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Founded in 331 BC by 25-year-old Alexander the Great, Alexandria (Al Iskendariyya) is the stuff of legend. Its towering Pharos lighthouse, marking the ancient harbour's entrance, was one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and its Great Library was considered the archive of ancient knowledge. Alas, fate dealt the city a spate of cruel blows. The Pharos collapsed and the Great Library was torched. Part of the ancient city disappeared under the sea and part under the modern city, so there are few visible remains of the glorious past.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Alexandria’s ancient library was one of the greatest of all classical institutions, and while replacing it might seem a Herculean task, the new…

Alexandria National Museum

This excellent museum sets a high benchmark with its summary of Alexandria’s past. Housed in a beautifully restored Italianate villa, the small but…

Mahmoud Said Museum

Mahmoud Said (1897–1964) was one of Egypt’s finest 20th-century artists, even though he is little known outside his country. A judge by profession, he…

Catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa

Discovered accidentally in 1900 when a donkey disappeared through the ground, these catacombs make up the largest-known Roman burial site in Egypt and one…

Pompey’s Pillar & the Temple of Serapeum

A massive 30m column looms over the debris of the glorious ancient settlement of Rhakotis, the original township from which Alexandria grew. Known as…

Kom Al Dikka

Kom Al Dikka was a well-off residential area in Graeco-Roman times, with lovely villas, bathhouses and a theatre. The area was known at the time as the…

Fort Qaitbey

The Eastern Harbour is dominated by the bulky walls of Fort Qaitbey, built on a narrow peninsula over the remains of the legendary Pharos lighthouse by…

Mosque of Abu Abbas Al Mursi

This stately mosque was built over the tomb of a revered 13th-century Sufi saint, Abu Abbas Al Mursi, from Murcia in Spain. Several successive mosques…

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Jun 21, 2018 • 6 min read

If you know where to look, you'll find that there is much more to Egyptian cuisine than the triumvirate of kebab, falafel and shawarma. Sure, shish tawooq…

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Alexandria Travel Guide: A 48-Hour Travel Itinerary For The Ultimate Experience 🇪🇬

Pearl of the Mediterranean ; Alexandria is a Mediterranean port city in Egypt. Alexandria was the home to one of the old seven wonders - The Lighthouse - as well as its Great Library which was reincarnated in the disc-shaped Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Part of the ancient city of Alexandria disappeared under the sea and other parts disappeared under the modern city, but you can still find some visible remains of the glorious past as well as recovered items from the sea.

1. Roman Amphitheatre - Ancient Roman Theatre

Start your day early with this archeological site which features the remains of an ancient Roman theatre, baths, and a villa with a mosaic. It was built in the 4th century AD and it was a common feature of the Greco-Roman period. Opening hours are from 08:00 until 17:00, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. It takes less than 30 minutes to see.

2. Temple Of Serapeum & Pompey’s Pillar

Next, visit Pompey's Pillar is a massive 30 meters column which located in the debris of the ancient settlement of Rhakotis which is the original township form each Alexandria grew. The Pillar rises on the ruins of the Temple of Serapeum which was a magnificent structure that stood there in ancient times. Opening hours are 09:00 and 16:30, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. It takes less than 30 minutes to see.

3. Catacombs Of Kom El Shoqafa

Within a walking distance from Pompey's Pillar, you will find Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa (Be careful around this area, you can also take an Uber or Careem if you want, it will take you less than 5 minutes). These are a Roman underground burial chambers that were built in the 2nd century AD, entry is through a spiral staircase and the bodies of the dead were lowered on a rope through the circular shaft. Opening hours are between 09:00 and 16:00, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. It takes about an hour to see.

4. Abu Al Abbas Al Mursi Mosque

Next, visit this beautiful mosque which was built over the tomb of a revered Sufi saint, Abu Al Abbas Al Mursi from Murcia in Spain, the current structure is modern and the interior is eye catching and beautiful. Al Mursi is one of the four master saints in Egypt so his tomb is a pilgrimage place. It is open 24/7 so visit whenever you want but avoid prayer times. The mosque is on-route to Citadel of Qaitbay.

Good to Know : It is appropriate for women to dress modestly and maybe even wear a scarf loosely around the head.

5. Citadel Of Qaitbay

This is a defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea and was built back in 1480 by the Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay on the remains of Alexandria's lighthouse. The Citadel is open from 08:00 until 17:00, and you can buy tickets at the entrance. It takes about an hour to see.

6. Cavafy Museum

Cavafy was an Alexandrian-Greek poet who spent his last 25 years in an apartment on the former Rue Lepsius, and this apartment is now preserved as a museum with two of the six rooms arranged like Cavafy kept them. You will find portraits and paintings of the Cavafy and also editions of his publications and photocopies of his manuscript. Opening hours are from 10:00 until 17:00, and it is closed on Mondays. You can buy tickets once you make it to the apartment and they cost EGP 25. It takes less than 30 minutes to see.

7. Alexandria National Museum

If you still have time, visit this museum which offers a summary of Alexandria's history, it is housed in a beautiful restored Italian villa, and even though it is small, but it is well organised and well-labeled. If you didn't have enough time to visit the museum; you can do it the next day. Opening hours are from 09:00 until 16:30, and tickets can be bought at the entrance and they cost EGP 100 for adults and EGP 50 for students (For Egyptian tickets cost EGP 20 for adults and EGP 5 for students). It takes an hour to see.

1. Monataza Palace

Start your second day by visiting the royal palace that was built back in 1932 as a summer palace for the Khedive, even though the palace itself is off-limits, but you can still visit it's surrounding gardens. There is also a beach there, and you will find a lot of cafes and restaurants. You can opt to go on a picnic there if you want as well, this is the best place to relax and enjoy the beautiful lush gardens and the sea. The Montaza Palace is open from 08:00 until 00:00, and entry tickets cost EGP 25. It can take you from 15 minute to 1.5 hours to visit, depending on what you do there.

2. Royal Jewellery Museum

Next stop is the Royal Museum which is an art and history museum, this was the former palace of princes Fatma Al-Zahraa and it was built in 1919. The museum contains a huge collection of jewellery and jewels from Muhammad Ali dynasty. Opening hours are from 09:00 until 17:00, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. It takes 1 to 1.5 hours to see.

3. Bibliotheca Alexandrina

End your trip by visiting Bibliotheca Alexandrina. One of the largest and most important libraries in the world was the Great Library of Alexandria, which is why Alexandria was known as a capital of knowledge and learning. The library was reincarnated and is now a modern library and museum. Within the library you can find museums such as: Antiques Museum , Manuscript Museum , and Planetarium . Opening hours are from 10:00 until 19:00, on Fridays from 14:00 until 19:00, and on Saturdays from 12:00 until 16:00. Tickets can be bough at the entrance. Aim to spend between 1 to 3 hours there.

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How To Get To Alexandria

If you are coming from Cairo, then it is easy to get to Alexandria by train, bus, or even plane. Train is the best option to get there from Cairo, you will find several trains on a daily basis between the two cities between 06:00 and 22:30, there is also two different classes - First & second class - to choose from. Make sure to pick a train that doesn't stop anywhere else to save time on your journey. It takes around 2.5 hours to get there when there is no stops, and 3.5 hours when there is stops in between.

Note: It is best to buy your ticket the day before to avoid any chaos and stress! When arriving in Alexandria, be aware that there are two different main train stations, If you want to go east of the city then get off at Sidi Gaber Station , and if you want to go to central city then get off at Misr Station .

If you are looking to go to Alexandria from Cairo as a day tour, then it is best to book with a private tour. This is the no-stress way to visit Alexandria. If you want to get there by bus, you will find a lot of variety of bus companies that offer services between the two cities. Services are usually between 05:00 and 23:00, but be aware that the stations in Alexandria aren't centrally located. You can choose companies like Blue Bus, Go Bus, West Delta, and Super Jet.

You can also take a plane as you will find daily domestic flights between the two cities, but Borg El Arab International Airport  is located about 40 Km from the city centre, and flights take about 45 minutes. You can also opt for a private taxi/car for more flexibility, or you can rent a car but be aware that driving in Egypt is hard.

If you are not arriving from Cairo, you can still find a lot of trains and buses depending on where you are, and if you are not in Egypt, check which international flights arrive at Borg El Arab International Airport, but if you are planning on visiting Egypt, then it is best to go to Cairo first and then visit Alexandria.

How To Move Around Alexandria

Moving around Alexandria is easy since services like Uber  and Careem  are accessible and cheap as well so it will be easy to hop from one place to another. You can also use a taxi but you will need to pay in cash as they do not accept credit/debit cards. You can also hop on the Sightseeing Red Bus!

Best Time To Visit Alexandria

The best time to visit Egypt in general is between October and April, but when it comes to Alexandria, the best time to visit is in spring and autumn - September to November & March to April - it gets hot during the summer and humid, and during the winter it rains a lot, but if you don't mind both then you can visit any time. Be aware that high season is in mid-summer so it will be crowded during that time and also prices such as hotel prices will be high.

Accommodations In Alexandria

There is a vast variety of accommodation options in Alexandria depending on your budget. Even though most people opt for a day tour, but if you plan to stay longer then you will need to look for an accommodation that suits you. When it comes to hotels, if you are looking for a luxury hotel then your bets options are along the Corniche such as the Four Season Hotel , Hilton Alexandria Corniche , and for something more central opt for Steigenberger Cecil Hotel . If you are looking for mid-range hotels, then you options would be Paradise Inn Windsor Palace Hotel , and Romance Alexandria Hotel . For budget friendly hotels, you can go with Alexander the Great Hotel , as it is one of the cleanest ones.

If you prefer to stay in an Airbnb then you will be able to find a lot options that suits your budget, you will find a lot of hostels if you prefer to stay there. Your options are endless in Alexandria, and it doesn't matter where you stay since you will enjoy it regardless.

You can book your accommodation through Booking.com , which is the one I use the most, or if you wan to stay in a hostel you can book through HostelWorld . You can also use Agoda , Trivago , or Vrbo  to book your accommodations. I know most people have a favourite website or app to use, so just choose what you prefer best.

Best Cafes & Restaurants In Alexandria

Trianon (Patisserie near El Raml Station)

Délices (Patisserie owned by the same Greek family since 1922)

Greek Club: White & Blue Restaurant (Greek cuisine & seafood)

Mohamed Ahmed (Authentic Egyptian food, best option for breakfast)

Chez Gaby (Italian cuisine)

Teatro Eskendria (Egyptian cuisine)

Sky Roof (Nighttime spot, on the rooftop of Windsor Palace)

If you wan to find more cafes & restaurants to try, then you can do so through TripAdvisor .

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Travel Guide To Alexandria

Once the centre of the ancient world, Alexandria has let most of its historical monuments disappear. But the Egyptian city still has plenty to offer its visitors. Explore the bustling streets and souks and discover a vibrant streetlife, an unparalleled welcome and an uninhibited cultural exchange.

On 24 April 2006, there were three explosions at three separate locations in the resort town of Dahab in the Sinai Peninsula, resulting in a number of deaths and injuries.

Always consult the Foreign Office before travelling.

Where to stay in Alexandria

SOFITEL ALEXANDRIA CECIL HOTEL

Midan Sa'ad Zaghloul (fax: 00 20 3 485 5655; UK reservations: 020 8283 4500). This Alex institution opened in 1929, but has since peeled a little. It was refurbished by the Sofitel chain in the 1990s, resulting in a further loss of its original character. However, it's in an excellent location and has some charming features: the Art Deco lift is one and the slightly bizarre Chinese restaurant on the roof is another. All of Alex's famous visitors have stayed here, including General Montgomery, who used it as a base to hatch battle plans during World War II; hence the unfortunately anodyne Monty's Bar. Get a room away from the road and as high up as possible to avoid the thump of the disco through the floorboards. £

EL SALAMLEK PALACE HOTEL

Montazah Gardens (00 20 3 547 7999; fax: 547 3585). Swanky in a very Arabic style: chandeliers, lots of decadent gold, an underground shopping mall and an enormous television in the lobby. A bit out of the way in Montazah, 18km from the centre of town, but consequently quiet. Extravagantly framed, elegant black and white photographs of Egypt's past kings and princes decorate the walls. ££

SHERATON MONTAZAH HOTEL

Corniche Road, Montazah (00 20 3 548 0550; fax: 550 5197; Sheraton Reservations: 0800 353 535). Big and uniform, but with a pool. £

Where to eat out in Alexandria

33 Sharia Bairam el Tunsi. Well-known and respected by Alexandrians, this is a wonderful pick-your-own-fish restaurant in a back street, two blocks in from the coast road. Your choice is grilled or fried and served with Middle Eastern salads, and rice if you want it.

Mohamed Ahmed Sharia Abd El-Ftah El-Kadari, off Sharia Safiya Zaghloul (recognised by its orange awning). Very cheap, very tasty Egyptian food.

Opposite Ramleh tram terminal. Cheap and cheerful chain restaurant and kebab takeaway in the centre of town. From the seating area upstairs, watch the chefs below make your enormous 'cocktail pie', containing pastrami, sausage, mince beef, pepper, tomato, egg and cheese.

AL-FOUD RESTAURANT

El-Salamlek Palace Hotel, Montazah ((00 20 3 547 7999). You may find yourself rubbing shoulders with the minister of transport. Rates itself highly, and is very elegant, although the service is a little precious and the food is not that special.

SANTA LUCIA

40 Sharia Safiya Zaghloul (00 20 3 482 0371). An established restaurant with live music, though the food is more expensive than it should be.

STREET FOOD

Stop off at one of the many street stalls and try some hot falaffel or fuul (spicy bean stew) in freshly baked pitta bread.

The two most established Art Deco tea houses in the centre of town are Pastroudis, 39 Fouad Street, and Trianon, 56 Midan Sa'ad Zaghloul.

Head into any of the plentiful informal cafés which may seem to be men only, however women, accompanied by a 'chaperone' are welcome.

What to see in Alexandria

NB Most of the museums and sights charge tourists between about 50p and £4 entrance, plus an extra fee if you wish to take photographs.

