Algiers

Eco-friendly travel guide to Algiers advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Algiers, Algeria.

Aerial view of Algiers

Air quality: 3 / 5

Exploring by foot: 3.5 / 5

Exploring by bicycle: 3/ 5

Public transportation: 3.5 / 5

Parks: 3.5 / 5

Outdoor activities: 3 / 5

Locals' English level: 2.5 / 5

Safety: 3 / 5

Accommodation: US$150- $200

Budget per day: US$250- $320

Responsible Travel

Stretching a total of 16 km along the Bay of Algiers is the historical city of Algiers built on the slopes of the Sahel Hills, parallel the Mediterranean Sea coast.

Algeria's capital city faces east and north and forms a large Amphitheatre of dazzling white buildings that dominate the harbor and the bay. The name Algiers which in Arabic stands for "The Islands", is derived from several small islands that formerly existed in the bay.

Algiers was founded by the Phoenicians as one of their numerous North African colonies.

The best days to visit Algeria are the months of March and those between October and November when the days are cool and sunny.

Mid-winter can also be a good time, even if the desert night temperatures are extremely low. Algerians generally dress the same as Europeans, so for work, it is recommended to wear dark, professional jackets and slacks.

For women, there is no set dress code, but they should avoid wearing short skirts and low-cut blouses.

Houari Boumediene Airport also known as Algiers International Airport, is the main international airport serving the city. The airport is an international hub and is serviced by all major international airlines.

However, the airport is located 17 kilometres from the city center, so travelers are encouraged to make transport arrangements in advance.

To become a responsible tourist, you can take many steps for example:

Do not litter
Use public transport
Support small businesses
Carry metal straws
Pack lightly as the increase in luggage weight makes airplanes produce more carbon emissions

Air Quality and Pollution

World Health Organization's guidelines paint the air quality in Algeria as unsafe. Major contributors to poor air quality in Algeria include petroleum refining and the natural gas industry.

Other causes are the petrochemical industry, food industries, and vehicle emissions. Pollution can increase during the autumn and winter (October to January) due to the use of poor quality fuels and low-pressure weather conditions.

In light of data, travelers are advised to travel to Algiers in the safer months from March to October.

SAMASAFIA, managed by the National Observatory for Sustainable Development (ONED) monitors air quality. The Ministry of Environment funds scientific research regarding air pollution in the city.

One such legislation encourages the promotion of cleaner fuels such as LPG liquefied petroleum gas (Sirghaz) and fuel gas (CNG). It also regulates the atmospheric emission from gases, fumes, vapors, liquid, or solid particles.

Respect the Culture

Literature, music, arts, crafts, and religion as well as recent history define Algeria's culture. Islam is the official religion in Algeria and is practiced by the majority of the country's inhabitants.

Less dominant religions in Algeria are Christians, Jews, atheists, and others. Islam gives Algeria its cultural and social identity, and its principles govern much of the nation's ethics and behavior.

Here are a couple of social norms travelers are expected to come across whilst in Algiers:

In addition to the handshake one is obliged to ask about family, work, the house, the weather, etc. This is all part of cementing a relationship and showing concern for others.

You may see people continue to hold hands after the initial handshake as a sign of warmth.

Friends and family will also exchange kisses on the check.

When meeting women initially, nod and wait to see if a hand is extended.

Avoid prolonged eye contact with women and do not ask personal questions.

For women visiting Algeria note that religious men may not shake your hands - this is not a sign of disrespect but quite the opposite.

Top 10 Places to Visit

The city of Algiers is quite vast and there are scores of places for you to visit as a tourist. Listed below are the Top 10 places for you to visit:

The Martyrs' Memorial: The monument often considered to be the landmark of Algeria was built on hills overlooking Algiers to commemorate the Algerians who were killed in the Algerian war for independence. Algerians freed their country from the French in a war that took place between 1954 to 1962. Martyrs' Memorial stands at a towering height of 92 meters (302 ft) making it easy to spot from about anywhere in Algiers. Inside is the National Museum of the War of Independence. Travelers should take note that descriptions inside the museum are in French and Arabic only and, taking of pictures inside the museum is not allowed.

