With long stretches of beach backed by rugged mountains, Annaba City boasts a picture-perfect setting on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Its atmospheric French colonial architecture stands juxtaposed against ancient ruins and is a one most significant burial sites from World War II.
Things to do in Annaba
Take a walk along the main promenade of Cours de la Révolution, lined with restaurants and ice cream shops, then soak up the views from St. Augustine Basilica which dates to the late-19th century. It boasts a commanding position overlooking the colonial city centre and houses a statue of St. Augustine.
The Roman ruins of Hippo Regius sprawl below the basilica, first settled by the Phoenicians in the 12th century BC. Wander the remains of its villas and baths, and admire the mosaics and artefacts within the Musée d’Hippone.
You can pay your respects at the Bone War Cemetery, sitting just outside of Annaba on the road to Constantine. It is where more than 800 Commonwealth soldiers were buried after losing their lives during World War II.
If you want to hit the beach, there’s a great selection of Mediterranean shoreline to choose from. Head south to the long stretch of sand at Sidi Salem or venture north to the tiny but charismatic cove of Plage La Caroube.
Getting around Annaba
Most visitors to Annaba arrive at the Rabah Bitat International Airport, situated 20 minutes’drive south of the city centre and connected by a regular shuttle bus service. The downtown area and surrounding beach neighbourhoods are serviced by regular public buses and taxis can be hailed almost everywhere.