GRAECO-ROMAN MUSEUM

Sharia Amin Fikri and Tariq Abdel Nasser. Small but attractive museum with an open courtyard containing those Greek and Roman relics that didn't end up in the British Museum.

THE ROYAL JEWELLERY MUSEUM

27 Sharia Ahmed Yehia, midway between Glym and San Stefano, three blocks in from the Corniche. Be astonished by the number of diamonds (labelled on each item) in this sparkling collection belonging to Mohammed Ali and his descendants. It is set in an impressive former royal villa, which has two lovely frescoed bathrooms upstairs; the museum attendant will let you past the ropes for a closer look if you ask nicely.

CAVAFY MUSEUM

4 Sharia Sharm el-Sheikh. The Greek Alexandrian poet's residence recreated as a museum.

ALAMEIN WAR MUSEUM

Further out, 105km west of Alex, there's the Alamein War Museum. Built on the site of the decisive World War II battle fought in 1942 between the Allies led by Montgomery and the Germans led by Rommel, there is an extensive memorial here commemorating the lives of those who died during the African and Middle East campaign.

The mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi in Al-Anfushi, dedicated to the patron saint of Alexandria's fishermen and sailors, is the city's biggest. The Attarine Mosque is on the site of the Mosque of a Thousand Columns (from which Napoleon removed a seven-tonne sarcophagus which is now in the British Museum); the current mosque dates from the 14th century.

FORT QUATBEY

Fort Quatbey is the landmark on the outermost tip of the Eastern Harbour. This 15th-century fort was the original site of Pharos, the famous lighthouse, one of the original seven wonders. The fort contains a meagre Naval Museum and has good views of the harbour.

MONTAZAH PALACE AND GARDENS

These formal gardens are really a big park lined with wide roads. The Palace was originally built in 1892 but was rebuilt in 1926 and used to be the summer home of the Egyptian royal family, but is closed to the public. If you need an escape from the city, or want to watch young lovers at play, come here for an afternoon stroll. There are a couple of smart hotels and a few restaurants where you can stop for tea, and the park reaches down to Montazah Beach. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens.

ROMAN AMPHITHEATRE

This second-century amphitheatre is fenced off in Alexandria's centre. There are also remains of Roman baths, buildings and streets, and excavations continue.

POMPEY'S PILLAR

Situated in Karmouz, a poorer area in south-west Alexandria, this third-century Aswan granite column rises over 25 metres high and is noted primarily as being Alex's tallest monument.

CATACOMBS OF KOM EL-SHOQAFA

Located not far up the road from the Pillar in Karmouz. This is the largest Roman cemetery, originally private tombs dating from the beginning of the second century; later extended to serve the community, they contain a blend of Pharaonic and Roman art.

The best way to get around Alexandria

Trams are a good way to get about; they're leisurely and cost only a few pence. Taxis are everywhere; agree a price before your journey. Walking is the best way to see Alex; head for the backstreets and the souks.

Alexandria Travel Guide

Alexandria – egypt’s mediterranean gem.

Last Updated: 25 Feb 2023.

Like a miniature and more-manageable version of Cairo on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is sadly overlooked by many travellers to Egypt.  The city has a wonderful mix of historic sites, crumbling old colonial buildings, a long seafront and, of course, the modern library of Alexandria, one of the largest libraries in the world.  This guide contains everything you need to know to visit the city, including the best sights, where to eat, where to stay and how to get there.

Note : Some prices are in US dollars to ensure they stay current given the high rate of inflation in Egypt.  Expect to pay approximately the equivalent amount in EGP at the current exchange rate.

Top Places to Visit in Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic city and its location on the coast is beautiful, so there are many things to see and do.  These are my particular recommendations.  However, if you have the time, just randomly strolling through the city is a wonderful way to experience it.  Everywhere you go, you will find crumbling old buildings and the hustle and bustle of ordinary Egyptian life – which is anything but ordinary.

Alexandria’s markets are a mass of colours and intrigue.

Qaitbay Citadel and the Site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria

Qaitbay Citadel is a surprisingly modern looking citadel standing in a beautiful spot at the western end of the corniche.  However, looks can be deceiving, and it was actually built by a sultan in the 15th century.  The main building has three levels and a small but beautiful mosque that extends up from the ground floor to a beautiful dome built into the roof. 

The rooftop is not open to the public.  However, you can walk the city walls, which extend around all four sides of the grounds, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean, the Eastern Harbour and the city itself.  

The citadel was built right on the purported spot of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World .  Similarly to the Tower of Babel, the site of which I visited in Iraq , no one is quite sure of the original location of the lighthouse now.  However, the most likely site is a location underneath one of the walls of the citadel.  You can even visit some ancient foundations that have been excavated, and may or may not have been part of the original structure.  

Entrance to Qaitbay citadel is EGP 70 (€2.17/$2.30) and it’s clearly marked on Google Maps .  The walls of the citadel also house a maritime museum, if that’s what floats your boat.  

Qaitbay Citadel is a popular destination for locals as well as foreign tourists.

The foundations purported to be the remains of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque

The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is actually a group of three ancient Islamic buildings clustered together and is the most spectacular mosque complex in Alexandria.  Unlike mosques in many countries, men and women can both enter the main chamber.  The inside is beautifully decorated in a similar style to other Egyptian mosques, with rings of lanterns hanging from the ceiling.  Foreigners are welcome and no one minded us taking a few photos while we were there (actually, some of the locals were doing the same).  

Be respectful and quiet while inside the mosque.  Shoes must be taken off before entering.  There is no entrance fee, but if you leave your shoes in the boxes at the door, the man who watches them expects a tip (he asked for EGP 1, about €0.03/$0.03).  The mosque opens around midday until late in the evening, when it’s lit up beautifully.  It’s located near the western end of the corniche and clearly marked on Google Maps .

The main dome of the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi mosque is incredibly ornate.

The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi mosque is at least as beautiful at night as it is during the day.

The Serapeum of Alexandria and Pompey’s Pillar

Pompay’s Pillar is an archaeological site containing the towering namesake pillar and a collection of smaller statues, including a pair of sphinxes.  Funnily enough, the pillar has nothing to do with Pompey whatsoever.  It was built in honour of Roman emperor Diocletian between 298 and 302 AD.  However, the inscription was badly damaged and a Greek word on it was mistaken for a dedication to a first-century BC general called Pompey.  The name has stuck ever since.

The pillar itself is nothing special, but the juxtaposition between the ancient artefacts and the surrounding modern apartment blocks is an interesting sight.  It’s worth exploring the site thoroughly, as there’s also the remains of the Serapeum of Alexandria, an ancient Greek temple that contained an offshoot of the ancient Library of Alexandria.  A couple of tunnels of the underground section of this structure have been excavated and are open for viewing.  

Entrance costs EGP 80 (€2.50/$2.60) and the location is clearly marked on Google Maps .  Inside the site, from Pompey’s Pillar, head towards the back corner, away from the main entrance, to find the Serapeum. 

The juxtaposition between the ancient Pompey’s Pillar and the apartment blocks in the background is striking.

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

For me, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa was the most impressive of all the sights I visited in Alexandria.  They consist of an extensive labyrinth of underground passages spread over three levels.  The mishmash of different architectural styles reflect the different civilizations that buried their dead there.  Influences include Pharaonic funerary cult, including paintings similar to those widely seen in Luxor, Hellenistic and early Imperial Roman.  Some of the carved reliefs are particularly impressive.  There are also several tombs above ground, which are worth a quick look.

Entrance costs EGP 80 (€2.50/$2.60) and the location is clearly marked on Google Maps .

The architecture of the catacombs is exquisite.

The catacombs are big enough to house a whole army of the undead.

The Roman Theatre

This ancient Roman theatre is the centrepiece of a larger archeological site, including an ancient hamman (bathhouse) and the Villa of the Birds, which contains a beautiful collection of mosaics.  The theatre itself is quite small and I found the mosaics to be the most interesting thing here.  However, the site is quite a nice park, so if you want somewhere to take a break away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a great spot.  It also seems to be a popular location for Alexandrians to take wedding photos.

The Roman theatre is a popular location for Alexandrian couples to take wedding photos.

The Villa of the Birds houses several beautiful mosaics, including this one.

The Modern Library of Alexandria

The Egyptian government completed the building of the modern Library of Alexandria in 2002 as a modern library and cultural centre, commemorating the original Great Library of Alexandria, which was destroyed in the third century AD.  The project was begun all the way back in 1974 and supported by UNESCO, UNDP and, critically, former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak.  

The modern library is absolutely huge, housing over 8m books, as well as rare scrolls, a planetarium and several museums.  From the outside, you can see the beautiful facade covered in writings in 150 different scripts from around the world.  Inside, you’re free to wander many parts of the library and admire historical items, such as the first printing press in Egypt.

The entrance price of EGP 70 (€2.17/$2.30) includes a free guided tour in English, Arabic or French, although these are not mandatory.  Some museums housed inside the library, such as the museum of ancient scrolls, have separate entrance tickets.  The location of the library is clearly marked on Google Maps, although the visitor’s entrance at the back of the building is not so obvious.  It is located here .  

The facade of the modern Library of Alexandria contains inscriptions in 150 different scripts from around the world.

Taking a rest on Shakespeare’s bench.  The text contains passages from his plays.

Alexandrian Markets

Alexandria is full of vibrant and colourful markets.  They’re great places to do a bit of shopping, chat with a few locals and witness the organised chaos that is everyday Egyptian life.  One particular feature of Alexandrian markets is the abundance of fresh fish and seafood.  If you’re staying somewhere with cooking facilities, the markets are a great place to pick up some of the day’s catch to take back for dinner.  

One of the best markets I found, completely by accident, is on Zawiet Al Aarag street, quite close to the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque.  It’s chock full of a colourful array of groceries.  If you want to check it out, start from the junction here on Google Maps , and then follow Zawiet Al Aarag street until you reach the roundabout at the other end.  

The look of adoration in the fishmonger’s eyes as she pets the cat is beautiful. I’m not sure I’d eat the fish it’s been sitting on though.

Eastern Harbour and Corniche

The weather in Egypt is lovely compared to my native Scotland, but the heat can sometimes get a bit much.  One of the things I love about Alexandria is the fresh sea breeze that blows in from the Mediterranean.  A relaxing stroll along the corniche is a great way to spend an hour or two, maybe with a stopoff for tea at a local cafe.  

Alexandria actually has two harbours – eastern and western.  The western harbour is an industrial area, so the eastern harbour, or Al Mina’ ash Sharqiyah, is where you’ll spend a lot of your time, and it’s beautiful.  The corniche runs right along its length.

Directions : Follow the fresh sea air!

The outer wall of the Western Harbour, as seen from the windows of Qaitbay Citadel.

Suggested Itineraries in Alexandria

One of the great things about Alexandria is that it’s quite compact.  Most of the historic sights are clustered within walking distance of each other not too far from the bay.  Walking also has the big advantage that you get a real feel for this beautiful old city as you move between the sights.  

I was a bit pushed for time during my visit, only having two nights in the city, but I managed to squeeze in everything I’d planned.  However, for a more relaxed experience, I would recommend 2-3 days.  

The attractions of Alexandria are roughly grouped into three areas, which means you can easily visit several together.  Each of these groupings needs about half a day.  Ideally, visit areas 1 and 2 on different days, as seeing all the sights takes quite some time and energy under the hot Egyptian sun.  

Area 1: Western End of the Eastern Harbour – Visit Qaitbay fort at the far western end of the harbour and walk back along the corniche to the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque.  If you need a break, stop for a traditional tea or coffee at Farouk Café 1928 before exploring the local market on Zawiet Al Aarag street.  You can also stop in at the Fish Market restaurant and enjoy the day’s catch with a wonderful view of the Eastern Harbour.

Area 2: Ancient Archaeological Sites – Three of Alexandria’s most interesting archeological sites are situated between the city’s two railway stations.  These are the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar and the Serapeum of Alexandria, and the Roman Theatre.  Walking through these areas is also a nice opportunity to see a more local side of the city, away from the corniche.  

Area 3: The modern Library of Alexandria – The library is located at the eastern end of the Eastern Harbour, far from the other sights of the city.  However, don’t let this put you off, it’s a lovely stroll along the corniche from the rest of town.  

Randomly strolling the streets of Alexandria, you’ll come across all sorts of interesting sights, such as this incredible shopfront.

Places to Eat in Alexandria

  There are loads of local places to eat in Alexandria, so wander around and see what takes your fancy.  Even upmarket restaurants are very cheap by international standards.  These are a couple of particular recommendations:

Fish Market – As its name suggests, this is a seafood restaurant inside Alexandria’s fish market on the corniche.  Being on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is one of the best places in Egypt for fresh seafood, and Fish Market is a great example.  

The day’s catch is displayed on ice on a large counter in the centre of the restaurant and you can literally just point at the particular fish or other seafood you want to eat.  The waiters also speak a bit of English, which makes ordering easy.  Being on the second floor, there’s a beautiful view over the Eastern Harbour to boot.  

The entrance to Fish Market restaurant is located on the left side of the building that houses the actual fish market.  A meal for two, including a big main, a couple of side dishes and non-alcoholic drinks cost us less than $20.  It opens at noon.

Catch of the day at Fish Market restaurant.

Awesome little breakfast place – There are many little local places to eat breakfast in Alexandria, but I mention this one because their foul (Arabic dish of fava beans) is one of the best I’ve ever had.  And that’s after living in Lebanon for two years!  This place is really a hole in the wall with a table and standing space out front where you can eat.  Many locals come to buy breakfast and take it away with them.  

There is no marker for this place on Google Maps, but the location is here .  Breakfast for two, including a second helping of foul and extra bread, costs about $1.

Farouk Café 1928 – This is supposedly one of the oldest tea houses in Alexandria.  The really special thing about it is they still make tea and coffee in the traditional way, by placing the pot in hot sand to heat the water.  Coffee is about $0.60.  The location is clearly marked on Google Maps .

Breakfast doesn’t get more local (or delicious) than this!

Making coffee the traditional way using hot sand at Farouk Café 1928.

Places to Stay in Alexandria

There are loads of places to stay in Alexandria.  The best area is near the Eastern Harbour corniche.  A quick search on any booking site will show up loads of options.