Casbah of Algiers: The upper old part of Algiers has interesting Moorish houses, minarets, and an old citadel. This historical and traditional heart of Algiers has many local artists and handicraft shops are located around here to entertain travelers. It was once a narrow maze of streets along the hills overlooking the Mediterranean sea built in the 16th to 18th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been greatly conserved and offers a great opportunity for travelers who prefer exploration by walking.

Basilique Notre Dame d'Afrique: Basilica in Algiers is overlooking the bay of the capital city. Completed in 1872, this splendid building is decorated on the inside in the Spanish-Moorish décor. Most famous are the words Notre Dame d'Afrique priez pour nous et pour les Musulmans", meaning "Our Lady of Africa, pray for the Muslims and us" behind the altar. It is dear to the Algerian people who see it as 'their' church. Travelers are recommended to take note of the appropriate dress required to enter the Basilica.

Palais of Raïs - Bastion 23: This historic building in Algiers is one of the very last surviving parts of the lower Casbah. It is located right next to the waterfront on number 23 Boulevard Amara Rachid. Besides being a historical site, it is also a center for art and culture. Ever since its establishment in 1994, the center has maintained three palaces, five small houses, a Sabbath (covered walkway), a central courtyard, a walkway, and a battery. Recommended even for children as they are assured of fun whilst exploring the hand-painted tiles, ceilings, and the design of the building.

La Grande Poste d'Alger: So important is this monument that all peaceful protests start here. The famous Grand Post Office is located here, maybe one of the world´s most impressive Post Offices. Travelers inspired by its exterior are going to be overwhelmingly impressed by the spectacular interior decor. Built-in 1910 by the architects Jules Voinot and Marius Toudoire, it once represented the city forum and today certainly is one of the main touristic spots, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding buildings. The Grand Post Office also hosts a museum dedicated to the history of Algerian post and telecommunications.

La Rue Didouche Mourad: The best place to admire French Architecture is on the Rue Didouche Mourad. This long avenue is bustling, and busy with endless opportunities and competitive prices compared to Europe so it is easy to find favorable bargains. Street foods are all over the place and shopping opportunities as well. The Metro stations are not too far, enabling you to hop on to see the botanical gardens, the Casbah, and other historic sites.

Visit the Ketchaoua Mosque: This mosque built-in 1612 during the rule of the Ottoman Empire. It was turned into the cathedral of St Philippe by the French in 1845, then back into a Mosque when Algeria got its independence in 1962. It was once the center of the city having a strategic location, standing on the first of the Casbah's stairways. As of today, the Mosque is one of the best-preserved historical buildings in all of Algiers.

Le Port de Sidi Fredj: A very famous port in Algeria, visited mostly by young people, because of activities and restaurants. Walking down to the harbor enables travelers to get close to boats and interact with fishermen at the port. The port was once a landing spot where the French established their beachhead for the Invasion of Algiers in 1830. Today the port offers a maritime flair with lots of boats in the harbor. The seaside village consists of lines of Moroccan buildings to explore.

The Boulevard along the Waterfront: The waterfront in Algiers is a pleasant sight along the wide sidewalks, full of French Architecture buildings. It´s a perfect place for an early evening walk to watch the sunset and enjoy the cool breeze from the Mediterranean Sea.

Musée National du Bardo: The Bardo National Museum of Prehistory and Ethnography is a national museum located in Algiers, Algeria. The edifice is a former Moorish villa. It was opened as a museum in 1927.

Basilique Notre Dame d'Afrique

Explore

However, these are just a few of the magnificent destinations for you to explore. The city is immensely popular amongst tourists across the globe due to its French architecture and several amazing spots.

