Timgad & Roman Algeria

Embark on a full day of sightseeing from Algiers to uncover Algeria’s rich ancient heritage along the Mediterranean coast. Your day begins with a visit to the striking Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, a monumental circular stone tomb perched high above the Mediterranean. From there, travel along the coast to Cherchell, the historic Greco-Roman capital of ancient Caesarea. Explore the museum’s exceptional collection of classical sculptures and remarkably intact Roman mosaics and wander through the market and plaza to observe local life. Conclude your exploration at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tipaza, where extraordinary Roman basilicas, amphitheatres, and ancient streets sit dramatically nestled between lush pine forests and the azure sea. Return to Algiers for overnight.

Begin your morning strolling the vibrant boulevards of Centre Ville to admire classic Haussmann-style architecture and the Neo-Moorish grandeur of La Grande Poste, perhaps pausing for a coffee at a pavement café. Ascend to the Upper Casbah to explore the winding stone alleyways of this UNESCO-listed medina before enjoying a traditional home-cooked lunch at a local residence. Continue downhill past the 17th-century El Djedid Mosque to Martyrs’ Square, then proceed to the soaring Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam Echahid), a landmark visible across the city, and explore its underground museum to discover Algeria’s historic struggle for independence. Concluding your sightseeing, you will be transferred to the airport for an evening flight to Annaba. Arriving in Annaba, you will transfer to your hotel for overnight.

Begin your day exploring the historic coastal city of Annaba, visiting the expansive ancient ruins of Hippone, where Saint Augustine once preached among Roman mosaics and quiet olive groves. Afterwards, journey inland through scenic landscapes toward Constantine, stopping en route to discover the Royal Mausoleum of Massinissa, the impressive final resting place of Numidia’s legendary king. Arrive late this afternoon in breathtaking Constantine, the dramatic “City of Bridges,” where you will check in for a three-night stay.

Full day excursion discovering the Numidian and Roman heritage of the ancient Aurès region. Stop first at Medracem to marvel at the rotund royal mausoleum built in the 3rd century BC. Continue to Lambaesis to wander through the vast remains of the former Roman legionary headquarters, admiring its remarkably preserved Praetorium and grand arches. Continue to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of Timgad, where you have lunch before exploring Emperor Trajan’s iconic grid-planned city, strolling along stone-paved streets past the towering Arch of Trajan, the ancient theatre, and the museum’s vast collection of intricate mosaics.

Begin your day exploring the dramatic, hilltop Roman ruins of Tiddis, wandering through its uniquely terraced streets, ancient archways, and rock-cut sanctuaries carved into the hillside. Afterwards, return to Constantine to discover the breathtaking ‘City of Bridges’. Spend the afternoon exploring this spectacular mountain citadel, crossing iconic suspension bridges suspended high above the sheer drop of the Rhumel Gorge, strolling through the historic Casbah, and admiring the opulent tiled courtyards of the Palace of Ahmed Bey.

After breakfast, depart for Djemila and explore one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular UNESCO-listed Roman sites, perched dramatically amidst rolling green hills. Wander through the remarkably preserved ancient city to admire the majestic Arch of Caracalla, the grand forum, and the well-preserved theatre, before viewing the world-class collection of Roman mosaics in the site museum. Afterwards, continue your journey westward to Algiers, checking in to your hotel before enjoying a dinner of traditional Algerian cuisine.