Algiers
Algiers (Arabic: الجزائر, al-Jazāʾir; Berber: ⵍⴷⵣⴰⵢⵔ ⵜⴰⵎⴰⵏⴰⵖⵜ, lezzayer tamanaɣt; French: Alger) is the capital of Algeria as well as the country's largest city.
Located right on the Mediterranean coast, Algiers is a city of contrasts, with a blend of modern and traditional architecture, as well as stunning natural beauty. Tourists to Algiers can explore its rich cultural heritage, including its Ottoman and French colonial influences, or take in the views of the Bay of Algiers. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure, Algiers is a great destination to explore.
Understand
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Districts
editThe city is divided into 13 districts.
| Zéralda District |
| Chéraga District |
| Draria District |
| Birtouta District |
| Bir Mourad Raïs District |
| Bouzaréah District |
| Bab El Oued District Home of the Casbah. |
| Hussein Dey District |
| Sidi M'Hamed District |
| El Harrach District |
| Baraki District |
| Dar El Beïda District The city's most populous district and the traveller's main entry point to the city as Algeria's main international airport is situated here. |
| Rouïba District |
Etymology
editHistory
editAlgiers is the capital city of Algeria, located in the northern part of the country. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea and is the largest and most populous city in the country. Algiers is a bustling city of over 3 million people. It is home to many educational institutions, including the University of Algiers, the country's most prestigious institution of higher learning.
The city has a rich history and culture, ranging from archaeological sites to modern architecture. The city is home to iconic buildings such as the Ketchaoua Mosque, the National Library of Algiers, and the Algiers Opera House. The city also has several museums such as the National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art, and the National Museum of Fine Arts of Algiers.
Get in
editBy plane
edit- 1 Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG IATA) (is 20 km (12 mi) south-east of Algiers). The largest airport is Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) with an approximately yearly passenger traffic of 7.5 million people. The airport is named after former president Houari Boumediene.
It also hosts the national carrier, Air Algérie, which serves the largest Algerian cities such as Oran, Annaba, Tammanrasset, Skikda, Tlemcen, Constantine several times daily. There also many connections to African capitals such as Bamako, Cairo, Abidjan, Dakar, Tunis Ouagadougou, etc.
Air Algérie operates from Hall 1. Hall 2 is reserved for the international airlines.
International airlines
- Air France (Marseilles, Paris-Charles de Gaulle)
- Air Canada (Montreal)
- ASL Airlines France (Lille, Lyon, Paris-Charles de Gaulle)
- British Airways (London-Heathrow, London-Gatwick)
- EgyptAir (Cairo)
- Emirates (Dubai-International)
- Iberia (Madrid)
- ITA Airways (Milan-Malpensa, Rome-Fiumicino)
- Libyan Airlines (Tripoli)
- Lufthansa (Frankfurt)
- Nouvelair (Tunis)
- Middle East Airlines (Beirut)
- Qatar Airways (Doha)
- Royal Air Maroc (Casablanca, Oudja)
- Saudi Arabian Airlines (Jeddah)
- Syrian Arab Airlines (Aleppo, Damascus)
- TAP Portugal (Lisbon)
- Transavia (Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, Paris-Orly)
- Tunisair (Tunis)
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)
- Tui fly Belgium (Brussels)
- Volotea (Bordeaux)
- Vueling (Alicante, Barcelona, Marseille, Valencia)
Airport transfer
edit- Taxi (Outside of Hall 2). Taxis can be found outside of the Hall 2; as they have no meters, a price should be settled in advance. The ride to the centre of Algiers takes around 20 min and costs about 1000 - 1500 DA. From the center to the airport is cheaper, about 600 DA. Make sure to discuss the price before riding.
- Bus. The bus operates every 30 min in the daytime to the centre. It costs DA25 paid to the bus driver.
- Commuter trains (Station is located east of terminal 1). There are commuter trains about once per hour from the airport to destinations within the greater Algiers region.
By train
editAlgiers is the hub for passenger railways in Algeria and there are at least daily trains from most major cities. All trains are operated by SNTF[dead link]. Most long-distance train departures and arrives at Agha railway station.