City Parks

Beyrouth Parc: Beyrouth Parc is located on number 94 Boulevard Colonel Krim Belkacem in Algiers. It is open for 24hours. Beyrouth has a unique location in the proximity of beautiful residences, consulates, embassies, and foreign companies. Consequently, this park must be well maintained. The former Saint-Saëns Park, which is very popular with families, offers one of the most relaxing stops in the city center. It offers cooler air by the sea and a children's museum provides a fun school atmosphere.

Tifariti Garden: Looking to escape the noise of the city and have some serenity, try Tifariti Garden. This garden in the middle of the city is the right place to have some peace with family or alone. It offers amazing city center views which are accompanied by a calm environment that will relax travelers. Getting around the park is easy with multiple pathways to walk around it. It is especially suited for the kids with a well- constructed play yard. However, the Garden does not have a parking lot and maybe unsafe during the night, so travelers are recommended to visit the park during the day.

Teri Park: Located on lot 62-63 on 24 Rue Djaffar Slimane, this park is a true gem for kids and adults alike. It has sport tracks and all sorts of games for families. All the playing will leave travelers in need of some food and there is a quality restaurant available to serve. The park opens from 2 pm to 10 pm. However, the park was recently closed, so travelers have to confirm with their trip organizers if it has been reopened before visiting.

National Parks

Wildlife lovers unfortunately have to travel some distance out of Algiers to access national parks. The capital location and geography makes it difficult to have a national park.

There are however very good options which have been listed below.

Chris National Park
Tassili N'Ajjer National Park
Theniet El Had National Park
Tikjda National Park
Parc National El Kala

Theniet El Had National Park

Beaches

Sidi Fredj Beach: A visit to Sidi Fredj is a must for any traveler in Algiers. The peninsula is just 30 kilometers away from the city center and it is worth the travel. With luxury resorts sitting on the Mediterranean coast, Sidi Fredj is the perfect Algerian getaway for anyone looking for both a sunny and historic escape.

Zeralda: A thirty-minute drive from the city center gets travelers to a lowkey, quiet and relaxing beach. The coastal town's crystalline beaches are not only known for being stunning, but for their quiet charm too.

Ain Achir Beach: Situated on the coast of Annaba, less than 100 kilometers from the border of Tunisia, is Ain Achir Beach, one of Algeria's most picturesque spots to catch the hot African sun. The beach is surrounded by mountain views and is known for its massive rocks that sit on its soft golden sands.

Landmarks

The section on Top 10 places to visit covers almost all of the popular landmarks in Algiers. However, there are a few more gems to uncover within the capital:

Promenade des Sablettes: By now, French titles in Algiers should not be a surprise to you and the beauty of this landmark should not either. Its location near Algiers central gives travelers easy access to the tramway and underground trains. The place is suited for beautiful afternoon walks or picnics. It is recommended that travelers visit this man-made beach during weekdays except on Friday as the Algerian weekend is Friday & Saturday.

Monastère de Tibhirine: Travelers have often been caught describing this landmark as being "A little place of paradise'. The place offers great serenity with an overwhelming history. It is further beautified by calm, European, and Algerian trees. The landmark is reachable by bus. The view from there is outstanding. Be sure to check it out.

The statue of Abdel Kader: This statue embodies the importance of religion and independence to the locals in Algiers. Abdel Kader was born in 1808. He became an Algerian religious and military leader who led a struggle against the French colonial invasion in the mid-19th century. Despite being an Islamic scholar, he found himself unexpectedly leading a military campaign. He built up a collection of Algerian tribesmen that for many years successfully held out against one of the most advanced armies in Europe.

Monastère de Tibhirine

Museums

National Museum of Fine Arts of Algiers: The museum houses a variety of works by Algerian and international artists for all art lovers to see. Several of its floors are filled with paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Notable pieces include pieces by Renoir, Eugene Delacroix, and Mohammed Racim. You can tour the museum or walk outside in the nearby gardens that face the bay. The museum however has a lot of Arabic explanations on its pieces which can be a bit offensive to non- Arabic travelers.

