tlemcen algeria tourism

Tlemcen: The Pearl Of Algeria And A Must Visit Destination In The North Of Africa

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: December 13, 2018  - Last updated: September 22, 2021

Categories Algeria , Africa , Destinations

Tlemcen one of the most historic cities in all of Algeria , locally known as, ‘the town of cherries” and a must-visit destination in northern Africa for history nerds . Tlemcen has, over the years, been influenced by Berber, Arab, Moorish, Ottoman, and Western culture.

Short History lesson of Tlemcen.

The history of Tlemcen goes back to the 2nd century AD, when Tlemcen was founded as a  Roman military outpost under the name Pomaria. It soon became the seat of the Roman Catholic Church in northern Africa. And for centuries was one of the most important Christian cities in the north of Africa until the Arabic invasion of Northern Africa in the year 708.

From the 8th century, Tlemcen was part of various Berber Kingdoms and an essential point on the trans-Sahara trade and on trade routes route from Sahara to Europe.

In 1236 Tlemcen become the Kingdom of Tlemcen, a kingdom that would last for more than 300 years before it fell under the Ottoman empire in 1554. Tlemcen started losing its importance and during WW2 had Tlemcen come little more than a railway stop.

Over the last centuries, the beauty of Tlemcen has been rediscovered, the historic sites have now been restored and it’s now one of the most important tourist destinations in Algeria.

In 1993 the Tlemcen National Park was established to protect not only the many archaeological and historical sites around the area but also the nature around the city which is covered with waterfalls, caves, and lush forest.

Top Things To See In Tlemcen in Algeria.

The great mosque of tlemcen..

The Great Mosque of Tlemcen was built in the year 1136, and it´s believed to be one of the five oldest mosques in Algeria. The Mosque is located in the city centre where it´s easy to see with its tall minaret; the Mosque is built in traditional Andalusian style (also known as Morish Arcticthure ) and considered to be the most beautiful  Mosques in all of Algeria.

The mosque is often compared to the Great Mosque in Cordoba, Spain, because of the similar style of architecture. During my visit was a permit needed to be allowed to take photos inside the Mosque, but if you ask the guard nicely, will he allow you to take a few fast photos.

Mansourah Mosque.

On the western outskirts of the city is the ruins of Mansourah (meaning The Victorious” in Arabic). Mansourah was once a walled city, with more than 4000m long and 13meteter tall wall around the city, it´s also said that the wall had over 80 watchtowers, these days do not much remains of the once important city, but the impressive 38meter tall Minaret is still standing tall.

The Minaret is similar to the one found in Tour Hassan in Rabat Marooco and the Giralda in Seville, Spain. It´s not possible to climb Minaret . 

El Mechouar Palace.

The most famous site in Tlemcen is the El Mechouar Palace. The palace was once part of a much bigger Citadel that was built here back in the year 1248. Unfurtuently was most of the complex destroyed during the Ottoman Empire. But luckily was a significant part of the Citadel restored in 2010 to be part Tlemcen , capital of Islamic culture 2011.

The complex contains El Mechouar Palace. The El Mechouar Mosque, with its minaret dating back to 1311, during the French Occupation of Algeria, was this Mosque turned into a church. There´s also a museum displaying national dresses from all regions of Algeria here. If you want to bring back some souvenirs from Algeria is also a shop with the biggest selection of local handcraft located here. 

Sidi Boumediene Mosque.

Sidi Boumediene Mosque was built back in 1339, and it´s one of the most important religious sites in the city. Located 16Km outside the city on the hills overlooking the city. The complex is not only a Mosque but also an Islamic school, the  Mausoleum of Sidi Boumediene, and there are even some old ruins from a palace that even holds the remains of an old Turkish bath just outside the Mosque. 

The Mausoleum of Sidi Boumediene is an important pilgrimage place. Sidi Boumediene also was known as Choaïb Abou Madyane El Andaloussi born 1126 in Spain and died, 1197 in Tlemcen. Was an Algerian poet and teacher of Sufism, he´s considered to be the person that introduced Sufism to North Africa. He’s regarded as the heavenly protector over Tlemcen.

