Things to do in Algiers: must-sees and where to stay

In short: in Algiers, get lost in the lanes of the UNESCO-listed Casbah, climb to Notre-Dame d’Afrique for the view over the bay, stroll through the Jardin d’Essai and along the boulevards of the centre, then head to Tipasa for Roman ruins by the sea.

The Casbah

The Ottoman old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992, tumbles down the hill towards the sea: stepped lanes, courtyard houses, palaces and mosques. A tour with a local guide helps you miss nothing and understand its history.

Notre-Dame d’Afrique

Perched above the sea, the basilica offers one of the finest views over the bay of Algiers. Come late in the day, when the light turns the city golden.

The Martyrs’ Memorial

Maqam Echahid towers over the city with its three concrete palm leaves, and offers a wide view over Algiers and the bay.

The Jardin d’Essai du Hamma

A large botanical garden, with avenues of palms and giant fig trees: a green break in the heart of the city. The National Museum of Fine Arts is close by.

The centre and the Grande Poste

The grand boulevards, the neo-Moorish Grande Poste and the cafés of Rue Didouche-Mourad: the centre is best explored on foot.

Tipasa on a day trip

West of Algiers, the Roman ruins of Tipasa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, spread along the Mediterranean among pines and olive trees.

Getting around

• Metro and tram in town, taxis everywhere.
• From the airport: train to Agha station (about 20 to 25 minutes), taxi or transfer.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Algeria.

Where to stay in Algiers?

• Algiers Centre. Grand boulevards, cafés, shops and the Grande Poste, a short walk from the Casbah. Ideal for: first visit, culture.
• Hydra and El Biar. Residential districts on the heights, with hotels and restaurants, quieter. Ideal for: comfort, quiet.
• Sidi Fredj. A seaside resort and marina, west of the city. Ideal for: beach, families.

The areas and useful services are on our Algiers page.