Musee National du Bardo, Algiers: This one is richly decorated in an 18th-century mansion style. The museum showcases an extensive collection of ancient artifacts such as preserved eggs used as bottles dating back to the prehistoric period. The highlight is the Touareg people's Queen, Tin Hinan. Travelers can take a break by stepping outside into the well-maintained garden.

Musem de l'Armee, Algiers: Exhibits at Musem de l'Armee give travelers an insight into the Algerian military and its turbulent history. The military museum showcases battle and incident depictions, pictures, and portraits of important states people. Outside, peruse the collection of authentic rockets, bombs, and airplanes. The museum lies in the vicinity of an important monument, so you can stroll through the garden connecting the two, WHILE completing your history lesson of Algiers.

National Museum of Fine Arts of Algiers

Eat

Algeria just like any other North African country is madly in love with its meals and dishes. Food forms an important part of the family, a concept deeply rooted within Islam culture.

With globalization taking its toll on the country, the capital has now seen a rise in vegan restaurants competing with their counterparts serving more traditional dishes.

Traditional Local Restaurants

Cafe-Restaurant El Salam: A handy place to eat when exploring the Casbah district. This cheap locals' favorite serves traditional home cooking that can be hard to find elsewhere. Try the grilled sardines, various kebabs. One of the locals favorite; the sheep brain in a tomato sauce, is served here. Take it all in with the delicious homemade lime juice. Travelers are informed that only coffee and breakfast are served before 10 am.

Brasserie des Facultés: It is often difficult to find restaurants open on Fridays in Algiers. This venerable spot on Algiers' main drag is one of the few that open on Fridays. It offers hearty meals of the steaks in a dining room with partial sea views. A reasonable selection of Algerian wine makes this a long-time favorite for many.

Lalla Mina: The restaurant is located under a renovated old building, with its star-studded roof. You can find within it Andalucian-style tiled walls, Moorish arches, and an interior stage that was once hosted some musicians. It is now an upmarket restaurant specializing in seafood and traditional Algerian dishes such as goat meat and squid salad.

Vegetarian and Vegan

La Palmeraie Restaurant: This restaurant in Algiers is a favorite for many local and visiting vegans who cannot get enough of its great food, service, and atmosphere. It offers fresh dishes in Tadjine's and a big taste of Moroccan and Algerian vegan cuisine. Friday opening ensures that customers are served even at the start of Algerian weekend.

Saladbox: The name probably sells out what you can expect at the vegan restaurant. It offers a wide range of vegan salads at a low cost. Travelers are advised to visit the restaurant during weekdays to avoid the crowding that often builds up at the restaurant on weekends. Ingredients for the salads are always fresh with travelers having the option for their salads to be made whilst they watch.

Other vegan restaurants of note include:

Restaurant Le Bistrot du Jardin
Signature Restaurant

Street Food

Street food in Algiers is prepared as per customer order with help from knowledgeable chefs who run street food outlets. It is served hot straight to the customer at low prices. The three most popular street food in Algiers are:

Maaqouda - traditional potato fritters
Garantita - consumed as a snack and prepared as a kind of cake
Mahjouba - traditional Algerian pancake

Popular street food outlets include:

Restaurant La Précieuse
Hatkool
Val Street Restaurant Traditionnel
Restaurant Caféteria Badidou
Street Pizza
City Burger

Drink

When you visit the city of Beijing, you would be aware of the fact that the local people in Algiers are always keen on sipping on something throughout the day.

Depending upon where they are and the hour of the day, suitable beverages are taken.

Mazagran
Mint Tea

Algeria is a Muslim country, so alcohol is not sold everywhere.

Tap-water

Tap water in Algiers is safe to drink according to locals and other travelers. If not satisfied, travelers can drink boiled water or find filtered water in stores. The major threat to the safety of tap water is underground pollution from petrol refining stations.

Organic Cafés

The city of Algiers is fast becoming a global hub home to a population that prefers eating unprocessed healthy food.

