Constantine is a city in Algeria, the capital of Constantine Province, built around a dramatic ravine that splits the urban area in two. Bridges connect the two sides, and the old city, known as the Casbah, sits on one side of the gorge.
For a visitor, the key distinction is between the city centre and the area around the Casbah.
1. City centre
The city centre is where you find the largest concentration of formal accommodation, including the Grand Hotel Cirta, a four-star property. It suits visitors who want to be in the middle of things and have easy access to the main urban amenities.
Note that the Grand Hotel Cirta has been closed for renovation, so you should check its current status before planning around it. The centre is the most straightforward base for a first visit because it puts you within reach of the rest of the city.
2. Near the Casbah (old city)
The area around the Casbah, or old city, is served by the Novotel and Ibis hotels, which the source identifies as the closest accommodations to the Casbah. This area suits travellers who want to be near the historic quarter and are willing to trade a central location for proximity to the old city.
If exploring the Casbah is your priority, basing yourself here reduces the distance you need to cover to reach it.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Mid-range: A five-star hotel, the Hotel Marriott Constantine, is listed in this category.
- Splurge: The Grand Hotel Cirta is a four-star hotel in the city centre, though it has been closed for renovation. The Novotel and Ibis hotels are the closest accommodations to the Casbah.
Best area for a first visit
The city centre is the best base for a first visit. It is where the main four-star hotel is located and gives you the most convenient starting point for getting around Constantine. From there you can reach the Casbah and the rest of the city.
Which area is closest to the Casbah?
The Novotel and Ibis hotels are the closest accommodations to the Casbah, or old city.
Is the Grand Hotel Cirta open?
You should verify its current status before booking.
What is the main hotel in the city centre?
The Grand Hotel Cirta is a four-star hotel in the city centre.
Compare live prices and availability with the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself in Constantine.