Sidi Bellahsen Mosque.

Another Mosque that´s worth a visit is the small Sidi Bellahsen Mosque just west side of the nearby square of the Great Mosque of Tlemcen. The Mosque was built in 1296. While both the Great Mosque of Tlemcen and the Sidi Boumediene is an essential place of worshipping and fully operating Mosque, so does the  Sidi Bellashen Mosque now serve as a Museum.

Visit Beni Add Cave &   El Ourit Waterfall.

Around 20Km south-east of the city is the Beni Add Cave; a natural wonder believed to be more than 65 000 years old. The cave is especially popular during the summer months when the temperature in Tlemcen can reach a staggering 36+, while inside the cave it won´t get warmer than 16+. The cave itself goes as deep as 57 m (187 ft), underground and is covered with gigantic stalactites and impressive stalagmites which is illuminated with different colours.

On the way back to Tlemcen from Beni Add cave are a few small waterfalls, while the waterfalls itself is nothing to brag about, so are the area around it nicely built opp with small restaurants, which makes this an excellent place to stop for a coffee or a small snack.

Take The Cable Car.

Like other cities in Algeria like the capital of the country Algiers and the amazing city of bridges, Constantine so does Tlemcen also have a cable car. While the cable car in the two other cities is in more for practical use for the locals, so are the cable car here in Tlemcen more for the scenic use where it goes from the centre of the town and up to the highest point the Lalla Setti Plateau at 1000 meters above sea level offering a sublime panoramic view of the entire city of Tlemcen.

There´s also a small amusement park, an artificial lake with paddleboats, a war museum, and a  5* star hotel the Renaissance hotel one of few places you can buy alcohol in Tlemcen if you got some spare time is the forest here a popular place for small day hikes.

Additional Information About Tlemcen.

How to get to tlemcen:.

The easiest way to reach Tlemcen is by a 2-hour bus ride from Oran, the second biggest city in Algeria .  Tlemcen airport Zenata – Messali El Hadj Airport is located 17km northeast of Tlemcen city; there are international flights to Spain, France, and Belgium from here, and domestic flights to Algiers, the capital of Algeria . The airport is built in traditional architecture and is a small and beautiful airport (I used it to fly back to Algiers)

Monday 25th of March 2019

Hi Christian! Seems like you had an amazing time in Argelia and you discovered an authentic pearl. Yours is t he only complete information about the northern he cities of Algeria that I've found in the internet. It will be my guideline during the whole trip. The north is precisely in what my visit will focus, as I won't have enough time for traveling to the desert. I am from Barcelona and a week ago I decided I would go there for 5 days in Eastern.

I wonder your opinion about Oran. Is it worth visiting? Is there more atmosphere/nightlife than in Algiers? I'm planning of catching an internal flight to go either to Oran or Constantine for a couple nights, and then return to Algiers for my flight back to Barcelona.

Thank you in advance and congratulations both for your pictures and your descriptions. Your trips are unique in the internet, very few people (if any) go to where you go and inform with such detail.

Chahrazad Mahroug

Thursday 28th of October 2021

@Christian L., Hi there !, Oran is called locally "El Bahia" which means the joyful or the beautiful. It is known for its beautiful beaches as well as the World heritage sites from different eras. Santa Cruz fort, The Great synagogue, the Cathedral, the Pacha Mosque from the ottoman reign and many others.There's a bus ride to visit the most important places. You can check at the local tourism office (and it is cheap). Thanks for your interest in my country and welcome back !!!

Christian L.

Saturday 11th of May 2019

Hello Aleix. Sorry, I didn't see your message before now.

