Discovering Alexandria, Egypt: A Tourist's Guide to Top Attractions

Nov 21, 2025 0

Are you planning on visiting Alexandria, Egypt? Situated along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, this city has a lot to offer visitors! Alexandria really is like a shining jewel, glimmering along the Mediterranean coast, waiting to be discovered by travelers from all over the world.

Montazah Palace

As the second-largest city in Egypt, Alexandria is an important cultural, historical, and economic center in the region. This port city is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and unique architecture. It’s also home to some of the most famous archaeological sites in Egypt, including the Catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa.

A City Steeped in History

The city of Alexandria was founded in 332 BC by Alexander the Great, and it quickly became a major trading port and center of learning. During the Greco-Roman period, it was the capital of Egypt and one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire. Alexandria is filled with reminders of its ancient past.

Visitors can explore the underwater ruins of the royal palace of Cleopatra, who reigned as the last pharaoh of the Ptolemaic dynasty. The old Alexandria Library was destroyed in a series of events that began in 391 AD, when Roman Emperor Theodosius I ordered the closure of all pagan temples. This closure led to riots and eventually the burning of the library.

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Today, Alexandria is a bustling port city with a vibrant nightlife and a thriving arts and music scene. It’s known for its delicious cuisine, historical sights, and beautiful beaches along Egypt’s beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Alexandria is packed with attractions for all visitors to enjoy.

Must-See Attractions in Alexandria

Alexandria has something for everyone, from art galleries, museums, and libraries to vibrant markets and parks. There are also a number of local festivals and events that showcase the city’s culture and heritage. Here are some of the main attractions:

Alexandria Corniche: Take a stroll along the Corniche and admire the city’s beautiful architecture, including the Citadel of Qaitbay. This waterfront promenade strip is lined with palm trees, cafes, and restaurants, as well as plenty of shops. Along the way, you’ll also find monuments, statues, and other historical artifacts.
Quranic library: Visit the Quranic library to explore its ancient scrolls and manuscripts.
Beaches: There’s also plenty to do on the beach, from water sports to boat trips.
Museums and Archaeological Sites: Be sure to visit the many museums and archaeological sites, where you can learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

Iconic Landmarks

The city’s main attractions are the Qaitbay Citadel, the Biblotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom El Shouqafa, the oldest and largest Roman burial site in Egypt.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina: One of the most iconic sights in Alexandria is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This modern library was built in 2002, and it houses over 8000 books, scrolls, and artifacts. The library also hosts regular exhibitions, seminars, and events, and it’s a popular destination for students, tourists, and scholars alike. It contains one of the modern world's most ambitious libraries and a host of museums exploring Alexandria's history and heritage. Its architecture is centered around a giant sun disk, which presides over the waterfront Corniche. Inside, the huge main library and its reading room can hold eight million volumes. For visitors, though, the main tourist attractions are the beautifully curated exhibition spaces below the main library.
Qaitbey Citadel: One of the most popular attractions in Alexandria is Qaitbey Citadel. This 15th-century fortress is a great place to explore, as it houses a variety of historical and archaeological artifacts. Visitors can take a walk around the grounds, explore the different buildings, and even climb up to the top of the walls for a stunning view of the city. Walk the long shorefront Corniche road of the Eastern Harbor heading west, and you'll finally arrive at Fort Qaitbey. It may be a poor substitute for what was once the site of the mighty Pharos Lighthouse-one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which was toppled by a violent earthquake in 1303-but this squat fort has been standing guard over Alexandria since 1480. Fort Qaitbey was built by Mamluke Sultan Qaitbey in an effort to fortify this important Egyptian port from attack, and rubble from the toppled lighthouse was used in its construction.
Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa: The Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa are hewn from the rock on the southern slopes of a hill, in the Carmous district. Thought to date from the 2nd century CE, they offer an admirable example of the characteristic Alexandrian fusion of Egyptian and Greco-Roman styles. A spiral staircase leads down into the ground to the main rotunda. To the right, you can enter the main burial chamber and also the Sepulchral Chapel with 91 loculi, each large enough to accommodate three or four mummies. In case you didn’t know - there are 7 wonders of the Medieval World. Or, alternatively, known as 7 wonders of the Middle Ages. Basically, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa is one of them. Kom El Shoqafa, which literally translates to The Mount of Shards, is significantly old. Like, 2nd century ancient. Upon arrival, you go through a ticket booth area and from there it’s a short walk to the entrance to the Catacombs. It is widely thought that this Catacomb originally started as a family tomb but over the course of hundreds of years became the final resting place for hundreds more.
Pompey’s Pillar: In Carmous, near the Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa, is a hill littered with the remains of ancient walls, architectural fragments, and rubble on which Alexandria's only fully intact ancient monument is left standing. Pompey's Pillar rises from the ruins of the ancient and famous Serapeion (Temple of Serapis), which was once used to store the overflow of manuscripts from the Great Library of Alexandria. Underneath, there is not much to see of the badly ruined Serapeion, but you can clamber down some staircases into a substructure of chambers.
Kom el-Dikka: Nobody thought much of the ancient rubble mound in central Alexandria until, in the 1960s, they decided to clear the site to make way for new housing. As work commenced, the area known as Kom el-Dikka ("Mound of Rubble") revealed a whole swag of ancient ruins buried beneath, including a small Roman theater. Today the area is a small archaeological park with remains from Alexandria's Greco-Roman period. As well as the theater, there are remnants of a Ptolemaic temple, a Roman bathhouse, and various Roman-era villas. Excavation work on the Villa of the Birds here unearthed well-preserved 3rd-century mosaic floors, which have been kept in situ.

