Things To Do
in Annaba
Annaba is a coastal port city in northeastern Algeria set along the Mediterranean with a mix of industrial activity and historic sites. The city sits beneath surrounding hills, offering scenic viewpoints and a lively seafront. Its history runs from ancient Hippo Regius to modern markets, with a strong fishing culture and diverse dining options.
Nearby natural highlights like El Kala National Park provide easy day trips for nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Rabah Bitat Airport and transfer to your seaside hotel, where the salty breeze instantly soothes the spirit. Unpack quickly and step onto the palm-lined corniche for a gentle promenade along the sparkling Mediterranean. Pause at a waterfront café to sip mint tea and watch local fishermen haul in their morning catch.
Head to the vibrant central market, browsing stalls of fresh produce, honey, and handcrafted pottery. Sample regional specialties like rechta and chorba at a family-run eatery before strolling through shaded parkways. Take your time absorbing the rhythm of local life as traders barter and children play under centuries-old olive trees.
Ascend to the hilltop Seraïdi lighthouse for panoramic sunset views over the bay, with the sky painted in fiery hues. Return to Annaba’s waterfront for a sea-salted dinner of grilled sardines and brik, paired with crisp local white wine. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the moonlit jetty, listening to the lapping waves.
After an Algerian coffee, set off for the ruins of ancient Hippone just outside the city, once the hometown of Saint Augustine. Wander through the crumbling basilica and ornate mosaics, imagining the grandeur of this Roman colony. Pause at the archaeological museum to admire artifacts unearthed from the site.
Enjoy a rustic picnic shaded by umbrella pines near the Roman baths, with olives, goat cheese, and flatbread. Continue exploring lesser-known ruins, including the arch of the triumphal gate and remnants of the forum. Engage a local guide for storytelling that brings history to life through tales of emperors and early church councils.
Return to Annaba and dine in a historic riad transformed into a restaurant serving tajine and couscous. Savor layers of lamb, apricots, and almonds as traditional raï music drifts through the courtyard. Conclude the day with star-gazing on your hotel terrace and soft melodies of the Mediterranean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $45-85 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short local trip) | $3-7 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beach access
- Rich history from ancient to modern eras
- Delicious seafood and affordable street food
- Easy day trips to El Kala National Park
- Limited English in some areas; French widely used
- Hot summers; heat can be intense for some travelers
- Varying pace and availability of some tourist services outside city center
- "سلام عليكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - What is the price?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "إلى اللقاء" - Goodbye
- "أنا لا أفهم" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Annaba
Visit one of these nice places.
.Impressive ancient ruins set against the modern city and sea; great for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Ferrous-blue Mediterranean backdrop with boats, the lighthouse, and promenades; ideal for sunset shots and street life.
Quiet early-morning beach scenes with soft light and reflective water imagery.
Hillsides overlooking Annaba offering sweeping bay views and cityscapes.
Food in Annaba
Annaba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Couscous topped with a variety of fresh seafood and vegetables, a staple in coastal towns.
Must-Try!
Sea bass or other local fish marinated with herbs and grilled, often served with potatoes or rice.
A fried pastry filled with egg and sometimes tuna; a popular street and cafe snack.
Hearty, plant-forward dishes common in eastern Algeria, often served with bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market district where you can buy fresh produce, olives, spices, and regional snacks.
Walk-up stalls along the harbor offering grilled seafood, fried snacks, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite
Dress modestly, particularly in religious sites; avoid loud public displays of affection in older neighborhoods.
Be respectful around mosques and during prayer times; remove shoes if requested and follow local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Annaba
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Common practice is 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for taxi drivers or cafe staff are common.
Cash in Algerian dinars is widely accepted; some tourist-oriented spots may accept cards or mobile payments, but it’s safest to carry cash for small purchases and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor markets, coastal walks, and light hiking.
Hot and dry, with sea breezes along the coast; stay hydrated and seek shade, especially during peak afternoon hours.
Warm days with cooler evenings; good conditions for seaside strolls and day trips to nearby natural areas.
Mild with occasional rain; expect shorter days and fewer crowds, but comfortable for cultural sites and museum visits.
Annaba at Night
Hiking in Annaba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible coastal paths with marshland birdwatching and sea views, suited for easy to moderate hikes.
Short hikes to scenic viewpoints overlooking the city and bay; good for sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Annaba by plane.
Annaba’s main airport offering domestic and some international routes; convenient for arrivals and departures to the region.
A larger hub about a few hours away by road; connects to Algeria and some international destinations.
Major international gateway; useful for longer connections or multi-city itineraries, though farther from Annaba.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A predominantly Arab-Berber population with a mix of ages; a growing student and service-focused community.
Tourists and expatriates attracted by beaches, history, and regional cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect local matches and street games to be common in neighborhoods.
Widely played in schools and clubs, with local leagues in urban centers.
Popular in gymnasiums and community clubs across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Annaba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries (salads, lentil or chickpea-based dishes, vegetable couscous). To navigate: ask for vegetable ramadan-style dishes, request no meat stock, and look for bread, salads, and legumes as bases.