Algiers is a good place to pick up Algerian handicrafts. Leather goods, brass items, bronze jewellery and handwoven carpets from different regions of the country are all sold here. Pottery, coloured glass and basket-work are common too.
Didouche Mourad Street is the main shopping drag for visitors — its side alleys are lined with stalls selling local crafts and imported goods from the Saharan south. Librairie des Beaux Arts at 28 Didouche Mourad in the lower town has a decent selection of international books, local maps and inexpensive histories of Algeria. For branded goods and supermarket shopping, head to the Belouizdad Quarter or one of the Carrefour stores.
Bargaining is customary and expected. The difference between the opening ask and the final price can be dramatic.
Most shops are open 9am to noon and 2pm to 7pm, closing for midday prayers. Very little is open on Fridays.