For budget travellers, the only hostel is Ithaka Hostel.  If you want other options, AirBNB can be a good way of finding budget accommodation.  We stayed at a hotel called Suez Hotel Canal that I haven’t found on any of the usual booking apps.  It was basic, but cheap and clean, with a private bathroom and hot water.  The location is here on Google Maps .

Getting Around Alexandria

The sites of Alexandria are grouped into three areas.  If you enjoy walking like me, you can walk between them, but otherwise Alexandria has a range of different transport options:

Walking : This is a great way to see any city, as you’ll notice so many more things on foot than you would from a car window.

Taxi: One of the traditional yellow taxis is the easiest option if you don’t feel like a long walk.  Be careful to negotiate the price before setting off, as they’re not metered.  

Ride hailing apps : If you don’t feel like haggling, Uber and Careem both operate in Alexandria and are a good alternative.

Local buses : There are various local buses in Alexandria.  The difficulty is knowing where they’re going.  If you want to try this option, stick out a hand to stop the bus and say your destination.  The driver will then tell you whether he’s going there or not.  It’s generally best to check the price as well.  This can be tricky depending on how much English the driver speaks, but I always managed with a bit of sign language.  

One of the best places to take a local bus is for travelling along the road by the corniche.  If the driver doesn’t understand you, you can always point across the harbour at your destination!

A beautiful pharaonic painting on a tomb at the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa.

How to get to Alexandria

There are several options for reaching Alexandria, as follows:

Train : Since January 2023, Egypt started charging foreigners in USD for train tickets and prices increased significantly.  However, train is the most comfortable option.  From Cairo, a second-class seat costs $15-20 and a first-class seat $20-25.  The journey time is around 3.5 hours, depending on the train, but the problem is that they’re very often late.  My evening train took over 6 hours and the hotel had given away my room to someone else by the time I arrived, because they didn’t think I was going to turn up (nevermind that I’d prepaid!).   

Bus : Long-distance buses connect Alexandria with Cairo and other parts of the country.  Buses are generally comfortable, although you will have less space than on the train.  Ticket prices start at around $5.50 from Cairo, depending on the bus company.  The main advantage of the buses is that they’re far more reliable than the trains.  

Several companies run the route between Cairo and Alexandria, including the West and Middle Delta Bus Company and Go Bus.  Both companies have ticket offices here in Cairo .  In Alexandria, West and Middle Delta’s Office is here and Go Bus has an office at the main bus station .  Go Bus also has a decent online booking website .  The West and Middle Delta Bus Company also has buses from Alexandria to the Siwa Oasis .

Minibus : Regular informal minibuses run from beside the main train station in Alexandria to Ramses Railway Station in Cairo.  They are cheap, fast and have the advantage that the departure location in Alexandria is much closer to the corniche, where you’ll likely stay, than the actual bus station.  The only downside really is that some drivers drive like total maniacs.  

The price between Cairo and Alexandria is about $3.50 and minibuses depart when full.  As Alexandria-Cairo is a major route, there are usually plenty of passengers, so you won’t wait long.  I waited 20 minutes – just time for a tea.  The exact departure location in Alexandria is here on Google Maps .

Air : Alexandria is connected by air to Cairo and other cities throughout Egypt.  This is the fastest way to travel, but obviously one of the more expensive options too.  To be honest, the distance is so short it’s hardly worth the hassle of going through airport security.

Dangers and Annoyances in Alexandria

Egypt is generally a safe country to travel in.  Many people will try to rip you off, but it’s very much against the culture to steal and violent crime is rare.  That said, it’s always best to be careful and we did face one issue in Alexandria with some aggressive teenagers.  This is, unfortunately, not an isolated incident in Egypt, as shown by this news article that appeared just after we left .

In our case, we were walking through a poor neighbourhood near Pompey’s Pillar on busy streets in broad daylight.  We passed a group of teenage boys and I noticed them looking at us.  A few seconds later, two of them started following us down the street and asking for money.  We politely told them that, sorry, we would not give them money, but they were very persistent.  

As English had no effect, I eventually tried telling the boys in Arabic (I know a few words), “la, shukran” – “no, thank you.”  To my surprise, this provoked a very different reaction and it seemed that to them it was now personal.  They started hurling abuse and swearing at us in English.  We kept walking briskly while they followed us and kept swearing.  Eventually, an older man on the street told them to stop.  They ignored him initially, but a couple of minutes later finally gave up and stopped following us.

Unfortunately, this kind of situation happens from time-to-time in Egypt.  While I don’t think we were ever in any real danger, it’s good to be prepared for how to deal with such a situation if it occurs.

The other minor issue we faced was Anna receiving a lot of stares and some of what sounded like derogatory comments while walking on the corniche one morning.  After a while, she put on a headscarf and the comments stopped.  Many Egyptians are very conservative, so it’s worth being aware that for women, if you feel you are receiving unwanted attention, a headscarf can be a good way to blend in.

Most of the locals are extremely friendly.

More about Egypt

I’ve spent a total of about a month in Egypt on four separate trips, so I’ve seen a large part of the country.  The major draw is, of course, its incredible history and amazing cultural sites, but it’s also a great place to chill out.  For more travel tips and off-the-beaten track ideas, check out my other articles on Egypt:

Aswan Travel Guide: The Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Sights

Off-the-Beaten-Path Aswan Last Updated: 25 Feb 2023. Aswan is one of the most touristy cities in Egypt and for good reason.  Its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful location on the Nile and the chill Elephantine Island make it the ideal place to hang out for a few days. ...

Siwa Oasis Travel Guide

Everything you need to know to enjoy travelling the Siwa Oasis, including the old town, the hot springs and delicious Egyptian cuisine.

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 1.3 Orientation
• 1.4 Tourist offices
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1 By taxi
• 3.2 By tram
• 4.1 Historical monuments
• 4.2 Museums
• 4.3 Religious sites
• 4.4 Modern Alex
• 5.1 Cinemas
• 6.1 Cultural institutes
• 6.2 Language schools
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Apartments
• 11.2 Budget
• 11.3 Mid-range
• 11.4 Splurge
• 12.1 Emergency

Alexandria (pronounced al-ig-ZAN-dree-uh  ; Arabic : الإسكندرية ‎/ اسكندرية al-Iskandariyya / Eskendereyya  ) is Egypt 's second largest city (5.2 million people in 2018), its largest seaport, and the country's window onto the Mediterranean Sea. The city is a faded shadow of its former glorious cosmopolitan self, but still worth a visit for its many cultural attractions and still-palpable glimpses of its past.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Few cities of the world have a history as rich as that of Alexandria; few cities have witnessed so many historic events and legends. Founded by Alexander the Great ( Iskander al-Akbar ) in 331 BCE, Alexandria became the capital of Greco- Roman Egypt; its status as a beacon of culture is symbolized by Pharos, the legendary lighthouse.

There had long been a fishing village here, called Rhakotis, but Alexander had greater plans for it. Its strategic value was obvious: it had a great natural harbour, a backing lagoon to prevent land attack, a fertile hinterland, and potential control of trade routes up the Nile and overland to the Red Sea and Arabia. But the approach to the harbour was tricky: the coastline and off-shore islands were low and without landmarks, so sailors could easily take the wrong channel and get wrecked on the shoals. To guide them in, Alexander's successors Ptolemy I & II built a lighthouse on the nearby island of Pharos. It stood just over 100 m tall, so only the Great Pyramids were taller. A bronze mirror atop it reflected sunlight by day, and by night the flames of oil-soaked sheep fleeces. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World , and the name of the island "Pharos" came to apply to all subsequent lighthouses, and spawned modern words such as "phares" in French.

A jetty over 1 km long was built to connect Pharos to the mainland, dividing the bay into an eastern and western harbour. Silt and landfill built up along the jetty so it broadened into a peninsula, the present-day district of Anfushi. The lighthouse was badly damaged by earthquakes in 956, 1303 and 1323, then fell into disuse and disrepair. In 1480 Sultan Qaitbey used the ruined stone to build his fortress here. The rest of it was eaten by coastal erosion, and came to lie on the sea-bed. But a combination of ancient descriptions, modern marine archaeology and satellite imaging give us a detailed picture of it.

Alexandria under Ptolemy I & II prospered not just through trading, but as a knowledge economy. They set out to acquire and understand every manuscript they could. Arriving ships were searched, and any manuscripts seized and copied onto papyrus. In the great Library of Alexandria texts were translated, catalogued and studied. Scholars, philosophers and scientists flocked to work on these texts, and to create new material. Just one example of their creative output was the Septuagint , the first Greek translation of Hebrew holy texts that became the Christian Bible Old Testament.

Trade and knowledge made Alexandria cosmopolitan, with the largest Jewish populations and Hellenistic cultures anywhere. It retained its importance, and was capital of Egypt, while power was shifting elsewhere: the rise and decline of Rome, the rise of Byzantium, and growth of Persia. But the city suffered natural disasters (eg the tsunami of 365 CE) and a series of wars (particularly against Rome), and the library was destroyed. When the Arabs conquered Egypt in 641 CE they founded a new capital to the south in Fustat, now Cairo . Politically, economically and intellectually, Alexandria was no longer the place to be.

Alexandria survived as a trading port; Marco Polo described it around 1300 as one of the world's two busiest ports, along with Quanzhou . However, its strategic location meant that every army on its way to Egypt passed through: Napoleon's troops stormed the city in 1798, but the British conquered it in the Siege of Alexandria in 1801. The Egyptians under Mohammed Ali took control of the city and rebuilt it, but the Orabi Rebellion in 1881 and massacres of Europeans in the city led the British to strike back and hammer the rebels with the three-day Bombardment of Alexandria , reducing much of the city center to rubble.

Once again, Alexandria rose from the ashes. Its cosmopolitan and decadent lifestyle before and during World War II gave birth to its greatest poet, Constantine P. Cavafy , and was chronicled in Laurence Durrell's Alexandria Quartet and a series of works by E.M. Forster including Alexandria: A History and Guide (1922), described by some as the best travel guide ever written.

Yet this world, too, took a shattering blow in the 1950s when Egypt's new fiercely nationalist leader Gamal Abdel Nasser nationalized vast swathes of the economy and forbade foreigners from owning or running companies. This forced tens of thousands of foreigners out of the country, including virtually all of Alexandria's once 150,000-strong Greek community. Alexandria thus ceased to be a cosmopolitan city.

Today's Alexandria is a dusty seaside Egyptian town with miles of tatty low-rise and 'burbs holding its population of 5 million, yet its status as Egypt's leading port keeps business humming, and tourists still flock to the beaches in the summertime. And while much of the city is badly in need of major repair, its history is still evident: the French-style parks and the occasional French street sign survive as a legacy of Napoleon, and the few remaining Greek restaurants and cafés still do a good trade.

Climate [ edit ]

Alexandria has a hot desert climate (BWh), but highly influenced by sea breeze, with sunny hot humid summers and mild moderately wet winters. The daytime can be humid in summer, with summer temperatures averaging 31 °C (88 °F), but evenings are usually cooler and breezy, especially by the Corniche. Winters can get cold, with daytime highs down sometimes to 12 °C (53 °F), with occasional rain and sometimes hail. Humidity is high throughout the year. The best time to visit Alexandria is in spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November). It's at its busiest in summer, when Egyptians flock down to escape the searing heat of Cairo.

Orientation [ edit ]

Alexandria is a long thin city, pinched between the swampy delta and the sea. Its east-west artery, the Corniche, rolls on for about 30 km. However the advantage to the visitor is that all transport is funnelled along this corridor, so you shouldn't wait more than a minute for a taxi, buses or microbus going your way. The tram line runs parallel a block or two further inland.

At the western tip lies the Citadel of Qaitbey, built near (and from) the ruined ancient lighthouse or Pharos. The Corniche then sweeps around the eastern harbour, with Anfushi the tongue of land behind it, to the central hotel area around Saad Zaghloul; then passes the east end of the harbour at the jetty opposite the new library. Almost all the sights, and the bulk of the accommodation and restaurants, are along this congested 5-6 km strip or nearby. But on and on eastwards rolls the Corniche through rundown beachfront districts of Rushdy, San Stefano and Mandarah. The blingy hotels of Montazah are a bright spot then the tat, burbs and ribbon-development resume, out to Aboukir.

Tourist offices [ edit ]

• Raml Station, Saad Zaghlui Squ , ☏ +20 3 485 1556 .  
• Nuza Airport , ☏ +20 3 4250 526 , +20 3 4250 527 .  
• Borg El Arab Airport , ☏ +20 3 4485119 .  
• Marine Passenger Station , ☏ +20 3 4803494 .  
• Misr Railway Station , ☏ +20 3 3925985 .  
• Sidi Gaber Railway Station , ☏ +20 3 4263953 .  

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Alexandria has domestic flights daily from Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, with Egyptair the main operator. Saudia Airlines fly from Jeddah and the Gulf States, and Turkish Airlines fly from Istanbul. Flights from Italy by Wizz Air will end in June 2023. And all of airlines of the country including: Air Cairo Air Arabia Nile Air FlyEgypt and Petroleum air services (PAS).

El Nouzha airport was nearer the city but closed in 2011, supposedly for rebuilding with Borg el Arab just a temporary arrangement. The work was abandoned and there are no plans to re-open El Nouzha.

Cairo ( CAI  IATA ) is the main portal of entry into Egypt and you travel onwards overland. The Cairo-Alex flight only makes sense as a connection with another flight.

By train [ edit ]

Train is the best way to travel between central Cairo and Alexandria, with 30 services a day. Best of these are the "Specials", running non-stop and taking 2 hr 40 min; almost as good are the "Express" services taking around 3 hours. These trains are clean and comfortable, air-conditioned, and with snacks available. One-way AC1 tickets cost LE51 (Oct 2018). The fast trains are sometimes also called Spanish, French or Turbo because of their rolling stock. See " Egypt#get around by train" for how to buy tickets. Online, in advance, direct from the railway company ENR, is best.

Trains to Alexandria also run from Marsa Matruh and the delta towns. These are "ordinary" trains that can't be booked online, so buy your ticket at the station. Some trains run directly from Luxor via Cairo, but these too are slow "ordinary" trains, and you're better taking fast trains and changing in Cairo.

