The great coastal city of Alexandria sits just 2 hours outside of downtown Cairo. One of the most important cities of the Hellenistic Civilization, it’s now the largest city on the Mediterranean. As a coastal city, one can imagine the varying climate in Alexandria. As you’ll see in the photos, an average day will shift from bright and sunny to cloudy and rainy in a matter of minutes. Dress accordingly as you plan your trip to Alexandria!
Check out the highlights and famous landmarks we visited in Alexandria on our tour with the trusted Look at Egypt Tours.
Top Attractions in Alexandria
Citadel of Qaitbay is situated on the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea and symbolizes Alexandria’s significance in Egyptian history. Tour the 15th-century defensive fortress and enjoy a stroll on the harbor.
Ancient Roman Amphitheater is an archeological site that has a wonderful collection of preserved Roman ruins, baths and an ancient villa. In fact, this is the only Roman Amphitheater in Egypt. Perhaps the most eccentric part of visiting the amphitheater is its location. Situated perfectly in the middle of the town Kom El Dikka, the ruins are surrounded by modern apartment buildings and skyrises.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a must stop! One of the most impressive and unique historical sites in Egypt (in our humble opinion). Although small in size, the fusion of history that makes up the Catacombs are rather significant. The necropolis has Roman, Greek and Egyptian influences all at once.
You’ll learn that the pretty circular staircase was actually used to transport dead bodies underground, a bit morbid but quite cool. The figures inside are a morph of Roman gods and animals and pharaonic symbols.
Fun fact: Kom El Shoqafa, translates to a Mound of Shards. Interestingly, upon its discovery the Catacombs were filled with broken plates and objects – a Greek tradition as we know it.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina or Library of Alexandria has been a famous attraction since its grand opening in 2002. This isn’t your average library; the massive structure has four museums, shelves that can take up to 8 million books, art galleries, research centers, and a plethora of artifacts and exhibitions.
Montaza Park or better yet, the Montaza Complex. A prime location for an afternoon stroll. The complex’s quarters include lavish gardens, the historical Al-Haramlik Palace and the less grand Salamlek Palace.
Monument of the Unknown Navy Soldier dedicated to those who lost their lives in sea battles. The monument is in the heart of the Mansheya District which is bustling with shops and bakeries. Here you can see intricate architecture and historical buildings still in use today.
Roam Around the City
Ride the Tram. The famous colorful Alexandria trams have been running through the city since 1863. One of the few tram systems in the world that uses double-decker styled cars. We recommend hopping on in downtown and heading to the Citadel of Qaitbay via the Yellow Train #25 – all of which will cost you a whopping quarter of a dollar.
Visit Al Max. They call it the Venice of Egypt, although it’s much humbler. Al Max is locally known as the Fishing Village, where the local community of fishermen both work and live. Although there are no activities or tourist areas, this is a nice stop to marvel at the beauty of the simple daily life of locals.
Dine at the Greek Club. For the best combination of seafood and views, make sure to visit the Greek Club just steps away from the Citadel. The spectacular view of the harbor is not to be missed, so make sure you grab your seats before sunset.
Why we recommend a tour?
Getting to and from Alexandria is easy for travelers as there are many trains and buses that run from downtown Cairo to the center of Alexandria. But as the city is still quite massive, we highly recommend signing up for a tour with Look at Egypt Tours to make the most out of your adventure! They were highly professional, prompt and the guide was phenomenal. Contact us if you have any questions.
If you’re spending the night in Alexandria, which is highly recommended, here are our lodging suggestions. Note that Alex is a city built along a coast that stretches 25 miles or 40 kilometers. Of course, we imagine that you’d enjoy central places along the corniche or the coast.
The most known hotel (both for its history and exceptional stay) is the Paradise Inn Windsor Palace Hotel located a few streets away from the Citadel. Further into the city and more central are the Tolip Hotel and the Hilton Cornishe.
This trip was sponsored by Look at Egypt Tours.
