Alexandria - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Alexandria

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Alexandria, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Alexandria and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Alexandria, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Alexandria for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic city located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. It was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and served as the capital of Egypt during the Ptolemaic dynasty. The city is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and beautiful beaches. Some popular tourist attractions in Alexandria include the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Alexandria National Museum. The city is also famous for its cuisine, especially seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes.

What to visit in Alexandria

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Alexandria, Egypt: 1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina - This is a modern library that is built to replicate the ancient one that was destroyed thousands of years ago. It has an impressive collection of books and manuscripts.
2. Citadel of Qaitbay - This fort was built in the 15th century by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay. It is located on the western side of the northern tip of Pharos Island.
3. Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqafa - This is a historical site that dates back to the Roman period. It is an underground system of tombs that were discovered in 1900.
4. Montaza Palace and Gardens - Commissioned by Khedive Abbas II, this palace sits on 150 acres of lush gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The gardens are home to several exotic plants and flowers and the palace is open for visitors to explore.
5. Pompey's Pillar - This is a 28m column is made of red granite and is one of the tallest ancient columns ever erected. It was dedicated to Emperor Diocletian in honor of a Roman victory.
6. Alexandria National Museum - This museum exhibits ancient artifacts from the Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, and Coptic eras of Egypt. Visitors can explore the history of Alexandria and learn about its past cultures and traditions.
7. Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque - This mosque is located in the Anfushi district of Alexandria and was named after a famous Sufi saint who traveled to Alexandria from Andalusia, Spain. Its unique mashrabiya windows and minarets are a must-see.
8. Corniche - The scenic coastal road provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.
9. Stanley Bridge - This bridge connects the Corniche to the district of Stanley and is one of the most beautiful bridges in the city. It is lit up at night, adding to its charm.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Alexandria, Egypt, that can make your trip exciting and memorable.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Alexandria.

When to go on holiday to Alexandria

The best time to visit Alexandria is during the months of April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, keep in mind that Alexandria can be quite hot and humid during the summer months of July and August. The winter months from November to February are generally milder, but there is a higher chance of rain during this time. It is best to avoid visiting during the peak summer season and instead plan a trip during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn for milder weather and fewer crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Alexandria

There are several ways to get to Alexandria, Egypt: 1. By Plane: You can fly from Cairo International Airport to Borg El Arab Airport, which is the nearest airport to Alexandria. The flight takes around 50 minutes.
2. By Train: You can also take a train from Cairo to Alexandria. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train.
3. By Bus: There are regular buses that run between Cairo and Alexandria. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.
4. By Car: You can also drive to Alexandria from Cairo. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic.
5. By Taxi: You can hire a taxi from Cairo to Alexandria. It is advisable to negotiate the price before the journey. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Alexandria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Alexandria

Here are some typical foods of Alexandria, Egypt: 1. Fatta - This is an Egyptian dish consisting of layers of bread, rice, and meat (beef, lamb, or chicken) topped with a tomato sauce and garlic yogurt.
2. Mahshi - This is a dish made of stuffed vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini. The filling usually contains rice, meat (beef, lamb, or chicken), onions, and herbs.
3. Molokhiya - This is a traditional Egyptian stew made of a green leafy vegetable called molokhiya. It is cooked with chicken or beef and has a thick, slimey texture, and is served with rice or bread.
4. Foul - This is a dish made of fava beans cooked with garlic and served with bread. It is often eaten for breakfast.
5. Kebda Iskandarani - This is a dish made of lamb liver cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and sweet peppers. It is a popular street food in Alexandria.
6. Seafood - Alexandria is known for its fresh seafood such as fish, shrimps, and calamari. Grilled, baked or fried, seafood dishes in Alexandria are served with rice and salads.
7. Basbousa - This is a dessert made with semolina, sugar, and coconut, flavored with rose or orange blossom water, and soaked in a syrup.
8. Qatayef - This is a dessert filled with tahini or cream cheese and fried, and then soaked in a syrup, and sometimes served with pistachios.
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Alexandria an expensive destination for tourists?

Alexandria can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations like Cairo or Sharm El Sheikh. However, costs can vary depending on your accommodation choices, activities, and food preferences. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Alexandria, including the Catacombs, Alexandria National Museum, and Citadel of Qaitbay, do charge admission fees. However, these fees are generally reasonable and affordable for most travelers.
Food options can range from street food to upscale restaurants, and prices can vary accordingly. It's always a good idea to check prices and read reviews before choosing a place to eat.
Overall, Alexandria can offer a good balance of affordability and variety for travelers who are looking to explore Egypt without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Alexandria

For visiting Alexandria, it's recommended to stay in areas such as the historic downtown area, by the corniche (waterfront promenade), or near the Citadel of Qaitbay. These areas offer easy access to major landmarks, attractions and shopping areas. Other neighborhoods like Montazah, Miami, and Sidi Bishr are also popular with tourists but may be located slightly farther from the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Alexandria here:
Booking.com

Is Alexandria a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Alexandria is generally considered a safe place for tourists. As with any city, it's always best to exercise caution and common sense when traveling to a new place. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in busy tourist areas or on public transportation, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuable belongings secure. It's also a good idea to research any local customs or laws before traveling to Egypt. Overall, though, Alexandria is a popular tourist destination and visitors generally have a safe and enjoyable time there.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Alexandria.

What type of travelers will enjoy Alexandria the most?

Alexandria, Egypt is a destination that caters to a wide range of travelers. History buffs and culture enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the city's many ancient attractions, such as the Library of Alexandria, Pompey's Pillar, and the Citadel of Qaitbay. Couples can enjoy strolling along the waterfront, visiting romantic cafes and restaurants, and taking a sunset felucca ride on the Mediterranean Sea. For young people looking for fun, the city also has a thriving nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and music venues. Families can enjoy the public parks, museums, and child-friendly amusement parks, such as Dream Park. Overall, Alexandria has something for everyone, no matter what type of traveler you are.

How to get around Alexandria

To move around in Alexandria, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, trams, and metro. Taxis are the most common mode of transportation in Alexandria as they are affordable and easily available. Buses are also a good option, as they cover most parts of the city and are relatively inexpensive. The tram system, which operates along Alexandria's coastal road, is another convenient way to travel. Finally, the metro is a fast and efficient option, but it only covers a limited part of the city.

What to see around Alexandria

Sure, here are some nice places for a day trip from Alexandria: 1. Cairo: The capital city of Egypt is approximately 2.5 hours drive from Alexandria. You can visit the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
2. El Alamein: This is a small coastal town about 100 km west of Alexandria. The town is known for its military museum, war cemeteries and the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
3. Rosetta: Located about 65 km from Alexandria, Rosetta is a beautiful town with traditional architecture and scenic views. You can also visit the Abu Mandour Mosque, which is over 400 years old.
4. Wadi El Natrun: A desert area located approximately 100 km from Alexandria. This area has several monasteries that date back to the 4th century.
5. Siwa Oasis: Located almost 600 km southwest of Alexandria, Siwa is a beautiful oasis town that is worth visiting. The town is home to unique mud-brick buildings, hot springs, and salt lakes.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you need more information.
For every travel information about Egypt you can click here.

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