Alexandria Travel Guide: Where History, Culture, and Nature Collide

Alexandria, the Pearl of the Mediterranean, is one of the most historic and culturally rich cities in Egypt. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this legendary city was once home to the famous Library of Alexandria and the Great Lighthouse of Pharos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Today, Alexandria is a fascinating mix of ancient wonders, modern attractions, and stunning Mediterranean coastlines. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, relaxing by the sea, or diving into Egypt’s Greco-Roman history, Alexandria is a must-visit destination!

📍 Top Attractions in Alexandria

1️⃣ Bibliotheca Alexandrina – The Rebirth of the Ancient Library

📚 Why Visit?

• A modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria.
• Home to millions of books, a planetarium, and several museums.
• A hub for knowledge, art, and history enthusiasts.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The futuristic design of the library against the blue sky

2️⃣ Qaitbay Citadel – A Fortress on the Mediterranean

🏰 Why Visit?

• Built in 1477 AD on the ruins of the Lighthouse of Alexandria.
• Offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• A fascinating example of Islamic military architecture.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The fortress with crashing waves and blue waters in the background

3️⃣ Pompey’s Pillar – A Roman Marvel

🏛 Why Visit?

• A gigantic 27-meter-high Roman column, one of the largest in the world.
• Built in honor of Emperor Diocletian in 297 AD.
• Surrounded by ancient ruins and underground catacombs.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The towering column with blue skies in the background

4️⃣ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – The Underground Necropolis

⚰ Why Visit?

• A mystical underground burial site dating back to the 2nd century AD.
• Features a blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art and architecture.
• A maze of tombs, statues, and tunnels carved into rock.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The spiral staircase leading into the catacombs

5️⃣ Montaza Palace & Gardens – A Royal Retreat

🏝 Why Visit?

• A stunning royal palace surrounded by lush gardens and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Once home to King Farouk, the last king of Egypt.
• Perfect for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying sea views.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The palace overlooking the sea at sunset

6️⃣ Corniche of Alexandria – A Scenic Waterfront Promenade

🌊 Why Visit?

• A picturesque coastal road stretching along the Mediterranean.
• Lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and historic landmarks.
• Perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying the sea breeze.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A sunset view along the Corniche with the sea in the background

7️⃣ Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque – A Spiritual Landmark

🕌 Why Visit?

• One of the most beautiful mosques in Egypt, built in 1775.
• Features intricate Islamic architecture and a massive golden dome.
• A place of spiritual significance and peaceful ambiance.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The mosque’s stunning domes and minarets under the evening sky

8️⃣ Ras El Tin Palace – A Hidden Royal Gem

🏛 Why Visit?

• One of Egypt’s oldest royal palaces, built in the 19th century.
• Overlooks the Mediterranean, with lush gardens and stunning architecture.
• A great spot for learning about Egypt’s royal history.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The grand entrance of the palace with palm trees surrounding it

🏞 Best Natural Wonders in Alexandria

• Maamoura Beach – A beautiful sandy beach for swimming and relaxing.
• Stanley Bridge – One of the most famous landmarks, offering amazing sea views.
• El Max Fishing Village – A colorful, hidden gem with boats and old houses.
• Agami Beach – A perfect getaway with soft sand and blue waters.

🍽 What to Eat in Alexandria

✅ Sayadeya – A traditional seafood rice dish with spices.
✅ Feseekh – A unique fermented fish delicacy, eaten during festivals.
✅ Alexandrian Liver Sandwich – A popular street food, spicy and flavorful.
✅ Roz Meammar – A creamy baked rice dish with butter and milk.
✅ Seafood Platters – Alexandria is famous for fresh fish, shrimp, and calamari.

🍵 Tip: Try Karkade (hibiscus tea) or Egyptian coffee at a seaside café.

🚆 How to Get to & Around Alexandria

✈ By Air: The nearest airport is Borg El Arab Airport (HBE).
🚆 By Train: Trains from Cairo to Alexandria run daily (2-3 hours).
🚍 By Bus: Comfortable buses connect Alexandria to Cairo and other cities.
🚗 By Car: A scenic drive from Cairo takes about 3 hours.
🚕 By Taxi/Uber: The best way to navigate within the city.