I stayed only 1 day In Oran, it seemed like a cool city, it´s more laidback and liberal than other places in Algeria, there were a few interesting sites there, but personally did I like the Constantine a lot more. I'm planning a new trip back to Algeria now to visit the southern part of the country, so hopefully, will I keep posting about untouristy places:)

Summery Touch

Africa , ALGERIA , Travel · March 10, 2020

11 Things To Do In Tlemcen, Algeria

Tlemcen is a quiet urban city in northwestern Algeria. The architecture, monuments, and people reflect its historical influences. Take one or two days to absorb the history of Tlemcen and explore all the great things to do.

Click on a section in the list to jump down the page.

Quick Facts About Tlemcen

11 things to do in tlemcen.

• Getting To Tlemcen

Getting Around

• Tlemcen is Algeria’s most westerly city
• It’s located near the border with Morocco
• It’s the second-largest city in north-western Algeria after Oran
• Tlemcen was ruled by Romans, Berbers, and Ottomans
• The Tlemcen Kingdom was a Berber kingdom from 1236 until 1554. It was a religious and cultural center of Islam as well as a trading hub along coastal northern Africa
• Tlemcen boasts the largest number of buildings dating from the 12th to the 15th in Algeria
• Chedda of Tlemcen, the traditional costume of Tlemcenian women has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Tlemcen is a great stop on your western Algeria Route. I dedicated this post to be your top resource for activities. Read about the best things to do here.

1. Al Mechouar

One of the main attractions of the city is the Zianide Royal Palace typically called Al Mechouar. This palace located in the heart of the city center has a fascinating and rich history extending back to 1145 and hosting royalty throughout different eras. 

The entrance fee to Al Mechouar is DZA 300 (€1.5)

2. Souk El Kaïssaria

Head out to Souk Kaissria and immerse yourself in the authentic Tlemcenian Atmosphere. Located right in the heart of the city center, this market is filled with shops that sell fabrics, jewelry as well as accessories for sewing and crafting. Go here in the morning, wander around, and connect with locals.

➵ Also read: Algeria Travel Guide

3. Great Mosque Of Tlemcen

Built-in 1082, this majestic white building is a highlight of the places to see in Tlemcen. The mosque is located in the city center, situated on the main square.

Tip: The mosques are often closed in between prayer times. Check the prayer times and go there just before the call to prayer or right after people finish praying.

4. Lalla Setti

Your list of places to see in Tlemcen isn’t complete without getting to Lalla Setti. This 1000-meter high hill gives you an incredible view of the whole city. It’s also a great spot to enjoy the tranquil and quiet atmosphere.

take the cable car up to the top from the city center.

5. Al Mansourah

Mansurah mosque is another element of the rich history of Tlemcen that should not be missed. Built in 1303 by a Berber dynasty, the mosque is the remaining ruin of Mansourah castle.

From downtown, it is a small 10-min drive and a quick stop on your way to Lalla Setti

The entrance fee to Al Mansourah ruins is DZA 80 (€0.4)

➵  Read : 2-week Algeria Itinerary

6. Mosque And Tomb Of Sidi Boumediene

One of the most popular places to visit in Tlemcen is the Mosque and Tomb of Sidi Boumediene. Located about 1.5 km out of town, this 14th-century complex is one of the most important religious sites in Tlemcen. Do not miss it.

7. Beni Add cave

Located about a 30-minute drive out of town, Beni Add is one of those natural wonders you do not expect to see. Follow the path into this cave and enjoy the absolute silence. 

The entrance fee to Beni Add cave is DZA 50 (€0.25)

8. Eat-first rate street food

If you missed in Oran, then don’t forget to stop at one of the fast-food restaurants along the way to get a Sandiwh of Calentica– The best-known northwestern street food.

Other Places To Visit

Whether you have more time in Tlemcen or you’d like to swap any of the activities mentioned above. Here are other things to do

9. El-Ourit Waterfall

If time allows, do a small hike around El-Ourit waterfall. This small waterfall which has been dry for 40 years started to flow again in 2009. From there you can spot the Bridge that was constructed by Gustave Eiffel in the 19 th century.

