Algeria Travel Guide

Algeria — Shopping

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Shopping

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

Dinar (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 Exchange

In 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 Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

Credit cards are generally only accepted in urban areas.

Travelers Checks

Accepted 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 traveler's checks in US Dollars or Euros.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. The export of foreign currency must not exceed the amount declared on arrival.