An exceptional journey between sea, mountains, oases and ancient cities
Fancy a trip off the beaten track? By 2025, Algeria will have established itself as an authentic and spectacular destination full of character. Between the dunes of the Sahara, the Berber villages clinging to the mountainside, the beaches of the Mediterranean and the listed archaeological sites, the country offers a blend of landscapes and cultures that is unique in North Africa.
Here is our selection of 10 must-see places for a memorable trip, along with suggestions for local experiences.
1. Tipaza – A Roman city on the Mediterranean coast
Just 70km from Algiers, Tipaza combines ancient history with marine beauty. This UNESCO-listed archaeological site is one of the most emblematic in Algeria.
- Discover the ancient ruins overlooking the sea, the Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania and the coastal promenade at sunset.
- Perfect for a cultural weekend combining nature and heritage.
2. Tamanrasset – In the heart of the spiritual Hoggar
The Tuareg capital of the south, Tamanrasset is a mythical town nestling at the foot of the Hoggar massif. The Assekrem plateau offers one of the most breathtaking sunrises on the continent.
- What to do: bivouac with the Tuaregs, hike to the hermitage of Charles de Foucauld, explore the volcanic gorges.
- An ideal destination for travellers in search of adventure and spirituality.
3. Djanet – Frescoes and dunes in the Sahara
In the far south-east, Djanet is the gateway to the Tassili n’Ajjer, listed as a World Heritage Site for its thousands of cave paintings.
- What to do: trek between natural arches, explore canyons, spend the night under the stars in a lunar setting.
- A must for lovers of geology, prehistoric history and photography.
4. Ghardaïa – Architectural wonder of the M’Zab valley
Ghardaïa embodies an age-old model of urban planning and community life. The flagship town of the M’Zab valley, it combines architectural sobriety, spirituality and local craftsmanship.
- Explore the narrow streets of the old town, the souks and the hand-woven Berber carpets.
- Recommended for an ethical and immersive stay.
5. Oran – A festive and cultural city by the sea
Oran is a vibrant city with a Mediterranean soul, renowned for its raï music, colonial architecture and lively corniche.
- Places to visit include the Santa Cruz fortress, the Sidi El Houari district and the Madagh beaches.
- An ideal base for exploring western Algeria.
6. Béjaïa – Between sea, mountains and Kabyle forests
Between steep cliffs and lush forests, Béjaïa offers an exceptional natural environment. This pearl of Kabylia combines culture, biodiversity and coastline.
- Things to do: hike Cap Carbon, discover Gouraya national park, swim in the creeks.
- Perfect for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
7. Algiers – Capital between heritage and renewal
Algiers is a city of contrasts, where modernity rubs shoulders with the remains of the Ottoman Kasbah. Its seafront, museums and changing neighbourhoods make it a bustling capital.
- What to see: the Kasbah, the Jardin d’Essai, the rooftops of El Madania, contemporary exhibitions.
- An urban immersion between history and creativity.
8. Constantine – The city of suspension bridges
Clinging to its cliffs, Constantine impresses with its spectacular geography. The capital of Arab-Andalusian music, it is also a major historical centre.
- Places to visit: Sidi M’Cid bridge, Ahmed Bey palace, Cirta museum, zlabia tasting.
- A recommended destination for lovers of architecture and history.
9. Timimoun – The red oasis of Gourara
Situated in the heart of the Western Sahara, Timimoun is famous for its red earth, its banco architecture, and its hypnotic landscapes of dunes and palm groves.
- Enjoy a sand bath, dinner under the stars and a visit to the ksour and underground oases.
- A sensory journey out of time.
10. Kabylia – Nature, crafts and living traditions
A mountainous region with a strong identity, Kabylia is a land of hilltop villages, potters, traditional festivals and unspoilt beaches.
- Things to do: hike in the Djurdjura, visit the potters of Aït Khellili, swim in Azeffoun or Tizi Ouzou.
- A must for cultural and rural tourism.
Bonus: 5 recommended tours in 2025
To extend your Algerian adventure, here are a few suggested itineraries:
- Great Saharan South: Djanet – Illizi – Tamanrasset – Bordj El Haoues
- Coastal road trip: Skikda – Collo – Jijel – Béjaïa – Oran
- Oasis break: El Oued – Ghardaïa – Timimoun
- Historical itinerary: Algiers – Tlemcen – Constantine – Batna
- Berber walks: Kabylia – Aurès – Djurdjura