10. Bab El Qarmadine

Bal El Qarmadine or Gate of El Kermadine is a remaining ruin of a fortress gate with red clay fortification walls, towers, and turrets. It’s located on Independence Avenue.

11. Tlemcen museum

Tlemcen Museum is located in the city center. It’s a nice place to walk around for some time but there isn’t really much to see.

Getting to Tlemcen

Tlemcen is well connected to the rest of the country. You can get there by bus, shared taxi, or train. There is an airport that serves mainly domestic routes and some European destinations such as France, Belgium, and Spain with numerous flights per day to the capital Algiers.

Getting to Tlemcen by ferry is also possible from Almeria, Spain.

The easiest way to get around is to get a cab. I recommend using  Yassir app . If you have used Uber before, it works the same way.

Renting a car is a great idea if you want to have more freedom.

Did you find any other cool things to do in Tlemcen? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

I hope you enjoyed this post. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day!

Pin this post to read it later   ↡

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• 10- Day Algeria Itinerary – 2 Beautiful Itineraries For Your Visit
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• 13 Best Things To do In Oran, Algeria – Travel Guide

May 28, 2022 at

This is so well written!

this is so well written! thank you

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Top Things to Do in Tlemcen, Algeria

Places to visit in tlemcen, explore popular experiences, top attractions in tlemcen.

Other Top Attractions around Tlemcen

What travellers are saying

• Citadelle et Palais El Mechouar
• Mosquée Sidi Boumediene
• Great Mosque
• Parc Lalla Setti
• El-Ourit Waterfalls
• Les Grottes de Beni Add

Global National Parks

National Parks of the World: Tourism, Accommodation, Routes, and Guides

Home » Africa » National Parks in Algeria

Tlemcen National Park in Algeria, Africa

• 1 History of Tlemcen National Park
• 2 Geography and Climate
• 3 Flora and Fauna
• 4 Routes and Points of Interest
• 5 Activities in Tlemcen National Park
• 6 Preservation and Conservation
• 7 Practical Information for Visitors
• 8 The Importance of Tlemcen National Park for Algeria
• 9 Photo Gallery

Tlemcen National Park is a hidden gem in Algeria , a country rich in natural and cultural diversity. Located in the northwest of the country, this park is a dream destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

History of Tlemcen National Park

Established in 1993, Tlemcen National Park has been an integral part of Algeria’s rich history. Its cultural and historical significance lies in its proximity to the ancient city of Tlemcen, which has been a crossroads of civilizations and cultures throughout the centuries.

Geography and Climate

The park is located in the mountainous region of Tlemcen. The climate is Mediterranean, which favors an exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, creating a paradise for biodiversity enthusiasts.

Flora and Fauna

Tlemcen National Park is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna . Here, visitors can expect to see a variety of animal species, including monkeys, wild boars, and foxes. The flora is equally impressive, with a wide variety of plants, trees, and unique flowers in the region.

Routes and Points of Interest

The park offers a series of hiking trails and routes that allow visitors to explore the beauty of the park. Some points of interest include El-Ourit waterfall, Beni Aad cave, and Lalla Setti mountain.

Activities in Tlemcen National Park

The possibilities are endless in Tlemcen National Park. From hiking and nature observation to photographic safaris and guided tours, there is something for every type of traveler. Cultural and educational activities are also offered, highlighting the rich history and culture of the region.

Preservation and Conservation

Tlemcen National Park is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of its rich biodiversity. It faces challenges, but through joint efforts, the park remains a safe haven for many species. Visitors play an important role in this effort, and they are encouraged to respect conservation rules during their visit.

Practical Information for Visitors

To visit the park, an entrance ticket is required, which can be acquired at the entrance. Services and accommodation are available nearby the park. Visitors are asked to follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.

The Importance of Tlemcen National Park for Algeria

Tlemcen National Park is a crucial part of Algeria’s national park system, contributing significantly to the local economy and tourism in Algeria. As such, its preservation and the promotion of its natural beauty and diversity are of utmost importance to the country.

