Overview
The Algiers Metro (Arabic: مترو الجزائر العاصمة; Berber: ⴰⵎⵉitրⵓ ⵏ ⵍⴷⵣⴰⵢ ⵜⴰⵎⴰⵏⴰⵖⵜ) is a rapid transit system serving the capital of Algeria. To ride the metro, you can board trains at any station along the line to travel between major city landmarks and suburban hubs. The system operates from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., with trains running frequently—often with headways of under two minutes.
The network
The Algiers transit network includes several modes of transport:
- Metro: A single main line currently serves the city, connecting "Tafourah-Grande Poste" (Place des Martyrs) to "Haï El Badr," and extending further to "El Harrach Centre." An additional branch line extends from "Haï El Badr" to "Aïn Naâdja."
- Tram: A single modern, air-conditioned tram line serves the eastern suburbs.
- Suburban Rail: A regional train network connects the central city with surrounding towns and the airport.
- Buses: Extensive bus services operate both within the city center and to the outlying suburbs.
- Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Algiers to ports such as Marseille and Alicante.
Tickets & fares
Fares vary depending on the mode of transport you choose. Please note that prices are approximate and subject to change:
- Metro: A single trip ticket costs approximately DA50, while a 10-trip ticket can be purchased for approximately DA400. You may purchase these from an attendant or at a ticket machine (though machines may only accept coins and are not always in operation).
- Tram: A ticket typically costs approximately DA40 and can be purchased at designated tram kiosks.
- Bus: Tickets are generally purchased directly on the bus for approximately DA20 (or DA25 for specific airport-to-center routes).
From the airport
There are several ways to travel from Houari Boumediene Airport into the center of Algiers:
- Bus: A bus operates every 30 minutes during the day toward the city center, costing approximately DA25.
- Commuter Train: Trains run approximately once per hour from the airport station (located east of terminal 1) to various destinations in the greater Algiers region.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside Terminals 2 and 4. It is highly recommended to negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as most do not use meters; a trip to the center typically costs between DA1000 and DA1500.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services such as Yassir and Heetch are recommended for transparency, as they allow you to see the fare upfront.
Etiquette & customs
When riding the metro, be aware of the "Whistle Man" on the platforms, particularly at the Place des Martyrs station. This official monitors the crowd and will blow a very loud whistle to signal any transgressions; you should try to stand as far away from him as possible to protect your hearing.
Survival terms
- مترو (Mītrū) - metro/subway
- تذكرة (Tadhkira) - ticket
- خط (Khatt) - line
- مدخل (Madkhal) - entrance
- مخرج (Makhraj) - exit
- تحويل (Tahwil) - transfer
- رحلة واحدة (Rihla Wahida) - single fare
- بطاقة يومية (Bitaqa Yawmiya) - day pass
When taking a taxi from the airport, always confirm and agree upon the price with the driver before you begin your journey.