20 Best Places to Visit in Algeria

Algeria has an ancient history and a beautiful Mediterranean coastline, with a Saharan desert interior. It has stunning beaches, interesting cities, and luxury hotels. It is home to interesting historical monuments and museums. Algeria has many beautiful national parks with stunning scenery and well-preserved wildlife.

Located in North Africa, Algeria is an incredible country with a Mediterranean coast and a Saharan desert interior. It has many ancient cities and monuments and has been ruled by many empires. This North African country has both a Mediterranean coastline and a rugged Saharan desert interior. Its diverse geography has been shaped by many empires, leaving their cultural legacies behind.

Algeria has 20 national parks and 2 nature reserves. These parks cover more than half a million hectares and have a diverse array of ecosystems. For example, the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park in the Sahara is home to ancient rock paintings estimated to be more than 12,000 years old. Algeria’s national parks are an important source of tourism revenue for the country.

In this article, we have summarized some facts about Algeria including its climate, history, tourist attractions, demography, and natural wealth. However, we cannot exhaust the rich information that can be found in the books and websites of the specialists of this interesting country. Let’s dive in.

Algiers

Algeria is a North African country with a contrasting mix of desert and Mediterranean coastline. Its rich history reflects the influence of several empires. Ancient Roman ruins can be found in the seaside town of Tipaza, while Ottoman landmarks line the hillside Casbah quarter of Algiers. The French colonial period is also represented in the Neo-Byzantine Basilica Notre Dame d’Afrique.

The capital of Algeria is bustling and has plenty of options for accommodation. Its many fine restaurants and luxury hotels make it a great place to visit. For a taste of the country’s history, head to the city’s old quarter, Rue Didouche Mourad. UNESCO has designated Algiers as a world heritage site.

The Hoggar Mountains are another place of interest. These volcanic mountains in the southeast Sahara desert offer stunning scenery. Its highest peak rises to 3,003 meters, making it a popular destination for photographers. The area is home to a famous lodge, Assekrem, located on a saddle-high pass. You can spend the night there, and wake up to a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara.

Oran

If you are planning to travel to Algeria, one of the best places to visit is Oran. This ancient city has a lot to offer. Founded around 937 by Moorish Andalusian traders, Oran has been influenced by several cultures and has a vibrant, relaxed energy. There are a number of buildings that are stunning examples of colonial architecture. You can see these in the Sidi El Houari neighborhood. Originally part of the Kingdom of Tlemcen, the city fell under Ottoman rule in 1554.

The city also features a rich history. The oldest part of the city, Castello Viejo, is a ruined fort built by the Spanish. You can access it by passing through the red gate. There are ruins in the fort, as well as tunnels that were used by the French for storage. The fort also served as a prison during the French colony, and you can see drawings that were done by African prisoners on the walls.

For a romantic destination, the city of Oran is a must-see. Its architecture was influenced by many different civilizations, including the Roman Empire, the Spanish, the Ottomans, and the French. The city has interesting monuments and is a great place to go on vacation.

Constantine

Known also as Qacentina, Constantine is the capital of Constantine Province in Algeria. The town was first called Cirta during the Roman era and was later renamed after the emperor Constantine the Great. It was also the capital of the French department of Constantine until 1962.

Constantine is home to many historic sites. The Cirta Museum and the Palais du Bey (Palace of Ahmed Bey) are excellent places to see. You can also check out the Kasbah market. You can also take a cable car ride to get a good view of the town. The architecture in Constantine is heavily influenced by the French colonial period. The city also boasts of a prestigious university.

Located on the border between Algeria and Tunisia, the city of Constantine has a rich history. The city has been renamed a few times throughout its history and has been the seat of various civilizations. The city’s unique location means that it is nestled in the midst of a spectacular landscape with dramatic cliffs and gorges.

Béjaïa

Béjaa is a Mediterranean port city and commune on the Gulf of Béjaa. It is the capital of the Béjaa Province and the largest Kabyle-speaking city in the country. The city offers a rich history and culture. It is also known for its colorful markets and mosques.

The town of Bejaa has an old history that goes back to the Vandal and Hafsid dynasties. The town also has one of the world’s tallest natural lighthouses. Visitors can also hike up Monkey Peak and see rare Barbary Macaque monkeys.

