I recently explored Algeria as a woman traveler. Its beauty, culture, and rich history are amazing. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will help you discover why Algeria is a destination worth visiting. It’s full of top Algeria tourist attractions that are both fascinating and inspiring.

After visiting this place, I realized how rewarding it is to discover North African countries. Kach wrote down travel stories on exploring Tunisia, visiting Eritrea, and enjoying Libya, too. These places also offer stunning landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences.

Want to travel long-term? TMTG’s eBook, “The A-Z on Becoming a Digital Nomad,” has everything you need to start. It’s packed with tips, hacks, and tools for working remotely while enjoying places like Algeria.

The Sahara Desert

Algeria includes a huge part of the Sahara Desert. It’s the largest country in Africa, and its dunes are breathtaking. The sunsets feel too wonderful as well.

Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It presents ancient rock art and desert views. Places like Djanet offer natural beauty and peace.

Ancient Ruins and Historical Sites

Algeria is full of archaeological sites. I visited Tipasa, Timgad, and Djemila. They are ancient Roman cities that are well preserved. Emperor Trajan once ruled Timgad. Djemila’s ruins are stunning against the mountains.

The Casbah of Algiers and the city of Tlemcen are also rich in cultural heritage. The Great Mosque, Maqam Echahid (Martyrs’ Memorial), and the Basilica of Saint Augustine are iconic monuments.

Getting Around with Tassili Airlines and Local Guides

Tassili Airlines helped me explore Algeria easily. I flew between regions and saved time. My local guide in Algiers explained sites like the Lady of Africa Cathedral and the Bardo National Museum. They also helped me stay safe and connect with locals. Don’t forget to bring a tripod for your photos!

The Mountains of Algeria

The Atlas Mountains and Hoggar Mountains are ideal for hiking. Ghardaia, in the M’zab Valley, is nestled among them. The views from these areas are unforgettable. Visiting during October or November is the best time for hiking trips.

Mediterranean Beaches

Algeria’s Mediterranean coastline is peaceful and scenic. The beaches near Algiers, Tipasa, and Oran have soft sand and calm water. I saw both tourists and local Muslims enjoying family time by the sea. The ancient ruins made me feel modern relaxation.

Algerian Cuisine

Algerian food is full of flavor. Influences come from Arab, Berber, and French cuisines. I tried couscous, tagine, and a local favorite called Cuicui. Street food is also worth trying. The hospitality made every meal special, and learning a few local phrases with Rosetta Stone helped me connect better with locals.

Tassili Najjer National Park

Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is filled with prehistoric art and stunning rock formations. It’s one of the most unique places in North Africa. I met other visitors exploring the site with cameras and gears like waterproof coats. The dry climate preserves everything beautifully.

The City of El Atteuf

El Atteuf in Ghardaia is one of the oldest towns in the M’Zab Valley. Walking its narrow streets feels like time travel. The community preserves traditional values and architecture. It’s a great example of living heritage.

Beautiful and Diverse Landscapes

Algeria offers sand dunes, coastlines, ruins, mountains, and vibrant cities. Each region offers something different. In Constantine crossing a bridge? Touring one of the largest mosques? It doesn’t matter because the scenery is always impressive.

Friendly People and Rich Traditions

The people are kind and welcoming. I learned about local dress, etiquette, and religion. Most Algerians are Muslims. I felt respected everywhere I went, and using Eskimo eSIM for internet access helped me stay connected and post my travel photos in real time.

Travel Tips

Always check the latest tourist visa requirements and get travel health insurance. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler.

From archaeological sites to relaxing beaches, Algeria is full of adventure and culture. Bring a reusable water bottle and take your time. This trip will stay with you forever, so visit Algeria!

FAQ

About The Writer

I’m Cyrine, a 19-year-old Filipina writer juggling college, freelance work, and the messy, exciting path of becoming a digital nomad. I didn’t start out with a full savings account or fancy gear. Just a borrowed laptop, a few writing gigs, and the decision to try. In this column, I’ll share honest stories, budget travel tips, and lessons I’m learning as a Gen Z from the Philippines chasing freedom through remote work. Whether you’re curious about freelance life, saving for your first solo trip, or figuring out how to make travel more than a one-time escape: this is your space, too.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal will reopen on October 1 after a multiyear, resort-wide renovation.

