Possible souvenirs include
leatherware, rugs, copper and brassware, local dresses and jewelry.
Berber carpets are beautifully decorated, and from the Sahara comes finely dyed basketwork and primitive-style
pottery. Bargaining is customary in street markets and smaller shops. The
rue Didouche Mourad is the best shopping street in Algiers. There are two state-run craft centers with fixed prices. One is located at Algiers airport.
Shopping hours: Sat-Thurs 0900-1200 and 1400-1900. Some shops open on Fridays.
Currency Information:CurrencyDinar (DZD) = 100
centimes. Notes are in denominations of DZD1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of DZD100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 centimes.
Note: Because of the very strict adherence of the authorities to these regulations, visitors are strongly advised not to be associated with the black market, which tends to concentrate on the Euro and portable electronics.
Currency ExchangeIn the past, difficulties have arisen when trying to exchange currency in Algeria, with only one national bank (
La Banque Extérieure d’Algérie) able to exchange foreign currency at branches in major business centers. Difficulties are now decreasing and it is possible, for example, to exchange currency at some of the larger hotels. However, the facilities for currency exchange remain quite limited.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsCredit cards are generally only accepted in urban areas.
Traveller's ChequesAccepted only in top-class (4-star and above) hotels, government-run craft (souvenir) shops and in certain establishments. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Euros.
Banking HoursSun-Thurs 0900-1530.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | DZD102.19 |
| $1.00= | DZD70.97 |
| €1.00= | DZD97.06 |
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