Fringed by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, Bejaia is a bustling port city. It’s the capital of Algeria’s Bejaia Province and is a fantastic place to soak up the North African sunshine. Most of the action is concentrated in Bejaia’s characterful historic centre, where you can spend your days visiting cultural sites in the city or exploring nearby sanctuaries like Gouraya National Park.
Things to do in Bejaia
Overlooking the port, Place Gueydon is a great place to get your bearings and sip on coffee. The 16th-century Moussa Fort presides over the square, with the impressive Bank of Algeria building echoing the city’s French colonial roots.
Jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea, Cap Carbon is one of Bejaia’s top attractions. The windswept cape is anchored by a lonely lighthouse, built 220 metres above sea level.
Bordering the cape is Gouraya National Park. It’s one of Algeria’s most important wildlife habitats and is home to jackals, wild cats, Algerian hedgehogs and endangered Barbary Macaques. If you want to work up a sweat, the climb to Monkey Peak offers sweeping views over the bay.
While Bejaia was originally founded by Numidian Berbers, it later fell under the rule of the French. The city’s rich history means there’s a melting pot of culture to discover, with the Bejaia Museum offering a great introduction to Beirut’s collection of relics.
Getting around Bejaia
Bejaia’s historic district is compact and walkable, which means the easiest way to get around is on foot. Local buses run throughout the city, as well as to nearby attractions like Cap Carbon. If you want to tick off multiple sites, hiring a driver for the day offers a convenient way to get around. Abane Ramdane Airport is a short 15-minute drive to the north.