Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, is a port city located on the Mediterranean Sea in northern Egypt and is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage. Once home to the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Library of Alexandria, the city has always been a center of learning and a melting pot of various cultures.
In modern times, Alexandria is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant mix of old and new. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, dine in exquisite restaurants, relax on beautiful beaches, and stroll along the Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade.
Alexandria’s blend of history and modernity makes it a must-visit destination for travelers. From the Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the ancient lighthouse, to the Montaza Palace and Gardens, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city.
Table of Contents
Attractions & Things to do in Alexandria
1. Montaza Palace
Montaza Palace is a beautiful palace and gardens located in the Montaza district of Alexandria, Egypt. It was built in 1892 by Khedive Abbas II, the last khedive of Egypt and Sudan. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Travel Tip: It is best to visit the Montaza Palace in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the afternoon sun.
2. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a historical archaeological site located in Alexandria, Egypt. It is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. The catacombs were originally used as a burial site for the city’s residents during the 2nd century AD and features a mix of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian architectural styles.
Travel Tip: Photography is not allowed inside the catacombs, so be sure to leave your camera in your bag or at the entrance.
3. Qaitbay Citadel
The Qaitbay Citadel is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast, in Alexandria, Egypt. It was established in 1477 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay. The Citadel is situated on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island at the mouth of the Eastern Harbour.
Travel Tip: The citadel is open to the public, and it is recommended to visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the Mediterranean.
4. Alexandria National Museum
The Alexandria National Museum is located in a restored Italian style palace in Alexandria, Egypt. It contains about 1,800 artifacts that narrate the history of Alexandria throughout the ages, including the Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic and Islamic eras.
Travel Tip: The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
5. Pompey’s Pillar
Pompey’s Pillar is a Roman triumphal column in Alexandria, Egypt, and the largest of its type constructed outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. It is located in the Serapeum of Alexandria, an ancient temple complex dedicated to the god Serapis.
Travel Tip: There is a small fee to enter the site, and it is recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid the heat.
6. Alexandria Library
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major library and cultural center located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in Alexandria, Egypt. It is both a commemoration of the Library of Alexandria that was lost in antiquity and an attempt to rekindle something of the brilliance that this earlier center of study and erudition represented.
Travel Tip: The library is closed on Fridays and national holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
7. Montaza Park
Montaza Park is a large park surrounding the Montaza Palace in Alexandria, Egypt. The park is home to beautiful gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Travel Tip: The park is a great place for a picnic, so consider bringing some snacks and a blanket to enjoy a meal outdoors.
8. Roman Amphitheater
The Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria is a well-preserved ancient structure that was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles. It was discovered in 1960 during construction work and is now open to the public as a tourist attraction.
Travel Tip: There is a small museum on the site that contains artifacts found during the excavation, so be sure to check it out.
9. Cavafy Museum
The Cavafy Museum is located in the apartment where the famous Greek poet Constantine P. Cavafy lived and worked for 25 years. The museum contains personal belongings, manuscripts, and first editions of his works.
Travel Tip: The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. El Alamein War Museum
The El Alamein War Museum is located in the town of El Alamein, about 105 km west of Alexandria. The museum is dedicated to the battles that took place in the region during World War II and contains a large collection of weapons, uniforms, and other memorabilia from the war.
Travel Tip: The museum is located near the El Alamein War Cemetery, which is also worth a visit.
Unique Activities in Alexandria
1. Guided Historical Sights live Tour guide
Experience the historical sights of Alexandria with a live tour guide. Dive deep into the city’s past and uncover its secrets during this 4.5-hour journey.
2. Alexandria by night
Discover the beauty of Alexandria under the stars. This unique tour offers a chance to see the city’s landmarks illuminated, providing a magical experience.
Day Trips from Alexandria
1. Rosetta
Rosetta is a small town located about 65 km east of Alexandria. It is famous for being the site where the Rosetta Stone was discovered in 1799, which helped scholars decipher ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
Travel Tip: The Rosetta Stone is now housed in the British Museum in London, but the town itself is still worth a visit for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Wadi El Natrun
Wadi El Natrun is a valley located about 100 km south of Alexandria. It is home to four ancient Coptic monasteries, which are still inhabited by monks to this day.
Travel Tip: The monasteries are open to the public, but it is recommended to call ahead to arrange a visit as they may be closed for religious holidays or other events.
3. Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, about 560 km southwest of Alexandria. It is one of Egypt’s most isolated settlements, with about 33,000 people, mostly Berbers.
Travel Tip: The journey to Siwa Oasis is long and can be challenging, so it is recommended to arrange transportation and accommodation in advance.