By bus [ edit ]

Several bus companies offer a bus service into Alexandria at a very low price range: LE20-35 . Buses are air-conditioned and come complete with a hostess trolley service. Companies include Golden Arrow, West Delta, Super Jet, Pullman and El Gouna. Operating times vary from one company to another, but there are trips between Cairo and Alexandria virtually every hour from early morning until midnight.

While the buses are perfectly comfortable, the duration of your journey from Cairo to Alexandria (and vice versa) will depend on your pick-up/drop-off point. Most buses start out from the Almaza Bus Station in Heliopolis and stop by Midan Tahrir and Giza before finally setting out to Alexandria; if you join from Heliopolis expect a 4-5 hour trip rather than the average 2-3.

The main bus station is 31.177703 29.916048 4 Moharam Bek but there are a number of bus pick-up/drop-off points inside Alexandria. These are usually either at Gedid station (except El Gouna , which uses Sidi Gaber station) which is a bit far from the city of Alexandria so it shouldn't cost more than a LE10 cab ride, LE15 max. Don't take a taxi with anyone that approaches you right outside of the bus. Walk outside the station and catch a taxi there if you must. There is also a bus from Gedid to Sidi Gaber , and from Sidi Gaber most parts of the city are accessible by minibus or tram if you are looking to save money. The bus fare will run you half a pound.

By car [ edit ]

There are two roads between Cairo and Alexandria, both taking 3 hours. The usual cautions for driving in Egypt apply; see Egypt#By car .

• Agriculture Road has a speed limit of 90 km/hr for private cars and has 4 lanes in each direction. This is the main road, so it can get a little crowded. It also gives access to Damnhour and Tanta .
• Desert Road has a speed limit of 100 km/hr for private cars and has 4 lanes in each direction. True to the name, this crosses the desert and is less crowded and faster. There are cafes every few km.

By boat [ edit ]

Alex remains a major sea port, but all international passenger services are axed because of this region's turmoil and loss of tourist traffic. It may still be possible to arrange freighter travel , but with so many migrants trying to reach Europe from the Middle East by sea in the 21st century, they will be very wary about taking you. So your best bet may be to call in a favour from a friend with a gin-palace private yacht.

The Med cruise liners seldom visit here nowadays. Nile cruises still call at Alexandria, Cairo and the ancient Egyptian sites up to Luxor and Aswan. But all of these are package tourist itineraries, and not available to book as point-to-point ferries.

Get around [ edit ]

Alexandria is a long, long city but there's good transport along the Corniche. It also extends several km inland past the lagoons, but you've no reason to go that way.

By taxi [ edit ]

Alexandria's yellow and black taxis are a good way to travel in the city, and a cheap one as well. Be careful though: taxis will uniformly refuse to use meters (the rates haven't been adjusted in years) and drivers love to take advantage of non-Alexandrians (both foreign and Egyptian), so it's best to agree on the fare before you get in. No taxi ride between any two points in the city should cost more than LE25 . If you are on a day trip to Alexandria, hire a taxi outside the railway station for the day and pay LE10-15 per place. For example, pay around LE50-60 if you plan to see 5 places in 3–4 hr, or LE80-100 if you plan to see 8-10 places in 5–6 hr.

To get into a taxi, wave at the driver and yell the name of your destination. If the driver agrees they would park at the side of the road as soon as possible. Some taxis will stop to pick you up even if they already have a passenger, but such offers are best refused. Furthermore, always check back once you get out of the taxi, there is no number to call if you lose anything of value, and nearly no chances of having it returned.

Fast Call taxis can be booked by phone at 19559 or 0800-999-9999 (toll free). These are pricier but generally much better than ordinary black and bright yellow cabs.

Careem and Uber operate in Alexandria. You will need a local number, as the driver will call you back for details of the pickup and drop off points.

By tram [ edit ]

Alexandria has a creaky, slow but very cheap tram system that dates back to 1860 and looks the part — it's the oldest one still running in Africa. The route map is remarkably confusing and changes on a regular basis, but one factor stays constant: the network is split into the interurban Ramleh Lines ( Tram el-Raml ), which use blue-and-cream trams and run across the city a few blocks back from the sea towards the eastern suburbs, and the City Lines ( Tram el-Madina ), which use bright yellow trams and run west and south of central Alex. The two meet at Raml Station (محطة الرمل Mahattat el-Raml ), right at the heart of Alex. In general, the Ramleh Lines are relatively quick despite their age, as they have substantial stretches of dedicated and uninterrupted right-of-way; the City Lines, however, frequently get stuck in traffic.

For both lines, the flat fare is LE1 , bought on board. Note that the first car (out of three) in the blue trams is reserved for women only. The lines run until 1AM, every 10-30 min or so.

Probably the most useful service for tourists is yellow tram #25, which runs from Raml Station to Ras el-Tin and Fort Qait Bey. You can also hop on any blue tram west from Sidr Gabr bus/railway station to get to Raml, but not all eastbound trams stop there.

There are a variety of local bus services which have improved significantly in the past few years, but they are rather confusing for those who haven't lived in Alexandria for a while. Apart from city buses, you will also find "mini-buses", which work on hop-and-go basis. They are easily recognizable 14-person buses, which will stop when you wave and stop where you need to get off. The drivers rarely speak English, so make sure you know the Arabic name of your destination or that you already know where to stop. The routes are usually along the main streets, with drivers following well-known routes. The routes are written in Arabic on the sides of the vehicle, but even if you speak Arabic this may not be helpful; the drivers sometimes change routes without changing their signage. However, if you remain in Alexandria for some time you may learn the somewhat elaborate system of hand signals the locals have devised to indicate the desired destination. A journey will generally cost between LE0.50-1.50 .

See [ edit ]

Historical monuments [ edit ].

Museums [ edit ]

Religious sites [ edit ], modern alex [ edit ].

• The Corniche stretches forever. The core is a 15 km promenade along the bay dotted with restaurants, markets and historic sights.

Do [ edit ]

• Sunbathe at the Maa'moura Beach or Montazah Beach. During summer the beaches are packed with Egyptian tourists, parasols and plastic chairs and it will cost LE5 (2008) to get in. At this time the sand and water may have some throwaway plastic floating around. Some areas charge LE20 and it will get you more space.
• Also in Montazah, Montazah Water Sports, provide various water sports, from waterskiing to wake-boarding, even Banana Boat and Donuts.
• Hire a boat and go cruising at Ras el-Tin.
• Have a long walk by the beautiful Corniche by the Mediterranean Sea.

Cinemas [ edit ]

• Cineplex , 14th of May Bridge Rd ( by Hilton at Green Plaza, Smouha, see Sleep ). 10 screens, 3D movies available. Tickets LE25 . ( updated Oct 2021 )

Sports [ edit ]

• Football: Alexandria has two soccer teams in the Premier League, Egypt's top tier. Smouha SC and Al Ittihad are both based at Alexandria Stadium (capacity 20,000), 500 m east of the railway station. Haras El Hodoud are in the Second Division, playing in the western suburb of El Max. Pharco in the Premier League play at Borg el Arab (aka El-Geish) Stadium 25 km west towards the airport.
• Scuba dive with Alexandra Dive [dead link] , based on the Corniche. It's historic wreck-diving, year-round, interesting but distinctly cold and gloomy compared to the Red Sea. The standard one-day, two-dive trip takes you to the "Palace of Cleopatra" immersed off Antirodos Island, and around the old harbour and lighthouse remnants off Pharos point. They also venture out to wrecks from ancient Greece, the Napoleonic era, and the Great War. They offer training courses, but beginners will do much better to train in the Red Sea. (They run trips there but you're probably going anyway.) All these trips depend not only on weather, but on having viable diver numbers.
• Go swimming in the Country Club or Lagoon Resort, in front of Carrefour.

Learn [ edit ]

Cultural institutes [ edit ], language schools [ edit ], work [ edit ].

Alexandria has a tiny industrial section, mainly centered around the natural gas industry. A few expatriates work in this section. This section is increasing now as many new factories are built in Borg el Arab .

Other than that, there are some but not many international schools that employ expatriate teachers. Generally they pay less than the much more lucrative educational section in Cairo.

Alexandria has got quite a large number of language schools. You can find girls-only, boys-only and mixed schools. Also international certificates -like the IGCSE or the American SAT I and SAT II- could be completed in most of these schools. Moreover, study is available in English, French and also German.

Buy [ edit ]

Standard shop hours are daily until 10PM or later, but in summer they take a siesta from noon to 4PM. Ramadan hours also vary.

Typically, vendors of a particular product cluster along a street.

• Nabi Daniel , the street between the railway station and Corniche, has many booksellers with titles in several languages. Prices negotiable. Further inland has vendors of electrical components (e.g. plug adapters) that may be useful to a traveller. "Nabi" means prophet so the street refers to the Biblical figure.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina Bookshop ( within the new library ). daily 9AM to 7PM . Good for general and tourist literature in different languages.  
• Green Plaza ( by Hilton Hotel ). 9AM-1AM . Big modern open-air mall with many shops, restaurants, cinema and a court for video games and bowling. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.2868 30.0305 2 Maamoura Plaza Mall , Maamoura . 24 hours . Small mall in the tract east of Montazah, has some restaurants. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall . By the Four Seasons Hotel, see #Sleep . Large mall with upscale shopping, 10 cinemas and large food court.  
• 31.2121 29.9474 3 Zahran Mall , Smouha . Daily 10AM-11PM . Popular mall with cinema and coffee shops. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.168 29.9317 4 Carrefour City Center , Gate 4 - 1st Alexandria Cairo Desert Road . Daily 10AM-midnight . If this is "city centre", you'll need camels to reach "edge of town". It's a big mall with huge hypermarket, coffee shops and cinemas. Take a taxi to get here. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Eat [ edit ]

• Seafood restaurants line the waterfront.
• Alexandrian ice cream is similar to the typical soft-serve ice cream, but it is described as being a little bit 'stretchy'. It is available in numerous flavors, and according to the locals, this type of ice cream is only made in Alexandria and Greece. Try it at Bahary near Qait Bey, where popular shops include Makram, El-Sheikh Wafik, Azza and El Se'eedy.
• Corn on the cob ( dorra mashwey ) is sold by street vendors along the Corniche.
• Koshary , the Egyptian national dish, is a mixture of noodles, rice, lentil and more noodles topped with a tomato sauce. Koshary topped with kibda Iskandarani — Alexandria-style liver with peppers — is a local tradition.

Budget [ edit ]

• 31.21248 29.94928 2 Kushari Bondok , Smouha ( beside Fathalla supermarket ). Well known kushari joint, value for money. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.26459 29.99694 3 Meto , 273 Gamal Abdel Nasser St , ☏ +20 3 550 7774 . Daily 9AM-midnight . Fast food: pizza and its Arabic equivalent fateer . ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.1497 29.8415 4 Asmak Shabaan , El Hana Tower, Al Max, Corniche , ☏ +20 120 424 2551 . 24 hrs . Great place for seafood. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

Mid-priced by Egyptian standards, Western fast-food chains like Pizza Hut, McDonald's and KFC can all be found in the city's larger malls, but there are more interesting options as well.

• 31.25017 29.96994 11 Abou Shakra , El Geish 424 ( Smouha Green Plaza ), ☏ +20 3 426 1777 . Daily 10AM-midnight . Popular Egyptian chain for shwarms, similar grills and set meals of kebab, kofta, fries and salad. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.2779 30.01 12 Hosny , Gamal Abd El-Nasser St ( El Mandara ), ☏ +20 3 550 6655 . 24 hr . Good fresh Middle Eastern food. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.205378 29.885047 16 Chicken Tikka ( Tikka Grill ), 11, 26th of July St., Bahary ( Eastern Port, beside Diving Club ), ☏ +20 3 5832470 . Daily 11AM-2AM . Delicious Egyptian food, with views of the harbour and Fort Qait Bey. Try the shish kebab and the wara' el enab (stuffed vine leaves). There is a second restaurant of this chain in 426 El-Gaish Rd., Luran. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 31.2262 29.9421 17 Balbaa , 4 Al Manteka Al Shamalea, Mustafa Kamel WA Bolkli, Sidi Gaber ( Sidi Bishr, corner with El Gaish ). Daily 10AM-4PM . Popular place for Egyptian meat and seafood. Their outlet at Carrefour City Center has closed. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• Byblos is the swish Middle Eastern restaurant within Four Seasons Hotel, open daily 2 PM to midnight. Stefano's their Italian restaurant is closed in 2021.
• 31.24179 29.95624 21 Ibn El-Balad Gleem , Mustafa Kamel ( behind El-Salam Theatre ), ☏ +20 122 855 5909 . 24 hours . Two-storey restaurant, now part of THM chain. First floor has grilled meats featuring their famous Ibn al-Balad fattah. The second floor serves seafood. Both get great scores for food, service and ambiance. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.20002 29.89977 22 La Veranda , 46 Saad Zaghloul. ( inside Patisserie Delices ), ☏ +20 3-4861432 . Very central downtown, near the Metropole, Cecil and Sofitel hotels. Within, most of the floor space is the cafe-patisserie Jardin Delices. About a quarter is La Veranda restaurant, with good European/East Med cuisine. Serves alcohol. Atmospheric with the old posters, but nowadays not a spy or dilapidated duchess to be found. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 31.22312 29.9573 23 Ole Cafe , Kafr Abdou Street, Roushdy . Daily 8AM-10PM . A reasonably priced restaurant with Spanish cuisine. Try the Beef Madrid. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.22338 29.9574 24 Ottimo , Kafr Abdou 3 . Daily 9AM - 1AM . Nice restaurant with veranda. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.21227 29.88392 25 White and Blue restaurant ( Greek Club ), on Harbour Mall near Qaitbey Fortress . The Greek Club (ENOA: Ellenika Nautikos Olimnos Alexandria) is a private club but with two public restaurants, and something of an Alex institution. Ride the elevator up to Olive Island Restaurant on the third floor: the place is dark and piled high with old furniture. So ride back down to the second floor which has White and Blue Restaurant out on the terrace, overlooking the eastern harbour. A few civilities like "Kalispera sas" go a long way as they clearly don't speak Greek themselves. Traditional East Med specialities such as kebabs, stews, and lots of fish. Clean, and inexpensive by western standards. ( updated Jan 2018 )

Drink [ edit ]

Cafes [ edit ].

