General Information
Alexandria, often called the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” is Egypt’s second-largest city and a cultural gem with a rich Greco-Roman heritage. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city was home to the famous Library of Alexandria and the legendary Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, Alexandria is a vibrant coastal city blending ancient history, stunning beaches, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Location
Alexandria is located in northern Egypt, along the Mediterranean Sea, about 220 km northwest of Cairo. It stretches along the coastline, offering beautiful sea views, a charming Corniche, and a mix of European and Middle Eastern influences.
Nearby Destinations:
- Cairo (220 km southeast): Home to the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.
- El Alamein (110 km west): A historic WWII battlefield with museums and memorials.
- Rosetta (65 km east): The town where the Rosetta Stone was discovered.
- Siwa Oasis (560 km southwest): A breathtaking desert oasis known for hot springs and ancient ruins.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) serves domestic and international flights.
- Located 45 km from the city center, with taxis and private transfers available.
- By Train:
- The Cairo-Alexandria train (operated by Egyptian National Railways) is the best option, taking 2-3 hours.
- First-class and express trains provide a comfortable journey.
- By Bus:
- Several bus companies (Super Jet, GoBus, West Delta) operate daily services from Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada.
- By Car:
- The Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road is a fast and efficient route for self-driving.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Autumn (September – November): Perfect for sightseeing with comfortable weather.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and humid, but ideal for beachgoers and Mediterranean lovers.
- Winter (December – February): Cooler, with occasional rain, but great for historical exploration.
Key Festivals & Events
- Alexandria International Film Festival (October): Celebrates international and Arab cinema.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina Cultural Events (Year-round): Various exhibitions, concerts, and lectures.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria: A beachfront 5-star hotel with stunning sea views.
- Hilton Alexandria Corniche: An upscale hotel with a private beach and rooftop bar.
- Mid-range:
- Steigenberger Cecil Hotel: A historic hotel in the heart of Alexandria.
- Paradise Inn Le Metropole Hotel: A boutique hotel with classic European architecture.
- Budget:
- Triomphe Hostel: A cozy budget option near major attractions.
- Alexander The Great Hotel: Affordable and centrally located.
Top Attractions
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A modern revival of the ancient Library of Alexandria, with a museum and cultural center.
- Citadel of Qaitbay: A 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse.
- Montaza Palace: A beautiful royal palace and gardens along the Mediterranean coast.
- Pompey’s Pillar: A towering Roman column and an important historical landmark.
- Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: A fascinating underground burial site combining Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.
- Alexandria National Museum: Showcasing artifacts from Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, and Islamic periods.
- Stanley Bridge: A picturesque bridge with stunning sea views.
- Ras El Tin Palace: A historic palace once used by Egyptian royalty.
- Corniche: A scenic seaside promenade perfect for a relaxing walk at sunset.
- Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque: One of Alexandria’s most beautiful mosques.
Getting Around
- Taxis: The most common way to get around, but fares should be negotiated in advance.
- Uber & Careem: Reliable and safer alternatives to regular taxis.
- Trams: The Alexandria Tramway is one of the oldest in the world, offering a cheap but slow way to explore.
- Buses & Microbuses: Inexpensive but often crowded and chaotic.
- Walking: Many attractions, especially along the Corniche and city center, are within walking distance.
Local Cuisine
Must-Try Dishes:
- Feseekh: A traditional fermented fish dish, eaten during Egyptian festivals.
- Sayadeya: A delicious rice and fish dish cooked with onions, spices, and tomato sauce.
- Kebda Eskandarani: Alexandria-style liver, a popular street food.
- Mulukhiyah: A green soup made from jute leaves, often served with rice and seafood.
- Alexandrian Grilled Fish: Fresh Mediterranean seafood grilled with aromatic spices.
Top Restaurants:
- Fish Market Restaurant: A top seafood restaurant with stunning sea views.
- Abou Ashraf Seafood: A local favorite for fresh fish and shrimp.
- Délices Patisserie: A historic café serving delicious pastries and Egyptian desserts.
- Trianon Café: A classic European-style café with Mediterranean charm.
Shopping in Alexandria
- Souq El Attarine: A historic bazaar filled with antiques, perfumes, and traditional crafts.
- San Stefano Grand Plaza: A modern mall with luxury brands and restaurants.
- Bahary Souq: A local market selling fresh seafood, spices, and souvenirs.
- Fouad Street: Home to boutiques selling handmade jewelry and Alexandrian textiles.
Souvenir Ideas:
- Egyptian cotton products
- Papyrus paintings
- Handmade ceramics
- Alexandrian spices and perfumes
Nightlife in Alexandria
Alexandria offers a more laid-back nightlife compared to Cairo but still has great spots to enjoy an evening out.
- Sky Roof Lounge: A chic rooftop bar with city views.
- San Giovanni Restaurant & Bar: A classic seaside venue with live music.
- Délices Café: Perfect for a relaxing evening with desserts and coffee.
- Spitfire Bar: A legendary old-school pub popular with tourists and locals alike.
Day Trips from Alexandria
- Cairo (2.5 hours): Visit the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum.
- El Alamein (1.5 hours): Explore WWII history at the El Alamein War Museum and cemeteries.
- Rosetta (1.5 hours): See the town where the famous Rosetta Stone was discovered.
- Borg El Arab Beaches (45 min): Beautiful and less crowded beaches near Alexandria.