The ancient town of Ghardaia is a must-see for a true taste of traditional life. Its old town is ultra-religious, so it is best to hire a tour guide. The town is also known for its handmade carpets, which are sold at the market in the town’s main square. Haggling with local vendors is recommended for an authentic souvenir.

Tlemcen

Tlemcen is another town that should be on your itinerary. The architecture here rivals anything you would find in Southern Spain or Morocco. This ancient town was an important city during Roman times, so there’s no shortage of historical sights to see. You can visit the Great Mosque and the Eiffel Bridge, and you’ll also get to enjoy the waterfalls in the nearby National Park. The city is also home to the largest university campus in Algeria.

Another interesting tourist spot in Tlemcen is Al-Mashour Castle. This castle was originally built in the sixteenth century by the rulers of Bani Abdel Wad. It has several great buildings and an excellent garden. During the Ottoman Empire, the castle was turned into a church. Afterward, it became a mosque.

Tlemcen has more medieval buildings than any other city in Algeria. The Great Mosque was built in the 12th century by the Almoravids, and the city has a number of landmarks that reflect Moorish Spain. The city also has a citadel and a large basin. The Grotto of Rabbi Ephraim ben Israel Ankawa is also located in Tlemcen. The medieval city is home to narrow, arched streets and numerous shops.

Setif

Sétif is one of the most important cities in Algeria. It is the capital of the Sétif Province and is considered the trade capital of the country. The city has a rich history and has a number of attractions that visitors can enjoy. The city is a must-visit for any tourist visiting the country.

The city of Setif is home to a large Roman mosaic and archaeology museum. This museum contains mosaics from the 3rd century AD and is an incredible sight. The mosaics show a triumphant procession of Dionysus and depict exotic animals.

Setif is a city located in the northeastern region of Algeria. It is located at an elevation of over 1,100 meters. As a result, it is one of the coldest places in Algeria during winter. The city also experiences flash floods occasionally. However, Setif is also known for its hot summers. During July, temperatures in Setif can reach over 40 degrees.

Annaba

Annaba is a port city located in northeastern Algeria. It has a wide central promenade, and its architecture reflects its French colonial history. The city’s main landmark, the St. Augustine Basilica, was completed in 1900 and towers over the city. Nearby, the ruins of Hippo Regius, a ruined Roman city, can be visited. The Musée d’Hippone has displays of objects from the ruins.

The city has a Mediterranean-coastal climate and has good transportation links. It is accessible by car, bus, or taxi. The city’s main street, Cours de la Révolution, has attractive French colonial architecture. A towering, ornate basilica, dedicated to Saint Augustine, a philosopher, and priest, looms over the town on the hill to the south. A shrine to Saint Augustine also stands in the center of the city, and the main square contains elegant French colonial architecture. The city also offers fine beaches.

Annaba is an important center of tourism. It is one of the top tourist destinations in the western Mediterranean. It has many tourist hotspots and local haunts but also a few hidden gems. A highlight is the ancient Roman site of Timgad, one of the finest preserved sites in the world. This Unesco World Heritage Site is alive with history and springs to life when explored slowly.

Batna

If you are planning a trip to Algeria, you should visit Batna, one of the country’s most beautiful cities. It has a rich history dating back to the third century BC and is home to a beautiful shrine. The shrine is a perfect blend of eastern and Greek architecture and stands on one of the highest plateaus in the entire country.

Batna is a city and province in northeastern Algeria. Its name is a mix of Arabic and Berber, meaning “where we sleep tonight.” The city is surrounded by the rugged Aurus Massif, which is part of the Atlas Mountains. Its climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters.

In Batna, you can visit the Great Mosque, which is the second-largest mosque in Africa. This mosque is open to the faithful and has been open for worship since 2003. Its architecture is another highlight of the city.

El Mechouar Palace

To get a real feel of ancient culture in Algeria, visit El Mechouar Palace, also called Zianide Royal Palace. This ancient palace is located in the heart of the city of Tlemcen. It was once part of a larger citadel, but only the outer wall and the minaret remain. When Tlemcen was selected as the Capital of Islamic Culture, Mechouar Palace was made its main attraction.

El Mechouar Palace is located in the city center, surrounded by high walls. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Algeria. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the country.

You can also visit the nearby Bardo Museum, located in a restored Turkish mansion. This museum is filled with some of the finest artifacts found in the country. It features ancient fossils, rock carvings, leatherwork, and jewelry. Also, a trip to the National Museum of Antiquities is a must, as it is home to ancient relics and totemic warriors.

