Day 1: Algiers – Discovering the Capital
Start your trip in Algiers, the bustling capital of Algeria. You’ll want to explore the old Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the few Ottoman-style medinas still standing. Stroll through the winding narrow streets and take in the local vibe.
Visit the Ketchaoua Mosque, a gem reflecting both Ottoman and French influences. Next, walk up to the Martyrs’ Memorial for a sweeping view of the city. It’s a great spot for photos and to learn more about Algeria’s fight for independence.
If you have energy left, head to the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, a peaceful botanical garden. Here, you can relax or take a leisurely walk before finishing your day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Algiers – Art, History, and Views
On your second day, it’s time to learn more about Algeria’s history. Stop by the National Museum of Antiquities for a solid overview of the country’s past, from prehistoric times to the Islamic period. The artifacts here give you a sense of the country’s rich heritage.
Then, make your way to the Bardo Museum of Prehistory and Ethnography. This museum has some great exhibits on Algeria’s cultural diversity and history. The building is also stunning.
In the evening, head to the Notre-Dame d’Afrique, a beautiful basilica perched above Algiers. The views of the sea and the city are stunning, especially around sunset.
Day 3: Oran – Algeria’s Second City
Take an early flight or train to Oran, Algeria’s vibrant second city. It’s a more relaxed place than Algiers, with a Mediterranean feel. Start your day walking around the central square, the Place du 1er Novembre.
Head toward Fort Santa Cruz for incredible views of the bay and the city below. While there, visit the nearby Church of Santa Cruz, which has become a symbol of Oran.
Make sure you also visit the Bey’s Palace for a touch of the city’s Ottoman history. For the afternoon, roam around the lively neighborhoods and enjoy the French-colonial architecture. Wrap up your day with dinner in one of Oran’s seafood restaurants.
Day 4: Tlemcen – Culture and History
Take a quick trip to Tlemcen, an underrated but impressive city in western Algeria. It’s about a two-hour drive from Oran. Known for its Islamic architecture, Tlemcen is perfect if you’re into history and culture.
Start your day by visiting the Great Mosque of Tlemcen, an important medieval site dating back to the 11th century. The craftsmanship of the stone and wood details are remarkable. Next, stop by the El Mechouar Palace, a reminder of the glory days of the Zianid dynasty. It’s a peaceful spot to wander and learn about the city’s royal past.
For some downtime, take a short trip outside the city to the waterfalls at El Awja or the scenic Lalla Setti park. Wrap up with a visit to the Sidi Boumediene Mausoleum, one of the most significant religious sites in the area.
Day 5: Constantine – City of Bridges
End your trip in Constantine, one of the most striking cities in Algeria. It’s known for its dramatic cliffs and bridges connecting different parts of the city. Crossing the Sidi M’Cid Bridge offers incredible views of the Rhumel River gorge below.
In the morning, check out the impressive Palace of Ahmed Bey, which showcases Ottoman and Arab craftsmanship. Then, visit the Museum of Cirta to learn about the region’s long history, from ancient Roman times to modern Algeria.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the old town, stopping at the iconic Emir Abdelkader Mosque, one of the largest in the country. For a final breathtaking view, walk over the Sidi Rached Bridge as the sun sets, ending your trip on a high note.
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