Planning a trip to Algeria and not sure where to go? Algeria, the largest country in Africa, is truly vast and diverse, brimming with extraordinary experiences. Even though it’s not a well-known destination in Africa, you should definitely consider adding it to your travel bucket list. You’ll find an extensive Mediterranean coastline, the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert, impressive mountain ranges, fascinating ancient cities, Roman ruins, and a host of other captivating tourist spots.
Interested? Let’s dive into some of the best things you can do in Algeria to fuel your travel inspiration.
First up is Algiers, the capital and largest city of Algeria. Known for its historic landmarks, it’s one of the most intriguing places to visit. There’s so much to explore! Start with the Kasbah of Algiers, a UNESCO-listed Medina teeming with old mosques, Ottoman-style palaces, and traditional houses. Don’t miss the Botanical Garden Hamma for its beautiful scenery and perfect views of the Monument of the Martyr. Also, make time to visit the Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique, an important Catholic basilica.
Algeria’s history is rich with empires and dynasties, including the Roman Empire. One notable site is Timgad, a Roman city in the Aurès Mountains founded around CE 100. This archaeological site is a brilliant example of Roman town planning, featuring a 12-meter high triumphal arch, a 3,500-seat theatre, bath complexes, temples, a library, and a basilica. Timgad’s ruins are so significant that they’ve been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Another must-see is Ghoufi, a canyon and ancient village in Batna Province. The Ghoufi canyon, carved by the Abiod River, stretches approximately four kilometers and offers spectacular viewpoints of geological layers etched into its slopes. The village itself is well-known for its houses overlooking an idyllic oasis.
No trip to Algeria is complete without visiting the Sahara Desert. This immense hot desert spans several North African countries, including Algeria, and is the largest hot desert in the world. Within the Algerian Sahara, you’ll find a variety of tourist attractions and breathtaking landscapes to explore.
Algeria’s Mediterranean coastline is another highlight with its clear, blue waters. You can discover some fantastic spots along the coast:
Djémila, a village near the northern coastline east of Algiers, is home to some of North Africa’s best-preserved Roman ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases how Roman architecture was adapted to a mountain village setting. The ancient ruins include a theatre, historic market, temples, basilicas, arches, public squares, and various houses.
Lastly, visit Constantine, Algeria’s third-largest city, famous for its stunning bridges. Constantine is one of the most picturesque places to visit in the country. While there, stroll through streets lined with beautiful colonial buildings, explore the Constantine Medina (historic town), admire the palace of Ahmed Bey, see the Grande Mosquée de Constantine, and visit the modern Emir Abdelkader mosque. And, of course, don’t miss the city’s captivating bridges!
With this list, you’ll be all set to explore some of the best attractions that Algeria has to offer.