Organic cafes are an important part of coffee and tea lovers. Recommended cafes include:

Cafe Eddy
Restaurant Ciel D'Alger by AZ Kouba
Arte E Cucina
Noor El Hani
Creperie Le Sarrasin

Breweries

Alcohol is widely unaccepted in Algiers because of Muslim tradition. However those keen on having a sip can ask their hotels or restaurants whether they offer alcohol. If not, hotels will direct travelers to places they can get alcohol.

Such places include Sheraton Club des Pins Resort located at Boite Postal 62, Club Des Pins, Staoueli, 16101 Algiers.

Activities

Weekends are a favorite time for most locals to do some activities. Tourists can also indulge in these activities at their leisure, and they shall certainly help you experience the city in a new light. Recommended activities include Bungee Jumping, biking, or trekking.

Yoga and Retreats

Some individuals are also known to be into yoga. Some popular venues for you to visit in Algiers to learn/practice yoga are:

Powerhouse gym
Yoga Krewe
Swan River Yoga Arabi

Accommodation

Algiers is perfectly placed to provide accommodation to all sorts of travelers suiting budgets across the spectra in style. Facilities in the capital are used to dealing with huge volumes of travelers of all social status from normal guests to Presidents. In this section, we explore how accommodation facilities in Algiers have evolved to meet the traveler's wallet.

Green Hotels

Ibis Alger Aeroport Hotel: Right in the heart of Bab Ezzouar's business area is a booming hotel. Proximity to the airport gives the hotel an edge over competitors as it is within 5 minutes from the Algiers International airport. Travelers staying at the hotel are within 2 minutes from Bab Ezzouar's Market center. Airport shuttle is available from 7 am to 10 pm so travelers coming in later or earlier are advised to remember the time allocation for shuttles.

Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden Hotel: If location and surroundings alone could sell a hotel to a customer, the Sofitel Algiers would be right on top of the list. Deservedly so, the hotel is located right by the Botanical Gardens, the National Library, and the Fine Arts Museum. Furthermore, you can get up the hill overlooking the port. Three restaurants are inside the hotel, all serving delicious local cuisine for travelers to try out. However, the hotel is renowned for overpricing room service in comparison with competitors.

Hotel El Djazair: Resorts within close reach of the hotel include La Grande Poste d'Alger (1.5 mi) and Kasbah of Algiers (2.2 mi). All the usual amenities such as free parking, room service, Wi-Fi, and a gorgeous pool make Hotel El Djazair a great place to stay when visiting Algiers.

El Aurassi Hotel: Travelers seeking this hotel have to travel a bit from the airport, 20 kilometers to be precise. The distance is worth it though as this business urban hotel provides nothing but the best in everything. Central location within the city center ensures that travelers are within minutes reach off key services such as embassies. Food lovers also have 4 restaurants to content themselves with serving continental, Italian, traditional dishes.

Hotel el-Biar: Hotels in Algiers are almost always sustainably constructed close to landmarks. Hotel el-Biar is no different, with landmarks such as Cathédrale du Sacré Coeur and La Rue Didouche Mourad.

Best Night: Ownership and staff at Best Night pride themselves in being able to provide a 'Home away from Home' As such, services at the hotel are tailor-made to ensure that travelers are in close reach to every amenity and that every service is provided within minutes of request.

Lamaraz Arts Hôtel: The Hotel is situated in the Kouba district of Algiers. Very friendly staff ensure that travelers enjoy the hotel's comfortable rooms to the fullest extent possible. Comfort comes from air-conditioned rooms all equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Certain rooms even have a seating area where you can relax. Travelers can expect the usual services such as free Wi-Fi and a spa center. Guests can relax in the lounge. Free private parking is available on site. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport.

