If you’ve got a layover in Algier, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ALG. The city, in Algeria, is within easy reach — roughly 110 minutes by Airport Metro Shuttle and Metro Line 1. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside ALG
A few things to sort out before you leave ALG:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Algeria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Algier takes about 110 minutes by Airport Metro Shuttle and Metro Line 1. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DZD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from ALG to Algier
From ALG, the Airport Metro Shuttle and Metro Line 1 gets you to Algier in around 110 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 130 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Metro Shuttle and Metro Line 1 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Algier might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Algier.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at ALG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Algier’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What to See and Do in Algier
For a layover visit to Algier, we’d suggest Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam Echahid) and Jardin d’Essai du Hamma. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ALG, check out Salon d’Honneur (Terminal 4) or ALG Duty-Free Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Algier Layover
For food in Algier, local travelers recommend Restaurant El Boustene. If you have time for a second stop, Le Tyrolien is another popular pick.
Back at ALG, Costa Coffee (Terminal 4) is the go-to. Le Comptoir (ALG) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ALG.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ALG, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Algier itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Algeria that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Algier with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Algier may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.