Top Things to Do in Algiers

The Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the city's well-known medina with Ottoman palaces and labyrinthine alleys dating back centuries. The Basilica of Notre-Dame d'Afrique offers impressive bay views and intricate 19th-century mosaics, while the Martyrs' Memorial (Maqam Echahid) provides panoramic views over the city. The Ketchaoua Mosque in the lower Casbah, originally built in 1612, shows beautiful Moorish-Andalusian architecture.

Official taxis from Houari Boumediene Airport to central Algiers typically cost 1,500-2,500 DZD (roughly $11-18 USD) depending on your exact destination and time of day. The drive takes 20-30 minutes to neighborhoods like Didouche Mourad or the waterfront, though traffic can double this during rush hours. Agree on the fare before departing or insist the meter is used, as airport taxis sometimes quote inflated tourist prices.

The Casbah is generally safe during daylight hours, if you explore the main thoroughfares and upper sections near Martyrs' Square. Hiring a local guide (available near the entrance or through your hotel for around 2,000-3,000 DZD) is highly recommended, not just for safety. But because the maze of narrow streets is confusing and guides unlock hidden courtyards and historical context. Avoid wandering deep into unfamiliar alleys alone, and be respectful when photographing residential areas.

April through June and September through November offer the most comfortable weather, with daytime temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F) and less rainfall than winter months. Summer (July-August) brings heat up to 30-35°C (86-95°F) and many locals leave the city, so some restaurants close, though coastal breezes along the Corniche provide relief. Winter can be surprisingly wet and cool, with temperatures dropping to 10-15°C (50-59°F) and frequent rain from December through February.

For traditional cuisine, head to Restaurant El Djenina in Hydra for excellent couscous and lamb tagines (mains around 1,200-1,800 DZD), or try Le Bearnais near the port for fresh grilled fish. Street food is exceptional, grab merguez sandwiches or karantika (chickpea fritters) from vendors along Rue Didouche Mourad for under 200 DZD. The Marché de la Lyre near the Casbah offers local pastries like makroud and kalb el louz at traditional patisseries.

The Algiers Metro connects major areas like Tafourah, Place des Martyrs, and Haï El Badr with clean, efficient service (tickets around 50 DZD), though the network is limited. Taxis are plentiful and cheap, short rides within central districts run 200-400 DZD, but always confirm the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running. The Téléphérique (cable car) from Martyrs' Square to the upper Casbah and Memorial is both practical and scenic (100 DZD one-way).

Algeria is a predominantly Muslim country where alcohol isn't widely available. But licensed hotels catering to international visitors (like the Sofitel or El Aurassi) have bars and serve wine and beer. You won't find alcohol in most restaurants or stores, and public consumption is prohibited. If you're staying in private accommodations, some travelers bring duty-free purchases from the airport, though selection is limited.

French is extremely useful, most Algerians in the capital speak French alongside Arabic, and many signs, menus, and official documents use French. English is understood by younger people in tourist areas and upscale hotels. But far less commonly than in other Mediterranean cities. Learning basic French phrases for greetings, directions, and ordering food will significantly improve your experience, outside major tourist sites.

Most mosques in Algiers, including Ketchaoua Mosque, don't admit non-Muslims inside, though you can admire exteriors and courtyards. When exploring the Casbah or religious neighborhoods, dress modestly, women should cover shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts. At sites like the Basilica of Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Christian), casual but respectful attire is appropriate.

Credit card acceptance is limited outside of international chain hotels, upscale restaurants, and some larger shops, even then, Visa and Mastercard are more reliable than Amex. Cash (Algerian dinar) is essential for markets, taxis, street food, and most local businesses. ATMs are available in central areas like Didouche Mourad and near major hotels. But inform your bank of travel plans to avoid blocks on foreign withdrawals.

The Casbah's artisan workshops sell handwoven Berber rugs, copper trays, and traditional ceramics that make distinctive gifts, bargaining is expected, so start at 50-60% of the asking price. Look for locally made leather goods like babouche slippers around Place des Martyrs, or Algerian sweets like dates stuffed with almond paste from patisseries on Rue Larbi Ben M'hidi. Silver Kabyle jewelry with coral or enamel inlay is another regional specialty worth seeking out.