Algeria has had its appeal in low tourist numbers, and a cultivated and hospitable people. Today however, normal travelling in Algeria is very difficult and heavily resticted due to the ongoing conflict of the country. Among the things you're more likely to do in Algiers, is going to museums. These are spread all around the city, and many of them are actually worth visiting. The French city, which is far more predominant here than in any other North African city, is not all in all to well kept.
Many areas are very nice, but oh so European.
Still the waterfront area, facing east. is beautiful, and if it wasn't for all the veil carrying women around you, you could have been in France. The old city of Algiers is one of the worst to be found in North Africa. If you want to see real slum, this is the place. This has been one of the most dangerous places for foreigners to visit, during the upheavals the last years. Entering this place is still a suicidal act.