Photo Gallery

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 3 Get around

Tlemcen is a city in Northwest Algeria , and the capital of the province of the same name.

Understand [ edit ]

Close to the Moroccan border, the city has developed leather, carpet, and textile industries, which it ships to the port of Rashgun for export. It had a population of 140,158 at the time of the 2008 census, while the province had 949,135 inhabitants.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Tlemcen Airport operate a decent number of flights from Europe. Airlines are:

Air Algérie (Algiers, Alicante, Lyon, Marseille, Paris CDG, Paris Orly)

Tassili airlines (Algiers)

Transavia (Paris Orly)

TUI FLY (Charleroi, Lille)

Volotea (Marseille)

Get around [ edit ]

See [ edit ], do [ edit ], buy [ edit ], eat [ edit ], drink [ edit ], sleep [ edit ], connect [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

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Tourism in algeria: top places to visit in tlemcen.

Tlemcen, also spelled (after 1981) Tilimsen, town, northwestern Algeria, near the border with Morocco. Tlemcen is backed by the cliffs of the well-watered Tlemcen Mountains and overlooks the fertile Hennaya and Maghnia plains. Lying at an elevation of 2,648 feet (807 metres), Tlemcen is located sufficiently inland to avoid the humidity of the Mediterranean Sea coast but is near enough to receive cooling sea breezes in summer. The resulting temperate climate favoured Tlemcen’s development and explains its historical importance. Monumental door of the ruined minaret of the mosque of Mansoura, at the site of the Marīnid occupation camp west of Tlemcen, Algeria. Monumental door of the ruined minaret of the mosque of Mansoura, at the site of the Marīnid occupation camp west of Tlemcen, Algeria. John Elk III—Bruce Coleman Inc.

The earliest settlement on the site was called Pomaria (“Orchards”) by the Romans in the 4th century because of the local profusion of orchards and gardens. The town was later renamed Agadir (“Escarpment”) by the Berbers (Amazigh). This eventually merged with the neighbouring Almoravid military settlement of Tagrart, which was founded in the 11th century. The union evolved in the 13th century as the town of Tlemcen (from the Berber tilmisane [“springs”] for the local perennial springs). Tlemcen was the capital of the ʿAbd al-Wādid kingdom of Tilimsan from the 13th to the 15th century.

It became a religious and cultural centre of Islam as well as a focal point of trading routes along coastal northern Africa. Tlemcen was coveted by the neighbouring Marīnid kingdom of Fès (Fez), Morocco, to the west, however, and the Marīnids established the fortified camp of Mansoura 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west of Tlemcen as a base from which to besiege the town. Tlemcen was periodically besieged by the Marīnids throughout the 14th century, but during times of truce the rulers of the town worked on its architectural adornment and developed its religious and educational institutions and its commerce and industry. At the end of the 14th century, it became uner the rule of Turks in 1559. In 1842 it was colonized by the French, who surrounded it with ramparts. Tlemcen served as a headquarters for the Algerian nationalist leader Ahmed Ben Bella in 1962.

Tlemcen has more buildings dating from the 12th to the 15th century than any other town in Algeria. With the exception of the Great Mosque built by the Almoravids in the 12th century, most of the city’s medieval buildings strongly reflect the influence of Moorish (Muslim) Spain. The Mosque of Sīdí bel Ḥassan (1296, now a museum), the Méchouar, or citadel (1145, now a military hospital and barracks), the Sahrij, or Great Basin (a 14th-century reservoir, now dry), and the Grotto of Rabbi Ephraim ben Israel Ankawa (15th century) are notable landmarks. Tlemcen’s winding, narrow, arched streets are crowded with shops, cafés, and mosques. The ruins of the Marīnid city of Mansoura to the west has notable examples of Hispano-Moorish art.