Prince Abdel Kader Mosque

Located in Constantine, Algeria, the Emir Abdelkader Mosque is the second largest mosque in Algeria. It was constructed in the 16th century and is a must-see. The mosque was a favorite of the Prophet Muhammad.

This mosque is the second largest in Algeria and can hold up to 15,000 worshipers. It is also home to one of the largest chandeliers in Algeria, as well as artistic forms created by Algerian artists. It is situated in the city of Constantine, near the Central University and Qadour Baumdos district.

The mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. The mosque features a stunning white facade and a large dome. The interior of the mosque is green and red, and the mosque serves as a university. Thousands of students study here every year.

Algiers Province

Algiers Province is one of the smallest and most densely populated provinces in Algeria. Its name comes from the city of Algiers, the country’s capital and largest city. Its population is around three million. The province is the most densely populated in Algeria, but it is also the smallest by area.

Algiers is home to many historic buildings. One of the best places to visit in the city is the Casbah, which was the center of Algiers during the 16th and 18th centuries. It is the traditional heart of Algiers, where you can see local artists and handicraft shops.

Algiers’s history is fascinating. The city was home to the Barbary Pirates in the 16th century and was once considered one of the world’s most brilliant colonial cities. The city has a diverse cultural and geographical character and seeks to maintain the spirit of its origin.

Ghardaia

Ghardaia is located in the northern part of Algeria’s desert. It is about 600 km south of Algiers and its capital is the city of Ghardaia. The state has a land area of 24711 Km2 and is between 200 and 250 kilometers in extension. Its elevation is about 486 meters.

Ghardaia is a fortified town located in the M’zab Valley. It is comprised of five separate towns and has its own social hierarchy. The houses here are distinctive and unique, with windows on the roof. In addition, the old town is home to a mosque named Sidi Brahim.

If you are planning to travel to Algeria, Ghardaia is one of the must-see destinations. Its historic and cultural value is rooted in its rich history. The area has traditional architecture and is the second most visited tourist pole in the country after the coast. Some of the must-see sites include the M’zab Valley, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to its traditional architecture, Ghardaia boasts popular markets and picturesque oases.

Timgad

Timgad was a Roman town that was founded in the Aurès Mountains in Algeria around the year 100 CE. Its full name was Colonia Marciana Ulpia Traiana Thamugadi. The city was founded by the Roman Emperor Trajan.

This ancient town was a center for trade and commerce in the Mediterranean, and its ruins are still visible today. Visitors can also view a Roman temple in Timgad. The city is also home to a Martyr’s Memorial. While there, you’ll be able to see the ruins of ancient Roman houses and temples in an impressive mountain setting.

Djemila

If you’re looking for a small mountain village located near the northern coast of Algeria and east of Algiers, Djémila is a must-visit. This small village is home to some of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. You can visit Djémila’s Roman ruins, which are more than 1,000 years old.

The city is also home to a thermal spring. It is located at an altitude of 200 meters and has unique healing properties. This hot spring produces boiling water saturated with minerals. The water is 95-98 degrees and is said to cure nearly all types of diseases.

After you’ve toured the Roman ruins, you can continue to explore the site’s Christian quarters. These include a church with a round Baptistery building, a great bath, and a market. The city’s hilltop location offers a magnificent view of the ancient city below.

The town center features the Severan Forum, which is considered one of the largest in the Paleochristian period. The site also features an extensive collection of mosaic pavings. These pavings depict scenes from daily life and mythology.

Tipaza

The town of Tipaza is the capital of the Tipaza Province, and it was once part of the Roman Empire. Founded in 1857, this town is noted for its sandy littoral and ancient ruins. The town is situated on a peninsula that has an abundance of sandy beaches.

The town itself isn’t very large, but you can get a feel for its beauty by exploring the ruins. The ruins in Tipaza are interesting to explore because they highlight the influence of several different groups of rulers. Visitors can take a boat ride down the river or along the beach to take in the scenery.

The city of Tipaza is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a popular tourist destination for travelers. The site contains ancient ruins and a historic port. It is also known for delicious cuisine from the region.