The hotel, located on a prime stretch of beachfront in Cabo San Lucas, is currently closed for the update of its 112 guest rooms, suites, casitas, and villas, helmed by Paul Duesling Partners, the resort’s original designer. The accommodations will be enhanced with a palette of light neutrals, custom furnishings crafted in Mexico, and an art collection highlighting local talent, including a mural by multidisciplinary artist Tanya Talamante.

“The reimagination of Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal was done thoughtfully to ensure a singularly authentic luxury experience that gives a nod to both the resort’s impressive legacy as well as the heritage and traditions of Mexican culture,” said Maria Valeria Nowotny, vice president of operations for the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America at Hilton in a press release, shared with Travel + Leisure.

The multiyear transformation started in 2022 with enhancements to the restaurants and culinary program. Since then, the hotel has added Agave Study at Peacock Alley, celebrating Mexico’s agave spirit-making traditions, Neutral Coffee Lab, offering local and international coffee varieties, and Travesía, a nine-course taco tasting experience. Don Manuel’s, the resort’s signature restaurant, also underwent a glow-up and now serves an elevated take on traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Guests can still dine at the dramatic cliffside El Farallon, where the menu highlights the freshest catch of the day. For a beachfront al fresco lunch or an afternoon cocktail and snack, Crudo features ceviche, sushi, and oysters with an ocean view.

The salon at the Waldorf Astoria Spa has also undergone a refresh. And the resort will continue its three-day Alo Moves retreats post-renovation. Wellness-focused guests can still enjoy the spa’s saltwater meditation pool and holistic treatments, based on the moon’s phases.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is a favorite of T+L readers, securing a spot among the top 10 best resorts in Mexico at the 2025 World’s Best Awards.

Nightly rates at the resort start from $1,214. You can book your stay at waldorfastorialoscabospedregal.com

I just got back from two weeks in Greece, island-hopping with only a carry-on, which meant editing my packing list down to the bare essentials. The hardest part? Shoes. Like Carrie Bradshaw, I believe in the power of a great pair, so curating just a few that worked for ferries, dinners, and cobblestone streets felt like a challenge. But I pulled it off without repeating a single dinner look—and without dragging an overstuffed suitcase through narrow alleys or up too many marble stairs.

Years of traveling (and a few early fashion mishaps) have taught me that smart footwear choices make all the difference, especially in style-conscious cities like Paris. Whether you’re strolling through Saint-Germain or heading to dinner in the Marais, your shoes can either help you blend in or scream “tourist.” Here are the most common shoe mistakes I see—and the effortless, stylish swaps that will keep you comfortable and looking like a local.

Stylish Shoe Swaps for Paris

Don’t Wear: Kitten heels

Wear This Instead: Mesh flats

Kitten heels are as chic as a Chanel bag, but in summer, when you’re navigating Provence’s cobbled streets and perched seaside towns like Taormina, comfort is key. An easy trick for a look that won’t make your feet ache and still appear polished enough for a nicer dinner? Go metallic.

This sophisticated, square-toed ballet flat at J.Crew takes on a summer spin thanks to its breathable, handwoven leather design, and it pairs nicely with a casual ensemble like white linen shorts and a cropped matching top. For a dressier look, opt for wide-leg linen pants, a breezy, see-through silk top, and sculptural gold jewelry to add extra pop and match the metallic shade of your shoes.

Don’t Wear: Rainboots

Wear This Instead: Jelly shoes

Unless you’re glamping at Glastonbury or spending the end of summer helping a friend’s winery with harvest in the vines, there’s no reason rainboots should be on your European packing list. I purchased a pair of wellies for gorilla trekking in Uganda, and I have not taken them out of the box in the five years since. 

Don’t get me wrong, it does rain in Europe in summer, especially if you’re visiting somewhere like Bergen, Norway, on a cruise through the fjords. Nothing will ruin a trip quicker than slipping on slick streets after a downpour and breaking a bone (this is coming from someone who broke her foot last summer in sandals in Paris), so instead of wearing rainboots or sandals with zero tread, hop on the ‘90s bandwagon and rock a pair of jelly shoes, slides, or flats like this pair from Sam Edelman. The hardly-there heel and squared toe box are elegant touches that make these shoes look much more expensive than they are, and they’d look just as much in place at the beach as they would at a bar in Paris or Prague.