Tlemcen supports a bustling trade in agricultural products and textile (including silk), leather, and metal handicrafts and has some light industrial development. The population is sharply divided between the Hadars (the middle class, descended from the Moors) and the Koulouglis (descendants of Turks and Arab women), each living within its own sector. Pop. (2008) 173,532.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Tlemcen for ideal weather are March to June and September to November based on average temperature and humidity.

Top Places to Visit in Tlemcen

1. Grand Mosque

Tlemcen’s Grand Mosque is one of North Africa’s most important Islamic buildings. Begun by the Almoravid leader Youssef ben Tachfine around 1091, it has been substantially rebuilt several times over the centuries but retains some important early features, including the mihrab, elaborately decorated in stucco and carved stone, and a fine cupola with a massive chandelier. More impressive, however, is the atmosphere of reverence that fills the building. There are 133 steps to the top of the minaret, the oldest in this part of the Maghreb and the highest in town. To visit the mosque, you must dress conservatively.

2. Mosque & Tomb of Sidi Boumediene

About 1.6km southeast of the city centre, as the crow flies, lies one of Algeria’s most beautiful complexes, the mosque and tomb of Sidi Boumediene, which remains a place of huge spiritual significance for Algerians even today. Across the way stands the mosque, built by Abou el-Hassan in 1328. The building is both grand and beautiful. A stairway leads to a massive entrance porch and, through massive bronze-clad cedar doors, to the mosque, an open-sided, rectangular prayer space, beautifully proportioned and finely decorated in tiles and carved stucco.

3. Tlemcen Museum

Given the wealth of history in these parts, you would be forgiven for expecting the museum to be equally rich. It is not. Arranged over two floors, the collection is basic and the arrangement is confusing, with Almoravid, Merenid and Zianid coins, brass lamps, carved stile and stucco all jumbled together. Among the treasures are 15th-century carved epitaphs from royal tombs. Also worth finding are the 1940s oil paintings by local artist Abdelhalim Hemeche.

4. Mechouar

The Mechouar, a 12th Century citadel, is one of the town’s centrepieces. The Zianide ruler Yaghmorassen moved his residence here in the early 14th century and a mosque was built in the 1310s. The Ottoman admiral Barbarossa used it as his stronghold in the 16th century and the French followed suit, using it as a barracks and hospital. Today the Mechouar offers a place of peace inside its massive walls and across its broad esplanade. The entrance is on Ave Cdt Ferradj.

5. Mansourah

Mansourah – the victorious – started as the camp where Merinid sultan Abou Yacoub settled his army in 1299, when he besieged Tlemcen. The siege lasted eight years, during which the camp became a residence, complete with palace and mosque. Just as the city was about to fall, the sultan was murdered by one of his slaves and the Merinids retreated. Remains of the 12m-high walls that protected the camp stretch across the olive groves far into the distance. The main sight here is the remains of the massive mosque, rebuilt by Sultan Abou el-Hassan of Fès when he came to besiege Tlemcen in 1335.

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Tlemcen  is a city located inland of Algeria at 540 km away from  Algiers and is surrounded by olive plantations and vineyards. In 2011, the city was chosen to be the Capital of the Islamic Culture. Known for being the “ Pearl of the Maghreb ”, Tlemcen is one of the oldest cities in the country and has been enriched with the Arab, Islam, and Hispanic culture and heritage.

Historical Sites at Tlemcen

The city has great historical value conveyed through the numerous monuments. There are several sites like the Great Mosque, the Medina of El-Eubbad, AbiLhassan Mosque together with the mosque and tomb of Sidi Boumediene have been recognized as important to the Islamic culture and heritage. Tlemcen has managed to preserve and keep alive traditional clothing like Chedda, Karakou, and Kaftan. All these can be seen at the market of Al-Kissaria.

Ancient Ruins of Mansourah

The Moroccan dynasty Merinid Sultan Abou Yacoub besieged Tlemcen in 1299 and established a garrison town named Mansourah which means “the victorious”. However, it never lived up to its name as the sultan was murdered by one of his slaves resulting in the army’s retreat. 

