This dramatic city is perched precipitously above the winding courses of the small Rhumel River, which, over the millennia, has dug out deep, sheer-sided gorges and bluffs. Constantine is actually the third-largest in all of Algeria, but offers a more off-beat, moody atmosphere than the capital. 

At its heart is the S-bend of the Rhumel gorge, with no fewer than seven soaring bridges arcing over from east to west to connect both sides of the downtown. The most iconic of the lot is surely the Sidi M'Cid Bridge. It's among the highest suspension bridges in the world, crowning the town at 160 meters up. Constantine tour guides will often begin walking routes around the city there, revealing the rugged rock arches and cliffs, all before heading off to the haunting WWI Monument to The Dead, and the immersive Casbah that spreads out on the western side. 

Talking of the Casbah, it's that maze-like conglomeration of bazaars and shaded streets that offers the most authentic taste of North African charm. Head inside to discover historic Ottoman mansions, cinnamon-scented spice markets, Berber teahouses, and museums that chronicle the ages of old Roman Cirta – Constantine's ancient name.