Algiers is a modern North African city in a country emerging from a troubled past. Here, the old and the new stand side by side to welcome the traveler.

Downtown Algiers, Algeria

Known as Alger in French and Al Djazair in Arabic, Algiers is the capital city of Algeria on the Mediterranean Coast. The skyline is dominated by two shapes: the Martyrs Monument (Makam ech-Chahid) in the south and in the city center, the box-like shape of the Hotel Aurassi.

In Algiers the commercial and business center is directly south of the medina. Everything is either right there or close by. Nothing is far from the main street Rue Larbi ben M’Hidi, a tree lined pedestrian precinct running out of the Place Grand Post, a major square.

The new Grand Mosque in Algiers being built at present, will be the third largest mosque in the world when completed, able to accommodate a staggering number of some 120 thousand worshipers.

Accommodation in Algiers

Good places to stay in the lower and middle price range in Algiers can be found around the Place Port Said area.

For top-end accommodation, visitors can stay at the one of the luxury hotels like the legendary Hotel el Djazair, a five star hotel with a history, in the city center.

The working week in Algeria is from Saturday to Thursday like in most Islamic countries. Credit cards are not much use here, cash is a better option.

When in Algiers be sure to visit the National Museum of Antiquities and the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions.

Algiers - Music, Restaurants and Other Info

“The Algiers music is made of an extraordinary diversity of styles and repertories. The asri or modern music, the Andalusian and his noubat, the chaâbi or town music, without speaking about the Oranian spoke which broke on Algiers, Algeria and on the world in the Nineties.” From the website that is a really good guide to Algiers.

Some of Algeria’s top attractions: Also see (North Africa - Cities in Algeria)

• Interesting ruins can be found at at Djemila, Tipasa and Timgad.
• Tipasa, about 70 kms west of Algiers is the site of Roman and Phoenician ruins, right on the coast, set in thick bush. Camp there or stay at the Hotel Sindbad. ( A good day trip).
• Chrea and Blida – 70 km South of Algiers, in the mountains is the ski resort of Chrea which you approach from the town of Blida.
• The Tassili n'Ajjer is a mountain range in the Sahara desert in southeast Algeria. Explore this World Heritage Site, named the Tassili n'Ajjer National Park. The range is also noted for its prehistoric rock paintings and other ancient archaeological sites.
• The Thamugadi (Timgad) Ruin in Algeria is located 40 km east of Batna .
• Discover the historical city of Tlemcen, surrounded by olive plantations and vineyards with a population of around 130,000. Enjoy textiles and handicrafts and an elegant blend of Arab, Berber and French cultures.

Beaches and Nightlife in Algeria

Algeria isn’t really a beach country although there are some really good beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Besides a number of outdoor activities, travelers will find that the city or town they are staying in often enjoys a fairly vibrant nightlife.

Lonely Planet Advises: In the desert regions of the south tourists are strongly advised to travel with a reputable tourist agency and it is compulsory for self-drive tourists to be accompanied by an Algerian guide.

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