The ancient ruins of Mansourah still remain today and a visit here is full of history. The remains of the 12 meter high walls are still standing and stretch across the site. The citadel of Mansourah features a massive mosque rebuilt by Sultan Abou El-Hassan of Fes during his besieging of Tlemcen in 1335. The prayer hall in this mosque is 60 meters by 55 meters in size. There is also an impressive minaret that stands 40 meters tall dominating the sky view. You will also be able to walk through an enclosed garden and a reconstructed amphitheater. 

The Museum of Tlemcen

The Museum of Tlemcen contains more artifacts and chronicles of the history and culture of this ancient city. Originally located in the Sidi Bel Hassan Mosque, the museum has been exhibiting a collection inclusive of coins and artifacts from the Almoravid, Merenid, and Zianid dynasties. The last two dynasties have been engaged in constant battle taking turns in winning and losing before finally the city being ruled by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. The museum also hosts carved epitaphs from the royal tomb of Boabdil, the last Moorish King of Granada, a marble standard cubit measure dated from 1328, and several oil paintings by Abdelhalim Hemeche from the 1940s. The city has its own university named after Abou Bekr Belkaid and is the place for researches and scientific contribution.

For a city to be named “ Capital of the Islamic Culture ”, it has to cover a number of important areas that are of great significance. To make it even more outstanding, the Minister of Communications has announced in 2011 a robust plan for the reconstruction of a large number of monuments, buildings, and city areas.

Visiting Tlemcen

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Top Things to Do in Tlemcen, Algeria - Tlemcen Must-See Attractions

Things to do in tlemcen, explore popular experiences, top attractions in tlemcen.

Other Top Attractions around Tlemcen

What travellers are saying

• Citadelle et Palais El Mechouar
• Mosquée Sidi Boumediene
• Great Mosque
• Parc Lalla Setti
• El-Ourit Waterfalls
• Les Grottes de Beni Add

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Wanted to emphasise that I enjoyed last years‘ trip enormously. It was extremely well organised by you and your team. I was amazed by the variety found in Algeria and believe I have to return to see more at some point in time. Please do pass on greetings to my guide Soumia and driver Mohammed as well as the colourful character in Ghardaia who was about to get married. TAM was an experience as well. Greetings to the owner of Mouflon- I must admit that I forgot his name- and his kind wife who invited me to her house. Everybody was so friendly.

Rob and I wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed our travels in Algeria.  Both Azzedine and Mustafa were excellent.  Azzedine was efficient, knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble.  Mustafa, too, could not have been more helpful and did a superb job of looking after us.  All the hotels in which we stayed met our expectations.  We would have no hesitation at all in recommending Algeria and your company to others.

Jane & Rob

I am deeply indebted to my friend Ahcicene Segouini, who hasn’t only taken exemplary care of my tour groups through his company but also, at his expense, facilitated this journey. I was driven skilfully and with good humor over a very large distances by Mustapha Gueraini and was accompanied for the much of the time by Abdelkader Bensalah, who I have also long counted as a friend and whose acquaintance with antiquities staff through the country greatly facilitated my task.

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I want to thank you and Rafik and the Algerian team for an excellent tour of Algeria. It was full enough, measured, and focused on visits that allowed learning about the country’s history. Rafik was so thoughtful about tailoring the trip to my wishes.

As I told Mohammed, I would like to come back to Algeria when the Coronavirus impact has largely disappeared. I plan to bring my girl friend with me which means staying in a hotels like the Lamaraz Arts! Thanks again for your work. The result was very good; and I look forward to our next visit.

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Tlemcen gondola lift

The Tlemcen gondola lift that connects the city centre to the Lalla Setti Plateau had been at a standstill for four years when it resumed service in 2018. The arrival of the gondola lift was the source of great hope, as it represents a means of transport with high added value for Tlemcen, the ultimate tourist destination.