• Traditional coffee shops or ahwa serve coffee, tea and shisha water pipes. Play a little backgammon or dominoes and watch the world pass by. They remain a male bastion.
• 31.2172 29.9303 2 Clay Cafe , 156 Omar Lotfy St ( near Small Sporting Tram station ). Daily 11AM-midnight . Coffee and stuff are only just okay for the price, you come for the laidback atmosphere. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.22951 29.94869 5 Club21 , 5 Mo'askar Elroumany St, Roushdy , ☏ +20 3 523 2929 . Daily 9AM to 1AM . Friendly inexpensive place for food and drink, plus shisha in the garden. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Bars [ edit ]

Time was, way back, when a maze of bars and nightclubs filled the city. They're now mostly confined to the hotels, with few free-standing bars. Still, enough remain for visitors to get squiffy recalling their days on General Auchinleck's staff, eyes swivelling independently upwards to recreate the effect of an old ceiling fan.

• 31.20164 29.90045 9 Mermaid Bar , Mahatat el Raml ( near Athineos ). Little and nice bar with good view to the sea. Prices on beer are moderate; hard liquor is more expensive. At night the upper floor has a dance floor featuring Western and Arabic music. The bar is frequented by foreign (particularly American) Arabic language students at the Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL) Center at Alexandria University. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 31.20009 29.89593 10 Sheikh Ali , Adib Bek Ishak Street off Sa'ad Zaghloul . Better known among travellers as the Cap d'Or and one of Alexandria's oldest bars. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Drinkie's is a chain of liquor stores with a dozen city branches. The most central branch on Saad Zaghloul Square is open daily noon-2AM.
• San Giovanni Club within that hotel has live music, singers and oriental dancers until late.

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodation in Alexandria has quite a different feel due to the old buildings with sometimes nice colonial style lobbies. There is a good selection of hotels in all price ranges.

Apartments [ edit ]

For stays of a month or more, consider renting. Apartments are easy to come by, in a range of prices ( LE180-1000 per week) and states of repair. Landlords/ladies tend to live in the same blocks and will be willing to haggle the rates. It's definitely worth visiting an apartment before placing any money down, preferably in late afternoon so you see how well the lighting works and the worst of any insect problems. (It's very unlikely to find any accommodation near the coast that's completely roach-free!)

It is mostly not necessary to reserve ahead online, this is in general more expensive. Just check around where many hotels are—there are at least 7 or so near Triomphe Hotel, where you can walk in and ask for a price. One will definitely have the required budget and standard.

• 31.21099 29.91667 2 Alexandria Youth Hostel , 13 Sharia Port Said ( 1 km east of the Bibliotheca ), ☏ +20 3 5974559 . A decent budget option and close to the sea and Bibliotheca Alexandrina. LE82 in 4-bed dorm and LE56 in a 8-bed dorm, including breakfast . ( updated Dec 2020 )
• Welcome House are basic apartments within the same block as Normandy Hotel.
• 31.19932 29.89476 6 Nile Excelsior Hotel , 16 Borsa Kadema Street, Manshyia , ☏ +20 3 480 0799 . Cheap downtown hotel, cleaning erratic but value for what you're paying. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.20038 29.89607 7 Hotel Queen Transit Alexandria , 21 Hasan El Shiekh Street , ☏ +20 3-4815556 . Mansheya, downtown, sea side Corniche 1st Floor, in the heart of Alexandria, very new and clean amazing sea view. LE100 for single rooms, LE150 for double room with bathroom + breakfast + Wi-Fi . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 31.19876 29.8929 9 Holiday Manshya Hotel , 6 Ourabi Sq , ☏ +20 3 4801559 . A no-frills two-star hotel with private bathrooms and hot water, popular with overland trucks setting off down into the heart of Africa. Not far from the shore and within walking distance from the center of town. Watch out for bedbugs. It wasn't open in 2021. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.234 29.948 11 San Giovanni Hotel , 205 El Gaish Rd ( at Stanley Bridge ), ☏ +20 3 546 7774 . Old-style hotel with 32 rooms and the traditional Egyptian reek of cigarette smoke. Looks onto the beach restaurant strip. ( updated Oct 2021 )

• 31.261617 29.983773 15 Hilton Alexandria Corniche . This is their other city offering. "Hilton Kings Ranch" is away out towards Borg El Arab Airport. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 31.055637 29.719077 19 Radisson Blu Hotel Alexandria , Mehwar El Taameer Northern Coast Road km 23, Alex West , ☏ +20 3 589 6000 , fax : +20 3 589 6020 . The km 23 in the address indicates how far out this is, in the part-built, part abandoned Alex West district. Visitors have enjoyed the clean spacious rooms (with a/c) and away-fom-the-city feel, but there's some construction noise. B&B double LE2000 . ( updated Oct 2021 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Although crime is rarely violent, beware of pickpockets and don't flash your valuables or wear a bum bag or fanny pack. Street kids, taxi drivers, and others may harass tourists. They will usually desist after a stern "La!" or two. Or you can say "la shukran!" (no thanks) or "emshi" (go!).

Alexandria is a conservative city, so women should cover their shoulders, midriffs, cleavage and legs. Even still, women can expect to be heckled or harassed in the street, especially if walking alone. The best response is to ignore the offender and pretend you don't hear anything. Cover your head when entering places of worship.

Emergency [ edit ]

• Emergency number: 123
• Police number: 122
• Fire HQ number: 180
• Military Police hotline: 16039 or 19039
• Central Ambulance , Kom El Dekka ( opposite Alexandria Station ), ☏ +20 3-4922257 .  
• El Shatby Hospital , Dr. Hassan Sobhy St., El Shatby , ☏ +20 3-4871586 .  
• Medical Research Institute , El Horreya Rd. ( beside Gamal Abdel Nasser Hospital ), ☏ +20 3-4215455 , +20 3-4212373 .  
• Bacos Ambulance , Mehatet El Souk St., Bacos , ☏ +20 3-5703454 .  
• Poison Center Main University Hospital , ☏ +20 3 4862244 .  

Cope [ edit ]

Many consulates have closed and centralized in Cairo: this includes the American, Italian, Irish, Chinese and Greek.

Connect [ edit ]

Alexandria and the airport have 4G from all Egyptian carriers. As of Oct 2021, 5G has not yet rolled out in Egypt.

Go next [ edit ]

• Abu Mena is a Christian pilgrimage site 45 km south of Alexandria, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list .
• El Alamein is a small town on the coast 120 km west of Alexandria. In 1942 the Axis forces under Rommel had swept this far across Libya towards Cairo and Suez. They were halted in June 1942 by Allied forces under Auchinleck, and sent retreating by Montgomery in November. The town has memorials, museums and war graves commemorating all nations. It's usually done as a day trip from Alexandria.
• Marina El Alamein is the upmarket beach resort 20 km before El Alamein main town.
• Marsa Matruh is start of the desert road to Siwa Oasis, but check if the highway is open. The oasis towns are usually reached via Cairo.
• Cairo can be done as a day-trip, but needs longer, and you'll probably pass through on your way to Luxor, Aswan or the Red Sea resorts.

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Alexandria Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

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A city steeped in history and legend, Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. It overlooks the Mediterranean at the eastern edge of the Nile Delta and served as the capital for four different civilizations. As a center for Hellenistic culture and learning, it was the home of iconic ancient landmarks like the Great Library, the Necropolis and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. The latter was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World .

Today these buildings have disappeared but Alex remains an important industrial center and sea port. It is the second largest city in Egypt after Cairo and has plenty to tempt visitors and locals alike.

Alexandria's History

After its foundation, Alexandria grew rapidly so that a mere century later, it was the largest city in the world and second only to Rome in importance. It attracted artists and scholars from all over the Mediterranean and was home to significant Greek and Jewish communities. During Roman times, the Patriarchate of Alexandria was one of the most important centers of early Christianity and the city served as the capital of Egypt for over 1,000 years.

Alex lost its capital status during the Muslim conquest of 642 AD but remained an important maritime and trade base until the 15th century. The 16th century brought epidemic disease to the city and a period of administrative neglect led to rapid decline. By the time the French invaded Egypt at the end of the 18th century, there was little left of Alexandria's former grandeur. The following century saw a revival in the city's fortunes thanks to the booming cotton industry, however, and today it is key to the Egyptian economy once again.

Things to Do

Alexandria National Museum

Those with an interest in the city's history should start their tour at the Alexandria National Museum. Housed in Italianate Al-Saad Bassili Pasha Palace, the museum guides visitors through the Ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic eras with a series of fascinating artifacts spread out across three floors. These include Roman statuary and collections of antique coins and jewelry.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Alexandria's legendary Great Library may have long since been destroyed, but this modern reinterpretation is a worthy successor. In addition to the library itself, the building hosts four museums, a planetarium and regular art exhibitions, workshops and events. Of particular interest is the Antiquities Museum. Here visitors can see Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine artifacts discovered during the excavation of the museum site.

Fort Qaitbey

This impressive fortress is located at the end of the narrow peninsula from which the Lighthouse of Alexandria once protected the Eastern Harbor. The rubble of the original lighthouse was incorporated into the fortress during its construction in the 15th century. Today it houses a naval museum and visitors can explore its labyrinthine rooms and towers before admiring impressive views of the harbor from its ramparts.

The Corniche

The Corniche is a scenic promenade that runs the length of the Eastern Harbor. It encapsulates the essence of the modern city and you'll find tourists and locals taking in the sea view, sampling fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants and photographing the road's fading 19th and early 20th-century architecture. Of particular interest is the Cecil Hotel, which hosted Winston Churchill and the British Secret Service during WWII.

Kom el-Dikka

When builders began laying the foundations for an apartment block on this site, known at the "Mound of Rubble", they had no idea what they would find beneath. Now, the remains of the only Roman amphitheater in Egypt are open to the public, along with the 2nd-century Villa of the Birds. The latter is famous for a remarkably intact floor mosaic complete with beautifully rendered peacocks, pigeons and parrots.

Where to Stay

Alexandria has hotels to suit every budget. For 5-star luxury, opt for the Four Seasons or Helnan Palestine . The former is the top-rated hotel on TripAdvisor and offers a resort-style waterfront setting with opulent seaview rooms and suites. The latter is located next to tranquil Montaza Park and boasts a beach spa, swimming pool and several global restaurants. 4-star Steigenberger Cecil Hotel is a great choice for history enthusiasts. It sits directly on the Corniche and has hosted the likes of Agatha Christie, Henry Moore and Al Capone.

Travelers on a tighter budget will find clean, comfortable accommodation at Alexander the Great Hotel . Located within walking distance of the Cavafy Museum and Kom el-Dikka, it has 29 air-conditioned bedrooms all with private bathrooms and satellite TV.

Where to Eat

Greek, Italian, Lebanese, American and Japanese restaurants sit shoulder-to-shoulder in cosmopolitan Alex. For an authentic Egyptian experience, head to Balbaa Village , where fresh seafood is cooked to order on open grills. Expect to eat with your fingers at noisy tables crowded with people. Upscale restaurant Sea Gull serves fine seafood and Mediterranean classics in a more refined setting, while Byblos is a favorite option for gourmet Lebanese cuisine. If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss Delices , an old tea room and patisserie loved for its pastries since 1922.

Getting There

Many visitors choose to fly into Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE), which is located 25 miles southwest of Alexandria city center. It's possible to catch a connecting flight from Cairo, the main Red Sea resort towns and various locations across the Middle East, Greece and Turkey. Upon arrival at the airport, the only way to reach downtown Alex is via taxi.

Several bus companies (including West & Mid Delta Bus Company and Superjet ) travel to Alexandria from other destinations in Egypt. From Cairo, buses depart to Alexandria virtually every hour up until midnight. It's also possible to catch a train from the capital's long-distance Ramses Station. Once you get to Alex, use taxis, trams, buses or Uber to get around.

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Modern Alexandria is the second-largest city in Egypt. Set on the shores of the Mediterranean, it has long been a popular holiday spot for Cairenes, a refuge from landlocked Cairo’s searing summer heat. A visit to Alexandria, even if only for a couple of days, is the perfect counterbalance to the intensity of Cairo. With its string of beaches and Mediterranean outlook, Alexandria is much more laid-back and a good place to relax. Here, the Nile is no longer the lifeblood of the community; instead the Mediterranean Sea and its maritime influences hold sway.

The best travel tips for visiting Alexandria

Best things to do in alexandria, where to stay in alexandria and around, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, how many days do you need in alexandria, tips for getting around, best time to visit alexandria, tailor-made travel itineraries for egypt, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 1999 USD

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

13 days  / from 5499 USD

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

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Even though it was an important centre of the Hellenistic civilisation and the capital of Ptolemaic, Roman and Byzantine Egypt for almost 1,000 years – making it the most renowned city of the ancient world after Athens and Rome – sadly there is very little left of the buildings and monuments that graced the city during these periods.

An odd column or two on the skyline, dank catacombs deep under modern pavements, a Roman pillar propping up the gateway to a pre-Revolutionary patrician villa and a growing inventory of masonry, columns and statues beneath the Mediterranean, are all that is left of this glorious past.

Today’s Alexandria covers a stretch of coast extending about 32km (20 miles) and is filled with concrete apartment buildings, office blocks and traffic-filled streets.

But it does feature an interesting crop of museums, and over the past few years the city, which has more than 5.2 million inhabitants and is the Mediterranean’s largest urban centre, has seen considerable cosmetic rejuvenation and has recovered a little of its former prestige. Making it a popular sight in Egypt .

While bustling Cairo is steeped in tradition, Alexandria is shaped by Mediterranean values. It is a city less about sights and more about ambiance.

Alexandria, Egypt © Pixabay

Alexandria has been an important city for thousands of years, so the best things to do here are old, varied and exciting. Here's what to experience.

