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Alexandria, Egypt

Destination Guide

Alexandria

Egypt

Best things to do in Alexandria

21 curated attractions in Alexandria, Egypt. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

March - May, September - November

Average temp

21°C/70°F

Budget

Budget-friendly

Safety

Very safe

About Alexandria

Alexandria, Egypt's second-largest city, was founded by Alexander the Great and has spent centuries as a cultural hub. It sits along the Mediterranean coast, where the ancient library once housed the world's knowledge, now symbolized by the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The city's layered history is evident in the Roman Amphitheatre, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, all attracting visitors in search of heritage and sun. The coastline offers a mix of Corniche and tranquil beaches, but be prepared for a bit of a walk to get from one highlight to another. Tourists come primarily for the historical sites and the breezy seaside vibe, which is a refreshing change from the more frantic pace of Cairo.

Who it's for

This city caters to history buffs, beach enthusiasts, and those looking for a more laid-back experience than Cairo. It may frustrate travelers seeking a streamlined public transport system or a great deal of luxury, as the options are moderate at best, and congestion can get in the way.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • Walking the Corniche takes about an hour from end to end, and it's the best way to enjoy the sea air
  • Public buses and microbuses are available, but figuring them out may test your patience
  • Taxis are common, but negotiating the fare is nearly mandatory
  • The train from Cairo arrives at a station somewhat out of the center
Alexandria

Alexandria

Historical Attractions
Fouad Street

Fouad Street

Urban Attractions
Montazah Palace

Montazah Palace

Castles & palaces
Cavafy Museum

Cavafy Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Maamoura Beach

Maamoura Beach

Beaches
Ras el-Tin Palace

Ras el-Tin Palace

Castles & palaces
Alexandria Aquarium

Alexandria Aquarium

Aquariums
Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Cemeteries & tombs
Royal Jewelry Museum

Royal Jewelry Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Pompey's Pillar

Pompey's Pillar

Monuments & memorials
El-Montazah Gardens

El-Montazah Gardens

Formal & Japanese gardens
Alexandria National Museum

Alexandria National Museum

History museums
Roman Amphitheatre

Roman Amphitheatre

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Historic libraries & universities
Stanley Bridge

Stanley Bridge

Bridges
Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque

Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque

Mosques
Corniche

Corniche

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Greco-Roman Museum

Greco-Roman Museum

History museums
Citadel of Qaitbay

Citadel of Qaitbay

Forts & citadels
Serapeum

Serapeum

Historical Attractions
Anfushi Tombs

Anfushi Tombs

Cemeteries & tombs

Where to eat in Alexandria

The places worth planning a meal around.

Al Fallah Restaurant

Al Fallah Restaurant

Egyptian · $$

★ 3.4 · 1,034 reviews

Abo Rawia

Abo Rawia

Egyptian Seafood · $$

★ 4.0 · 1,026 reviews

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