If you find yourself in the captivating city of Alexandria, you'll discover that its charm extends well beyond daylight hours. While it may not boast as many attractions as Cairo, Alexandria offers a wealth of historical sites and breathtaking waterfront views that provide a unique escape.
Today, Egypt’s second-largest city combines Mediterranean charm with a wealth of Greek and Roman antiquities. Alexandria is indeed one of the most beautiful cities in Egypt, containing traces of past history that you will likely find fascinating.
Must-See Attractions in Alexandria
During your visit, be sure to explore iconic landmarks such as:
- The Library of Alexandria: Tour this stunning modern homage to the ancient Library, blending contemporary architecture with historical grandeur. Its massive circular structure, clad in gray granite inscribed with characters from dozens of world languages, creates a visually stunning exterior.
- Qaitbay Citadel: Capture memorable photos at this picturesque citadel, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa: Experience the thrill of visiting these ancient catacombs, dating back to around the second century AD, located about 100 feet underground. The rooms are a mixture of tombs and also a dining room where the families of the deceased sit, mourn their loss and eat.
- Pompey’s Pillar: A massive 30-metre-tall column looms over the ruins of the glorious ancient settlement of Rakotis, the original town from which Alexandria arose.
Alexandria's Nightlife Hotspots
By asking about how to spend a night in Alexandria the answer is there are a lot of things to do in Alexandria. If you're wondering how to spend your nights in Alexandria, here are several options to consider:
Dj EllieSun.Open night new club “NEO Bar & Lounge” Egypt. Alexandria 2017
- Hotel San Giovanni: Believed to be the only place in the city where entertainment never stops. Enjoy live music, dance the night away, or relax at the bar overlooking Stanley Beach.
- Qatr El-Nada Gardens: Located in the Salamlek Palace Hotel, these beautiful gardens offer live night music and a refreshing sea breeze.
- Alexandria's Corniche: This is Alexandria’s main promenade overlooking the sea, and is essentially one of the city’s most important traffic corridors. Tourists really love walking along the promenade to cool off with the amazing view of the sea, and you will also find many vendors along your way selling handmade accessories and lots of great souvenirs.
Bars and Lounges in Alexandria
While Alexandria may have fewer bars compared to Cairo, there are still several spots where you can unwind with a drink:
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- Spitfire: Dating all the way back to 1883, Spitfire is Alexandria’s oldest bar with decades of paraphernalia on the walls.
- Cap D’Or (Sheikh Ali): Another vintage Alexandrian bar, the Cap D’Or opened circa 1900 and is still owned by the same family.
- Jeeda's: Touted as Alexandria's first ever tapas bar, Jeeda's is where you should head if you want to have a drink in a beautiful indoor/outdoor space with handcrafted cocktails.
- Eros: Eros is a restobar on the second floor of the Alexandria Syrian Club (the club itself was founded back in 1967!).
- Rooftop: Hidden atop a nondescript commercial/residential building on Alexandria's Corniche is a bar/cafe called Rooftop or Alex Rooftop, with gorgeous sea views.
- The Pint: Located in the Eatabe Alexandria Corniche Hotel, this steakhouse & bar is adjacent to a lounge that serves shisha.
- Cigar Bar: A bar true to its name in the Hilton Alexandria Corniche, the Cigar Bar has beautiful sea views as well as an extensive array of cigars. The Hilton Alexandria Corniche also has NEO Lounge if you're looking for some music after the Cigar Bar.
- Sky Roof: On the rooftop of the Windsor Palace Hotel, this very purple bar and lounge serves up blasting music (albeit with great sea views).
- Calithea: Styled after a Greek tavern, Calithea has been open since 1937. While they serve food, most people opt to drink a beer or wine there instead.
- Monty Bar: The vintage bar at the famous Cecil hotel (now Steigenberger). It was named after Field Marshal Montgomery who visited the bar during World War II.
- Hooligans: Indoor and outdoor seating at this sports bar (and DJ venue at night) at the Sunrise Alex Avenue Hotel, near Stanley Beach.
- The Kraken: A Viking-themed bar and restaurant in the Africana Hotel in King Mariout, on the outskirts of Alexandria, complete with a pool table and bar games.
- Le Bar: A beautiful lounge and bar at the Four Seasons San Stefano which will make you nostalgic for Alexandria’s belle epoque -- with Four Seasons prices, of course.
- Nyx Bar & Lounge: On the second floor of Elite, a Greek restaurant in Mehatet el Raml, you'll find Nyx Bar and Lounge, where they have DJs, karaoke nights and happy hours.
- Il Punto: A restaurant and pub in the Downtown area of Alexandria. It’s small, so reservations are needed.
Safety and Practical Tips
Alexandria is generally safe for tourists, even at night. However, it’s always important to take standard safety precautions. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid displaying expensive items, and use reliable transportation options.
Alexandria has a Mediterranean climate, so dress comfortably. In the evening, temperatures can be cooler, so consider wearing a light jacket. Casual, yet smart attire is appropriate for dining out or visiting attractions.
Additional Tips for Your Alexandria Trip
- Getting Around: Microbuses, Uber, and taxis are available for transportation. Uber is often the most comfortable option, especially for solo female travelers.
- Accommodations: Consider staying at hotels like Le Metropole, Windsor Palace, or Steigenberger Cecil for impeccable sea views and comfortable rooms.
- Dining: Don't miss the fresh seafood at Farag or Ibn Hamido, and try the Alexandrian liver at Awlad Falah.
- Coffee Shops: Enjoy coffee at Trianon, Delices, Brazilian Coffee, or Cilantro for great views and atmosphere.
| Category | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Attractions | Library of Alexandria, Qaitbay Citadel, Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa |
| Bars & Lounges | Spitfire, Cap D’Or, Jeeda's, Rooftop |
| Restaurants | Farag (seafood), Awlad Falah (liver) |
| Coffee Shops | Trianon, Delices, Brazilian Coffee |
| Transportation | Uber, Microbuses |
| Hotels | Le Metropole, Windsor Palace, Steigenberger Cecil |
With its blend of historical sites, stunning waterfront views, and vibrant nightlife, Alexandria offers a unique and memorable experience for every traveler.
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