Algeria is a fascinating country. Such a long history and precious heritage of the North of Algeria, left by Roman Empire, Ottomans, Spaniards or French. Moreover, the natural beauty of the queen of the deserts – Sahara. If you are wandering what to see in Algeria, I will try to inspire you with the photos from my trip.
Algeria is one of these countries which tourists tend to skip. Not because there is nothing to see, actually the contrary. But people often have not enough knowledge about the country, outdated information about safety in Algeria or they simply prefer other destinations. Algeria is not as easy goal for tourists as other countries, due to the difficult visa process or not enough tourism infrastructure.
Why did I go to Algeria?
I love to visit unusual destinations. Explore places which not many tourists reach. Sometimes it’s a wrong decision, as was in Timore Leste, where I was totally scared of people, crocodiles and black magic. However, sometimes I can’t help and my adventurous part takes over.
Few years ago, I lived for 6 months in the neighbour country Tunisia. There, I heard lots of good things about Algeria and really wanted to visit, as I was so close. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the visa, as I could do it only in my home country, not in Tunisian consulate. I was left with the dream about going to Algeria until 2018, when I finally got a chance to visit it!
What to see on the North of Algeria?
Traveling on the North of Algeria is a great change to see stunning coastline views, have a bath in the sea and explore the heritage of the past centuries. Does it sound like a perfect plan for your vacations?
Algiers – the capital of Algeria
Algiers has the biggest airport and the most of the flight connections in the country. Therefore, going to Algeria you will most likely start from there. No matter if you are going for a short trip to Algeria or have a lot of time to explore, seeing the heritage of the capital, the heart of Algiers – The Kasbah – is a must! This is where the history of the city can be seen on every step. I prepared 2 days itinerary in Algiers, where I mention the highlights of the city.
Tipaza – ancient Roman-period ruins
Just a stone throw from Algiers, you can reach ancient ruins, beloved by Albert Camus. Tipaza is a perfect idea for one day trip from Algiers. Apart from the city of Tipaza, you can also reach ancient ruins in Cherchell, as well as see the unique Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania.
Oran – the most liberal city in Algeria
Oran was my favorite city in Algeria due to the beautiful coastline views and open-minded people I met. Wherever you go in Algeria you will hear that Oran has the most liberal society across the country, which also has a great impact on art and culture. Oran is so called Paris of Algeria, as there is a vibrant night life, which does not exist in more conservative parts of the country. What’s more, the city is worth discovery of the history. You can read about it in what to see in Oran, as well as explore the touristic sites in the area of Oran.
Tlemcen – the Andalusia of Algeria
The city of Tlemcen is one of the most historically important cities in Algeria. Tlemcen itinerary might seem a bit like walking down the streets in Andalusia, Spain as the architecture is very similar. Heritage of the period when it was one of the most significant points on the caravan way from Sahara to Europe, is simply beautiful. Read why you shouldn’t skip Tlemcen while in Algeria.
Bejaia – the most beautiful coastline views
Bejaia has a stunning view from the National Park de Gouraya. You can walk around to the view points on Gouraya and Pic des singes – where you can see some monkeys. From the Monkeys Hill, there is also a trail leading to the Cap Carbon, where the lighthouse is. Stunning waters and amazing views guaranteed!
Constantine – the city of bridges
When I was coming to Constantine, I heard it’s a city of bridges and had an image in my head of the valley. You cannot imagine how surprised I was when I saw the gorge and how deep and beautiful it is! While in Constantine, you can also see the palace of Ahmed Bey and ruins of the Antonian Roman Aqueduct.
Timgad – well preserved Roman town
Timgad is a perfect one day trip from Constantine. Ruins of the Roman-period town include the baths, capitol, theater or forum as well as the unique public library. As I mentioned, the remains are well preserved and you can admire a perfect example of a Roman architecture.
The best time to go to the North of Algeria?
I was visiting the North of Algeria during the summer. The temperatures were high, sometimes up to 35-40 degrees Celsius. Going to the desert during summer is not possible. If you are sensitive to the heat, better come to Algeria during the spring or autumn. Winter gets cold and windy on the North of Algeria.
Check out the survival gide with tips about traveling in Algeria.
PL Pszczoła kocha przyrodę, kwiaty oraz herbatę. Najbardziej sprawia jej przyjemność życie i podróże w rytmie slow, bez pośpiechu. Stara się podróżować bardziej ekologicznie i inspirować do tego innych. Lubi poznawać inne kultury, tradycje, spędzać czas z lokalnymi i kosztować ich przysmaków. Jej ulubione miejsca w każdej podróży to uliczne bazary.