Other Attractions

Underground Attractions: Alexandria has a number of hidden attractions, including underground tombs, catacombs, and tunnels. These tunnels are a great place to explore and learn more about the city’s past.
Alexandria National Museum: Alexandria's National Museum is a must-stop if you want to get to grips with the vast history of this famed city. Inside, the collection guides you from the Pharaonic era (in the basement), to the Hellenistic heyday, when Alexandria and Egypt were governed by the Ptolemy dynasty begun by Alexander the Great (on the ground floor), and up to the Byzantine and Islamic periods (on the 1st floor). The ground floor's exhibits of statuary and artifacts from the underwater archaeological explorations of the sunken port city of Heracleion-Thonis in Aboukir Bay are the museum's major highlight.
Montazah Gardens: An oasis of calm on the city's eastern edge, Montazah is a lush haven of tall palm trees, trimmed lawns, and blossoming flowers that was once off-limits to all but the royal court and their hangers-on. Built as a hunting lodge in the 1890s by Khedive Abbas Hilmi, it was later extended substantially by King Fuad and replaced Ras el-Tin Palace as the royal family's summer house. The eccentrically designed Montazah Palace, with its ornate Florentine-inspired towers and Rococo flourishes, is not open to the public, but everyone is welcome to stroll within the sprawling gardens, which can be a welcome slice of nature after a day spent within Alexandria's hustle. On the coastal end of the park is a small beach with a peculiarly whimsical bridge to a small island. If you need a dose of tranquility, a trip to Montazah is just the ticket to restore your sanity before diving back into the inner city fray. Minibuses heading west up the shore-front Corniche road all pass by Montazah.
Ras el-Tin Palace: Sumptuous Ras el-Tin Palace was once a summer escape for Egypt's sultans when the desert heat of Cairo got too much to bear. It's also the famed location where King Farouk-Egypt's last king-officially abdicated in 1952 before sailing out of Alexandria's harbor and into exile in Italy.
Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque: One of Alexandria's major landmarks, the Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque was built in 1796 over the tomb of the 13th-century Sufi holy man Abu Abbas al-Mursi. Originally from Murcia (in Spain's Andalusia region), Abu Abbas became a highly esteemed religious leader in Alexandria, and his teachings are still revered in Egypt. The mammoth cream-colored mosque that holds his name is a major pilgrimage site. For non-religious visitors, the mosque's exquisite facade of swirling Islamic calligraphy designs and motifs is the major draw-card.
Royal Jewelry Museum: This museum, just north of Stanley Bridge, is easily reached from central Alexandria by tram. The palace itself, built in 1923, is an excellent example of the merging architectural styles of Islamic and European design. The ornate plasterwork ceilings, gilded and frescoed, of some rooms are enough of a reason to visit, but the interiors are also home to a collection of jewelry, household items and art work once owned by various members of the Muhammad Ali Pasha dynasty.
Mahmoud Said Museum: Any visitor interested in Egypt's art scene should make sure to beeline to this Italianate villa, once home to Egyptian artist Mahmoud Said, which is now an art gallery devoted to his work. Considered by many as the founder of Egyptian modern art, Mahmoud Said's work may be European in style but is infused with a distinct Egyptian identity. The collection of his work, displayed within the rooms here, ranges from throughout his painting career and covers landscapes to nudes. The museum is only a one-kilometer walk north from the Royal Jewelry Museum, so the two are easily combined together.
Cavafy Museum: One of Alexandria's most famous sons, Constantine Cavafy (1863-1933), was a Greek Alexandrian poet who found fame and recognition for his writing after his death. His apartment, on what is now Sharm el-Sheikh Street, is a tribute to his life and a major attraction for anyone on an Alexandrian literary pilgrimage.