The project

In northwestern Algeria, the Tlemcen gondola lift has benefited from a major retrofit operation to offer its users more security, availability and comfort.

This 10-seater gondola lift connects the city centre, from the historic site known as the “Grand Bassin”, to the Lala Setti Plateau, home to a leisure park.

Users benefit from a complete multimodal journey on the network, via the 3 stations, all connected to the city's public transport network. The rehabilitation project run by POMA was accompanied by the opening of a new coach station, “Yahia Bachir”.

A mixed urban – tourist ropeway While Tlemcen’s gondola lift is essentially used by urban commuters during the week, the focus switches to tourists during weekends and holidays. This mixed use requires long opening hours, which are perfectly integrated in the modes of operation, offering a flexible, comprehensive service.

Technical specifications, difference in elevation.

1500 passengers/ hour/ direction

Number of cabins

Number of passengers per cabin, tlemcen gondola lift in pictures.

POMA leisure and tourism projects:

Enshi Grand Canyon Funicular

China – enshi – 2020.

In the Enshi Grand Canyon, one of the most well-known tourist parks in China, POMA has built a funicular railway to open up a natural area with many hiking paths to tourists.

South Korea – Mokpo – 2019

With the Mokpo tourist gondola lift, POMA produced its longest ever span of rope between two towers and boasts the highest cement tower ever built for a monocable ropeway anywhere in the world. A breathtaking journey!

France – Beauval – 2019

With the “Nuage de Beauval” (literally, the Cloud of Beauval”), Beauval and POMA combined their expertise to design and build a gondola lift that is one of a kind in France. The gondola lift connects the panda and elephant areas to the lion kingdom in just a few minutes. In addition to being a great mobility solution within the park, it also offers a unique experience in France for the 1.5 million annual visitors who enjoy fantastic views over many areas of the park, aboard gondolas with glass flooring.

Taiwan – Taipei – 2006

The Maokong gondola lift is located in a historic area of the Taiwanese capital, connecting Taipei Zoo and Maokong. It is one of the largest in the world, spanning four kilometres. Ensuring the synchronisation of its 5 sections and the interconnection of its 6 stations constituted a true technological challenge.

Vietnam – Nha Trang – 2006

In Vietnam, the famous POMA gondola lift from Vin Pearl flies over the sea to reach an island and its luxury resort.

Mexico – Zacatecas – 2018

The new POMA detachable gondola lift in Zacatecas takes passengers on a stunning journey over the historic centre of this ancient Mexican city, in one of the seven emblematic red cabins.

China – Zhuhai – ongoing project

In China, POMA has built the world’s first three interconnected tri-cable ropeways system (3S) for the Chimelong Group, the world’s 6th largest entertainment group.

Galala city

Egypt – galala city – 2018.

The tourist gondola lift of the new town of Galala City links the urban area to the luxurious seaside resort, travelling the longest stretch in the Middle East. Its glass-floored cabins offer an exceptional journey with a unique view of the superb desert landscapes that border the Red Sea.

Vietnam – Yen Tu – 2017

The Buddhist temples of the sacred mountain of Yen Tu welcome many pilgrims and tourists. In 2017, two new gondola lifts were built, including New Yen Tu 1, which complements the mobility offer by doubling the Yen Tu 1 gondola lift.

China – Huashan (Shaanxi) – 2012

POMA designed Shaanxi Taihua Tourism Ropeway Road, a gondola lift that transports tourists and pilgrims to the top of Mount Huashan, 2,120 metres away in the heart of China’s central Shaanxi province.

Yeosu Cablecar

South korea – yeosu – 2013.

Compared to the construction of a third bridge, the Yeosu gondola lift was the ideal solution to connect the island of Doslando to the mainland. Discreet, comfortable, fast and environmentally friendly, the gondola lift is perfectly suited to the city’s transportation needs. This original voyage over the Namhae Sea also quickly won over the passengers, and the Yeosu gondola lift quickly became a major attraction in the area.