Hostels and Guest Houses

Algiers attracts a large number of tourists and young expatriates; many of them are on a tight budget. Such travelers have little money to spare for accommodation. As a result of this, there is a sizeable market for accommodation in hostels and guest houses, these offer amenities and compact living spaces at reasonable prices. Some popular ones are explored below:

Hostel light: Privacy is a huge thing when it comes to guest houses. For starters, Hostel light offers private bathrooms. Its fairly spacious rooms are equipped with television sets and blackout drapes or curtains for privacy. Daily housekeeping ensures travelers always find the hostel clean whenever they come in from touring. A joint minibar is available for guests though space is shared.

Selma Appart Hostel: All 20 individually decorated rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television set, and phones. Personal kitchens come equipped with refrigerators and stovetops. Personalized 24-hour room service is also available. This business-friendly hostel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas, a 24-hour front desk, and an elevator. Additionally, you will find a coffee shop or café in a common area. Each morning, free breakfast is served. There's also free self- parking, along with the convenience of airport pick-up service.

Apartments

Appartement Alger Centre:

The center is located on Avenue Ahmed Ghermoul, Algiers 16000. The fitted balcony allows visitors to relax and catch up on the day's events whilst drinking a cup of tea or coffee.

Rooms on site are fitted with flat-screen TV sets and select rooms are furnished with a kitchen with an oven. The apartment accepts visitors who make prior booking arrangements. This is recommended for greater convenience.

Résidence Les Palmiers:

Features at the place include a garden, BBQ facilities, terrace, and free Wi-Fi. Travelers using private vehicles have free private parking available. The guest house also offers car hire for guests who want to explore the surrounding area.

The units at the guest house come with air conditioning, a seating area. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs and satellite channels. However, the kitchen area is shared. Other rooms include a dining area and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. All rooms will provide guests with a desk and a kettle.

Couchsurfing

Algeria has a well-established couch surfing community for visitors itching to experience the everyday life of some locals. Many locals have successfully registered their houses on the couch surfing website and are ready to welcome visitors.

However, it is recommended that visitors intending to use couch surfing as an option for accommodation contact reliable homeowners while following all the advice on the site.

Camping

Many individuals in and around the city of Beijing are known to be extremely passionate about camping, you could join a few enthusiasts on their expedition by connecting over social media applications. A few popular campsites are listed below:

Camping petit Vichy
Camping En-nekhla
Camping Familial Rochers de la Mer
Camping Etoil De Mer

How to Get There

Algiers is well connected and receives millions of people annually for business, academic, or leisure purposes. This large influx of people has led to the development of many routes into the capital which we will explore below.

Air

The Houari Boumediene Airport is a hub for flights connecting to some of the biggest cities in the world. At the airport, travelers can expect to find the usual host of amenities including Wi-Fi, facial recognition scanning, restaurants, bars, gyms, sleep pods.

Additionally, the airport is well connected to the city via all means of transport, so travelers should not worry about pre-booking or exorbitant fares. Houari Boumediene is an international hub and is serviced by all major international airlines.

Houari Boumediene Airport

Bus

Tourists planning to get to Algiers from other regions in Algeria can easily take advantage of the well-established public bus service which connects the capital to almost everywhere in Algeria. Public buses are safe and the staff is warm ready to assist travelers when and if the need arises.

Travelers are advised to be careful with taxis in Algiers. This is because often, people come across bad, and sometimes, very bad taxi operators.

Normally, taxi drivers charge customers based on their fare meters. However, many taxi drivers switch off the fare meter and charge customers as they please. The normal fare from the Algiers airport to the city center would range between DZD 600 and DZD 1000 (Algerian dinars).

Algiers' highest neighborhoods have a cable car network that stretches over 3 km with 58 cars. Each one carries up to 15 people from one end to another within 12 minutes. Travelers are urged to take note that these are available from 6 am to 7 pm with tickets costing 30 dinars.

Train

No regional Metro is connecting Algiers to other parts of North Africa. This is not to discourage travelers seeking to reach Algiers from within Algeria as there a reliable and cheap metro service available for use.