#1 Swot up at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

One of the most exciting developments in the city in recent decades – and one that has given the city a renewed cultural focus – is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is located on the Corniche to the east of the historic Steigenberger Cecil Hotel.

This vast modern library was inspired by the original Mouseion Library, which was the pride of the ancient city and the world’s first-ever centre for scientific research.

The impressive glass and steel building, an architectural evocation of the sun rising on the eastern Mediterranean, is intended to be an international centre of knowledge and culture, with the capacity to hold 8 million books in many languages, and 50,000 rare manuscripts.

The manuscripts include Spanish donations documenting the period of Moorish rule, and French documents dealing with the building of the Suez Canal.

#2 Get a taste of history at Alexandria National Museum

A good place to begin unravelling Alexandria’s past is the Alexandria National Museum, which is set in a fine Italianstyle villa, once the residence of a prominent timber trading businessman, and the United States Consulate, on Shari El-Horeya. The museum illustrates the city’s history with beautifully displayed and labelled artefacts from various eras.

The layout is chronological, with the basement devoted to the Pharaonic period, displaying numerous statues of different ancient Egyptian rulers and gods and very interesting portraits of Menkaure, Ikhnaton and Hatshepsut; the ground floor to the Graeco-Roman period, with statues including a sphinx; while the top floor is devoted to Coptic, Islamic and modern Alexandria, showing coins, candle holders, icons and various other items.

Panels in every room explain various facets of religion and history, and the most interesting section is the exhibit of sculptures that were found in the Eastern Harbour.

Mosaic with Gorgon Medusa, Alexandria National Museum © Carole Raddato/Flickr under CC BY-SA 2.0 license

#3 See the 2nd-century amphitheatre of Kom al Dikka

On Shari Al Naby Danyal, close to the Misr train station, are the extensive excavations of Kom Al Dikka. Below Muslim tombs dating from the 9th to the 11th century, archaeologists have found baths, houses, assembly halls and the site where Christian mobs burnt objects from the Serapeum.

The main attraction is the small 2nd-century amphitheatre with marble terrace seating and well-preserved mosaic flooring. Some fine mosaic floors of a Roman villa, known as the Villa of the Birds, are also on show.

Follow Shari Al Naby Danyal back towards Shari El-Horeya. The point where the two streets meet has been the chief crossroads of the city for more than 2,300 years. Here, from east and west, the Canopic Way (Shari’ Tariq al-Hurriyyah) once ran from the Gate of the Sun to the Gate of the Moon, and in ancient times was lined from end to end with colonnades.

#4 See one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World at Citadel of Qaitbay

At the end of the breakwater of the Eastern Harbour west of the Cecil Hotel, sitting on the site of the ancient Pharos of Alexandria lighthouse, is the handsome Citadel of Qaitbay.

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the lighthouse, constructed in 279 BC, was a marvel of its day. It rose to an estimated 100 metres (330ft) and hydraulic machinery may have been used for carrying fuel to the top. The lantern collapsed as early as the 8th century, followed by the circular storey.

In 1477, Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al- Din Qa’it Bay built the citadel that still stands on the site, incorporating some of the debris from the Pharos – you can make out granite and marble columns, for example, in the northwest section of the enclosure walls.

The current citadel, however, is not all original, having been heavily damaged in the British bombardment of Alexandria in 1882. It was rebuilt at the turn of the 20th century, and restored in 1984.

#5 Seek out the Anfushi Tombs

East of the palace on Shari Ras al- Tin, near the end of the tramline, are the Ptolemaic Anfushi Tombs, with decorations that marry Greek and Egyptian styles. Their stucco walls are painted to imitate alabaster and marble blocks and tiles.

At this point, you can turn into the old Turkish quarter of Anfushi at the heart of what was once the island of Pharos. Continuing southeast along Shari Ras el-Tin you will reach Shari Faransa (Rue de France). You are now in one of the most “native” parts of the city, where you may like to stop to look at the Terbanh Mosque.

Built in 1684, it has a distinctive pale-yellow exterior, with plaster over a red and black Delta-style facade of bricks and wooden beams. Two huge Corinthian columns mark the entrance to the mosque itself and support its minaret.

#6 Go underground at the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa (“mound of shards”) are the largest Roman-period funerary complex in Egypt.

They date from about the 2nd century AD, a time when the old religions began to fade and merge with one another, as demonstrated in the curious blend of classical and Egyptian designs.

The catacombs are set out on three different levels, the lowest being flooded and inaccessible.

The first level is reached by a wide circular staircase lit by a central well, down which the bodies were lowered by ropes. From the vestibule you enter the rotunda, with a well in its centre, upon which eight pillars support a domed roof.

A small staircase descends to the second level and the amazing central tomb is revealed. Bearded serpents on the vestibule wall at the entrance of the inner chamber hold the pinecone of Dionysus and the serpent-wand of Hermes, but also wear the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt, while above them are Medusas in round shields.

Inside the tomb chamber are three large sarcophagi cut out from the rock. Roman in style, decorated with fruits, flowers, Medusas and filleted ox heads, none of them has ever been occupied and their lids are sealed.

The catacombs kom el shoqafa, top tourism sights in Alexandria Egypt © Justina Elgaafary/Shutterstock

#7 Gawp at Montaza Palace

Montaza Palace was built as a summer residence in 1892 by Khedive Abbas II, the ruler of the Khedivate of Egypt and Sudan from 1892 to 1914.

In 1932, the larger Al Haramlik Palace was added by King Fuad, the last successor of the Muhammed Ali dynasty before the 1952 Revolution, also as a summer palace.

The palaces were renovated during the 1970s to serve as an official presidential residence during the summer months, but today Montaza now functions as the characterful El Salamlek Palace Hotel.

It has suitably palatial rooms and suites, splendid public areas, a small casino and various restaurants. If nothing else, come for afternoon tea on the terrace and a walk through the lovely 140-hectare (350-acre) gardens – a popular spot for a picnic. The complex also has five beaches for swimming.

#8 Branch out to Rosetta

Rashid (Rosetta) is 65km (40 miles) from Alexandria on the western branch of the Nile near the sea. It was here that the Rosetta Stone, which enabled Champollion to decipher the hieroglyphics of the pharaohs, was discovered by Pierre Bouchard, a Frenchman working for Napoleon, in 1799.

About the size of a gravestone, it was of very hard granite with three parallel bands of inscriptions. The defeat of the French by the British led to the stone passing into British hands and into London’s British Museum. A replica of the original can be seen in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Rosetta became the principal port of the northern coast in the 17th- and 18th-centuries and many wikalahs (warehouses with lodging rooms attached) and merchant houses were constructed, built in typical Delta style.

#9 Pay your respects at El Alamein

Some 105km (65 miles) west of Alexandria, is El Alamein, the site of a series of World War II battles that began in the summer of 1942 and turned the tide of war in favour of the Allies.

Of the three main war cemeteries in El Alamein, the British is the first one you come to. It is on your left as you enter the town from the east. A walk around the simple tombstones, each of which carries an inscription, cannot fail to move.

In the centre of town is a War Museum housing numerous artefacts of the battle such as uniforms, maps and weapons. Outside are many military vehicles and guns that were used, some of them bearing war damage.

Beyond stands the stone monument to Germany’s fallen soldiers, in a beautiful setting that overlooks the sea. Further down the coast is the Italian memorial, reminiscent of a railway station in a provincial Italian city.

#10 Uncover the remarkable Wadi El Natrun

Just off the Cairo–Alexandria desert road, the Wadi El Natrun, or Valley of Natron, snuggles below sea level. It was once home to over 50 monasteries; the best two are open to the public.

Deir Aba Maqar, also known as the Monastery of St Macarius the Great, is the largest and best restored, and the monks give tours of the complex.

It was founded in approximately AD 360 by St Macarius, and most of the Coptic popes have been selected from here; equally, most are buried here too.

During the restoration of the big church, the crypt of St John the Baptist and that of Elisha the Prophet were discovered below the northern wall, with the site being confirmed in 11th- and 16th-century manuscripts found in the library.

Dating to AD 350, the second monastery is Deir Anba Bishoi, or the Monastery of St Pishoy – a disciple of St Macarius. It has five churches and is surrounded by a keep complete with drawbridge.

When it comes to places to stay, there are tonnes of choices in Alexandria . The city has everything from cheap, flea-ridden hotels to historic mansions and five-star luxury. Here's where to stay.

Home to the vast majority of hotels, most of which are bang on the seafront. You'll pay a little less away from the Med. Book in advance .

The Corniche can be noisy, but those amazing Mediterranean views are often worth it. There is a mixture of budget and midrange hotels here, as well as some whopping international chains.

Browse the best hotels in Alexandria .

There are plenty of great places to eat in Alexandria, especially some of the fine dining restaurants at the five-star hotels. But the city offers a lot of excellent and authentic Middle Eastern cooking as well. You just have to know where to look. This is where to eat in Alexandria.

Eastern Harbour

Lined with fresh fish markets, the Eastern Harbour has some great seafood restaurants as well as a number of international chains like Pizza Hut.

Dotted along the Corniche are takeaway food stalls that sell Middle Eastern food like kebabs.

For more grilled fish, there are lots of cheap restaurants on the street in Anfushi.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina © Vyacheslav Argenberg/Flickr under CC BY 2.0 license

Alexandria is well served by a number of major transport links, whilst servees (service taxis) and microbuses offer an option for easy arrival too. Here’s how to get to Alexandria.

Alexandria is served by flights from Cairo to Borg El Arab International Airport, 50km (31 miles) along the coast to the west.

There are hourly buses from Cairo, which take no more than three hours.

Trains take about three hours from Ramses Station; be sure to get off at the Misr train station, the central station in Alexandria, rather than the suburban Sidi Gaber station, which serves the eastern suburbs and is where most locals get off.

Find out the best ways to get to Egypt .

The number of days you need to spend in Alexandria depends on your interests, budget, and the activities you plan to do. However, generally, 2-3 days should be enough to cover the major attractions and get a good sense of the city.

During this time, you can visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar, and the Citadel of Qaitbay. You can also take a stroll along the Corniche, the waterfront promenade, and visit the Alexandria National Museum to learn about the city's rich history.

Additionally, if you have more time, you can explore other attractions such as the Montazah Palace, the Alexandria Aquarium, or take a day trip to the nearby city of Rosetta.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Egypt travel experts .

Citadel of Qaitbay © Shabayek/Flickr under CC BY 2.0 license

Minibuses are the best way to get around Alexandria as they are cheap, frequent and go between the big sights. Taxis are also good, though the tram is best saved for fun rather than getting about.

Central Alexandria is easily explored on foot.

A minibus is usually the quickest way to navigate Alexandria with most travellers using the ones that run along the Corniche. Flag them down by waving your arms as they pass – there are no fixed stops – and pay in cash.

Taxis are plentiful and cheap and can be hired by the day. Drivers are usually friendly, many speak English.

There are no meters here, so the fee is negotiable, but should be around EGP30–40 per hour. If you find a taxi driver you like, swap phone numbers. Uber also operates in Alexandria.

Trams are a slow but fun way to get around Alexandria, and there are now 20 lines serving 140 stops. The main station is Mahattet Ramleh, called Terminus, near the Cecil Hotel.

Yellow-coloured trains go west, including tram No. 14 to Misr Train Station and Nos 15 and 25 along the Corniche to Ras El Tin and Anfushi. The blue trams travel east, including Nos 1 and 2 to Montaza. One carriage is reserved for women.

The best time to visit Alexandria is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the temperatures are moderate and the weather is pleasant. During this time, the temperatures range between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and there is a lower chance of rainfall.

The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F), making it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day. Additionally, the city can get crowded during the summer months due to the high number of tourists.

The winter months (December to February) can also be a good time to visit as the temperatures are cooler and the crowds are fewer, but there is a higher chance of rainfall during this time. It's worth noting that during the winter months, some of the attractions may have shorter operating hours or be closed on certain days.

Find out more about the best time to visit Egypt .

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updated 26.04.2021

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Alexandria travel guide

Alexandria is Egypt's second city, easily reached from Cairo’s main train station.

Founded by Alexander the Great on the Mediterranean coast in 322 BC, Alexandria was capital of Egypt during the Ptolemaic era. It had sumptuous palaces and temples, and the ancient world’s best known ­library. Ships from all over the Mediterranean dock­ed at the double harbour, where the entrances were protected by the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Unfortunately, all this splendour was lost in a huge tsunami in AD365. Much of ­­ancient Alexandria now lies under the city and beneath the harbour ­waters. Underwater excavations have revealed a wealth of archaeology metres below the surface of the Eastern Harbour.

Today, the city of over 6 million inhabitants is slender, but it stretches along the shore from east to west for over 48km (30 miles), and almost anywhere in the city you are never far from the sound of surf or the smell of fresh fish. In summer millions of festive Egyptians descend upon its streets and its beaches, while in winter occasional sea storms bombard the buildings, rusting away the wrought-iron balconies on the Corniche.

Highlights of what to see in Alexandria

Alexandria was the main entry point into Egypt until the advent of air travel in the early 20th century. Its trading contacts with the outside world made it Egypt’s most cosmopolitan city. ­Numerous European and British expatriots stayed here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and their lifestyles were ­portrayed by Lawrence Durrell in his work, The Alexandria Quartet . The 1952 coup marked the end of this ‘little Europe’ but there remains a certain colonial atmosphere.

The Corniche

The city sits on a wide bay lined with colonial buildings that find their full splendour at sunset. Myriad fishing boats bob in the water, bringing their catches to the restaurants of the ­Corniche.

A walk along this promenade takes you past turn-of-the-20th-century buildings slowly crumbling as they battle the effects of the sea air. This stroll is popular amongst couples and families, especially during the summer, when a refreshing breeze is a precious commodity.

The most famous location that speaks of Alexandria’s cosmopolitan past is the Grand Trianon (Meadan Sa‘d Zaghlul), an Art Nouveau masterpiece that houses a popular café, patisserie and restaurant. Since the day it opened in the 1920s, this is where Europeans conducted business deals, gossiped and dined. Today these expats have been replaced by upwardly mobile Egyptians who continue the traditions.