Don’t Wear: Boat shoes on land

Wear This Instead: Mary Jane loafers

An instant giveaway that you’re an American? Boat shoes. They may serve a practical purpose in summer in New England, when you’re heading from a sailboat straight into a restaurant in Newport, but you can find a style as comfortable for strolling all day through a city without looking like you’re ready to board a boat.

This Mary Jane-inspired G.H. Bass pair is a cross between a classic fisherman sandal look and timeless lug-sole loafers. The T-strap adds a touch of femininity and looks great with socks as well as sans, making them a versatile style to transition with the seasons (or wear in cooler spots this season like Copenhagen).

Don’t Wear: Hardware-heavy sandals

Wear This Instead: Woven leather sandals

Designers like Valentino may have brought ‘70s-style studs back into fashion, but in Europe, quiet luxury is still the look du jour, meaning less bling and more focus on quality basics. Skip sandals adorned with oversized gold buckles and statement hardware. Opt for a more subtle style that relies on texture to add the right amount of design detail. 

This pair from the cool French girl brand Sézane is a play on summer’s favorite fabric—raffia. The wide, Bordeaux-toned straps are beautifully woven the same way as a straw bag, but they’re much sturdier than most raffia sandals and look just as appropriate in summer as early fall, when there are still a few balmy days on the Mediterranean. Pair with cropped linen pants and a breezy tank, and you’ll fit right in whether you’re visiting a major city like Milan or lounging by the beach in Marseille.

Don’t Wear: Ballet flats

Wear This Instead: Espadrilles

Ballet flats have made a comeback in Paris as a fall wardrobe essential, but in summer, they’re replaced by effortlessly chic espadrilles, which designers like Chanel and Chloé have given a very stylish (and pricey) spin to the seasonal staple.

You can find a simple pair in any seaside shop along a promenade in the Mediterranean, but for a look on the slightly more elevated side, sport a style like this navy striped version from Lands’ End. The soft, flexible rope footbed ensures all-day comfort while sightseeing in cities like Barcelona, yet they’re durable enough to stroll through a park or along a sandy beach—and they’re lightweight, making them easy to pack in a tote or carry-on.

Don’t Wear: Sky-high stilettos

Wear This Instead: Clogs

Birkenstock sandals have been embraced in Paris the past few years as a comfortable (and, dare I say it, stylish?) alternative to flip-flop sandals. This season, I’m seeing clogs finally receiving the attention they deserve. While I’m all for the designer versions with wooden heels and fancy buckles, you don’t have to shell out hundreds for a pair that will become a travel go-to—and match everything from jeans and shorts to billowy linen dresses. 

These Boston mules are one of the best deals I’ve come across this season. Soft cushioning and arch support keep your feet from aching after a day of sightseeing, and their silhouette is both slimming and easy to slip on and wear around your villa on the French Riviera or out to dinner and drinks in Nice or Antibes.

Don’t Wear: Ankle strap sandals

Wear This Instead: Sleek sandal slides

Greek goddess is always a vibe in summer, but I can’t count the number of blisters I’ve received from super-thin strappy sandals—especially the kind that loop multiple times and tie around the ankle. While this style looks good in photos, it’s the opposite in person and can make someone on the shorter side, like me, look even more petite. Not only that, the straps often come undone, meaning you’ll be fussing around retying them instead of enjoying the scenery wherever you’re strolling through.

Instead, this slim pair at Everlane quickly dresses up an outfit with its polished strappy bows, yet they’re as easy to slip on as a pair of flip-flops. And if you do decide to pack a pair of heels, these are an easy solution to throw in a tote and swap out when you’re hopping on a bike or in the metro in Paris.

Don’t Wear: Running shoes outside of the gym

Wear This Instead: Vintage-inspired tennis shoes

I’m all about saving space while packing, so every shoe has to be versatile. But in France, there’s a huge distinction between sneakers designated for the gym and those intended for streetwear. In fact, some fitness studios even require switching out your walking shoes for a pair worn solely in an indoor space. From a fashion perspective, you’ll never see a Parisian wearing gym shoes while having an espresso on a terrace or even running into the neighborhood Monoprix grocery store. I wouldn’t even be caught dead there in flip-flops. 

I’m not saying rule out sneakers, just don a pair that are on the more structured side and take a cue from classic leather tennis shoes (yet would never find their way onto a court of any kind). This pair from Reebok checks all of those boxes, plus they double as a comfortable option for long-haul flights and trains. In fact, I’m wearing a version of these right now as I’m heading to a wine tasting in the Parisian countryside, and they look put together with everything from jeans and a tee to a skirt, which means I only needed to bring this one pair of shoes on my weekend getaway.

