Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Algiers, Algeria

The capital and largest city in Algeria, Algiers is a cosmopolitan city situated in a bay along the Mediterranean coastline. The contemporary section of the city is positioned along the coast, while the historical area extends up the hill behind it.

Although Algiers may not be as frequented by tourists as other major cities in northern Africa, interest in tourism is on the rise, as is the development of related facilities. The city provides a variety of accommodation options, attractions, and captivating architecture, with many guests expressing admiration for the exceptional hospitality of the local populace and businesses.

Let us explore the premier activities in Algiers:

1. Explore the Old City

Formally referred to as the Casbah, this ancient section of Algiers is constructed on a hill that overlooks modern Algiers. This part of the city dates back to the 17th century and is founded on the remnants of the former Icosium.

The Casbah is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, notable for its remarkable architecture, which includes the Ketchaoua Mosque, Mosque el Djedid, and Mosque El Kébir. It is also home to the Casbah Palace, which is certainly worth a visit.

The palace, known as Dar Aziza, was constructed in 1791 and is named after Princess Aziza Bent ed-Dey. This stunning white palace features a courtyard, numerous terraces, and a grand staircase with remarkable aesthetics.

2. Visit the Notre Dame d’Afrique

This impressive Catholic basilica was constructed in the late 1800s and serves as a prime example of the Neo-Byzantine architectural style prevalent in French Algeria during that period. The church took fourteen years to complete, officially opening its doors in 1872.

Notre Dame d’Afrique is positioned on the north side of the city, perched on a cliff that provides a panoramic view of the bay of Algiers. It is often likened to the Notre-Dame de la Garde, which is located in Marseille across the Mediterranean.

The basilica is distinctive among its contemporaries, as its layout locates the choir in the southeast of the chapel rather than in the traditional east. Additionally, it showcases 14 exquisite stained glass windows.

3. Stroll Around the Bab El Oued Neighborhood

This area was once occupied by the lower-income pied-noirs, but it has transformed into one of the city’s most popular districts.

Bab El Oued is situated along the coastline in the city center of Algiers. Noteworthy local figures such as Algerian footballer Djamel Keddou, athlete Baya Rahouli, and internationally acclaimed Muay Thai champion Dida Diafat hail from this neighborhood.

The neighborhood is particularly famous for its square featuring three clocks and the vibrant Triplet market. Spending an afternoon here allows for an opportunity to escape the main tourist paths and engage with a more authentic aspect of the city.

4. Pay Respect to Those Killed in the Algerian War of Independence

The Maqam Echahid is a prominent monument inaugurated on the 20th anniversary of the country’s independence. It features a large concrete structure designed to resemble three palm fronds interlocking to shield an eternal flame beneath, known as the ‘Eternal Flame.’

Rising to 92 meters, the monument consists of three palms, three Islamic turrets each measuring 10 meters in diameter, and a six-meter dome at its apex. Additionally, the site includes an amphitheater and a crypt, as well as the Museum of El Mujahid.

Maqam Echahid is gracefully positioned on the hills overlooking the Hamma neighborhood. Construction took nine months, and it was commemorated by the then President Chadli Bendjedid in February 1986.

5. Walk Along Rue Didouche Mourad

Stretching from the Grande Post office to the Heights of Algiers, Didouche Mourad Street serves as one of Algiers’ primary shopping thoroughfares. This central location features a variety of small shops and restaurants.

As a popular destination, it hosts landmarks such as the Grande Post office, the Faculty of Algiers, and the Galland park. The lively street encapsulates the essence of daily life in Algiers.

The tree-lined avenue provides a perfect setting for observing local life while enjoying coffee at a café or relaxing in a nearby pub over a beer. One of the main attractions is its impressive Haussmann-style architecture.

6. Visit the City’s Oldest Mosque

Established in 1097, the Great Mosque of Algiers holds the distinction of being the oldest mosque in the city and remains one of the few surviving examples of Almoravid architecture worldwide.

Constructed during the reign of Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf, it features a spacious rectangular courtyard, a prayer hall with 11 naves, an 18th-century mihrab, and 14th-century minarets. Additionally, it encompasses an enclosed courtyard.

This splendid white mosque, made of stone, brick, and wood, is embellished with intricate ceramic and wooden decorations and is located within the ancient Casbah area near the harbor.

