Oran, Algeria

🎶 Oran: The Beating Heart of Algeria’s Coast

A city of music, history, and Mediterranean charm — welcome to Oran.

Known as the "Second City" of Algeria, Oran is a lively blend of colonial architecture, sun-soaked beaches, Spanish forts, and the birthplace of Raï music. It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking both culture and coastal relaxation.

📍 Where is Oran?

Located on Algeria’s northwestern coast, Oran faces the Mediterranean Sea and is just a few hours west of Algiers. It’s a major port and cultural hub with deep Andalusian, Ottoman, French, and North African roots.

🏆 Why Visit Oran?

✅ Beautiful seaside promenade
✅ Fusion of architecture: French, Spanish, Moorish
✅ Rich musical and literary heritage
✅ Vibrant nightlife and street culture
✅ Day trips to nearby beaches and mountains

🌟 Top Attractions in Oran

🏰 1. Santa Cruz Fortress

Overlooks the city from Mount Murdjadjo
Built by the Spanish in the 16th century
Offers panoramic views of Oran and the sea

🎯 FlyAllOver Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking golden hour photos.

🕌 2. Great Mosque of Oran (Djamaa El Kebir)

Originally built in the 18th century
Showcases elegant Islamic and Ottoman architecture

🏛 3. Place du 1er Novembre

Historic central square with colonial-era buildings
Features the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (now a library)
Buzzing with cafes, fountains, and local life

🎶 4. Raï Music & Cheb Khaled Legacy

Oran is the birthplace of Raï, Algeria’s most famous music genre
Explore local clubs and music bars for live performances
Visit cultural centers celebrating Raï’s influence

🎧 Must-listen before you go: "Aïcha" by Khaled

🏖 5. Beaches Around Oran

Les Andalouses – a family-friendly beach with resorts
Aïn El Turk – turquoise waters, hotels, and water activities
Mers El Hadjadj – more tranquil and natural

🏖 FlyAllOver Tip: Rent a car to explore the coast west of Oran.

🍽️ What to Eat in Oran

Kalentica – a chickpea-based street food pie
Mhadjeb – flatbread with spicy filling
Chorba frik – hearty soup
Seafood platters – fresh from the Mediterranean
Don’t miss sweet mint tea and local pastries

🛍️ What to Buy

Handcrafted silver jewelry
Traditional Haïk fabric
Raï music CDs or local instruments
Spices and handmade pottery

🧭 Nearby Destinations from Oran

Tlemcen (2 hrs): Moorish palaces and waterfalls
Sidi Bel Abbès: Agricultural charm and local markets
Mostaganem: More serene beaches and fishing towns

🛫 Getting to Oran

Airport: Ahmed Ben Bella International Airport (ORN)
Direct flights from Algiers, Paris, Marseille, Istanbul
Trains and buses connect Oran to major Algerian cities

🏨 Where to Stay in Oran

Luxury: Royal Hotel Oran – MGallery, Sheraton Oran
Mid-range: Best Western, Charme El Cheikh
Budget: Local guesthouses and Airbnb options

🔐 Travel Tips

French is more widely spoken than English
Walkable city center, but taxis and tram lines are available
Oran is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets in crowded places
Conservative dress is appreciated, especially in mosques