Where to stay in Alexandria
Alexandria, the jewel of the Mediterranean, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. Nestled on the northern coast of Egypt, this city offers a plethora of hotels that cater to various needs, preferences, and budgets. From luxurious retreats that offer a taste of opulence to budget-friendly lodgings that provide comfort without breaking the bank, Alexandria’s hospitality scene is as diverse as its heritage. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, there’s a hotel in Alexandria waiting to make your stay memorable.
1. Best Reviewed Hotel
Tolip Hotel Alexandria (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: This 5-star hotel offers an outdoor pool, a spa, and a gym. Guests can enjoy modern accommodation with views of the sea or city. The hotel is known for its excellent cleanliness, friendly staff, and a diverse buffet.
- Price: €57.50 per night
- Rating: 7.6 (Good)
2. Most Luxurious Hotel
Hilton Alexandria Corniche (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: Located in the heart of Alexandria, this hotel boasts its own private beach and wellness facility. Guests have praised the overall vacation experience at this establishment.
- Price: €73.42 per night
- Rating: 8.0 (Very Good)
3. Budget Hotel
Semiramis Hotel Alexandria (★ ★ ★)
- Description: A beachfront hotel located in downtown Alexandria, it offers a restaurant and free Wi-Fi in public areas. The hotel is particularly known for its amazing location and extremely helpful staff.
- Price: €14.00 per night
- Rating: 5.4 (Review Score)
4. Hotel for Family
Romance Alexandria Hotel (★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: Standing on the Mediterranean shore, this 4-star hotel is situated in the elegant Saba Pasha district. It’s known for exceeding guest expectations and its spacious rooms.
- Price: €51.00 per night
- Rating: 8.2 (Very Good)
5. Hotel for Couples
Steigenberger Cecil Hotel Alexandria (★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: Located conveniently in Alexandria’s business district, this hotel overlooks the bay and yacht club. It’s known for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and great breakfast.
- Price: €79.50 per night
- Rating: 8.7 (Fabulous)
6. Hotel for Solo Travellers
Windsor Palace Luxury Heritage Hotel Since 1906 by Paradise Inn Group (★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: A luxury hotel dating back to the early 20th century, it’s right on Alexandria’s waterfront. Guests can enjoy breakfast on the rooftop terrace with panoramic Corniche views.
- Price: €59.50 per night
- Rating: 8.7 (Fabulous)
Did you know? Facts about Alexandria
- Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and the largest city on the Mediterranean coast. It was founded in c. 331 BC by Alexander the Great and rapidly became a major centre of Hellenic civilisation.
- The city was best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and its Great Library, the largest in the ancient world.
- Alexandria was a major centre of early Christianity and was the centre of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, one of the major centres of Christianity in the Eastern Roman Empire.
- The city was a major centre of the international shipping industry and one of the most important trading centres in the world in the late 18th century.
- Alexandria was occupied by French troops in 1798 during Napoleon’s expedition to Egypt and was later besieged and occupied by British forces in 1801.
- The city experienced a decline in importance in international trade after the discovery of a new sea route to India by Portuguese navigators in the late 15th century.
- Alexandria was bombarded by British naval forces in 1882 and was occupied by them.
- The city was a target of an Israeli bombing campaign in 1954, known as the Lavon Affair, and was the site of a failed assassination attempt on Gamal Abdel Nasser in the same year.
- Alexandria is one of the most vulnerable cities in the world to sea level rise due to its location on the Nile river delta.
- The ancient layout of the city was designed by the architect Dinocrates of Rhodes using a Hippodamian grid plan.
FAQ about Alexandria
What is the best time to visit Alexandria?
The best time to visit Alexandria is during the spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Is it safe to travel to Alexandria?
Alexandria is generally considered to be safe for travelers, but it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What are the must-see attractions in Alexandria?
Some of the must-see attractions in Alexandria include the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Montaza Palace, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
What is the local cuisine like in Alexandria?
The local cuisine in Alexandria is similar to other parts of Egypt, with dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and koshary being popular. Seafood is also a specialty in Alexandria.
What is the main language spoken in Alexandria?
The main language spoken in Alexandria is Arabic, but English and French are also widely spoken and understood.
What is the currency used in Alexandria?
The currency used in Alexandria is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).
What is the best way to get around Alexandria?
The best way to get around Alexandria is by tram, bus, or taxi. There is also a metro system in the city.
Are there any special customs or traditions that travelers should be aware of when visiting Alexandria?
It is important to dress modestly when visiting Alexandria, as it is a predominantly Muslim city. Women should wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs, and men should avoid wearing shorts. It is also advisable to avoid public displays of affection.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria
https://www.booking.com/city/eg/alexandria.en-gb.html
https://www.getyourguide.com/alexandria-l490
