Constantine is a city located in the north-eastern part of Algeria, situated on a plateau overlooking the Rhumel River. It is the third-largest city in Algeria and has a rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some things to do and see in Constantine:
Visit the Sidi M’Cid Suspension Bridge: The Sidi M’Cid Suspension Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Constantine. It is a stunning sight to see and offers breathtaking views of the city and the Rhumel River.
Explore the Casbah: The Casbah of Constantine is an ancient walled city that dates back to the 16th century. It is home to many historic buildings, narrow streets, and picturesque alleyways.
Visit the Cirta Museum: The Cirta Museum is one of the best museums in Algeria and is dedicated to the history and culture of Constantine. It features a wide range of exhibits, including ancient artifacts, weapons, and traditional crafts.
See the Palace of Ahmed Bey: The Palace of Ahmed Bey is a beautiful palace that was built in the 19th century. It features stunning architecture, intricate details, and a beautiful garden.
Take a walk in the Ain El Bey Park: Ain El Bey Park is a large park located in the heart of Constantine. It features beautiful gardens, fountains, and a small zoo.
Explore the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park: The Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is located about 400 km south of Constantine and is known for its stunning landscapes, rock formations, and prehistoric rock art.
Visit the Beni Hammad Fort: The Beni Hammad Fort is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 11th century. It is located about 120 km southeast of Constantine and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These are just a few things to do and see in Constantine. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty, Constantine is definitely worth a visit.
Places to Visit in Constantine
Constantine is a historic city located in northeastern Algeria, situated on a plateau overlooking the Rhumel River. Here are some of the top places to visit in Constantine:
Sidi M’Cid Bridge: The Sidi M’Cid Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Constantine. It is a stunning suspension bridge that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Rhumel River.
Casbah of Constantine: The Casbah is an ancient walled city that dates back to the 16th century. It is home to many historic buildings, narrow streets, and picturesque alleyways.
Cirta Museum: The Cirta Museum is one of the best museums in Algeria and is dedicated to the history and culture of Constantine. It features a wide range of exhibits, including ancient artifacts, weapons, and traditional crafts.
Palace of Ahmed Bey: The Palace of Ahmed Bey is a beautiful palace that was built in the 19th century. It features stunning architecture, intricate details, and a beautiful garden.
Ain El Bey Park: Ain El Bey Park is a large park located in the heart of Constantine. It features beautiful gardens, fountains, and a small zoo.
Monument aux Morts: The Monument aux Morts is a war memorial that is located in the center of Constantine. It is a beautiful and somber tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.
Tassili n’Ajjer National Park: The Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is located about 400 km south of Constantine and is known for its stunning landscapes, rock formations, and prehistoric rock art.
These are just a few of the top places to visit in Constantine. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty, Constantine is definitely worth a visit.
Best Time To Visit Constantine
The best time to visit Constantine is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic sites and natural beauty. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C or more, which can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below 10°C, especially at night. However, if you don’t mind the cold weather, winter can also be a great time to visit Constantine, as the city is less crowded and the prices for accommodation and activities are lower. Overall, the best time to visit Constantine depends on your preferences and what you plan to do while you are there.
How to get around in Constantine
Here are some ways to get around Constantine:
By taxi: Taxis are widely available in Constantine and are the most convenient way to get around the city. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and you can negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in.
By bus: Constantine has a public bus system that operates throughout the city. The buses are inexpensive and can be crowded during peak hours.
By foot: Constantine is a walkable city, and many of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a great way to explore the city and get a feel for its culture and history.
By car: Renting a car is another option for getting around Constantine. However, driving in the city can be challenging, as the streets can be narrow and crowded. It is also important to note that parking can be difficult to find in some areas.
By motorcycle: Motorcycle rentals are available in Constantine, and they can be a fun and adventurous way to explore the city. However, it is important to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules and regulations.
Where to eat in Constantine
Constantine has a vibrant food scene with a variety of restaurants serving traditional Algerian cuisine as well as international cuisine. Here are some of the top places to eat in Constantine:
Le Panoramic: Le Panoramic is a popular restaurant that offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop terrace. The menu features traditional Algerian dishes as well as international cuisine.
Restaurant le Bellevue: Restaurant le Bellevue is another great option for dining with a view. The restaurant is located on a hillside overlooking the city and serves a variety of Algerian and Mediterranean dishes.
L’Escalier: L’Escalier is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of the city. The menu features traditional Algerian dishes as well as French cuisine.
Restaurant Ziri: Restaurant Ziri is a popular spot for seafood lovers, serving fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish and shrimp.
