What to See in Algiers: 10 Must-Visit Places and How to Get There by Ferry from Spain

Algiers is one of the most interesting cities in North Africa for travellers looking for a different destination. The capital of Algeria combines white Mediterranean-inspired architecture with Ottoman heritage, historic neighbourhoods, monuments, gardens and a coastline overlooking the Mediterranean.

If you are planning a trip to Algiers, the city deserves at least 2 or 3 days to discover its main attractions at a relaxed pace. And if you want to travel with your own car, the Valencia-Algiers ferry allows you to travel directly from Spain and then continue your journey through Algeria.

In this guide, we tell you what to see in Algiers, which places you should not miss and how to get there by ferry from Valencia with Kikoto Ferries.

1. What to see in Algiers?

Algiers stretches around a large bay and combines different historical periods. To get to know it properly, it is worth spending time both in the old Casbah and in the modern centre and neighbourhoods overlooking the Mediterranean.

These are some of the places you should not miss.

1. The Casbah of Algiers

The Casbah of Algiers is the city's absolute must-see.

This ancient medina is built on the hillside that slopes down towards the Mediterranean and consists of a maze of narrow streets, stairways, traditional houses, mosques and palaces.

The Casbah was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 and is one of the best places to discover the history and traditional architecture of Algeria.

Among its points of interest are the Citadel and several Ottoman palaces.

Tip: wear comfortable shoes. Visiting the area involves walking through narrow streets, slopes and numerous stairways. If it is your first time in Algiers, it may also be interesting to explore it with a local guide.

2. Notre Dame d'Afrique

The Basilica of Notre Dame d'Afrique stands on a promontory offering some of the best panoramic views over the Bay of Algiers.

Built in the 19th century, it stands out for its architecture and the mixture of cultural elements that characterise the city.

Beyond the basilica itself, it is worth coming here for the views over the Mediterranean and the city. It is one of the places regularly listed among Algiers' main tourist attractions.

3. Martyrs' Memorial

The Martyrs' Memorial, known as Maqam Echahid, is one of the most recognisable symbols of Algiers.

Its three large palm leaves rise above the city and commemorate those who died during the Algerian War of Independence.

In addition to its historical importance, its elevated location offers a wide panoramic view of Algiers.

4. Jardin d'Essai du Hamma

If, after exploring the streets and monuments of Algiers, you want to take a break surrounded by nature, the Jardin d'Essai du Hamma is one of the best options.

This enormous botanical garden is one of the best-known green spaces in the capital and features different plant species and landscaped areas.

It is also among the highest-rated tourist attractions in Algiers.

It is a good place to combine with a visit to the Martyrs' Memorial, as both are located in the same area of the city.

5. La Grande Poste d'Alger

The Grande Poste is one of the most photographed buildings in Algiers.

Located right in the city centre, it stands out for its Neo-Moorish-inspired architecture and spectacular façade.

From here, you can continue walking along some of the main avenues in the city centre and discover the colonial-era architecture that coexists with Algiers' historic neighbourhoods.

6. Algiers seafront

Another experience worth including in any trip to Algiers is simply walking alongside the Mediterranean.

The seafront offers views of the bay and the silhouette of the capital's white buildings.

It is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, when the light changes and temperatures are milder.

7. Place des Martyrs

The Place des Martyrs is located next to the lower part of the Casbah and is one of the strategic points from which to begin exploring the historic centre.

From here, you can enter the Casbah and continue towards different parts of central Algiers.

Its location also makes it easy to combine the Casbah and the seafront in the same day.

8. National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Arts

If you are interested in discovering the history of Algeria beyond its streets and monuments, you can include one of the city's museums in your itinerary.

The National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Arts houses pieces relating to different periods in the country's history.

Before visiting, it is advisable to check the opening hours and current access conditions during your trip.

9. Didouche Mourad

Didouche Mourad street is one of the main thoroughfares in central Algiers.

Here you will find historic buildings, shops, cafés and restaurants, and you can experience a more everyday side of the capital.

It is a good place to connect different visits during a walking route through the city centre.

10. Promenade des Sablettes

If you have enough time, you can head to the Promenade des Sablettes, a large seafront area used for walking and enjoying the local atmosphere.

It is an especially interesting option for ending the day beside the Mediterranean.

2. How many days do you need to visit Algiers?

For a first visit, 2 or 3 days are enough to discover the capital's main attractions without having to rush around.

One possible itinerary would be:

Day 1: Casbah and historic centre

• Place des Martyrs
• Casbah
• Citadel
• Grande Poste
• Central Algiers

Day 2: monuments and gardens

• Jardin d'Essai du Hamma
• Martyrs' Memorial
• Museum
• Seafront

Day 3: coast and neighbourhoods of Algiers

You can spend the last day visiting Notre Dame d'Afrique, exploring different neighbourhoods and enjoying the coast.

3. How to get to Algiers from Spain?

One of the most interesting ways to reach the Algerian capital from Spain is by ferry from Valencia.

The Valencia - Algiers route directly connects the Port of Valencia with the Port of Algiers, so you do not need to make any stops to reach the capital.

You can also travel with your own vehicle, an especially interesting option if you want to make the most of your trip by taking a road trip through Algeria.

Kikoto offers the Valencia - Algiers ferry route, operated by Baleària.

Currently, the route has one departure per week and an average journey time of around 19 hours, although schedules and journey times may vary depending on the specific service.

The route allows you to travel with cars, motorbikes and other vehicles, which can be especially useful if you want to explore Algeria by road after visiting the capital.

Check the Valencia - Algiers ferry and compare schedules and prices on Kikoto

4. Why travel to Algiers by ferry?

Travelling by ferry offers several advantages over flying:

• You can bring your own car.
• You can carry more luggage.
• You can book a cabin for the long crossing.
• You arrive directly at the Port of Algiers.
• You can continue your journey by road from the capital.

For a road trip through Algeria, bringing your own car can be especially interesting because it gives you greater freedom to travel between cities and places of interest.

5. Tips for travelling to Algiers

Before organising your trip, keep a few practical aspects in mind.

Book the ferry in advance

The Valencia - Algiers connection currently has a limited frequency, so it is advisable to check the available dates and book in advance.

Check your documentation

As this is an international journey, you will need a passport and the necessary travel documentation. Entry requirements may depend on your nationality and the current situation, so you should check them before travelling.

If you are travelling by car, check the specific requirements

Travelling with a vehicle involves additional procedures. Check in advance which documents are required to temporarily bring your vehicle into Algeria.

Allow enough time for the Casbah

Do not try to rush through it. Its narrow streets, slopes and historic buildings deserve to be explored at a relaxed pace.

Check opening hours before visiting monuments

The opening hours of museums, monuments and other tourist attractions may change, especially during public holidays.

6. Organise your trip to Algiers with Kikoto

Now that you know what to see in Algiers, all that remains is to organise your trip.

The Algerian capital combines history, architecture, Mediterranean culture and coastal landscapes, with the Casbah as its main attraction. And if you want to discover more beyond the city, travelling with your own car will allow you to turn your visit into a true road trip through Algeria.

From Valencia, you can take the Valencia - Algiers ferry with Kikoto directly, compare the available options and take your car on board to begin your journey as soon as you disembark in the capital.