Introducing Alexander
Alexandria, Egypt's largest seaport and the country's second largest city, is located in a narrow strip of land west of the Nile River estuary, bordering the Mediterranean Sea to the northwest and Lake Meryut to the southeast. The long and narrow city from east to west is like a girl in white lying on the Mediterranean shore, appearing unusually quiet and beautiful.
Alexandria is said to be the Mediterranean's greatest gift to Egypt. Its millennia-old Roman theater, beautiful mosques, and the ruins of a lighthouse overlooking the city are all worth exploring. Then, depart from Alexandria's port, enjoying the sea views along the way, and journey to the beautiful and romantic Mediterranean.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Due to the influence of the ocean, there is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel all year round.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Qaibeyi Castle
You may not be familiar with Qaibayi Citadel, but you must have heard of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Qaibayi Citadel was built on the site of the original Lighthouse of Alexandria.
Montazah Palace
Located at the eastern end of the seaside promenade, Montazah Palace was once the summer residence of the king and members of the royal family, hence its nickname, the Summer Palace. Overlooking a secluded beach, the palace is surrounded by date palm groves and gardens, and its architecture blends Florentine and Turkish styles.
Seaside Boulevard
This street is the most characteristic of Alexandria, stretching from Qatba Citadel in the west to Montazah Palace in the east. It is the most prosperous area in Alexandria, with hotels, restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs.
Alexandria Museum
The Alexandria Museum is currently the only window to understand this ancient city.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Most Popular FAQs for Alexander
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Alexandria was founded in 331 BCE by Alexander the Great as a Hellenistic capital and evolved into a major center of learning, culture, and trade in the ancient world. It housed the famous ancient Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of Pharos (one of the Seven Wonders). Over centuries it saw Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras. Today it remains Egypt’s second largest city and a Mediterranean gateway blending ancient heritage, maritime culture, and modern life.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Alexandria lies on Egypt’s northern coast on the Mediterranean Sea, in the Nile Delta region. It is about 140 miles (≈ 225 km) northwest of Cairo.
To get there: you can take intercity train or bus from Cairo; there is also Alexandria International Airport. Within the city, transport includes trams, buses, taxis, and walking for local areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Many museums, monuments, and palaces are open roughly from morning to late afternoon (e.g. ~9:00 AM to ~4:00-5:00 PM). Specific hours can vary by site.
The best seasons to visit Alexandria are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when weather is mild. Summer is hot and humid; winter is cooler and often rainy.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Citadel of Qaitbay: entrance fee around EGP 70 (for foreigners)
- Other museums and archaeological sites: moderate fees (varies by site) — tickets generally sold onsite
- Royal Jewelry Museum: standard museum admission (check local rates)
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina: some areas free, other exhibition halls or special events may charge admission
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
For popular sites or special exhibitions (especially at the library or museums), it’s advisable to check ahead and possibly book 1–2 days in advance. For most standard sites like Qaitbay and catacombs, same-day tickets are usually available.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
To see the main attractions, 2–3 full days is a practical timeframe. If you want to go deeper or relax by the sea, 4 days is better.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside? - Bibliotheca Alexandrina and its museums and exhibitions
- Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
- Fortress of Qaitbay
- Alexandria National Museum
- Royal Jewelry Museum
- Ras el-Tin Palace
- Palais d’Antoniadis and gardens
- Corniche and waterfront neighborhoods (Anfushi, Fish Market)
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are offered by local tour operators, typically in English, French, and Arabic. Some museums and cultural centers provide audio guides or guided circuits. Always check with each site.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The ramparts and terraces of Citadel of Qaitbay overlooking the sea
- The waterfront Corniche at sunrise or sunset
- Rooftops or terraces of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (looking toward the harbor)
- Gardens and palace grounds at Palais d’Antoniadis
- The area around Ras el-Tin Palace, overlooking Western Harbor
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Day 1: Start at Bibliotheca Alexandrina, then waterfront walk, and visit Royal Jewelry Museum
- Day 2: Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Roman Theatre area, Alexandria National Museum
- Day 3: Citadel of Qaitbay, Corniche, Ras el-Tin Palace, Palais d’Antoniadis
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Some cultural events, exhibitions, or evening programs at the library or museums may run after hours. The Corniche is lively at night. However, archaeological sites generally do not allow night access.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Alexandria sees crowds especially in summer and during holidays when Egyptians head to the coast. The least crowded times are off-peak seasons (spring, autumn) and weekdays rather than weekends.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Major museums and cultural centers have restrooms, cafés, souvenir shops
- Restaurants, seafood eateries along the Corniche and in neighborhoods
- Shops, local markets in city districts such as Anfushi and downtown
- Public seating and shaded areas along the promenade and gardens
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Some museum buildings and newer cultural sites offer ramps or lifts
- Historic sites, catacombs, steep staircases, and old structures may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors
- Children will enjoy the open spaces, museums, waterfront, but caution is needed at uneven or underground sites
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Many museums, hotels, and larger businesses accept cards. But it’s wise to carry Egyptian pounds (cash) for smaller vendors, markets, cafés, and transport. Some smaller sites may only accept cash.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Seafood restaurants along the Corniche and near the fish market
- Traditional Egyptian cafés and local eateries in Anfushi and neighborhoods
- Cafés and dining in and around the Bibliotheca Alexandrina area
- Restaurants within hotel complexes and along the coastline
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Most food in Alexandria is halal by default (in accordance with Egyptian custom)
- Vegetarian options such as falafel, salads, legumes, sea-vegetable dishes, mezze, and vegetable stews are widely available
- Seafood is a specialty and often a default choice; many restaurants offer fish, but also vegetable side dishes
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels along the Corniche with sea views
- Hotels in central districts near the library, downtown, and waterfront
- Smaller boutique inns or guesthouses in older neighborhoods
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Sunken ruins in Abu Qir Bay (for underwater archaeology)
- Nearby coastal villages and beaches for relaxing side trips
- Day trips towards the Nile Delta or other Mediterranean towns along the coast
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops near museums, in older neighborhoods and around the Corniche
- Typical souvenirs: papyrus art, small statues, local glasswork, jewelry, mosaics, Egyptian handicrafts, postcards
- Artifacts themed on Alexandria—lighthouse motifs, sea imagery, classical Greek/Egyptian blends
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Intercity trains or buses to other Egyptian cities (Cairo, Nile Delta, etc.)
- Use the city’s tram, bus, taxis to reach transit hubs
- From Alexandria International Airport for flights onward
- Boat or ferry routes along the Mediterranean coast if available (local coastal transport)