Hitchhiking

Islam courtesy does not however extend to picking up strangers on the streets. This makes hitchhiking a risky option that travelers are advised against.

Others

Algiers being a coastal city presents another mode of access, via ferry. It's fairly easy to reach Algeria from London, Paris, or anywhere in mainland Europe, taking a train to Marseille then a comfortable ferry to Algiers.

Moving Around

A massive city approximately 363km2 is too large to explore using just one transportation mode. Travelers are advised to use an assortment of transportation modes from walking to public transport to add more fun to their journey as they explore more.

Walk

Algeria is a peaceful nation with friendly citizens and travelers should not be afraid to take a walk in the city center. Dedicated pedestrian pathways constructed for easy walking are plenty and travelers are advised to make use of these.

It would be cool to respond kindly when greeted by warm locals. Travelers are encouraged to leave unnecessary documents at hotels for safety.

Bicycle

Cycling is popular in Algiers with many cycle tracks having been constructed to ensure cyclist safety. This is a great option to take however it requires a greater knowledge of the city routes before using it.

First-time travelers are encouraged to use other less tasking means of transport such as walking.

Electronic Vehicles

Spearheading the drive for electric cars in Algeria is no other than the President, Honorable Abdelmadjid Tebboune. To promote the use of electric vehicles in Algeria, diesel-powered cars are strictly prohibited.

Algeria’s orientation in favour of electric cars is aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of this North African country, where energy production and consumption, including in the electricity sector, is more than 99% hydrocarbon-based.

Public Bus

Tourists planning to get to Algiers from other regions in Algeria can easily take advantage of the well-established public bus service which connects the capital to almost everywhere in Algeria. Public buses are safe and the staff is warm ready to assist travelers when and if the need arises.

Tram, Train and Subway

Algiers metro is an easy and affordable option to see most places of interest in Algiers. Ticket prices range from 150 Dinars to 450 Dinars depending on the duration of the metro pass.

The tramway is more extensive compared to the metro. However, travelers are urged to take caution as it only serves the eastern part of Algiers.

Sustainable Shopping

The shopping experience in Algiers is a blend of Islam culture and a sustainable business approach. Traders across the city are cognizant of the growing trend of sustainability and have been quick to incorporate it into their trade.

Food Markets

Algerians love their cereals and travelers will find plenty of it at local markets. The cuisine of Algeria is influenced by Algeria's interactions and exchanges with other cultures. This shows in the diverse produce found at food markets.

Marché Tnach (le Midi):

Le Midi is known for its enthusiasm and various street food alternatives. In the marketplace, foodies can discover everything from fish to Algeria's street cuisine's top picks. Travelers are encouraged to avoid littering at the market.

Vente et achat en Gros ligne Algérie:

It is a noteworthy street fixed with interminable food carts. The market has an assortment of food, hungry explorers can dive into the fascinating and customary cooking styles accessible in Algeria.

Vegetables and fruits market:

Produce sold at this market is delivered daily. Travelers seeking fresh produce are advised to try out this marketplace bearing in mind the need to take steps to ensure their safety.

Flea Markets

Centre Commercial Bab Ezzouar:

The Bab-Ezzouar Centre Commercial is Algier's largest shopping mall. It is situated in the Bab-Ezzouar area, nearby Mercure, and Ibis hotels.

Travelers can expect a modern shopping experience in a clean and secure space with good parking. Major brands such as Decathlon, Clarks, Adidas, Sketchers, Nike, Zara, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, have mid to large retail stores within the medium size complex.

A food court with a quality restaurant and take-aways on the third floor is available to serve customers. Outlets located at the mall include Leonard Café, Aroma, Havana to mention a few are good restaurants where you can enjoy a good meal at a reasonable price.

Park Mall:

This is a huge, modern European-style shopping mall. However, for its size, the mall does not have the best variety of shops. Many items are overpriced for Algerian standards making it less popular.

Park Mall has some good places to eat out and a play area for younger and older children. Features an outside patio with a view of the Setif shopping center.