Fort Qaytbay

The western end of the bay sweeps round to a headland where the Pharos Lighthouse once stood. Today the 15th-century Fort Qaytbay occu­pies the site. The fort commands great views over the city, the Eastern Harbour and the small nearby fishing harbour. West is the Palace of Ras al-Tin, built for Mu­ham­mad Ali in 1834. It was here that King Faruq abdicated in 1952 before setting sail for exile in Italy.

Graeco-Roman Museum

This museum has been closed for restoration for many years – it is due to reopen in 2013. It contains Egypt’s largest collection of Graeco-Roman artefacts (c.331 BC–AD 300) from sites in and around Alexandria.

National Museum of Alexandria

The National Museum of Alexandria (110 Tariq Al Hurriyyah) provides a broader history of the city. It is laid out chronologically over three floors: the basement is devoted to the pharaonic period, the ground floor to the Graeco-Roman period, which includes sculptures found in the Eastern Harbour, and the top floor to Coptic, Muslim and modern Alexandria.

Interesting finds to look out for include a massive mosaic of Medusa’s head discovered during construction on a local cinema, and a number of impressive statues found buried in the seabed off the coast, including a basalt statue of the goddess Isis.

Alexandria's library

www.bibalex.org

The splendid Bibliotheca Alexandrina is intended to become an international centre of knowledge like its illustrious ancestor. The library is far from having the 8 million books it is designed to contain, but the building is spectacular and is one of Egypt’s major cultural venues.

Guided tours of about 20 minutes’ duration are offered throughout the day in multiple languages. Other highlights include the adjacent Manuscripts Museum, which has a copy of the only papyrus text to survive from the ancient library, and an interactive history “experience” called Culturama, which takes visitors on a walk through Egypt’s past.

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Alexandria Travel Guide

Alexandria, the second-largest city in Egypt and a significant Mediterranean port, is steeped in history and cultural significance. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, it has evolved from a small Egyptian village, Rhacotis, into a bustling urban center with a rich historical legacy.

Historical Overview

• Founder : Alexander the Great.
• Original Egyptian Village : Rhacotis.
• Pharos Lighthouse : One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, collapsed in the 14th century.
• Great Library of Alexandria : A center of learning, housing the largest collection of ancient manuscripts; unfortunately destroyed in 48 BC.
• Ptolemaic Rule : The city thrived as the capital under Egypt’s Ptolemaic dynasty.
• Roman Empire : Became part of the Roman Empire after Cleopatra VII’s death.
• Catastrophic Event : Major parts of the city sank in the sea due to a massive earthquake in 365 AD.

Modern Developments

• Underwater Archaeology : Recent technological advances have enabled archaeologists to uncover early monuments.
• Key Discoveries : Significant finds in the eastern harbor by teams led by Jean-Yves Emperdeur, Franck Goddio, and the Egyptian Supreme Council for Antiquities.
• Future Underwater Museum : Plans to build the world’s first underwater archaeological museum, showcasing sunken monuments.

Cultural Significance

• Integration of Cultures : Alexandria represents a blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures.
• Current State : Much of ancient Alexandria has been built over, leaving few visible remnants of its past.
• Tourism and Heritage : The city continues to attract visitors with its historical sites and Mediterranean charm.

Proposed Underwater Museum

• Concept : A museum that makes underwater archaeological sites accessible without diving.
• Structure : Three floors, including an underwater tunnel for viewing submerged artifacts.
• Goal : To provide a unique view into Cleopatra’s sunken town and other archaeological treasures.

Alexandria, with its layered history, remains a testament to the confluence of civilizations and a symbol of Egypt’s enduring allure. The proposed underwater museum, once realized, will add another dimension to exploring this ancient city’s past.

Created On April 22, 2020

Updated On January 26, 2024

Where To Stay

Getting Around

Things To Do

Necropolis of Anfushi

Pharos Lighthouse

The Royal Palaces

The Serapeum Temple

Royal Family Jewellery Museum

Catacombs of Kom El Shuqafa

Pompey’s Pillar

The Roman Amphitheater

The Greco-Roman Museum

Qaitbey Fort

Al-Mursi Abu Al-Abbas Biography

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The National Museum

No other nation in the world utters ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and each time, they truly mean it. While Egypt’s ancient civilization continues to astonish, the contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.

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Alexandria travel guide

Alexandria tourism | alexandria guide, you're going to love alexandria.

With a population of 47.723, Alexandria is a must-see destination in Louisiana, United States. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Alexandria deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

When to visit Alexandria

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Alexandria in July, when the average temperature is 80.6 °F, and the highest can go up to 91.4 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 35.6 °F, with an average temperature of 46.4 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in December, when precipitation is around 6.4″. In contrast, August is usually the driest month of the year in Alexandria, with an average rainfall of 3.2″.

How to Get to Alexandria

When flying to Alexandria, you’ll arrive at Alexandria (AEX), which is located 9 km from the city center. Airlines that fly from the United States to Alexandria include Air France, Delta and Korean Air. The shortest domestic flight to Alexandria departs from Atlanta and takes around 1h 40m.

Another option to get to Alexandria is to pick up a car rental from New Orleans, which is about 273 km from Alexandria. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Dollar, among others, in New Orleans.

Alexandria’s bus station is located 3.0 km from the city center.

Airports near Alexandria

Airlines serving alexandria, where to stay in popular areas of alexandria, most booked hotels in alexandria, renting a car in alexandria.

Renting a car in Alexandria costs $76 per day, on average, or $153 if you want to rent if for 2 days.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 12% cheaper than airport locations in Alexandria.

Expect to pay $3.86 per gallon in Alexandria (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $46.33 and $61.78. The most frequently booked car type in Alexandria is Standard (Ford Edge or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Compact rental cars (Nissan Versa Note or similar) are, on average, 53% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

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Explore Alexandria , Virginia

Although an integral part of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, Alexandria is a distinct city in its own right. It was established in 1749 by a group of Scottish merchants and named for John Alexander, who had purchased the land in 1669. During the Revolutionary period Alexandria was a principal Colonial port as well as a trade, social and political center. Learn More...

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Your Alexandria Vacation

With one of our vacation packages to Alexandria, you'll have limitless opportunities for fun and excitement. There's tons to enjoy, including its rich history and coastal scenery. If your trip to Alexandria includes a little sightseeing, visit famous attractions like Bibliotheca Alexandrina , Pompeys Pillar and Qaitbay Fortress . Stop dreaming and start traveling. Browse the multitude of options on Expedia today and put your Alexandria vacation plans in motion!

Where to stay in Alexandria

Al-Muntazah

While visiting Al-Muntazah, you might make a stop by sights like Montazah Beach and Montazah Palace.

If you're spending some time in Sidi Jabir, Smouha Sporting Club and Green Plaza Mall are top sights worth seeing.

If you're spending some time in Bab Sharqi, Alexandria National Museum and Mamoura Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Al-'Atarin

If you're spending some time in Al-'Atarin, Cavafy Museum and Roman Amphitheatre are top sights worth seeing.

If you're spending some time in Ar-Raml 1, San Stefano Grand Plaza and Stanley Bridge are top sights worth seeing.

Alexandria Beach Vacation

Recline on the shore and gaze at the sunlight flickering across the water during your Alexandria vacation. If you're hoping for a full beach experience, a trip to Alexandria always delivers. You've most likely heard about Montazah Beach (12 miles (20 km) away). We recommend booking accommodations close by. However, loads of sightseers also go for Alexandria vacation packages closer to El Alamein Beach or Marassi Beach, two other great nearby options.

Things You Should Know About Alexandria

• If you want to stay just moments from the shoreline, check out what's available at these Alexandria beach hotels . You're sure to find something that suits your style.
• Lots of travelers also base themselves in hotels around these parts. Eastern Al Montazah Hotel and Porto Marina Resort & Spa are a few options that'll make your stay comfortable.
• Alternatively, go for our All-Inclusive hotels in Alexandria . They make budgeting a breeze. Leave your wallet safely in your room and enjoy the freedom that comes with the all-inclusive way of vacationing.
• Alexandria, population 3,811,500, is popular for so many reasons. Discover some useful tips on our Alexandria things to do page .
• Save a pretty penny on amazing experiences with our Alexandria vacation deals. See Montazah Palace, along with other top attractions, with the extra dollars in your wallet.

Alexandria Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in alexandria, bibliotheca alexandrina.

After visiting Bibliotheca Alexandrina, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Alexandria. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Pompey's Pillar

You can find out about the history of Alexandria with a stop at Pompey's Pillar. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

Qaitbay Fortress

Find out about the history of Alexandria when you spend time at Qaitbay Fortress. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

What to do in Alexandria

Explore alexandria top highlights all inclusive, day tour in alexandria from alexandria hotels , airports & ports, alexandria free walking tours & horse carriage ride by night, other vacations you might like.

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What To Know About Visiting The Three Main Capitals Of Ancient Egypt

Memphis, Thebes, and Alexandria were the three most important capital cities of Ancient Egypt, and visitors can see their remains today.

• The ancient Egyptian capitals of Memphis, Thebes, and Alexandria hold significant historical importance and have fascinating ruins to explore.
• Memphis, founded by King Narmer, was one of the earliest capitals and home to the legendary Pyramids of Giza.
• Thebes, or modern Luxor, was a thriving city during the New Kingdom, boasting extensive ruins like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

Egypt famously has had many capitals in its long history. Three of the most important of Ancient Egypt are Memphis, Thebes, and Alexandria. Today, Cairo (near ancient Memphis) is the capital and has been the capital since 972 (making it the longest-running capital in Egypt's history).

10 Most Recent Archeological Discoveries In Egypt 

Visitors can see the vestiges of these three important capitals of Ancient Egypt (especially at Luxor or Thebes, where people come from around the world and see the Valley of the Kings ). Here's what to know about visiting the three main capitals of Ancient Egypt.

Memphis: The Ancient Egyptian Capital Of The Old Kingdom

Memphis was one of the first and longest-lasting capitals of ancient egypt.

The first capital was Tjenu (or Thinis), although it remains one of the undiscovered cities of Egypt.

• Founded: 3200 BC by King Narmer
• Capital Period: 3rd to 6th or 8th Dynasties (Old Kingdom)

Memphis is located near the modern-day village of Mit Rahina, not far from Giza. The famous Pyramids of Giza are located less than 20 miles from this ancient capital. Memphis has been an important city since the Early Dynastic Period and then throughout ancient Egyptian history.

The city was protected by the god Ptah who was the god of craftspeople and architects. The city of Memphis eventually faded following the rise of the coastal city of Alexandria and then even more as Egypt converted to Christianity and turned its back on the ancient Egyptian religion.

Notable Ruins:

• Pyramid Fields (e.g. Pyramids of Giza) - located outside the ancient city
• Statue of Ramesses II

Today, visitors can see the scattered remnants of the ancient city that offer a fragmented glimpse into the glory of ancient Memphis when it was one of the most important cities in the world. The pyramids are some of the best monuments to see built when Memphis was the capital. One of the most impressive ancient discoveries is the massive statue of Ramesses II found buried under a Cairo slum .

Thebes: The Famous Capital Of The New Kingdom Of Egypt

Thebes (modern luxor) was the capital of egypt during the new kingdom (and also middle kingdom) period.

Unlike Memphis and Alexandria, Thebes, modern Luxor , still boasts extensive ruins that speak to its former glory. The ancient Egyptian name for the city was Waset.

• Capital: Periods of The Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom
• Dynasties: 11th, 16th to 19th Dynasties (plus 25th Kushite Dynasty)

Thebes or Luxor is one of the top destinations of modern Egypt. Visitors can see plenty of ancient temples in modern Luxor, as well as many mortuary temples and the Necropolis of Thebes on the west bank of the Nile.

The Necropolis of Thebes includes the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens with many of the tombs of the ancient pharaohs, queens, and other elites from the New Kingdom period.

• Valley of the Kings
• Valley of the Queens
• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple
• Many Other Mortuary Temples

The famous temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor on the east bank of the Nile stand inside Luxor where the ancient city once stood.

Thebes became not only a capital but also an important cult center and was the most venerated city in Ancient Egypt.

Alexandria: The Hellenistic Capital Of Ptolemaic Egypt

For a time, alexandria was believed to have been the largest city in the world.

Alexander the Great invaded Egypt in 331 BC and captured the ancient kingdom from the collapsing Persian Empire. He founded Alexandria in circa 331 BC (named after him). This city quickly grew to become a major center of not only Egypt but also of Hellenic (Greek) civilization.

• Founded: circa 331 BC
• Capital: circa 331 BC to 641 AD

The city became the capital of Egypt during the Ptolemaic period. During the long Roman period, it was often the second-largest city in the empire, second only to Rome herself. It remained the capital of Egypt (and province of Egypt) until the Muslim conquest of Egypt in 641 AD. The Muslims moved the capital to the newly founded city of Fustat (which was later absorbed into Cairo).

What To Know About Ancient Egypt (One Of The World’s Oldest Civilizations)

While Alexandria has not been the capital of Egypt for thousands of years, it is still the second-largest city in modern Egypt.

Ancient Alexandria was famous, in particular, for the Library of Alexandria (which has still not been discovered) and the Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Wonders of the Ancient World) .

• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
• Ruins of the Lighthouse of Alexandria
• Pompey's Pillar
• Ancient Roman Amphitheater

Today there is little to see of the ancient city (most of it is now buried under the modern city). There are some Greco-Egyptian-Roman ruins to see in Alexandria, notably the impressive Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa .

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This Gorgeous Island in the Bahamas Has Ultra-exclusive Hotels, Fresh Seafood, and the Largest Concentration of Blue Holes in the World

How to plan a perfect trip to Andros Island in the Bahamas, including where to stay, what to do, and when to visit.

SHansche/Getty Images

The largest of the Bahamas’ 30 inhabited islands, Andros encompasses 100 miles of clear coastline, abundant wildlife, and an intricate underwater system that sits close to the third-largest barrier reef in the world. But despite its size, the island, composed of North Andros, Mangrove Cay, and South Andros, has plenty of unpopulated stretches, without a cruise ship or all-inclusive in sight. Instead, visitors can expect deserted beaches and flats that make the destination the bonefishing capital of the world.

