Making the most of Oran
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Created under French rule, Oran's attractive seafront took inspiration from Nice. A long boulevard of cafés, restaurants and ice-cream shops offers splendid views across the sea towards the harbour, Santa Cruz and the cliffs known as “les Falaises”. After independence, the government renamed it “Boulevard de l'ALN”, but residents still call it Front de Mer.
Getting around
Begin at the Great Mosque of Oran, or Djemaa el-Djedid, a fine piece of Moorish architecture. The Great Mosque is among the city's oldest and most significant religious sites.
Historic Santa Cruz Fort has stunning panoramic views across the city and Mediterranean Sea. It is an excellent location for photographs and learning about Oran's past.
Nearby places
Possible day trips include nearby sights in the Tlemcen region, known for stunning architecture and natural beauty, or the historic town of Mostaganem.
Food and shopping
Place du 1er Novembre is a lively central square and an excellent setting in which to absorb local culture. Cafés, shops and street performers can all be found here.
Walk along Oran's Waterfront promenade, La Corniche, for picturesque Mediterranean views. This is an appealing place for an unhurried stroll, with many cafés and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Opening Hours and
Check the Holidays.