Second Hand Stores

A city as large as Algiers is home to people from varying economic backgrounds. The second-hand market remains for many the go-to place to access clothes, used furniture, and more.

More so, the second-hand market is dominated by electronics and garments. Here are some secondhand stores in and around Algiers:

Sodimmed
fast key
Electro-SAT
La Maison du Filtre Dépôt de vente

Eco-Fashion

Major textile franchises like the state-owned Groupe Public National de la Confection et de l'Habillement make millions annually at the expense of the environment. They also contribute to pollution and poor waste management in Algiers.

Recycling

Locals referred to as 'chiffoniers' sort and sell trash to manufacturers and recycling firms. This unofficial business has been going on for some time and has helped to slowly bring in the culture of recycling in Algiers.

Government and private organizations have stepped in with collaborative efforts aimed at solving the waste problem by giving incentives for recycling.

SGS Algeria is an organization that helps Algerians with a range of waste management and assessment services. The aim is to increase residents' awareness of the waste in your production processes and how it can be recycled or safely disposed of.

The organization support also extends to advice on production innovations that will help to decrease your waste at the outset, reducing the need for disposal services. Waste contains dangerous substances but they have the experienced and accredited teams to deal with chemicals and other hazardous waste.

Waste

Pollution resulting from accumulated waste is among the most common forms of pollution. This has been a result of random dumping and disregard for a waste collection time.

Despite citizens Having been allocated trucks and workers to remove private waste, these services have not given the expected response, and dumping continues.

The waste problem falls on three parties; citizens, the sanitation department, and local authorities. Efforts are continually being made to eliminate environmental pollution resulting from indiscriminate dumping, which is threatening public health.

Work and Study Abroad

Algiers is the country's economic and financial center, and thus has the best local economy in the country. There are many job opportunities in the industrial and service sector. The local economy relies heavily on the service sector with many job opportunities available.

Global corporations have their French-speaking headquarters located in Algiers, including Hewlett Packard, and these are also some of the main employers of the city's large expatriate population.

Foreigners wanting to work in Algiers will need a work permit to do so. All residents working in Algiers will be required by law to pay income tax on their earnings, including foreigners and expatriates.

Exchange Student

The United States of America through its embassy in Algiers has a very strong student exchange program in place already. Exchange programs funded by the U.S. Department of State enable these connections to be made.

The Cultural Affairs Office offers academic and citizen exchanges for qualified American scholars and Algerian scholars, professionals, university students, and youth. Several universities in the capital also offer exchange programs but mostly at the Master's level and beyond.

Here is a list of universities in Algiers with potential exchange programs:

Université des Sciences et de la Technologie Houari Boumediène Algiers
Université Benyoucef Benkhedda d'Alger Algiers
École Nationale PolytechniquAlgiers
École Nationale Supérieure d'Informatique Algiers
Université Brahim Soltane Chaibout d'Alger Algiers
École Normale Supérieure de Kouba

Au Pair

Algeria and Algiers in particular have a well-developed Au Pair community ready to help travelers. Islamic teachings of care and compassion have driven this fairly modern approach to care.

The Au pair community in Algiers is diverse consisting of locals, Spanish, Moroccan, and even American families. Travelers are however urged to follow protocol and do due diligent investigations into whom they have chosen to avoid fraud. Travelers should also pay attention to the language options available.

Volunteering

Volunteering provides an opportunity to discover a country in a rewarding and challenging way. Signing up for volunteer work is a great way to get to know its people.

Some many agencies and establishments offer volunteer work and experiences in different fields. Travelers interested in volunteering in Algiers can contact agencies for positions that would suit them best. Volunteers in addition to experiencing the beauty of Algiers, also get make a difference.

Most volunteer projects last two to four weeks but can accommodate volunteers for much longer. The projects strive to teach the world that people from different backgrounds, cultures, and religions can work together to solve humanitarian and environmental issues without violence and that by helping each other, people can take care of each other.