7. Escape the Heat

Located to the west of Algiers are several charming seaside resorts that provide excellent opportunities to escape the summer heat and enjoy a break from the dynamic city life. Each of these coastal towns features accommodations, restaurants, and shops offering local souvenirs.

The coastal town of Sidi Fredj is among the most frequented destination, situated on a peninsula approximately 30 kilometers from Algiers. It is marked by appealing architecture, a picturesque harbor, and inviting sandy beaches.

Another popular location is Zéralda, renowned for the Mazafran tourist complex, which similarly offers great hotels, shops, and dining options.

8. Spend a Day at Aquafortland

Aquafortland offers activities suitable for all ages, serving as both an entertaining water park and a rejuvenating spa experience.

The water park encompasses three swimming pools, four water slides, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and a man-made sandy beach. Additional amenities include trampolines, basketball courts, a games room, and an adventure course.

The Aquafortland Spa presents a serene indoor environment for ultimate relaxation. It features a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzis, a steam room, and a fitness center offering group classes.

9. Wine and Dine at the Sheraton Club des Pins Resort

This coastal resort provides an excellent opportunity for an enjoyable evening without the necessity of being a registered guest. Visitors are welcome to relish meals in its outstanding restaurants and savor cocktails in its bars.

Indulge in Italian, Middle Eastern, or Asian cuisine at one of the resort’s dining options, or enjoy seafood at its seasonal terrace restaurant overlooking the bay. Afterward, guests can unwind with live piano music in the lounge or sip cocktails at the stylish lobby bar.

10. Admire Local Art

The Farid Benyaa Gallery, or Galerie d’art Farid Benyaa, is dedicated to the life and works of a local artist regarded as one of the most talented in Algerian history.

This gallery, established by the artist himself, showcases his creations while also hosting exhibitions featuring the work of other Algerian artists in visual arts and music.

The Museum of Popular Arts houses a broad collection of local arts and crafts, comprising both traditional and modern items created by Algerian artisans.

11. Play a Round of Golf

Algiers Golf Course serves as the primary golf facility in the city, providing easy access from various hotels. The golf course offers breathtaking views of the city and coastline, making it attractive to visitors.

Spanning 10 kilometers, this 18-hole course welcomes players of all skill levels. For those without their own equipment, rental clubs are available for use during their rounds.

12. Become a Historian

Algiers boasts several remarkable museums that are essential for those interested in the country’s history. The Bardo Museum is arguably the most significant, serving as both a museum and an architectural landmark.

This museum occupies a beautifully restored Turkish mansion and houses some of the most exceptional artifacts discovered in Algeria, such as ancient fossils, rock carvings, leatherwork, and jewelry.

The National Museum of Antiquities offers a journey back in time, displaying numerous ancient relics that narrate the story of Algeria’s rich history, including ivory carvings, Libyan period totemic warriors, and a noteworthy coin collection.

13. Discover Different Architectural Styles

The Djemaa el-Djedid Mosque is a particularly distinctive structure, as it seamlessly interweaves various architectural styles within its design. Constructed in 1660 in the Ottoman style, it has undergone numerous modifications over the years.

Today, the mosque showcases Turkish, Italian, and Andalusian influences alongside its original Ottoman design, resulting in a magnificent edifice characterized by vaults, domes, columns, and elegantly crafted wood finishes.

While non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque, they are welcome to admire its beauty from the exterior.

14. Head to a Mall

Algiers is home to several expansive malls, the most notable being the Centre Commercial Bab Ezzouar and the Centre Commercial Al Qods.

Centre Commercial Bab Ezzouar spans an impressive 60,000 square meters, accommodating over 230 shops and services across its six levels, three of which are dedicated to shopping and feature numerous international brand outlets such as Zara, Adidas, Lacoste, and MAC.

Centre Commercial Al Qods, recognized as the largest mall in Algiers, offers an astounding 165 square meters of retail space.

It houses upwards of 430 shops and services distributed across 18 floors, creating a shopping paradise for visitors.

15. Stop and Smell the Flowers

The Botanical Garden of Hamma is a striking garden situated in the Mohamed Belouizdad district and is regarded as one of the world’s most significant botanical gardens.

Established in 1832, the garden initially covered five hectares and expanded to 18 hectares by 1837, eventually growing to an impressive 58 hectares in size.

Home to over 1,200 plant species, the garden’s biodiversity was once even greater. In addition to public gardens, it also houses the Algerian National Institute of Agronomical Research.