🌦 Best Time to Visit Alexandria

🌸 Spring (March–May): Best for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
☀ Summer (June–August): Ideal for beach lovers, but can be crowded.
🍂 Autumn (September–November): Perfect for mild temperatures and sightseeing.
❄ Winter (December–February): A peaceful time to explore, but cooler.

🕰 Opening Hours: Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

🇪🇬 Egyptian Culture & Etiquette in Alexandria

✅ Greet people with “Salam Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and “Shukran” (Thank you).
✅ Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
✅ Bargaining is common in markets—don’t be shy to negotiate.
✅ Tipping (baksheesh) is customary in restaurants and taxis.
✅ Always ask before taking photos of locals or religious places.

✨ Why Visit Alexandria?

Alexandria is a city of legends, ancient wonders, and modern charm. Whether you’re walking along the Corniche, discovering Greco-Roman ruins, or enjoying the Mediterranean breeze, Alexandria offers a magical journey through history, culture, and nature.

🇪🇬 رحلة سعيدة! (Safe Travels!) ✨

Would you like a custom itinerary for your trip? Let me know your preferences! 😊

Absolutely! Here’s your Alexandria Travel Guide FAQ, your go-to resource for discovering Egypt’s Mediterranean jewel 🇪🇬🌊

🏛️ Alexandria Travel Guide – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Where is Alexandria located?

📍 Alexandria is located in northern Egypt, on the Mediterranean Sea, about 220 km (137 miles) northwest of Cairo. It’s the country’s second-largest city and a key coastal destination.

2️⃣ Why visit Alexandria?

✅ Alexandria offers a unique mix of:

• 🌊 Seaside vibes with a European flair
• 🏛️ Ancient history, founded by Alexander the Great
• 📚 The modern Library of Alexandria
• 🕌 A blend of Greek, Roman, Islamic, and Egyptian influences
  💡 Ideal for history buffs, foodies, and coastal relaxation seekers

3️⃣ What’s the best time to visit Alexandria?

🌤️ March–June and September–November – Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
☀️ July–August – Hot and humid, popular with local tourists
❄️ December–February – Cool, some rain, but peaceful and cheaper

4️⃣ How do I get to Alexandria?

🚆 Train from Cairo – 2.5–3.5 hours, frequent departures from Ramses Station
🚌 Buses or shared minibuses (GoBus, SuperJet) – comfortable and affordable
🚗 Car/taxi from Cairo – ~3 hours
✈️ Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) – Mainly domestic and limited international flights

5️⃣ What are the top attractions in Alexandria?

🏛️ Citadel of Qaitbay – Built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria
📚 Bibliotheca Alexandrina – Massive modern library and cultural center
🏺 Roman Amphitheatre – Ruins from Roman Alexandria
🕌 Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque – Iconic white mosque in Anfushi
🏛️ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – Underground Greco-Roman tombs
🏰 Pompey’s Pillar – Remains of the Temple of Serapeum
🧭 Montaza Palace Gardens – Royal estate by the sea
🌊 Corniche Promenade – Seaside stroll with cafés and views

6️⃣ How many days should I spend in Alexandria?

🗓️ 1–2 days is perfect for a quick trip

• 1 day for the main highlights
• Add a 2nd day for museums, Montaza Gardens, and seafood dinners

7️⃣ Is Alexandria safe for tourists?

✅ Yes – Alexandria is safe and welcoming

• Use basic precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, watch valuables
• Police presence around tourist sites is common

8️⃣ What’s the local currency?

💶 Egyptian Pound (EGP)
💳 Credit cards accepted in many hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for taxis and markets
💱 ATMs and exchange offices are easy to find

9️⃣ What language is spoken in Alexandria?

🗣️ Arabic is the official language
✅ English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas
💬 Some locals also speak French or Italian

🔟 What’s the food like in Alexandria?

