Algiers, the White City, is a place where history, culture, and Mediterranean charm blend effortlessly. Nestled along the shimmering Algerian coast, this vibrant capital is a mosaic of French colonial architecture, winding Casbah streets, and lively markets. From its sunlit promenades to its rich artistic heritage, Algiers is a city of contrasts. The echoes of the past meet the pulse of modern creativity, making it a captivating destination to explore.
This week, KHAMSA explores Algiers with Lilia Yasmin (@liliayasminn on Instagram), a creative consultant based between Paris, Dubai and Algiers, known for her refined approach to fashion and cultural storytelling. With a background in strategic and artistic direction, she has previously worked with prestigious houses such as A.P.C., Louis Vuitton, and most recently, Balenciaga, where she contributed to the evolution of contemporary luxury.
Beyond her consultancy work, she is the founder & designer of ATLAL FROM GALBI, a brand she launched in 2020 as an ode to multiculturalism. Rooted in a deep appreciation for heritage and modernity, the label bridges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, embodying a vision where fashion becomes a medium for cultural dialogue. Through her designs and collaborations, Lilia Yasmin continues to push the boundaries of cross-cultural narratives in the industry.
Top must-visit food spots?
LALLA MERIEM ( for traditional food ) “The decoration is like a Sahara hut”.
Street food in La Casbah – “They do the best sandwiches: Karantika“.
Little bit outside of Algiers for good fish, Tipaza or La Marsa.
GALATE ( for a chef diner / lunch) “Their kitchen is based on whatever is available at the
farm, only seasonal fresh products”.
Must-visit cultural spots?
Bardot National Museum.
Les Beaux Arts of Algiers school + Museum.
Open Sky Museum in Tipaza – “Discover the ancient roman ruins. It’s a beautiful ballade for lovers or family”
The Hamma Garden – “The first Tarzan movie was shot there”.
Best places for sundowners/roof-top places?
Best sunrise & sunset are at Notre Dame d’Afrique. There you will have a full view on Algiers . Also don’t miss the sunset at Ouqguenouni Stadium.
Best places for shopping?
La Casbah, daily Market – ” There you can find a lot of things. I love going to the market for my fabrics and furniture”.
Casbah Art – “There’s a very cute lady doing handmade pottery in the Casbah”.
Vintage market at EL Harrach market – “You have to go very early in the morning – it’s the war but you can find really good stuff at a good price!”
Fleurs d’Alger – “Located at La Grande Poste (Tafourah), Fleur d’Alger is a flower shop owned by an old man who has the best flowers and is so kind”.
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
Dar Kahina – “Just in front of La Grande Poste; they have a beautiful view on one of the most beautiful places in Algiers”.
Underrated places?
As a lover of architecture, Oscar Niemeyer worked a lot in Algeria and you can find some of his chef d’oeuvre – it’s not a place to visit, but it’s always interesting to dig and to go see these incredible buildings.
What should you avoid?
“When you go out, take cash with you”.
Must-pack items?
“For me, definitely a Camera and sunscreen!”
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
Start from the museum “Le Bardot” and walk down the “Didouche Mourad” boulevard to discover the town which will lead you to the centre of Algiers. The architecture is like nowhere else in Africa.
You can also take the city metro and go down at “Place des Martyrs”, then walk in the Casbah to discover quirky spots. There is always new cafés and new museums opening.
If you’re in Algiers, I recommend you book a flight to visit Timimoun which is in the Algerian Sahara ( 2h from Algiers) it’s so beautiful, you totally disconnect and its my favourite place on earth. I did a photos exhibition about this town and it inspired a lot my work.