El Bahdja: El Bahdja is a casual restaurant that offers a variety of traditional Algerian dishes at reasonable prices.
Pizzeria Kebap Mekhtar: Pizzeria Kebap Mekhtar is a popular fast-food restaurant that serves delicious pizza, kebabs, and sandwiches.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Constantine. With its rich culinary heritage, visitors to Constantine are sure to find something delicious to eat.
Famous street stalls in Constantine
Constantine is known for its street food culture, with many street stalls and vendors offering a variety of traditional Algerian dishes. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Constantine:
La Brouette: La Brouette is a popular street stall that serves traditional Algerian dishes such as maaqouda (potato fritters), bourek (stuffed pastries), and chakchouka (spicy tomato and pepper stew).
Bourek El Djeldi: Bourek El Djeldi is another popular street stall that specializes in bourek, a popular Algerian pastry that is stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
La Mechicha: La Mechicha is a popular stall that serves traditional Algerian sweets such as makroudh (date-filled pastry) and zlabia (deep-fried dough dipped in syrup).
Laadjouza: Laadjouza is a street vendor that serves traditional Algerian dishes such as couscous, merguez (spicy sausage), and tajine (slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew).
M’souka: M’souka is a street vendor that serves m’souka, a traditional Algerian dish made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices.
These are just a few of the many street stalls and vendors in Constantine that serve delicious and authentic Algerian cuisine. Exploring the street food scene in Constantine is a great way to experience the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Where to stay in Constantine
Luxury accommodation
Constantine has a range of luxury accommodation options that offer comfortable and luxurious amenities. Here are some of the top luxury hotels in Constantine:
Cirta Hotel Constantine: Cirta Hotel Constantine is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites with views of the city, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Constantine Marriott Hotel: Constantine Marriott Hotel is a modern hotel located near the city center. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and several on-site dining options.
Novotel Constantine: Novotel Constantine is a four-star hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel features modern rooms and suites, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Hôtel El Bey: Hôtel El Bey is a historic hotel located in a restored Ottoman palace. The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, and several on-site dining options.
Palace Appart Hotel: Palace Appart Hotel is a luxury aparthotel located in the city center. The hotel features spacious and modern apartments, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options available in Constantine. Visitors to the city are sure to find a hotel that meets their needs and preferences.
Where to stay in Constantine
Budget accommodation
Constantine has a range of budget accommodation options that offer comfortable and affordable stays. Here are some of the top budget hotels and hostels in Constantine:
Hotel Djebel: Hotel Djebel is a budget hotel located in the city center. The hotel features simple and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Hotel des Princes: Hotel des Princes is a budget hotel located near the city center. The hotel features basic and clean rooms at reasonable prices.
Hotel Numidien: Hotel Numidien is a budget hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel features comfortable rooms at affordable prices, a restaurant serving traditional Algerian cuisine, and a terrace with views of the city.
Hotel Mentouri Constantine: Hotel Mentouri Constantine is a budget hotel located near the city center. The hotel features simple and clean rooms at affordable prices.
Hostel Constantine: Hostel Constantine is a budget hostel located in the city center. The hostel features dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at affordable prices, a shared kitchen, and a terrace with views of the city.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options available in Constantine. Visitors to the city on a budget are sure to find a hotel or hostel that meets their needs and preferences.
Travel Tips Constantine
Here are some travel tips for visiting Constantine:
Be prepared for the weather: Constantine experiences hot summers and cold winters, so it’s important to pack accordingly. Bring light clothing and sunscreen if you’re visiting in the summer, and warm clothing if you’re visiting in the winter.
Explore the Casbah: The Casbah of Constantine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest and most picturesque parts of the city. Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the Casbah to get a glimpse of traditional Algerian architecture.
Visit the Bridge of Sidi M’Cid: The Bridge of Sidi M’Cid is one of the most iconic landmarks in Constantine. Take a walk across the bridge to enjoy the stunning views of the Rhumel River and the surrounding mountains.
Try the local cuisine: Constantine is known for its delicious and authentic Algerian cuisine. Be sure to try traditional dishes such as couscous, tajine, and merguez sausage, as well as sweets like baklava and makroudh.
Use public transport: Constantine has a good public transport system, including buses and taxis, that is both affordable and convenient. Consider using public transport to get around the city and save money on transportation costs.
Learn some basic French: While Arabic is the official language of Algeria, French is widely spoken in Constantine. Learning some basic French phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals and navigating the city.
By following these travel tips, visitors to Constantine can make the most of their trip and experience the best that the city has to offer.