ENG The Bee is a nature lover and tea addict. Loves the idea of slow life and responsible traveling, constantly trying to improve to bee more eco-friendly. Appreciates old cultures and traditions, loves to immerse with locals, listen to ethnic music as well as taste regional food and drinks. Her favorite spots while traveling are family houses and street markets.
It’s definitely the ancient ruins that draw me to Algeria, though I’ve not yet made a visit. Your photos make me want to book a trip, especially to visit Tipaza and Timgad ruins. I’d also like to explore the cities of Algiers, Oran and Constantine.
North of Algeria is full of beautiful heritage, I am sure you would love it!
It would be really fascinating to see amalgamation of ancient cultures of Ottomans, Spaniards, French and Roman all together in Algeria. I ndver knew about Oran and would love to see beautiful coastline there. Also day trip to Roman Timagad sounds interesting.
Glad you like it Yukti. Hope you can visit Algeria one day.
Algeria seems like a very beautiful country! It’s been in my list now for a long time. I want to visit Constantine! It looks so amazing! Can’t wait to take a selfie on it.
Haha good luck with the selfie, it’s a stunning and deep george over there
I know so little about Algeria that I’ve appreciated all your posts. Onan’s openness and liberal people is not what I pictured. Tigads Roman ruins are amazing. Is that last photo in the post one of the bridges in Constantine?
Yes, it’s COnstantine as well, the beautiful city of bridges
Now I got it when someone from Algeria told me that her country is beautiful. Look at Bejaia! I can’t believe it’s in Algeria. Tlemcen is exotic with its architecture, while the landscape of Oran and Constantine are just incredible. Fortunately you could go there and share your experience with others.
I am glad to visit Algeria. One of the less visited countries but yet, holding a lot of stunning heritage.
Another great post about Algeria that makes me want to visit even more! I never knew that you can find a place that looks so Andalusian in Algeria. That ancient Roman town looks amazing too. Would love to visit someday.
I am glad I contributed to your bucket list 😉
Wow! I did not realize that Alegria has a lot of beautiful scenery. Taking your advice to visit during spring or autumn, I am looking forward to visiting this wonderful place soon. Thank you for sharing about it.
You are welcome Clarice :* Let me know if you have some questions regarding visiting Algeria
Wow! In simple words, north of Algeria feels like a non-touristy version of Greece Santorini!
Its good that you spent some time in Tunisia, and got to explore these less touristy countries.
Timgad Roman ruins the most fascinating thing for me in this list.
Thank you Bhushavali, it’s not touristic at all, not many people reach there. You know this feeling of the explorer? Like when you are somewhere as a first tourist, even though you are not 😛
Well, you are so right when you say people avoid places like Algeria due to outdated information around Safety. That is the primary reason I have not yet thought of visiting this country but your experience, words and pictures are surely changing my mind. I had no idea Algeria had so much to offer and it clearly looks like a beautiful place to visit.
Glad to hear that 🙂 Thanks!
Kraj w sumie bardzo często pomijany na listach “najpopularniejszych kierunków turystycznych” a szkoda bo poradnik zdecydowanie zachęca do odwiedzenia.
To prawda, mało osób odwiedza Algierię, brak o niej powszechnej wiadomości oraz nie ma wcale reklamy i polityki rozwijającej i promującej turystykę w tym kraju.
We will create the stream
peace on earth
by this story
Lots and lots of history in Algeria, definitely a destination to add in one’s bucket list. Awesome photos, quite the inspiration.
I love to explore d world. Travelling in group is my dream due to safety purpose..but I love to take challenge for myself to travel alone. Love to hear from you d tips & preparations before travel especially fly to African country.
As a Muslim (Islam), few info have to focus especially foods & safety. Hope you can share as much as u can. Thanks dear fren.
Thank you so much for visiting my website. I tried to share as much as possible in the other posts about Algeria including safety and practical tips.
Beautiful photos, they are exciting, a great blog. Thanks for sharing!
I have read about Algeria before too, so on this basis, I can say that it will be an attractive place.
According to me, it’s a highly recommended place to visit.
Suggestion, (unless I missed it) post the date of your visit somewhere. I can estimate based on the comments date though.
Some of the countries you post about are changing quickly. For example, I see that you mentioned that women in Saudi must be fully covered outside, however this has changed in the past few years and it is now optional.
Otherwise, I find your articles provide lots of good details and insights!