Pompey's Pillar

Water Activities in Alexandria

Alexandria is an ideal destination for people who love water activities, from swimming and sailing to snorkeling and scuba diving. For more adventurous travelers, Alexandria also offers a range of water sports, including windsurfing, kite-surfing, and wakeboarding.

For divers, Alexandria provides a unique opportunity to dive amid the toppled statues and columns of the ancient city. Be aware that underwater visibility is low when diving in Alexandria.

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To the northeast of the city, in the bay of Aboukir, archaeologists discovered the port city of Heracleion-Thonis and have brought many of the treasures to the surface, now on display in Alexandria's museums. For now, though, most of the recreational diving opportunities are still centered around the Eastern Harbor. The most popular Eastern Harbor site has been (unsurprisingly) nicknamed "Cleopatra's Palace" and indeed was once a palace area - though if the great lady herself was ever in residence, we'll never know.

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There are a number of sites around the city which are popular with divers, including a number of wrecks. For underwater archaeologists, the waters off the coast here have provided plenty of riches in recent years.

Food and Drink in Alexandria

Alexandria is filled with a variety of local cuisines and drinks to enjoy. From traditional Egyptian dishes to international cuisine, there’s something to suit all tastes. Street food is very popular in the city and is a great way to sample the local flavors. Whether you’re looking for a full meal or just a light snack, there’s something to suit all budgets.

If you’re looking to explore the local beers and wines, Alexandria has plenty of options. From light beers to full-bodied wines, there’s something for everyone.

Popular local cuisine to try when visiting Alexandria, Egypt includes dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and koshary. These dishes are typically served with sides of hummus, baba ganoush, and tahini. If you’re looking for something sweet, try some of the traditional desserts such as basbousa and umm ali.

Alexandria has plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. From family-friendly restaurants to hip and trendy bars, there’s something to suit all tastes. To make the most of the local flavor, try to find a restaurant that specializes in traditional Egyptian dishes.

Some popular restaurants include:

Abou El Sid: This renowned restaurant serves up a range of traditional Egyptian dishes and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Abou Ali: This is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a fantastic array of dishes.
Khabes: With an emphasis on using only the freshest ingredients, this restaurant offers a range of delicious and healthy dishes.
El Sawy Culture Wheel: This restaurant is located in the El Sawy Culture Wheel, a cultural center in Alexandria.
La Bodega: This bar and restaurant offers a more laid back atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a few drinks and some delicious tapas.

Fish Market Marina Restaurant

Shopping in Alexandria

Visiting Alexandria, Egypt will provide you with some great shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, traditional clothing, jewelry, or art, you’ll find plenty of options. The city is home to a number of shopping centers and malls, as well as smaller shops and boutiques.

The markets in Alexandria are a great place to pick up souvenirs, traditional clothing, jewelry, and art. The markets are vibrant and bustling and you’ll find plenty of interesting items. Some of the popular markets in the city include the vibrant Souq El Attarine.

If you prefer a more modern shopping experience, you’ll find plenty of options in the city’s shopping centers and malls. From international luxury stores to local boutiques, there’s something for everyone.

Transportation in Alexandria

When visiting Alexandria, Egypt, there are various transportation options depending on your needs. If you plan on staying in the city, you can use the bus system or taxis to get around.

Alexandria, as a city, takes great pride in its tramway that has been in operation since 1863. Today, the Alexandria tramway has a total of 20 lines with 140 stops and tracks covering a distance of around 32 kilometers. It is also one of the world’s only tram systems that have double-deck tram cars.

