population: 1.03 million

extension: 48.75 square kilometers

Museums

A great museum to visit in Sidi Bel Abbès is the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, which showcases local crafts, clothing, and traditions. If you're interested in visiting similar museums nearby, you may want to consider the Museum of Islamic Art in Algiers or the Musee National Public Abdelmadjid Meziane in Oran.

Food

Some of the most popular and typical dishes to eat in Sidi Bel Abbès, according to local people, include:

1. Chakhchoukha: A traditional Algerian dish made with shredded bread, meat, vegetables, and a spicy tomato-based sauce.

2. Mhadjeb: A stuffed pastry that is similar to a calzone or turnover. It's typically filled with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices.

3. Couscous: A North African staple dish made with steamed semolina grains, typically served with vegetables and meat.

4. Brik: A crispy pastry filled with egg, tuna, and herbs, often served as an appetizer.

5. Tchicha: A soup made with cracked wheat, meat, and vegetables, often served during Ramadan.

6. Merguez: A spicy sausage made with lamb or beef, typically grilled and served with bread.

7. Makroudh: A sweet pastry made with dates and semolina, often served with tea as a dessert or snack.

These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes that you can try while in Sidi Bel Abbès!

Activities

One popular activity among locals in Sidi Bel Abbès is exploring the city's historic center, which features beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Other popular activities include hiking or picnicking in the nearby Tlemcen National Park or taking a dip in the hot springs of Hammam Bouhadjar. Additionally, attending a football match at the Stade 24 Fevrier or enjoying traditional Algerian cuisine at local restaurants are also favorite pastimes among locals.