By car
editBeing the capital of the country most, if not all major roadways in Algeria begin and end in Algiers. So getting into Algiers is quite easy. However, the infrastructure of Algerian roadways is not highly regarded so arriving by road might not be the most desirable option. There are a number of road projects around the country that are aimed at improving the infrastructure, most notably the east–west highway running from Annaba in the east to Oran in the west, of course coming through Algiers.
Be careful about traffic jams, especially in downtown Algiers. There are almost no traffic lights. Lights are replaced by policemen. There are police and military checkpoints almost in every municipality. Slowing down is highly recommended. Utilization of mobile phones when driving is strictly prohibited. Be sure to have your seat belts on.
By bus
editLa Gare Routière, Algiers's central bus terminus, in the commune of Hussein Dey (7-10 min drive from downtown), offers a plethora of bus services to most major Algerian cities and towns cheaply and efficiently. Most of the coaches used are modern and air-conditioned so the rides are, more often than not, comfortable. However, there are a few old coaches still in service, so try to avoid those, for the ride won't be as pleasant.
For long distances such as Algiers-Tammanrasset or Algiers-Annaba travelling by plane is recommended due the long duration.
By boat
editThere are regular ferry services to Algiers from Marseille and Alicante. Algérie Ferries has the most destinations, but there are a few other shipping companies. The ferry terminal is located right in the centre of the city, next to the railway station.
Get around
editAlgiers has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and taxis. Trams are a great way to get around the city quickly, as they cover many of the main areas. Taxis are also available, and you can easily find one in the city center.
By metro
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After three decades of construction, the first segment of the Algiers Metro finally opened in 2011. The main line runs from Place des Martyrs next to the Casbash to Haï El Badr, with stops along several of the most important places in the city. From there it continues to El Harrach Centre. An extension line starts from Haï El Badr and terminates at Aïn Naâdja.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, either from a ticket machine (multiple languages but only takes coins) or from an attendant. A single trip ticket costs DA50, or a 10-trip ticket can be purchased for DA400.
By taxi
editTaxis are a great way to get around Algiers. The best way to find a taxi is to look for one of the many taxi stands located around the city. You may even hail a taxi at the airport. It is important to check the taxi's meter to ensure that the fare is fair and reasonable; some taxi drivers in Algiers will try to take advantage of tourists and charge more than the regular fare. You can also book a taxi online through services such as Yassir and Careem.
By bus
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Buses operate within the city centre and to the suburbs: tickets are purchased on the bus for DA20. Typically, a man with a bundle of tickets approaches you when you board.
By tram
editGetting around Algiers by tram is remarkably economical; a ticket typically costs DA40. The trams are modern, air-conditioned, and are accessible to people with mobility issues. You may buy a ticket at a designated tram kiosk and you can get all the information you need at a tram kiosk.
By rail
editAlgiers has a small regional train network, connecting the suburbs with the central city as well as the airport. While not particular useful for tourists, it might be a good option if you are planning to visit some of the surrounding towns.
By foot
editAlgiers is a large city, so the best way to get around by foot is to plan your route before setting out. The best way to get around is to identify the main landmarks and attractions you want to visit, and map out a route that takes you to each one. Pay attention to street signs and always make sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times. You should also consider the time of day – many shops close after dark and street lighting is often poor, so there will be a lot less people outside.
By bike
editCycling is rather rare as many parts of Algiers are built on hills, and traffic can be dangerous. It can however be an option to explore the downtown, coastal or other areas. Bike rental is not so easy to find, but there are some bike shops that are willing to rent too.
At the Sablette beach promenade (see Do), bike rental is also available to cycle the few kilometres of track next to the sea.
1 Culture vélo, ☏ +213 550608448. DA2000 for 24h.
See
edit- 1 Great Mosque of Algiers. Built in 1097 and added upon by the French in the 1840s.
- 2 Martyrs' Memorial (Maqam Echahid) (in city center). An iconic concrete monument commemorating the Algerian war for independence. In the basement, there is an exhibition about the independence war, basically an exhibition of various kinds of arms the rebels used. DA50.
