Summary
The largest country on the African continent, Algeria boasts a varied landscape and a wealth of experiences for travelers. The journey from Europe is brief, yet the contrast between the two regions becomes immediately apparent, providing an inspiring sense of adventure for visitors. Algeria features numerous enchanting cities characterized by narrow streets and remarkable architecture, a captivating Mediterranean coastline, verdant landscapes, and ancient Roman ruins that can rival any globally renowned site.
The primary allure of the country, however, lies in the Saharan region, where endless sand dunes and vibrant, enigmatic cities engage even the most experienced traveler’s imagination.
Despite warnings regarding safety and restricted areas within the nation, most Algerian individuals greet tourists cordially and are eager to share their lifestyle with any visitors. Nevertheless, thorough research is advisable when planning a trip to this beautiful country to ensure that all travel regulations are respected. Let us explore the best places to visit in Algeria!
1. Algiers
Algiers serves as Algeria’s capital, with an estimated population of approximately 3,500,000. The city was established by the Ottomans and is rich in history and exquisite architecture.
The ancient Casbah resembles a winding urban labyrinth, with alleys meandering through the historic district like rivers. Another significant site is the Dar Hassan Pacha, which was once the city’s most opulent mansion, though its interior has been undergoing renovations since 2005 and is currently closed to visitors.
For Western visitors, Algiers offers a striking and beautiful contrast, providing an intriguing glimpse into Algeria’s past, present, and future.
2. Atakor
Although challenging to access without personal transportation, the Atakor Plateau, situated in Ahaggar National Park, is well worth the effort.
The scenery presents a reddish-brown barren landscape punctuated by steep peaks. The terrain resembles a scene from a science fiction film, leaving a lasting impression. The plateau’s highlight is Assekrem Peak.
Assekrem, translated from Tuareg, means “the end of the world,” aptly describing the view from the summit and the rugged harshness of the landscape.
3. Tamanrasset
Tamanrasset, often referred to as ‘Tam’, is a vibrant and modern town located southward towards Niger. Tam presents all that one might expect from a contemporary town, including various shops, restaurants, banks, and travel facilities.
This town serves as an excellent base for exploring Ahaggar National Park while offering the comforts of a well-equipped urban area. Due to safety concerns, access to Tamanrasset is only permissible as part of a fully guided tour, for which proof must be presented upon arrival.
This requirement, while somewhat inconvenient, enhances the safety of visitors, and numerous enjoyable excursions, such as 4×4 tours, are frequently included.
4. Oran
As the second-largest city in Algeria, Oran is a bustling port city known for its vibrant character and beauty. Oran stands as an attraction in itself, with numerous historical buildings to explore, such as picturesque mosques, the Casbah, and Le Theatre.
This city is renowned for its significant architectural diversity, arguably the finest of any city in Algeria. Oran also offers excellent opportunities for scuba diving, sampling local Algerian cuisine, and enjoying lively Rai music, which originated here.
Despite its many virtues, traces of the country’s political unrest in the 1990s are evident in Oran—a city so deeply affecting to novelist Albert Camus that he set his work ‘The Plague’ here.
5. Annaba
Several geographical factors prompted the Phoenicians to establish Annaba, and these reasons remain evident today, contributing to the city’s prosperity.
With its natural port facilitating many of the country’s exports, the historical and cultural significance of Annaba—particularly regarding Hippo Regius—attracts travelers.
The ruins of Hippo Regius are bordered by olive trees on one side and the sea on the other, featuring mosaics, bronze artifacts, and remains of villas and temples.
6. Constantine
Constantine is a natural marvel that has developed over the years into a stunning destination for tourists. Once the capital of Numidia and later Roman Numidia, it has a long-standing history of political significance.
Many structures in the city are only accessible by crossing a bridge over a vast chasm, lending an enchanting quality that has persisted since Roman times.
Despite its unique visual appeal and rich history, attractions in the city are somewhat limited, and tourists may find a couple of days sufficient for their visit.