For longer trips, trains and flights connect Alexandria to other cities in Egypt and around the world. If you’re looking to explore the city at your own pace, you may want to consider renting a car. This is a great option if you’re comfortable driving in unfamiliar cities, as it gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want.

Getting to Alexandria from Cairo

Alexandria is located approximately 223 km (139 miles) from Cairo. The best way to travel from Cairo to Alexandria is by way of a private guided tour package that includes a professional tour guide, a driver and an air-conditioned vehicle.

If you are planning on visiting Alexandria, Egypt for a few days and you don’t want to book a private tour from Cairo, then your best option would be to travel by train. If you would prefer to travel by bus, you should seriously consider using one of the reputable tour bus companies.

Staying Safe in Alexandria

Staying safe when visiting Alexandria, Egypt is important. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone in certain areas at night, such as deserted alleys and streets.

When visiting Alexandria, Egypt, it’s important to be aware of the local laws and customs. It is also important to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Visiting Alexandria, Egypt is generally safe for tourists. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone in certain areas at night, such as deserted alleys and streets.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Alexandria, Egypt, the best suggestion is to visit during the spring or autumn season. Alexandria enjoys mild temperatures during the spring and autumn months and is generally a great time of year to explore the city. During these months, temperatures are usually in the range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Local Customs

It is recommended that visitors dress modestly when visiting Alexandria, considering that is a part of a conservative Muslim majority country. It is also important to dress appropriately when visiting mosques. Male travelers should wear long pants rather than shorts, while women should wear slacks or a dress that reaches to below their knees.

Annual Events and Festivals

If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in Alexandria, Egypt, there are plenty of annual events and festivals to attend. Popular events include the Alexandria International Film Festival, which is held each year in October and showcases the very best in international cinema. The Alexandria Biennale, which occurs every two years, brings together some of the best in modern art, music, and theater from around the world.

Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?

Yes, Alexandria is definitely worth visiting. Visiting Alexandria, Egypt is a great way to experience rich culture, vivid history, delightful beaches and the pleasant nightlife of this bustling city. From ancient sites and fascinating museums to casinos and world-class events, Alexandria has it all.

Alexandria Tours

If you are longing to visit Alexandria, Egypt Tours Plus can turn your dream trip into a reality.

If you’d rather not go it alone and are looking for a local guide to show you the sights, there are some great private guided tours available. Private Alexandria tours give you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace, or spend more time in certain areas that interest you. You can also book a private tour for a day trip to Cairo, Luxor, or any of the other sites surrounding Alexandria.

Alexandria: Then and Now

Alexandria was best known for it old lighthouse which was one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. It was also famous for its old Alexandria Library. Today, Alexandria is famous for its beautiful Mediterranean coastline and its rich history. It is also known for its bustling bazaars and markets, and its stunning architecture.

A Glimpse into Alexandria's Rich History

Queen Cleopatra lorded over it. Alexandria's birth and early history is a calling card of famous names. This was the Mediterranean's dazzling jewel of a city, home to the Great Library of Alexandria and the colossal Pharos Lighthouse - one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

In more recent times, from the late 19th century up until the 1950s, Alexandria was something of a bohemian tourist attraction, with a glittering cast of writers, poets, and artists who made the city their home. Although today, unlike Cairo and Luxor, there are few actual historic monuments and things to do, Alexandria is one of the best places to visit in Egypt to capture a sense of days-gone-by grandeur.

El Alamein War Museum

The hardscrabble township of El Alamein, about 112 kilometers west of Alexandria, holds a fascinating place in modern world history. It was across this parched piece of nondescript desert that the Allies' first decisive victory in World War II's North Africa campaign was won. The bloody battles that took place here in October 1942 killed or wounded more than 80,000 soldiers from countries as varied as Australia, New Zealand, India, and Great Britain (Allies), as well as Germany and Italy (Axis Forces). Today, the war memorials that stand are a poignant reminder of the 13 days of fighting that claimed so many lives. The rather excellent El Alamein War Museum does a good job of giving an overview to the El Alamein campaign, with plenty of military memorabilia displayed. The Commonwealth Cemetery is a beautifully kept tribute to the fallen, with the 7,000 tombstones in regimented rows between well-tended desert plants.