As the gateway to a deepwater basin called the Tongue of the Ocean, diving in the sweeping Andros Barrier Reef is one of the best things to do in the Bahamas , alongside exploring the largest concentration of blue sinkholes in the region (and the world).

The island’s colorful capital, North Andros, is home to a Seminole Indian population that specializes in woodwork and hand-dyeing cotton Androsia fabric. And in Central Andros, historical sites include the over century-old St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the dive-ready Blue Holes National Park.

There are also accommodations for every type of traveler, from private island hideaways to world-renowned fishing lodges. In fact, Andros’ hotels are as desirable as the island itself: Both Kamalame Cay and Caerula Mar Club landed on Travel + Leisure 's list of favorite Caribbean resorts in 2023 .

If you time your visit right, you can even attend one of the annual events, like June's All Andros Crab Festival and May’s Red Bays Snapper Tournament , where the island’s native Seminole Indians compete in basket-weaving and fishing competitions . “Andros is a truly wonderful place. It’s a remote location nestled on the western side of the Bahamas, where you can enjoy great fishing and food,” says Cheryl Bastian, owner of Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay. “Androsians are hospitable and their greatest wish is for you to enjoy your stay.”

Here’s how to do just that on Andros, including where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Andros is home to the most blue holes in the world, accessible both inland and offshore. 
• Indulge in a private island jaunt at the ultra-exclusive, 96-acre retreat of Kamalame Cay in North Andros. 
• Pair the quintessential Bahamian conch with a Kalik beer at seaside Shine’s Conch Shack.
• Head to North Andros, the only western settlement that’s home to the descendants of the Seminole Indians of Florida. 
• The island hosts fun events like the All Andros Crab Fest come summer.

Best Hotels and Resorts  

Courtesy of Caerula Mar Club

Caerula Mar Club 

The beachfront Caerula Mar Club features 18 warm-toned rooms and four villas on the remote South Andros — home to about 2,000 residents. There are two on-site casual eateries — Driff’s Beach Bar and Switcha — plus Lusca, a Caribbean-inspired fine-dining establishment. The passion project was envisioned by HGTV's Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, who describe the hotel as “barefoot luxury.”

Kamalame Cay 

This 96-acre private island haven has 22 rooms and suites that include a mix of cottages, bungalows, and Balinese-style beach houses. Guests receive their own golf carts to explore the island, as well as get access to water sports like kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. Plus, the property is coveted for its prime location near the Andros Barrier Reef. 

Small Hope Bay Lodge 

Located in Central Andros, Small Hope Bay Lodge overlooks the Andros Barrier Reef, offering world-class diving, including shark and night dives. The 21 all-inclusive rooms sit directly on a beach that's just 15 minutes from wall dives and deep, open drops. The lodge is also a mere six miles from the popular Cousteau and Captain Bill’s Blue Holes. 

Swain's Cay Lodge

The Bahamian-owned Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay is a favorite for bonefishing and aquatic adventurers. Owner Cheryl Bastian is happy to coordinate excursions, including picnic lunches and wildlife spotting. As for its culinary assets, the on-site Reefside Restaurant & Bar offers beachside dining.

Tiamo Resort 

Accessible only by seaplane or boat, this 14-room resort on South Andros offers luxury accommodations and French-inspired cuisine. Raise a red flag and a butler will come to your thatched-roof villa just steps away from the beach. Surrounded by 125 acres of nature preserve, the eco-chic resort also has activities such as reef fishing, diving, and wakeboarding.

Best Things to Do

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Delve into world-class scuba diving.

The Andros Barrier Reef is the world’s third-longest barrier reef, teeming with vibrant marine life that can be viewed on dive excursions for more than 130 miles. With a large concentration of blue holes and caverns, you won’t have any trouble discovering the rich reef system and landscapes below. 

Try deep-sea and fly fishing. 

Known as the bonefish capital of the world, Andros is home to a collection of natural flats, particularly on the north and west side of the island. Catch and release a bonefish or fish for bigger game like yellowfin tuna and barracuda. “Our fishing product is resilient, and the avid anglers who travel worldwide come back again year after year to seek the thrilling adventure of the bonefish, tarpon, and elusive permit,” says Bastian. 

Explore national parks.

Andros has five protected national parks, including West Side National Park, which stretches more than 1.5 million acres with dense mangroves and a nursery habitat that’s critical to the bonefishing ecosystem. There’s also the Blue Holes National Park, home to 40,000 acres that include freshwater reservoirs and blue holes. 

Discover the blue holes.

There are more than 180 of these natural wonders on the island, and some popular spots include the Stargate Blue Hole, El Dorado, and Benjamin’s Blue Hole. Many hotels and diving sites also offer tours into these underwater relics. 

Best Restaurants  

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Shine’s Conch Shack

This popular seaside shack is owned by Ornald "Shine" Greene, a bonefishing guide who's happy to tell a story or two about the island. During certain times, you’ll even catch fishermen loading their catch of the day and taking it directly to the restaurant. Make sure to order the conch or ceviche, best washed down with an ice-cold Kalik beer.

Brigadier's Restaurant  

This scenic restaurant has over-water seating on a pier at Dream Villas in Central Andros. The menu features both Bahamian and American cuisine, including cracked conch and chicken fettuccine. Enjoy the soothing sound of waves in this casual, alfresco setting that specializes in fresh seafood.

Millie’s Takeaway

For a taste of South Androsian food, head to resident Millie’s restaurant. Here, visitors can enjoy conch burgers, Johnny cakes, and a number of other Bahamian foods. You can take your food to go and enjoy it on a nearby beach. 

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Andros for good weather is mid-December to April, but it’s important to note this is also the high season, which sees more crowds and higher prices. The summer months of June and July feature big festivals, like the All Andros & Berry Islands Regatta and All Andros Crab Fest. 

How to Get There 

Airlines such as Aztec Airways, Makers Air, Titan Air, and LeAir Charter offer weekly flights directly to Andros Town Airport (ASD) from Nassau, Bahamas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To get to San Andros Airport (SAQ) in North Andros, book a flight on Western Air from Nassau, or Aztec Airways from the U.S. LeAir flies to South Andros Airport (TZN). 

How to Get Around

Rental cars and vans are available, with prices starting at $85 per day for the former and $120 per day for the latter. Note that some companies may require a deposit. There are no buses or other forms of public transportation on Andros. Taxi cabs are readily available at each airport on arrival.

David Coffin sings the praises of going unplugged, packing light, and eating raisins

We caught up with the boston harbor cruise guide to talk about all things travel.

If you ask David Coffin, he will tell you that most people don’t understand the full scope of maritime music. “They think it’s just sea shanties, but those are a very specific kind of song … rhythmic songs that [crew members] would sing on ships while they were working,” said the New Haven native. “Sea shanties are an entry point into maritime music, but there are so many others like whaling songs and songs about being at sea.” Coffin, 64, is a well-known area raconteur who performs maritime concerts, leads maritime music programs in schools, and has been the master of ceremonies for ‘Christmas Revels’ — held annually at the Sanders Theatre in Cambridge in celebration of winter solstice — for more than four decades. He has also been guiding tours for Boston Harbor cruises for nearly 25 years and said he is excited about a new harbor cruise he created and narrates for Boston Harbor City Cruises called the Boston Lighthouse and Outer Harbor Cruise, which is offered Thursday-Sunday through May 12. “People are enamored with lighthouses, and on this two-hour cruise, we show them four lighthouses and one surprise lighthouse,” said Coffin, who said there will be a musical component to the cruise. “I really enjoy storytelling — and there is so much history right here in Boston Harbor. To me, every trip is a performance, and even though it’s been almost 25 years [as a tour guide] and has [included] the same information, it never gets old.” Coffin added that he has the “coolest office in town — and it floats. And I’m so successful that I have windows on all four sides of my office.” We caught up with the father of three (one adult daughter and two adult stepchildren), who lives in Gloucester with his wife, Kirsten Wiberg, and their two dogs, two cats, and one bird, to talk about all things travel.

If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go? I’d go to Fiji. Why? I think the water speaks for itself.

Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own? My wife takes care of it.

Thoughts on an “unplugged” vacation? I’m all for it. Hard to do but very healthy for the brain.

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What has been your worst vacation experience? It was a busman’s holiday — meaning it was a holiday but I was still working — on a Carnival Cruise about 20 years ago. It was like a floating city with thousands of people. Never again.

What is your favorite childhood travel memory? Flying back from Paris, where we were visiting my grandparents when I was 6 or 7, and the plane lost an engine — so we had three instead of four. Everyone lost their appetite, so I had a lot of extra desserts. Remember, I was a child and since we were still flying, everything seemed fine to me.

Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all? Strictly to relax. My last vacation was an enforced vacation.

What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation? Nothing. Reading takes me away from where I am, and I didn’t travel all that distance to get away from where I went.

If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be? My wife.

What is the best gift to give a traveler? An amazing restaurant recommendation and a prepaid bill.

What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip? Trail mix — any kind with raisins — and ginger ale.

What is the coolest souvenir you’ve picked up on a vacation? A hole in my foot from stepping on a sea urchin at a beach in Spain. It was low tide and I was way out there on my own. I was a young kid and all I remember is that I couldn’t walk for a couple of days, and I got lots of ice cream.

What is your favorite app/website for travel? None. My wife makes travel arrangements and goes through the airlines directly.

What has travel taught you? Get there early.

What is your best travel tip? Unpack half your suitcase and leave the items you unpacked at home. You don’t need as much as you think you do.

Juliet Pennington can be reached at [email protected] .

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Amsterdam Travel Guide 2024-2025: Discover the Vibrant Culture, Rich History, and Hidden Gems of the Dutch Capital Kindle Edition

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the charming streets and picturesque canals of Amsterdam with this comprehensive travel guide. Packed with insider tips, historical insights, and practical advice, this book is your ultimate companion for exploring this dynamic city. Featuring stunning photographs capturing the essence of Amsterdam's beauty, this guidebook goes beyond the ordinary, offering a deeper understanding of the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving art scene. Whether you're wandering through historic districts, admiring world-class museums, or savoring Dutch delicacies in cozy cafes, our guide provides detailed recommendations to make the most of your visit. Discover hidden gems off the beaten path, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of local markets, and embark on exciting day trips to nearby destinations. From navigating transportation options to indulging in the city's renowned dining and nightlife scene, 'Amsterdam Unveiled' ensures you experience the best of what this captivating city has to offer. With practical tips and essential information at your fingertips, this guidebook is designed to enhance every aspect of your Amsterdam adventure. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, let this guide be your trusted companion as you uncover the magic of the Dutch capital.

• Print length 96 pages
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• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date April 10, 2024
• File size 3304 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D1GQKMVZ
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 10, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 3304 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 96 pages

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• What Ariana Madix Can’t Live Without

If you’re like us, you’ve probably wondered what everyday stuff famous people add to their carts — like  hair spray  or an  electric toothbrush . We asked Vanderpump Rules cast member Ariana Madix — who recently partnered with BIC — about her favorite loungewear, dog leash, and snail-mucin serum.

When I was on Dancing With the Stars , my feet were just in the worst condition. The costume department gifted me these Oofos recovery slides, and at one point, they were the only shoes I could actually walk in because my feet were so beat-up. They feel amazing. They’re my favorite and the only slides I have.

Being here in NYC the last few months has been a big weather change, especially it being wintertime. When I was putting on stage makeup almost every day, my skin was definitely going through a bit of a rough time. Something that keeps the moisture in was so necessary because I was washing my face, washing makeup off, and inside, with the heater on, everything was drying; it was a good time.

I stole this from my boyfriend. He uses both the CosRX essence and moisturizer , so when I would visit and stay over at his place, I would use it sometimes, and then I became addicted to it. So, I have to give him credit because I’ve been stealing it from him and I love it. It feels really nice. I feel like sometimes I moisturize and then ten minutes later I don’t feel moisturized anymore. This stuff really sinks into my skin and keeps me moisturized.

When I was rehearsing every day for Chicago and Dancing With the Stars , I felt like I needed cute sets that I could either throw on over my rehearsal clothes or just have something that I can go to a store in without feeling funny or gross. This is the softest, cutest set . You can put them on with Jordans and still feel like you’re in a cute outfit, as opposed to my sweaty, crummy gym clothes. They’re like the cute version of that.

When we’re in Los Angeles, my dog , Mya, typically goes outside in the yard. After moving to New York for four months, she had to become accustomed to going to the bathroom on walks; when I would take her on walks in L.A., she would just explore and wait to go potty when we got home. In New York, it’s obviously a much different situation, so she needed to have a nice leash that looks stylish as she walks down the street. We take her to Central Park to go to the bathroom.

My best friend, Logan, and I are obsessed with candles , and during peak COVID times when malls and stores were closed, we missed going to shops and just smelling candles. This D.S. & Durga Breakfast candle is one of our absolute favorite scents, and I always have it at home.

It smells like if you were to elevate one of those warm scents that tend to come out in the fall; it has some almond-butter notes in there and a fireplace smell that feels cozy but elevated and not too sugary sweet. It’s giving breakfast.

Baublebar gave me this necklace when my dog Charlotte passed away in 2022. It has her name on it and I absolutely love it for that reason. Charlotte was a dog like no other. Often imitated, never duplicated, she was truly one of a kind. Just a little Pokémon creature. I like to wear the necklace and rep Charlotte like that.

I’ve been addicted to this lip mask for years. I use it as daily lip balm and oftentimes have two or three of the pots in my various purses or next to my bed; I’m just constantly going for it.

I like that it’s not sticky and there’s no color to it. It honestly just feels really nice. I can put it on under lip liner or lipstick and it will keep everything from drying out. I have some wrinkles in my actual lips and this keeps everything smoother and more moisturized. I also use it before I go to bed like you’re supposed to, so when I wake up in the morning, I don’t look crusty.

I learned about BIC EasyRinse last year when we initially partnered for the first time. I always struggled with razors because I would waste way too much time in the shower trying to unclog them. I was really excited to partner with BIC because now I save a lot of time in the shower. It’s all I use. I did not receive an endless supply of them—I literally go buy them myself at Walmart because I love them so much.

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