Algeria · 2026 itinerary
Algiers 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Algiers: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
The old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and Ottoman-era palaces. You can wander for hours without charge.
🕐 Accessible 24/7; some alleys may close late evening
Free entry💡 Enter from Bab El Oued side for a less crowded start. Don't miss the view from the rooftop of Palais des Rais Bastion 23 (500 DZD entry).
Hotels near Casbah of Algiers →A historic mosque in the Casbah with a striking Ottoman and French colonial mix of architecture. The interior is ornate but quiet; respectful attire required.
🕐 Open daily 8am-12pm and 2pm-6pm; closed during prayers
Free entry💡 Visit after 10am to avoid prayer times. Take your shoes off before entering and cover your legs and shoulders.
Hotels near Ketchaoua Mosque →غريال · ££
little sweet home · ££
Deeper Into Algiers
A massive concrete monument from 1982 commemorating the Algerian War of Independence. Free to view from the esplanade; small museum underneath costs 100 DZD.
🕐 Memorial accessible 24/7; museum open Sun-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri-Sat 10am-4pm
💡 Best visited at sunset for dramatic lighting. The base has a small shop with decent souvenirs cheaper than the Casbah.
Algeria's largest art museum with a solid collection of Orientalist paintings, modern Algerian art, and European works. Entry is 300 DZD (about £1.50).
🕐 Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm; closed Monday
💡 Free audio guide in English at the desk. The terrace café has a good view over the Jardin d’Essai. Allow 1-2 hours.
Pizzeria Messina
Café L'Olympique
Final Favourites & Departure
A large botanical garden established in 1832, with exotic plants, a zoo (small extra fee), and shaded walks. Entry is 200 DZD (about £1.10).
💡 Go early in the morning before it gets hot. The palm tree avenue is perfect for photos. Bring water as the café is overpriced.
Cafe Bois des Cars
Hippopotamus
Getting Around Algiers
Agree on the fare before getting in. Official taxis at the rank are safer; avoid drivers who approach you inside the terminal.
The bus stop is outside arrivals. Have small change ready — driver won't accept large notes. It drops you a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
If you arrive at the airport, take bus 100 to Place des Martyrs, then walk. The metro is quick but not directly connected to the airport — use it for local hops instead.
Same stop as the metro — the tram runs parallel to the coast and is useful for reaching beaches or the eastern suburbs. Neither tram nor metro goes to the airport directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Algiers?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Casbah of Algiers and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Algiers?
See our full best time to visit Algiers guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Hôtel Dahak, Dar Diaf, Lounge Hotel. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.