Things To Do
in Ben ’Aknoûn
Ben ’Aknoûn is an upscale residential neighborhood and commune on the southern edge of Algiers, known for leafy streets, diplomatic residences and several cultural institutions. It sits on the hills overlooking the city and the Bay of Algiers, offering pleasant views and relatively quiet streets compared with the central districts. The area functions as a convenient base for exploring Algiers’ historic Casbah, museums and coastal corniche while enjoying more modern amenities and cafés.
Though compact, Ben ’Aknoûn benefits from good connections to public transport and easy access to parks and nearby green hills for short escapes from the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the airport and take a scenic drive to Ben ’Aknoûn, where you'll be greeted by the stunning mountain vistas. Settle into your accommodations, allowing the fresh alpine air to rejuvenate you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Algerian pastries and coffee.
After lunch, explore the charming streets of Ben ’Aknoûn, discovering local shops and artisan markets. Visit the historic sites in the area, immersing yourself in the rich culture and heritage of the town. Take a moment to relax in the local park, enjoying the serene environment.
Indulge in dinner at a family-owned restaurant, savoring the authentic flavors of Algerian cuisine. As night falls, stroll through the town, witnessing the vibrant atmosphere come alive. Finally, unwind at your hotel with a nightcap, reflecting on your first day.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike in the surrounding hills, exploring the breathtaking natural beauty that Ben ’Aknoûn offers. Prepare a picnic breakfast amidst the lush landscape, rejuvenating your spirit with the tranquility of nature. Look out for local wildlife, keeping your camera ready for the spectacular views.
Return to town for a hearty lunch, followed by a visit to the nearby arboretum to discover the diverse flora of the region. Engage in a guided tour to learn about native plant species and their ecological significance. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the expansive gardens as you stroll through.
Experience a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Algerian dishes with local chefs. Share your meal with new friends, exchanging stories and enjoying the warmth of Algerian hospitality. Conclude the evening with a folk music performance under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within city) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, residential atmosphere with easy access to central Algiers
- Good viewpoints and proximity to coastal promenades
- Access to diplomatic services and comfortable cafés
- Close to parks and short hill hikes for green escapes
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the neighborhood
- Card acceptance can be inconsistent; cash often required
- Some areas have uneven sidewalks and limited tourist infrastructure
- Language barriers possible outside French- and Arabic-speaking establishments
- "السَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ (Salam ‘alaykum)" - Peace be upon you / Hello
- "شُكْرًا (Shukran)" - Thank you
- "بِكَمْ؟ (Bikam?)" - How much is this?
- "نَعَم / لا (Na‘am / La)" - Yes / No
- "من فضلك (Min fadlik)" - Please / Excuse me
- "Bonjour (French)" - Hello / Good morning (widely used)
Places to Visit in Ben ’Aknoûn
Visit one of these nice places.
Ben ’Aknoûn’s elevated streets offer sweeping views of the Bay of Algiers, ideal for sunrise or sunset cityscapes.
A UNESCO-listed medina with narrow alleys, historic homes and textured walls — a rich spot for street and architectural photography (be mindful of restrictions on photographing people).
Long coastal roads and viewpoints capture sea, boats and the city skyline — best in the golden hour.
Colorful stalls, spices and pastries make lively scenes; candid shots work well but ask permission before photographing individuals.
Perched on a cliff nearby, the basilica provides dramatic vistas of the bay and classic architecture.
Food in Ben ’Aknoûn
Ben ’Aknoûn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
National staple — steamed semolina often served with lamb or chicken, seasonal vegetables and a spiced broth; available at family restaurants and celebratory meals.
Must-Try!
A traditional soup (often served during Ramadan) featuring tomatoes, lamb or chicken, and a mix of herbs and spices; commonly found in local eateries.
Slow-cooked stews made with meat, vegetables or fish and aromatic spices — served in restaurants and home-style establishments.
Fried pastry parcels filled with egg, tuna or spiced meat — a popular snack or starter sold at street vendors and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Neighborhood markets sell fresh produce, olives, spices and pastries; great places to sample dates, fresh oranges and local breads. Seek out small stalls for bourek, msemen and grilled kebabs.
Along the coast and busy promenades you’ll find vendors selling seafood, grilled skewers and sweet treats — ideal for a casual meal with a view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in residential areas and when visiting religious sites; men and women should avoid overly revealing clothing to respect local customs.
Polite greetings matter — a handshake or “Salam” is common; hosts are often warm and hospitable. Accepting a small cup of tea when offered is polite.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women, and be cautious around religious sites and security installations.
French is widely used alongside Algerian Arabic; learning simple phrases in French or Arabic earns goodwill. Avoid sensitive political subjects in casual conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Ben ’Aknoûn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small change for cafe service and 5–10% in restaurants if service is good. Porters and taxi drivers expect small cash tips for assistance.
Algerian Dinar (DZD) is the local currency and cash is king in many places. Credit and debit cards are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants, but smaller shops, markets and taxis often require cash. Carry small notes and use official ATMs in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry and sunny — expect temperatures often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F). Coastal breezes moderate the heat; bring sunscreen, light clothes and stay hydrated. Many locals vacation at beaches in July–August so tourist spots can be busier.
Mild and pleasant with cooler evenings, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing and outdoor walks. Occasional rain can begin later in the season.
Mild to cool with wetter weather; temperatures typically range from the mid-teens down to single digits °C (50s–40s °F). Expect rainy days and pack a waterproof layer. Snow is rare in Ben ’Aknoûn but falls in higher Atlas areas.
One of the best times to visit: comfortable temperatures, blossoming trees and clear skies — ideal for hikes and photography.
Ben ’Aknoûn at Night
Hiking in Ben ’Aknoûn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes and local trails offering city overlooks, Mediterranean flora and moderate ascents suitable for half-day trips from Ben ’Aknoûn.
A popular mountain and forest reserve south of Algiers with cedar forests, marked trails and cooler temperatures — excellent for longer hikes, picnics and nature observation.
Scenic coastal walks around Roman ruins and seaside cliffs west of Algiers — combine history with light walking and seaside views.
Airports
How to reach Ben ’Aknoûn by plane.
The main international gateway to Algiers, about 20–30 km from Ben ’Aknoûn depending on traffic; reachable by taxi, airport shuttle or private transfer. Most international and domestic flights arrive here.
A major airport serving western Algeria (Oran) — useful if combining a trip to western coastal cities; several hours’ drive from Algiers and suitable for broader domestic travel planning.
Large eastern Algerian airport for those connecting from the eastern part of the country; accessible by domestic flights from Algiers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, culturally diverse with Arabic and Berber roots and a mix of urban and family traditions.
Many residents are bilingual in French and Arabic, working in government, business, education and diplomatic circles.
Ben ’Aknoûn hosts diplomatic residences and international staff, creating a small expat community in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Algeria — local passion is strong, with matches drawing enthusiastic crowds and lively street conversations.
Widely played at amateur and competitive levels, especially in schools and clubs around Algiers.
Running, hiking and informal outdoor exercise are common in parks and along the corniche.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ben ’Aknoûn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (couscous with vegetables, tajines and salads), but menus often emphasize meat; communicate clearly and ask about broths and sauces. Fresh bread, salads, and vegetable stews are safe staples.
More challenging but doable in larger restaurants and markets; bring snacks and ask about dairy in sauces. Simple staples like salads, grilled vegetables and chickpea dishes are options.
Most meat is halal, so that simplifies dining. If you have allergies, explain them clearly in French or Arabic and watch out for cross-contamination in busy kitchens.