Constantine
,Constantine is a picturesque city located in northeastern Algeria, known for its dramatic location on a plateau overlooking the Rhumel Gorge. The city is famous for its unique architecture, with many buildings perched on cliffs and connected by bridges. Constantine is also rich in history, with traces of Roman, Ottoman, and French influences found throughout the city.
Its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and breathtaking views make it a fascinating destination for travelers.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Labas?" - How are you?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Ma'a salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Historical Constantine
morning
:Visit the iconic Suspension Bridge to admire the stunning views. Then, explore the old city to take in the ancient architecture.
afternoon
:Head to the Palace of Ahmed Bey for a glimpse into the past. Don't forget to stroll through the gardens surrounding the palace.
evening
:Enjoy a traditional Algerian meal at a local restaurant. Experience the nightlife in the bustling streets of the city.
Discover Religious Heritage
morning
:Start at the Great Mosque and appreciate its beautiful architecture. It’s a great place for reflection.
afternoon
:Visit the Tomb of the Martyrs that offers a panoramic view of the city. The peaceful ambiance is perfect for a quiet moment.
evening
:Attend a local cultural show if available. Experience traditional music and dance that are part of Algeria's heritage.
Highlights
Good
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Roman-era bridges and the Palace of Ahmed Bey.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning gorges and scenic views from the cliffs.
- A vibrant local cuisine that reflects a blend of Mediterranean and North African flavors.
- A well-developed educational system with several universities and schools.
- Strategic location with easy access to other major cities in Algeria.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities, especially for young graduates, leading to economic challenges.
- Infrastructure issues, including road maintenance and public transport systems.
- High population density leading to overcrowding in certain areas.
- Hot summer climate can be uncomfortable for residents and visitors.
- Political instability in the region may affect local governance and investment.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the El Kantara Gorge
Explore the picturesque El Kantara Gorge and enjoy a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.
Visiting Salah Bey Park
Relax and enjoy the beautiful green spaces, recreational activities, and stunning views of Constantine at Salah Bey Park.
Exploring the Constantine Suspension Bridges
Experience breathtaking views and take a leisurely stroll across the iconic suspension bridges in Constantine.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Constantine with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Monument aux Morts
The Monument aux Morts offers stunning views of Constantine's old city and its iconic bridges.
Pont Sidi Rached
The Sidi Rached Bridge provides picturesque views of the Rhumel River and the surrounding ravine.
Palace of Ahmed Bey
The Palace of Ahmed Bey features a beautiful terrace with panoramic views of Constantine's skyline.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Couscous
A staple dish made from steamed semolina, often served with lamb, chicken, or vegetables. Sample authentic couscous at local restaurants like Le Petit Zink or Chez Tchoune.
Must-Try!
Chakhchoukha
A hearty dish featuring torn flatbread soaked in a rich tomato-based sauce and lamb, garnished with herbs and spices. Try this dish at La Calypso or La Sirene.
Rechta
Handmade egg noodles served with a flavorful chicken or meat stew. Savor a delightful plate of Rechta at Restaurant El Aurassi or Aures.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Constantine better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Marche Central
Explore this bustling market to sample a variety of Algerian street foods such as Merguez (spiced lamb sausages), Borek (pastries), and traditional sweets like Makroud.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Constantine, it is important to offer greetings when meeting someone, and it is customary to shake hands with both men and women as a sign of respect.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Constantine, it is polite to remove your shoes before entering someone's home and to wait to be seated. It is also customary to accept food and drink offerings as a sign of hospitality.
Respect for Religious Customs
Algeria is a predominantly Muslim country, and in Constantine, it is important to show respect for Islamic customs and traditions, including modest clothing and avoiding public displays of affection.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Constantine with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Constantine, Algeria, tipping is generally appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payment
Payment in Constantine, Algeria is primarily done in cash, and credit cards are not as widely accepted. When making purchases or payments for services, it's important to have enough local currency on hand. Some larger establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry cash for transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Constantine.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May)
Mild and pleasant weather, blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities
Summer (June to August)
Hot and dry weather, perfect for beach visits but can be very hot in the city
Autumn (September to November)
Mild temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, great for sightseeing
Winter (December to February)
Cool and occasionally wet, suitable for exploring historical sites and indoor activities
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Chréa National Park
Located about 90 km southwest of Constantine, Chréa National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, diverse flora, and numerous hiking trails that cater to various skill levels.
Tassili n'Ajjer National Park
Although it's a bit further away, Tassili n'Ajjer is famous for its unique rock formations and prehistoric rock art, providing a remarkable backdrop for hikers interested in exploring vast sandstone plateaus.
Mount Edough
Located near the city of El Tarf, Mount Edough features beautiful coastal views and a variety of trails suitable for different hiking experiences.
Kalaa of Beni Hakkak
This site offers hiking trails through rugged terrain and is a popular destination for those looking to experience the natural flora and fauna of the region.
Mergueb National Park
Situated a few hours from Constantine, known for its rich biodiversity, Mergueb offers serene hiking trails among forests and hills.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Constantine through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Constantine by plane.
Mohamed Boudiaf International Airport (CZL)
Located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center of Constantine, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG)
Situated about 400 kilometers from Constantine, this is the largest airport in Algeria and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Annaba Rabah Bitat Airport (AAE)
Located about 100 kilometers from Constantine, this airport services flights to various international and domestic destinations.
Oran Ahmed Ben Bella Airport (ORN)
Approximately 600 kilometers from Constantine, this airport is another significant international gateway in Algeria.
Tizi Ouzou Airport (TZR)
Located about 200 kilometers from Constantine, this airport offers limited international flights and mainly caters to domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Arab-Berbers
The majority ethnic group in Constantine, comprising both Arab and Berber origins, reflecting a rich cultural heritage.
Europeans
Historically significant group, particularly during the colonial period, with a smaller presence in contemporary times.
Sub-Saharan Africans
A growing demographic in recent years, including migrants and expatriates contributing to the cultural diversity.
Other ethnic minorities
Includes small communities of various ethnic backgrounds, such as Jewish and other diaspora groups.
The Soul of Constantine
Discover the essence of Constantine through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Constantine, with a strong local following and several teams competing in national leagues.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Constantine, with various clubs and recreational teams available.
Handball
Handball is another widely played sport in Constantine, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Athletics
Athletics is promoted through schools and local associations, and Constantine hosts various competitions throughout the year.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular in community centers and schools, with both men's and women's teams competing in local leagues.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Algerian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Constantine, such as Cafe El Houria and Le Petit Zink, offer vegetarian and vegan options including couscous with vegetables, Mechouia salad, and vegetable tagine.
Gluten-Free Options
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional dishes, but some restaurants, like Le Coq Hardi, offer grilled fish and salads as gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Constantine with these cultural adventures.