🍽️ Known for fresh Mediterranean seafood! Try:

• 🐟 Sayadeya – Baked fish with rice and tomato
• 🐙 Grilled calamari & shrimp
• 🥘 Seafood tagine
• 🥙 Feteer (Egyptian layered pie)
• 🍰 Local desserts: Roz bel laban (rice pudding), basbousa, konafa
  ☕ Alexandria has a strong coffeehouse culture – try traditional cafés on the Corniche!

1️⃣1️⃣ Where to stay in Alexandria?

🏨 Corniche area – Central, close to the sea and main sights
🏨 Stanley & Gleem – Upscale, sea views, modern hotels
🏨 Montaza – Near palace and gardens, quieter
💡 Popular hotels: Steigenberger Cecil, Four Seasons San Stefano, Paradise Inn Windsor Palace

1️⃣2️⃣ What are the best things to buy in Alexandria?

🛍️ Perfume oils and spices
🛍️ Handmade silver jewelry
🛍️ Books and souvenirs from Bibliotheca Alexandrina
🛍️ Antique-style decor and pharaonic art replicas
🛍️ Local sweets like mamoul and dates

1️⃣3️⃣ Can I swim in Alexandria?

🏖️ Yes – the city has several beaches, including:

• Stanley Beach – Popular but can get crowded
• Montaza Beach – More relaxed and family-friendly
• 💡 Private beach clubs offer cleaner, quieter access (fee required)

1️⃣4️⃣ How do I get around Alexandria?

🚖 Taxis are common – negotiate price or use a meter
🚌 Public microbuses and buses (not tourist-friendly)
🚆 Local trams operate in the city but are slow
🚶 Walking is great along the Corniche
💡 No Uber, but Careem ride app is available

1️⃣5️⃣ What are good day trips from Alexandria?

🚗 El Alamein – WWII cemeteries and museum (1.5 hrs west)
🚗 Borg El Arab – Beach resorts and sports complexes
🌊 Northern Coast (North Coast / Sahel) – Stunning beaches (summer only)
🛤️ Or take a day trip to/from Cairo

1️⃣6️⃣ What’s the nightlife like in Alexandria?

🍷 Relaxed and local

• Rooftop bars and hotel lounges
• Corniche cafés and ice cream spots
• Occasional live music or cultural events
  💡 It’s not a party city – expect a chill vibe

1️⃣7️⃣ Can I visit Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo?

✅ Yes!

• Early train or bus (2.5–3 hrs)
• Explore key sites, have a seafood lunch, and return by evening
  💡 Trains are more comfortable and scenic

1️⃣8️⃣ What’s the dress code in Alexandria?

👚 Modest, especially in mosques and local neighborhoods

• Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in summer
• Swimsuits only at beaches/hotels
  💡 Western wear is common in tourist zones

1️⃣9️⃣ Are there any festivals or events?

🎉 Bibliotheca Alexandria Book Fair
🎶 Alexandria Summer Festival – Music, theatre, art
🎬 Occasional film festivals and exhibitions at cultural centers
💡 Check local calendars or hotel reception for events

2️⃣0️⃣ Is tipping expected in Alexandria?

✅ Yes – tipping is common in Egypt

• Restaurants: 10–15%
• Hotel staff: 10–50 EGP
• Taxis: Round up fare
  💰 Keep small bills (10–20 EGP) handy

🌐 Useful Resources

• https://www.egypt.travel – Official Egypt tourism site
• https://www.bibalex.org – Bibliotheca Alexandrina site
• https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg – Egypt e-Visa portal
• GoBus Egypt – Intercity bus booking

🔥 Quick Tips for Alexandria Visitors

✅ Take the train from Cairo for a scenic trip
✅ Start with Qaitbay Citadel, then head to the library and Catacombs
✅ Eat fresh seafood by the sea
✅ Enjoy the Mediterranean breeze with sunset coffee on the Corniche
✅ Stay overnight to explore at a relaxed pace

Would you like this Alexandria Travel Guide in PDF format for easy downloading and offline use? I’d be happy to generate one for you! 😊