- 3 National Museum of Fine Arts of Algiers, 178, Place Dar Essalem. Sa M-W 09:00-18:00, Th 09:00-17:00, Su closed. One of the largest arts museums in Africa with over 8,000 works, includes paintings, drawings, engravings and old prints, sculptures, old furniture and decorative art, ceramics, glassware, as well as a numismatic collection. The museum features both Dutch and French masters as well as emblematic Algerian artists such as Baya, Yellès and Racim. DA200.
- 4 Grande Poste d'Alger. A masterpiece of neo-Moorish architecture built in 1910 by the French.
- 5 Palais des Raïs. A classified historical monument. DA200.
- 6 Jardin d'essais of el-hamma (jardin d'essai) (Take any station metro station of the main line and get out at Jardin D'essai metro station.). 09:00-16:00. DA150.
- 7 Djamaa el Djazaïr (Great Mosque of Algiers). Large mosque with tallest minaret in the world. Built in 2012, it is the third-largest mosque in the world. Anyone is allowed in during prayer times, both for prayer or visiting.
- 8 Bardo National Museum (المتحف الوطني باردو).
- 9 National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art.
- 10 Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions.
- 11 Museum of Modern Art of Algiers.
- 12 Basilica of Our Lady of Africa. Catholic basilica completed in 1872.
- 13 Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sidi M’Hamed 16000 Algiers. Catholic cathedral completed in 1956. Free.
Casbah
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The Casbah is the ancient city, dating to the 17th century. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- 14 Ketchaoua Mosque. Built in 1794 by the Dey Baba Hassan.
- 15 El Djedid Mosque. Built in 1660 during the Turk reign.
- 16 El Barani Mosque (مسجد براني). Built by the Ottomans in 1653
- 17 Ali la Pointe Museum (متحف علي لابوانت).
- Palace of the Dey ((Arabic: قصر الداي) also known as Algiers Castle (Arabic: قلعة الجزائر)), Boulevard Mohamed Taleb, Casbah. 08:30-16:00. Palace of the Dey, also known as Algiers Castle, is an Ottoman era palace in the city of Algiers, Algeria. Completed in the 16th century, it is situated inside the Casbah of Algiers, and settled by successive deys of the city. The palace can be visited: you get the chance to walk through the house of a dey and enjoy all the luxury accommodations.
Do
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Parks, theme parks, nightclubs and local restaurants are not very difficult to find. Local and casbah shops are relatively cheap and have nearly everything.
Taking a stroll along the beach promenade and park at 1 Sablette. is a popular family activity. It is however not easy to reach as it's separated from the rest of town by a major highway.
Like taking risks? Then you can go to any mountain in the countryside and climb it. Visiting the beach during sunset can feel romantic.
Beaches
edit- 18 Marina Palm. Beach club.
Buy
editMoney Exchange
Unofficially exchanging money can be done in the Square Port Said and in Abane Ramdane Street, and in some shops in the area such as mobile phone operators. It's an incredibly common practice and transactions are done openly. The exchange rate is typically 40%-50% better than the official rate. People are most interested in exchanging euro. As of March 2024, you can get about DA235 for €1.
Shop
- Handmade Art, 28 Rue des fréres Kadri, Hydra, ☏ +213540980195. Sa-Th 10:00-18:00. Traditional handcraft shop (ceramics, leather work, stationery, basketry)
- L’épicerie, 5 Rue Professeur Curtillet Sacré Cœur , Alger, ☏ +213540980195. 09:00-19:00. There is a little grocery store nearby the restaurant where you can find quality-sourced products (olive oil, spices, nut spreads, vinegar, cutlery, pastries…).
- Librairie Le 88 (Librairie 88 Didouche Mourad), 88 rue Didouche Mourad, Sidi M'Hamed. Bookshop with publications in French and Arabic. There are university research publications about colonialism, feminism, books for children, novels and poetry by Arabic authors. You can also find postcards.
Eat
editThere are several restaurants in the Bois des Arcades area. This is the hill 500 m southeast of the big Martyrs memorial. Particularly good views over Algiers and the coast can be found from here. The hill is also a woodland, so is a nice area for walking too.
