What is Algeria Famous For?

From breathtaking landscapes to ancient Roman ruins, Algeria sightseeing promises an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveller. Here is a list of the top 10 sites you must explore when in Algeria:**

-Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique

In addition to being a prominent religious site, the Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique (Our Lady of Africa) is an iconic destination among Algeria tourist places. Founded by Charles Lavigerie the Basilica is viewed by Algerians as a sign of religious tolerance. The inscription behind the altar reads “Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims” (translated from French).

While the exteriors are designed in Byzantine and Roman styles, its interiors are beautifully adorned with intricate mosaics and stained-glass windows, making it a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts. Standing atop a cliff that overlooks the Bay of Algiers, visiting the Basilique Notre Dame d'Afrique promises panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

-Best Time to Visit Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique: Spring and fall months are ideal for a visit as the weather is pleasant.

-Weather at Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique: The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers ( up to 30°C) and mild winters.

-Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma

The beautiful Botanical Garden of El Hamma in Algiers accommodates hundreds of plant species which can be categorised into food plants, medicinal plants, economic and industrial plants. As you enter, you will immediately notice two gardens and their distinct designs.

The first is a French garden built with a Mediterranean twist and is where the Museum of Fine Arts is located. The second is an English garden where varied plants and vegetation are bordered by shaded alleys. The garden also features an amusement park and a zoo making it a perfect spot for families.

-Best Time to Visit Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma: Ideally, travellers should plan their visit between spring and early summer when the flowers are in full bloom, and the garden is most vibrant.

-Weather at Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma: Although the garden is a great visit any time of the year, the spring months offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

-Memorial du Martyr

Also known as Maqam Echahid, this towering monument overlooking the city of Algiers is dedicated to the martyrs of the Algerian War of Independence and is prominent among Algeria’s tourist attractions.

The monument is a marvel of architecture where the Eternal Flame is sheltered by three stylised palm leaves. Serving as a reminder of the Algerian struggle for freedom, the site offers educational exhibits about Algeria’s history.

-Best Time to Visit Memorial du Martyr: While the place is open year-round, visiting during national holidays can provide a more enriching experience with ceremonies and events.

-Weather at Memorial du Martyr: Although the weather here is generally mild, summers can be hot with temperatures reaching 35°C.

-Pont Sidi M’Cid

A masterpiece of engineering in Constantine, the Sidi M’Cid Bridge (also known as the Suspended Bridge) is an iconic spot among Algeria tourist places. One of the highest suspension bridges in the world, the bridge promises thrilling views of the deep gorge and the cityscape of Constantine. Visitors can also explore the old town nearby, with its rich history and vibrant markets.

-Best Time to Visit Pont Sidi M’Cid: To enjoy walking tours and sightseeing in comfortable weather, plan your visit during spring or autumn.

-Weather at Pont Sidi M’Cid: While temperatures in spring average around 20°C, Constantine has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters.

-Les Grottes de Beni Add

With outstanding charm and legendary beauty, the Les Grottes de Beni Add is one of the most captivating natural formations in Algeria. Located near Tlemcen, the caves comprise impressive stalactites and stalagmites that can be explored via guided tours that take you through its illuminating pathways. The caves go as deep as 57 metres and specialists believe it is the largest underground cavernous network known in Algeria.

-Best Time to Visit Les Grottes de Beni Add: While caves are cool year-round (around 13°C), visiting during the summer offers a refreshing escape from the heat.

-Weather at Les Grottes de Beni Add: The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers. Summer temperatures average around 28°C.

-La Grande Poste d’Alger

A striking example of Moorish architecture and a notable piece of living history, the La Grande Poste d’Alger (the main post office beloved by Algiers) is a popular stop in Algeria sightseeing tours.

At the entrance itself, you can see what is possibly the most wonderfully decorated post box and the grand interiors with an ornate facade make it a charming place to explore. It also houses a museum revealing the postal history of Algeria, along with old stamps, postcards, and telecommunication devices.

-Best Time to Visit La Grande Poste d’Alger: Visit on working days to escape the weekend crowds and to ensure the museum is open.

-Weather at La Grande Poste d’Alger: As Algiers has a Mediterranean climate, expect mild weather most of the year. While winters are wet, the temperatures are not too cold.

-Roman Ruins of Djemila

The Roman town of Djemila (or Cuicul as it was known back in the day) is amongst the most well-preserved ancient ruins of North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among Algeria’s tourist attractions, this is a prominent one among history enthusiasts.

While the area is small enough that it can be explored in half a day, the place holds great promise and allure to hold you for much longer than that. Take a leisurely walk through the bath chambers, explore the quaint temples and markets, or simply rest in the shade of villa walls.

-Best Time to Visit the Roman Ruins of Djemila: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for walking around the ruins. Photographers should visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best light for photography.