7. Ghardaia
Ghardaia is part of a group of five towns located on the outskirts of the Sahara Desert, though it is commonly referenced when discussing the entire region. Ghardaia almost operates as a small nation, exhibiting its own unique attire, religious practices, and social customs.
To access the picturesque old town or the Sidi Brahim mosque, a guide is required. The quality and cost of food and lodging in this city, as in many parts of Algeria, can differ significantly.
A visit to Ghardaia will leave you feeling as though you have traversed multiple countries within one.
8. Tlemcen
For breathtaking Moorish architecture in Algeria, Tlemcen is unparalleled. The edifices here rival the beauty found in Southern Spain or Morocco.
Although the town was once important during Roman times, little evidence from that period has survived. Notable sights include the Great Mosque, the Eiffel Bridge, and waterfalls in the nearby Tlemcen National Park.
Tlemcen is oriented towards the future, currently constructing what is set to be the largest university campus in the country.
9. Setif
Setif, located in the Little Kabylie region, was founded by the Romans and is situated more than 1,100 meters above sea level.
The Roman ruins in this area warrant a closer examination. In addition to Roman influences, the French have also left their imprint on the city.
Among the attractions are the main square, which features Roman sculptures. As tourists are a relatively rare sight here, this city may appeal to those wishing to experience the ‘real Algeria,’ albeit with accompanying security considerations for Western visitors.
10. El Oued
Intriguingly referred to as ‘the city of a thousand domes,’ El Oued is an oasis city amidst what appears to be an infinite expanse of sand. The moniker derives from the multitude of domed roofs across the city, designed to shield residents from the intense summer sun.
One of the primary draws for tourists is shopping; El Oued arguably stands out as the premier destination for commerce in the country, with popular items including carpets and affanes (traditional Algerian slippers).
Venture into the market only if you are prepared to bargain like a local for optimal deals; the souqs can become quite bustling, particularly on Fridays.
11. Djanet
Djanet may resemble a Mediterranean town with its white structures and blue roofs, yet it serves as the main settlement in Algeria’s Tassili region.
Set in a palm tree oasis, the town exudes a nearly tropical atmosphere. While Djanet is charming, its center is quite small, housing a post office, a bank, and a few restaurants and shops.
The town becomes lively on weekends when French tourists arrive to enjoy its tranquility and exotic surroundings.
12. Batna
Batna lies not far from Constantine, yet it presents a distinctly different atmosphere. Separated from Constantine by rugged salt flats, Batna serves as the capital of the Aurus Massif, a region characterized by a continuation of the Atlas Mountains.
With a history that is not as rich as some other Algerian cities, Batna was established following a decree by Napoleon III in 1848. Due to its position in a valley, summers are exceptionally hot while winters can be quite cold.
The city hosts a vibrant student population exceeding 30,000, contributing to its lively ambiance.
13. Timgad
Located just 40km from Batna yet offering a different experience, Timgad boasts impressive ruins of an entire Roman settlement.
Though initially overwhelming, the ruins reward those who invest time in exploring every street and path. While there is an entry fee, it is undoubtedly worthwhile for access to what is arguably one of the most remarkable Roman ruin sites globally.
Very little in Algeria can prepare visitors for the astonishing scale of the ruins found at Timgad.
14. In Salah
In Salah has gained notoriety for its distinctive (and somewhat infamous) saline water. This particular water is an acquired taste and is often the only potable option available; therefore, visitors are advised to bring their own if they prefer non-saline alternatives.
The architecture showcases Sudanese influences, and the mosque in In Salah is gradually being encroached upon by an advancing sand dune.
This dune progresses at a rate of approximately 1 meter every five years, often uncovering buried structures as it engulfs existing buildings.
15. Bejaia
Bejaia is positioned along Algeria’s Mediterranean coastline, which represents its most significant appeal for tourists. The city boasts a rich history, having been settled by the Vandals, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks.
The local museum houses various artifacts that illustrate this tumultuous history. Additionally, visitors can explore an impressive Spanish fortress and the so-called ‘Monkey Peak,’ home to the endangered Barbary Macaque monkey.
