Things To Do
in Boumerdes
Boumerdès is a coastal province just east of Algiers, known for its Mediterranean beaches, rugged mountain scenery, and friendly market towns. The area blends urban life with Kabyle and Arab traditions, offering fishing harbors, hillside villages, and scenic drives along the coast. The climate is warm in summer and mild in winter, with occasional rain and sea breezes that temper the heat.
Visitors can enjoy seafood, markets, historic sites, and outdoor adventures from Cap Carbon to the Khachna mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Houari Boumediene Airport and take a scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast to Boumerdes. Once settled into your hotel, explore the local café and enjoy a traditional Algerian breakfast featuring delicious pastries and fresh mint tea. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the refreshing sea breeze.
Visit the local souk to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up unique crafts and souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant to indulge in freshly caught seafood while enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline. Afterward, explore the ancient ruins of Thapsus, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the area.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach, watching the waves gently crash against the shore. Dine at a charming restaurant where you can taste traditional Algerian dishes prepared with local ingredients. End the evening with a leisurely drink at a beachfront café while listening to live local music.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore the bustling streets of Boumerdes. Visit the Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel, and learn about its significance to the local community. Spend some time in the beautiful Jardin Public, enjoying the lush greenery and peaceful ambiance.
After lunch at a local bistro, take a guided tour of the city’s historical sites, including the remnants of the ancient Roman city, which offer a glimpse into Algeria’s rich past. Enjoy the local art scene by visiting small galleries showcasing works by local artists. You can also stop at the marina to see elegant yachts and boats docked along the shore.
As darkness falls, enjoy a sunset cruise along the coast, capturing breathtaking views of the sea against the sky. Return to land and visit a vibrant market where you can taste street food delicacies. Conclude your day with a cultural performance at a local venue, experiencing Algerian music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and friendly locals
- Good base for exploring the Khachna mountains and nearby Dellys
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Occasional traffic around the Algiers belt and some mountain roads may be narrow
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Aaeshak" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Boumerdes
Visit one of these nice places.
A long seaside esplanade with sea views, palm trees, and fishermen on the pier, ideal at sunrise or sunset.
Dramatic sea cliffs and a historic lighthouse offering dramatic sunrise or golden hour photography.
Colorful hillside houses tumble toward the harbor with the rugged coastline as a backdrop.
Food in Boumerdes
Boumerdes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, often served with bread or couscous.
Must-Try!
Classic Algerian couscous enriched with seasonal vegetables and chickpeas.
Crispy thin pastry filled with egg and herbs, commonly enjoyed as a snack or starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh seafood, vegetables, olives, and spices.
Casual bites of grilled fish, calamari, and flatbreads along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Salam or Bonjour. Dress modestly in public places, especially religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in conservative areas.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or families; private property may require consent.
Public displays of affection are discouraged; avoid loud conversations in quiet public spaces; maintain polite tone in discussions.
Safety
Tipping in Boumerdes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, commonly around 5-10% for good service. In informal eateries, rounding up the bill is acceptable.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take cards in larger towns and hotels. ATMs are common in Boumerdès city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming hills make it ideal for hiking and city walks.
Hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and enjoy sea breezes by the water.
Pleasant temperatures and occasional rain; seafood markets are vibrant.
Cool with some rain; coastal fogs possible in the mornings; indoor activities are popular.
Boumerdes at Night
Hiking in Boumerdes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal ridge walk with ocean views and dramatic cliffs near Zemmouri.
Several hiking routes ascending into the Khachna range with scenic valleys and villages.
Airports
How to reach Boumerdes by plane.
Algiers hub about 40-60 minutes by car; major international and domestic connections.
Bejaia airport serves the eastern region; longer drive but useful for regional access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young professionals and university students form a significant portion of the city’s population.
Traditional fishing communities along the coast contribute to the local culture and cuisine.
A mix of Kabyle and Arab identities shapes language, music, and customs in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; many towns have local teams and informal matches by the coast.
Common in schools and clubs; facilities around Boumerdès and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Boumerdes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vegetable couscous, tagines with seasonal vegetables, salads, and breads. Ask for no meat broth or fish stock where appropriate.