Things to Do in Algiers

About Algiers

Where Mediterranean waves kiss ancient Berber shores and French colonial grandeur mingles with Islamic architectural poetry, Algiers unfolds like a living manuscript of North African history. The Casbah's labyrinthine streets whisper tales of centuries past, while whitewashed buildings cascade down hillsides toward azure waters, earning the city its romantic moniker 'Alger la Blanche.' Here, the call to prayer echoes through palm-lined boulevards where sidewalk cafés serve mint tea alongside animated conversations in Arabic, French, and Berber dialects. Modern galleries and traditional hammams coexist in harmonious contradiction, while the scent of jasmine and grilled merguez drifts through evening air. This is Algeria's beating heart—a city where revolutionary history lives in every stone, where hospitality runs deeper than the Mediterranean itself, and where every sunset over the Bay of Algiers paints the sky in hues that match the warmth of its people's welcome.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Yassir for city transport. The metro system is limited but efficient for downtown areas. Avoid unofficial taxis and always negotiate fares upfront. Walking in the Casbah requires sturdy shoes due to steep, uneven cobblestone streets.

Money: Carry Algerian dinars in cash as credit cards aren't widely accepted. Exchange money at banks or official bureaux de change—avoid street exchanges. ATMs are available but may have limited foreign card compatibility. Budget approximately 3,000-5,000 DZD daily for mid-range dining and activities.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or traditional neighborhoods. Women should cover shoulders and wear long pants. Remove shoes when entering homes. During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking publicly during daylight hours. Photography of military/government buildings is strictly prohibited.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants with high turnover for the freshest meals. Try traditional couscous, tagines, and fresh seafood near the harbor. Bottled water is recommended. Street food from established vendors is generally safe, but avoid raw vegetables at unfamiliar establishments.

When to Visit

Algiers enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal personalities. Spring (March-May) offers ideal conditions with temperatures ranging 18-24°C (64-75°F) and minimal rainfall (20-40mm monthly). This is peak season with accommodation prices 25-30% higher, but perfect for exploring the Casbah and coastal walks. Summer (June-August) brings hot, dry weather with temperatures reaching 28-32°C (82-90°F) and virtually no rain. While beaches beckon, intense heat makes sightseeing challenging midday. Prices remain elevated due to European vacation season. Autumn (September-November) delivers the sweet spot for many travelers—warm seas, comfortable temperatures (20-26°C), and shoulder season pricing 15-20% below peak rates. The September International Festival of Rai Music adds cultural vibrancy. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures (12-18°C) with moderate rainfall (60-80mm monthly), offering the lowest accommodation prices (30-40% below peak) and fewer crowds. Cultural sites remain accessible, though beach activities are limited. The Yennayer Berber New Year (January 12) provides authentic cultural immersion. For optimal weather and cultural experiences, visit during April-May or October-November when temperatures, pricing, and crowd levels achieve perfect balance.