Tamanrasset

Tamanrasset is a city located in the Ahaggar Mountains and is the capital of the Tamanrasset Province. It is also the chief city of the Algerian Tuareg tribe and sits at an altitude of 1,320 meters. Tamanrasset is also known as Tamanghasset and Tamenghest.

It is located 40km away from Batna and is the site of a Roman town. Although fairly weather-beaten, the ruins are still incredibly impressive. If you have time, you can tour the town and its surrounding ruins. There is a basilica, a theatre, and bath complexes.

Tamanrasset is one of the most beautiful places in Algeria. It is a beautiful oasis town in the south of the country. The area covers an area of 38 square kilometers and sits at around 1400 meters above sea level. Locals call it Tam, and the town is a good base to explore the surrounding area, such as the Ahaggar National Park. However, it is not recommended to visit the town alone, and you must take a fully-guided tour.

The town’s central museum is one of the best in Algeria. It has extensive exhibits and is very well-lit. Highlights include pottery and lamps from Roman Setif and mosaics in the central court of the ground floor.

Casbah of Algiers

The Casbah of Algiers has seen many people over the centuries come and go. It has been occupied by Carthaginians, Berber tribes, Romans, Arabs, and the British. It was also home to Algerian revolutionaries during its struggle for independence.

Today, the Casbah of Algiers is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is an authentic place to visit and its winding alleys and walled gardens are filled with beautiful Ottoman-style houses. Some people say the Casbah is like a labyrinth – a maze of whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and colorful doors.

The Casbah of Algiers spills down to the Mediterranean coast. Its beauty has led to comparisons to the Ark of Noah and to the seeds of a pine cone. The fountains in the Casbah were also praised by Ibn Hawkal and Leo Africanus, who visited Algiers in the sixteenth century.

Chrea National Park

The Chréa National Park is one of the biggest national parks in Algeria and is situated in the Blida Province. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, and it’s worth visiting during your visit to Algeria.

There are a number of walking trails in this national park. The Ketchaoua Mosque, built in 1612, has a long history of religious significance. It was originally a cathedral but was converted into a mosque in 1962. It’s an incredible place to visit and a highlight of any trip to Algeria.

In northern Algeria, visitors can visit the Ouled Said Oasis, the largest in the Sahara desert. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the endangered Barbary Macaque monkey.

Djanet

Djanet is a small town in Algeria that’s slowly becoming a popular tourist destination. It is situated in the desert of the Tassili National Park and is comprised of clusters of villages. The town itself is quite small compared to other cities in the country but has many unique things to do and places to visit.

Djanet has several great hotels that will cater to all your needs. Make sure to choose the right one based on your needs and your desired amenities. For instance, you may want to find a hotel that offers various amenities such as free breakfast, a gym, or pet-friendly rooms.

To get to Djanet, you’ll have to cross the border from Tunisia. The border crossing from Tunisia is easy and takes less than half an hour. It’s also worth noting that the Algerian border officials are very friendly. We were lucky enough to meet two German bikers who had driven across from El Oued to Djanet on their bikes. The two bikers had also cycled from Djanet to Tam and In Salah.

El Oued

A day trip to El Oued is a perfect way to get away from the city and spend some time outside. This ancient city has plenty to offer a traveler. In addition to its historical sites, it also has some great shopping opportunities. The city is home to the famous Bastion 23 – Palais des Rais. This is one of the oldest structures in Algeria and is well worth a visit.

El Oued is one of the best destinations for travelers in Algeria. Known for its shopping opportunities, the city boasts a variety of unique products. Carpets from the region are especially popular. They have unique designs, including the Souf Cross, a brown cross on a light background. Affanes, which are traditional slippers, are also popular items. The city’s souq is a hub of activity, especially on Fridays.

El Oued’s weather is pleasantly pleasant throughout the year. The windiest months are June and May. In these months, the average wind speed is around 5.5 knots, which is considered a light breeze. Top sustained winds are about 14.7 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Conclusion

Algeria is an underrated African country, with a range of stunning places to visit. The country sees far fewer tourists than neighboring countries. It is, however, one of the most beautiful countries in Africa.

For a more detailed understanding of North Africa, read our articles on Morocco, Lybia, Egypt, Tunisia, and Western Sahara.

North Africa is a region spanning the northernmost tip of the African continent. Its boundaries are defined by the Mediterranean to the north and the Sahara Desert to the south. North Africa is home to several countries that have a rich history and cultures.