemic of the Tampoketsa of Ankazobe.  

Lastly along RN7, 30 km from the capital, Analamanga Park, a complex of leisure activities and handicraft which marks the southern border of the Region.