-Weather at the Roman Ruins of Djemila: As the ruins are nestled in the mountains, the temperatures remain on the cooler side and while summers are warm, evenings can be chilly.

-Timgad

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Timgad (also known as the Pompeii of Africa) is among the finest Roman sites in existence. The ruins stretch over an expansive area that must be explored at a leisurely pace. This Roman colonial town was founded by Emperor Trajan and promises an unparalleled opportunity to imagine life during the Roman Empire.

The area ahead of the museum had been closed to the general public for a while. Now, however, visitors can marvel at more than 200 mosaics, a large still life featuring various foods, "The Triumph of Venus", and the striking mosaic of Filadelfis Vita.

-Best Time to Visit Timgad: To avoid extreme temperatures, late spring and early autumn are the perfect time.

-Weather at Timgad: Timgad experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, so carrying water and sun protection is essential.

-Emir Abdelkader Mosque

Located in Constantine, the Emir Abdelkader Mosque is one of the largest of its kind in the world and is prominent among Algeria’s tourist attractions. An architectural marvel, the mosque features intricate designs and as you approach its centre, you see the 107-metres-high minarets. The prayer hall can accommodate more than 10,000 worshippers and also accommodates Algeria’s first modern Islamic university.

-Best Time to Visit Emir Abdelkader Mosque: While the mosque welcomes visitors year-round, non-Muslims should avoid prayer times and Fridays, which are particularly busy.

-Weather at Emir Abdelkader Mosque: During summers, Constantine’s temperature ranges from 28°C to 35°C, making morning or late evening visits more comfortable. On the other hand, during winters, even daytime temperatures average around 10°C and nights often dip close to freezing.

-Le Musée National Des Beaux Arts

Visitors, especially art enthusiasts, must dedicate at least half a day to this exceptional art museum. Located in Algiers, the museum accommodates a diverse range of artwork from contemporary artists of Québec to art from the early French colonies.

There are entire halls dedicated to famed artists from the 20th century such as Fernand Leduc, Jean-Paul Lemieux, and Jean-Paul Riopelle. An unmissable highlight of the museum is the Brousseau Collection of Inuit Art, which is a selection of 100 pieces by 60 artists.

-Best Time to Visit Le Musée National Des Beaux Arts: The museum is open year-round, but if you want to explore the exhibits in peace, visit on weekdays as it is less crowded then. As the museum frequently hosts special exhibitions visitors should check the schedule in advance to enhance their visit.

-Weather at Le Musée National Des Beaux Arts: As Algiers experiences Mediterranean weather it ensures a comfortable visit throughout the year.

• Travellers should not leave Algeria without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Timgad and Djemila which are among the most well-preserved ancient Roman ruins.

• Experience the magnificence of the Sahara Desert with adventures such as camel treks, an opportunity to meet nomadic tribes, and camping under a breathtaking canopy of stars.

• For a refreshing escape into nature, explore the tranquil Le Jardin d’Essai - Algeria’s lush botanical gardens.

• Admire the striking views and stunning architecture of the Basilique Notre Dame d’Afriqu.

• Visit Pont Sidi M’Cid for thrilling views from Constantine’s suspension bridge.

-Garantita: A beloved street food, Garantita is prepared from chickpea flour, oil, water, and spices, baked into a golden tart, and makes for a flavourful on-the-go snack.

-Mahjouba: This traditional Algerian flatbread filled with caramelised onions and spiced tomatoes is the perfect prelude to heartier dishes.

-Chakhchoukha: An Algerian staple during celebrations and chilly evenings, Chakhchoukha combines torn flatbread with marqa, a flavorful stew of lamb, chickpeas, and aromatic spices - a comforting and hearty delight.

-Chorba Beïda: A Ramadan favourite, this white chicken soup, is prepared with tender chicken, vegetables, and chickpeas, and its flavour is further enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and parsley.

-Makroud el Louse: The perfect conclusion to your meal, Makroud el Louse are melt-in-the-mouth flourless cookies made of almonds, sugar, and orange flower water, best enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

• Arabic is the official language of Algeria and French is widely spoken. English is uncommon so mastering a few phrases in Arabic and French will make communication easier.

• When planning your trip, factor in the distance as the country is vast. Simply driving from Algiers to Tamanrasset can take over a day.

• The Sahara Desert can be scorching in summer but surprisingly chilly on winter nights. Layered clothing is essential.

• Dress modestly to respect local customs.

• Credit cards are scarcely accepted outside major cities so carry cash for daily local expenses.

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-What is the currency of Algeria?

Algerian Dinar (DZD) is the official currency of Algeria.

-What souvenirs should be bought from Algeria?

Algeria is famous for Berber jewellery, pottery, handcrafted rugs, Berber jewellery and leather goods.

-What festivals is Algeria famous for?

Some exciting festivals that visitors can enjoy include: the Timgad International Music Festival, European Cultural Festival, Festival of du Rai d’Oran, and more.