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Spain has many amazing sights and I’ve visited quite a few of them over the years. But the Royal Alcazar of Seville still stands out.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain’s most spectacular palaces, celebrated for its blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, the Alcazar has evolved over centuries, serving as a royal residence and playing vital roles through the Age of Discoveries to modern times.

What Makes the Royal Alcazar Unique

• Architectural Marvel: The complex features ornate tilework, intricate plasterwork, grand halls, serene courtyards, and lush gardens.
• Historical Depth: The palace encapsulates layers of history, from the Roman and Muslim rulers to Christian monarchs, offering rich stories and artistic treasures at every turn.

Why Choose an Early Morning Exclusive Tour? — “Alone in the Alcazar” with Walks

The “Alone in the Alcazar: Exclusive Early Access Tour” by Walks provides a VIP experience that distinguishes itself from standard visits.

Special sights like these usually get very crowded, for good reasons, as they are simply stunning. I assume you have visited popular places like these yourself. Then you know that quite often you feel rushed through them by guides and that you “bump” into endless other visitors, which makes it a bit tougher to enjoy these special places. And if you love to take photos, you also know how difficult it can get to take a shot without other crowds running into your frame.

I had the opportunity to visit Alcazar at 8:30 am and to have it for myself. Well… not really to myself, as there was the Alcazar staff as well, who were getting prepared for the day, cleaning the last bits and making sure that everything runs smoothly during the day. And then there were the other tour visitors, whose number won’t exceed 25.

Brilliant!

• First Entry Advantage: Tour groups enter the Alcazar one hour before the general public, bypassing lines and enjoying empty corridors and courtyards. I can only highlight the magical sensation of walking through the palace in near silence, transforming the visit into a peaceful, almost meditative experience.
• Photographer’s Dream: Early access means perfect photo opportunities. No crowds, no waiting for people to clear the frame, and the ability to appreciate (and capture) the exquisite architecture undisturbed.
• Passionate, Knowledgeable Guides: It’s great to have a guide who has a deep knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to bring history to life in an engaging, digestible way. So you have someone who is good at weaving captivating stories, offering historical context, and answering questions, which adds to the value of your visit.
• Unhurried Experience: Small group sizes ensure guests can move at a comfortable pace, truly absorbing the beauty of the halls and gardens. I really liked the tranquility and space. We received an earspeaker so that I could hear the information while I might have been still around the corner in another room, taking a photo. Like that I didn’t miss any stories and I was able to take photos with nobody around and to capture the Alcazar “in all its glory”.
• Access to Gardens: The tour allows for peaceful exploration of the legendary gardens. The morning light is top for photos. The serenely quiet and birdsongs just adds to that atmosphere, while Seville slowly awakes. You can enjoy the morning breeze before it gets really hot, especially in the summer months. You hear the peacocks and the water bubbling in the springs. At this time it’s still calm and quiet. Later this place will fill up with people, trying to get the best selfies. At that time I headed to the cafe in the gardens to have my cafe con leche.

There is only one downside of the tour. You have to get up early, as you meet the guide at 8:15 am. Make sure that your hotel serves breakfast for that time. I asked for a little takeaway and just had a coffee before I headed to the meeting point. But arriving that early is nice, as you can also take a few nice shots of the Giralda, which is right next to the Alcazar and your meeting point.

Tour Snapshot

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or Spanish culture. The exclusive early access tour elevates the experience, offering tranquility, exceptional photo opportunities, and insightful storytelling from guides, benefits that I have to point out and which also other reviewers consistently highlight as making the morning tour truly worth it.

For travelers seeking to appreciate this world-class palace without the crowds and in its purest form, this tour is a standout choice.