- 1 Al Boustan Restaurant (El Boustene), Bois des Arcades Riadh El Feth. Panoramic restaurant overlooking Algiers. The restaurant is modern and very smart. An outdoor terrace offers the best views of Algiers and the coast. Food is excellent.
- Sapori, 20 Rpe Chasseloup-Laudat, Casbah Alger, ☏ +213540559400, saporidz@gmail.com. M-Sa 11:30-15:00 and 19:00-23:00. Couscous bar
- Le Ciloc, 6 Rue de savoie, Hydra, ☏ +213562071211, contacte.leciloc@gmail.com. Sa-Th 08:00-00:00, F 19:00-00:00. Genuine Constantine food in a quiet and traditional atmosphere.
Fast food
edit- 2 L'aqua Tacos, ☏ +213 776 48 24 24, support@laquatacos.com. A fast-food chain serving tacos and pizza. You can even order from them online.
- 3 House of Burgers Bab-Ezzouar, ☏ +213 559 55 53 28. A branch of an Algerian fast-food chain. Serves burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken and fries and can accommodate up to 40 people. DA50-1400 depending on what you order.
Drink
editAlgeria's red wine is of very high quality and will be appreciated by wine aficionados. It is rarely found on the international market. Locally produced beer is good quality. Alcohol is readily available in hotels, good restaurants and shops.
- Seventy-Five Lounge at El Aurassi Hotel, 2, Boulevard Frantz Fanon, Les Tagarins. Enjoy a drink (with or without alcohol) with a beautiful view over Algiers and the bay.
Learn
edit- 2 University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene. One of the most prestigious universities in Algeria.
Sleep
editBudget
editA good place to look for a hotel is Rue Abane Ramdane, which is in central Algiers. There are several hotels with prices starting from DA2000-2500 for the cheapest category.
- Central Touring Hotel, 9, rue Abane Ramdane. Has some kind of atmosphere, though for a cheap price. There are various categories of rooms, with shared toilets and showers, private showers only or private toilet + shower. DA2000-5000.
- Hôtel El Badr, 31, Rue Amar El Kama ex (rue de chartres), contact@elbadrhotel.com. Located in the Casbah, quite run-down inside. It offers online booking, but prices are much cheaper if you just come and pay in cash (especially if you change money the unofficial way). This hotel can send you an official booking confirmation which the Algerian consulates will (hopefully) accept for visa application. From about DA1300.
Mid-range
edit- 1 Ibis Alger-Aéroport Hotel, Route de l'université, ☏ +213 21 98 80 20.
- 2 Hotel Suisse, rue Lieutenant Salah Boulhart (ex-Drouillet), ☏ +213 21631009. Town centre hotel. Old and charming, but reasonably comfortable. Good value for town centre. Wireless internet throughout is fast.
Splurge
edit- 3 Sheraton Club des Pins Resort, Boite Postal 62, ☏ +213 21 37 77 77. Beachfront resort.
- 4 Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden Hotel, 172 Rue Hassiba Ben Bouali, ☏ +213 21 68 52 10.
- 5 Hyatt Regency Algiers Airport, Houari Boumediene Airport, Algiers, Algeria, 16033, ☏ +213 2355 1234, algiers.regency@hyatt.com. DA25000-30000 a night.
- 6 Ibis Alger-Aéroport Hotel, Route de l'université, ☏ +213 21 98 80 20. Check-in: 12:00. 5 minutes away from Houari Boumediene Airport. Twin room from €95 a night.
Stay safe
edit- See also: Algeria#Stay_safe
Algiers is a relatively safe place. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and dangers of visiting Algiers, as well as how to stay safe while in the city.
First and foremost, visitors should be aware of the security situation in Algeria, and the political situation in the region. The country saw its share of violence in the late 1980s/early 1990s and has faced continuing threats of terrorism since, so it is important to stay informed about any potential security threats and to always be aware of your surroundings.
Visitors should also be aware of the local laws and customs. For example, it is important to respect the country's religious beliefs and to dress appropriately when visiting mosques or other places of worship. Additionally, drinking alcohol in public places is not allowed.
Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid traveling alone, especially at night. The streets of Algiers very quickly empty of women after around 18:00, and of almost all people by 20:00. It may not be unsafe, but it is eerie. It is also important to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or other valuable items, as well as leaving them in plain sight. It is also important to take common precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings when in public places, as opportunistic bag snatching may occur.
Emergency numbers
edit- To contact the Algerian police, dial 1548.
- To contact the Algerian fire department, dial 14.
- To contact the Algerian parademics, dial 0 213 23 54 44 28.
Connect
editYou can reach most cities by buses or trains. For train information, visit the sntf website. Be careful, there are two train stations in Algiers. Most trains leave from the Agha station.
Cope
editThere are more than 90 embassies in Algiers.
Embassies
edit3 Angola, 90 Domaine Ben Haddadi Said Dar Diaf, Cheraga El Biar, ngolamd@amb-angola.gov.dz.
4 Argentina, 5, Chemin Mackley, Ben Aknoun, ☏ +213 21 54-8665, +213 21 69-1269, earge@cancilleria.gob.ar.
Belgium, 22, Chemin Youcef Tayebi, 16030 El Biar, ☏ +213 21-922446.
Brazil, 55, bis Chemin Cheikh Bachir El Ibrahimi, El Biar, ☏ +213 21 924437, fax: +213 21 924125, brasemb.argel@itamaraty.gov.br.
Canada, 18 Mustapha Khalef St, Ben Aknoun, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 91 49 51.
China, 34 Boulevard Des Martyrs, ☏ +213 21 69 2724, fax: +213 21 69 3056. Su-Th 08:30-12:00, 14:00-18:00.
Croatia, 26. Bis, Rue Hadj Ahmed Mohamed – Hydra, ☏ +213 21 48 49 07.
Czech Republic, 3, Chemin du Ziryab, Telemly, Ben Aknoun, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 230056, algiers@embassy.mzv.cz.
Denmark, 12 Ave Emile Marquis, Lot. Djenane El-Malik, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 548 228.
Egypt, 8 Chemin Gaddouche, Hydra, ☏ +213 21 692646, fax: +213 21 692952, embassy.algeria@mfa.gov.eg. Su-Th 09:00-15:00.
Finland, 10 Rue des Cedrest El Mouradia BP 103, ☏ +213 21-692 925, fax: +213-21-691 637, sanomat.alg@formin.fi. M-Th 09:00-12:00.
France, 25 Chemin Gaddouche, Hydra 1600, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 69 24 88.
Germany, 165, Chemin Sfindja (ex Laperlier), Algiers, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 74 19 41.
Greece, 60, Blv Colonel Bougara, 16030 El Biar, Alger, Algiers, BP 103, ☏ +213 21-92 12 28, fax: +213 21-92 34 90, gremb.alg@mfa.gr.
Hungary, 18, Avenue des Freres Oughlis BP 68 El-Mouradia, BP 103, ☏ +213 21-923288.
- Indonesia, 17 Chemin Abdelkader Gadouche, Hydra B.P 62 El-Mouradia +213672531636
Italy, 18, Rue Mohammed Ouidir Amellal, 16030 El Biar, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 9259 86.
Malaysia, Lottisement Zergoug, Villa No. 9, Hydra, BP 103, ☏ +213 21 60 68 12, malalgier@kln.gov.my. 08:30 - 16:30.
Nigeria, Nox 6, Rue Nox 3, Paradou, Hydra, ☏ +213 23459089, nigeria.algiers@foreignaffairs.gov.ng. Su-Th 09:00-16:00.
Romania, 24, Rue Abri Arezki, Hydra, 16035, ☏ +213 23 48 55 87, fax: +213 23 48 55 86, alger@mae.ro.
Serbia, 7, Rue des Freres Benhafid, 16035 Hydra, ☏ +213 21 69 12 18, fax: +213 21 69 34 72.
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, 3 Chemin Capitaine Hocine Slimane, ☏ +213 770 085 000.
United States of America, 3 05 Chemin Cheikh Bachir Ibrahimi El-Biar 16030, ☏ +213 770-08-2000.