The Alcázar of Seville: History & Fun Facts

• Origins: The Alcázar of Seville began as a fortified palace built in the 10th century by the Umayyad Caliphate on the site of an earlier Roman and Visigothic settlement. It was further expanded and embellished by the Abbadid and then the Almohad dynasties during the Islamic period, with extensive palace and garden constructions through the 11th and 12th centuries.
• Transition to Christian Rule: After the Castilian conquest of Seville in 1248, the palace was transformed under successive Christian monarchs. The most notable addition is the Mudéjar Palace, built for King Pedro I in the 1360s. Each era left a unique architectural mark, resulting in a harmonious blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Architectural & Cultural Highlights

• Mudéjar Art: The site is acclaimed for its Mudéjar architecture—a reflection of Muslim and Christian artistry, particularly visible in intricate tilework, plasterwork, and lush courtyards.
• Gardens: The extensive gardens, developed over centuries, are renowned for their exotic plants and ingenious irrigation. The gardens contain one of the world’s rare hydraulic organ fountains, which still plays music at certain times.
• UNESCO Heritage: In 1987, the Alcázar, together with Seville’s Cathedral and the Archivo de Indias, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique history and artistic value.

Fun & Interesting Facts

• Oldest Palace in Use: The Alcázar is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe, welcoming the Spanish monarchs even today.
• Epic Construction Timeline: Its construction spanned more than five centuries, absorbing architectural influences from every age—Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
• Famous Filming Location: The Alcázar served as a filming location for movies and TV series, including Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven, and especially as the Water Gardens of Dorne in seasons 5 and 6 of Game of Thrones (see below for more info).
• Patio de las Doncellas: The iconic “Courtyard of the Maidens” blends myth and beauty. Its name references a medieval legend that Muslim rulers demanded an annual tribute of 100 maidens from Christian kingdoms. While the story is likely apocryphal, the courtyard remains a visual highlight with its reflection pool and citrus trees.
• Ambassador’s Hall: The Ambassadors’ Hall (Salón de Embajadores) was once the main throne room, dazzling with intricate tilework, a majestic golden dome, marble, and painted ceilings. This hall witnessed major historic events, including Christopher Columbus meeting Spain’s monarchs to seek support for his voyage to the New World.
• Home to Legends: Legends and stories abound, such as the dramatic tale of King Pedro I the Cruel allegedly killing his stepbrother Don Fadrique in a room where the stain of his blood is said to still mark the tile floor.
• Hidden Faces: In the Patio de las Muñecas (Courtyard of the Dolls), several columns hide tiny carved faces (“dolls”). It’s said that finding all the faces without help brings good luck.

The Alcázar of Seville is not just a palace, it’s a living chronicle of Spanish and Andalusian history, rich with artistic treasures and legends, and an essential stop for any visitor to Seville.

The Alcázar of Seville in Game of Thrones

Filming locations are chosen carefully and you can expect special ones for blockbuster movies and series.

Game of Thrones was filmed all over the world, and especially in Europe. Those filming locations are very popular places to visit, for good reasons, as they are usually stunning locations.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville gained international fame as a prominent filming location for HBO’s “Game of Thrones.” The palace and its gardens were featured as the Water Gardens of Dorne, the luxurious private estate of House Martell in the southernmost Kingdom of Westeros. 

The Alcázar’s exotic blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture provided an ideal real-world backdrop for the sun-soaked, ornate world of Dorne. At the moment you are there, you can imagine being part of the series and how those scenes were being filmed, especially in the exclusive morning tour with no other people around you.

Key Filming Locations Within the Alcázar:

• Ambassadors’ Hall (Salón de Embajadores): Used for pivotal scenes involving Prince Doran Martell and other courtly gatherings.
• Mercury’s Pool and Pavilion: Provided lush, dramatic settings for outdoor conversations and dramatic encounters.
• Baths of Maria Padilla: Featured as secluded areas for secret meetings and intrigue.
• Alcázar Gardens: These verdant gardens are where many open-air scenes in Dorne were filmed, including memorable moments with Ellaria Sand, Prince Doran, and Myrcella Baratheon.

Film Fun Facts

• The Alcázar’s appearances are mainly in Seasons 5 and 6, establishing the vibrant, romantic, and politically tense atmosphere of Dorne.
• The unique architecture, intricate tilework, fountains, and lush landscaping made minimal set dressing necessary, as the palace is already cinematic.

Experience It Yourself

Fans can walk through the exact halls and gardens seen on screen. Several tours, including Game of Thrones-themed visits, highlight these sites, sometimes with guides showing still images from the series for direct comparison. The Royal Alcázar remains a must-visit in Seville, even beyond its role in the cult TV series.

These locations not only brought life to the fictional land of Dorne but also showcase the Alcázar’s real-world magnificence, blending history, art, and pop culture in an unforgettable way.