Things To Do
in Alexandria

Alexandria, Egypt, is a historic Mediterranean city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal views. Founded by Alexander the Great, it was once home to the legendary Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, it blends ancient history with a vibrant modern atmosphere, featuring bustling markets, beautiful beaches, and a lively dining scene.

Visitors can explore its historical sites while enjoying the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ancient Alexandria
morning
:

Start your day at the Alexandria National Museum to learn about the city's history and see ancient artifacts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa and explore this fascinating underground burial site.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Explore the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, an architectural marvel and a cultural center.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the views and stopping at local cafes for refreshments.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the local markets, sampling street food and shopping for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10-15
Cappuccino$1.50-3
🚕Taxi fare (within the city)$1-3
🛒Bottle of water$0.25
🍦Ice cream cone$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful Mediterranean coastline and beaches.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse options.
  • Summer heat can be intense.
  • Traffic congestion in busy areas.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for some tourists.
  • "مرحباً" - Hello
  • "شكراً" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Alexandria

Visit one of these nice places.

Qaitbay Citadel

An impressive fortress located on the Mediterranean coast, offering stunning views and historical architecture.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

A modern architectural marvel that beautifully contrasts with the ancient sites, perfect for unique photos.

Montazah Palace Gardens

A picturesque park with lush gardens and historical palaces, ideal for scenic photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alexandria

Alexandria is a culinary delight, offering a mix of Mediterranean flavors and traditional Egyptian dishes that reflect its rich history and coastal location.

Alexandria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Foul Medames

A popular breakfast dish made from fava beans, typically served with olive oil, lemon, and spices.

Must-Try!

Sayadeya

A traditional fish dish made with rice, spices, and fried fish, often garnished with nuts.

Koshari

A filling vegetarian dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souq El-Attarine

A vibrant market known for spices, herbs, and local street food, perfect for exploring and tasting.

Manshia Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alexandria has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winters are cooler, averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Rainfall is minimal in summer but increases from November to March, making winter the wetter season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While Alexandria is more liberal than other parts of Egypt, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially in religious sites.

Respect for Religion

Be respectful during prayer times and when visiting mosques; remove shoes and avoid loud conversations.

Greetings

A handshake is common, but it's polite to wait for a local to initiate it, especially with women.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alexandria is generally safe for tourists, though it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's recommended to use reputable transportation services and avoid isolated places at night.

Tipping in Alexandria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is common in restaurants and for service; around 10-15% is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to visit, typically from March to May.

Summer

Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F); ideal for beach activities.

Autumn

Pleasant weather from September to November, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

Winter

Cooler temperatures, averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F), with occasional rain; still suitable for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Alexandria at Night

Alexandria offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of cafes, bars, and clubs. The Corniche is lined with venues where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and socializing. Local favorites include rooftop bars with stunning views of the Mediterranean and traditional music lounges, where you can experience the local culture through dance and music.

Hiking in Alexandria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wadi El Natrun Trail

Located about 90 km from Alexandria, this trail offers scenic views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Montazah Park Trails

Within the city, Montazah Park offers several walking paths among lush gardens and historical sites, perfect for casual hiking.

Airports

How to reach Alexandria by plane.

Borg El Arab Airport

Located approximately 40 km from the city center, it serves domestic and international flights and is the main airport for Alexandria.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alexandria is moderately walkable, particularly along the Corniche and in historical districts. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of uneven pavement and traffic. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Egyptians

The majority of Alexandria's population is Egyptian, with a rich cultural blend influenced by various historical periods.

International Expatriates

Alexandria has a small but vibrant community of expatriates, particularly from Europe and the Middle East, contributing to its diverse culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Alexandria, with local clubs and a strong following for the national team.

Squash

Alexandria boasts several squash courts and has produced world-class players, making it a popular sport among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alexandria can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and the Metro, but many visitors prefer taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alexandria.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, like Koshari and Falafel.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Egyptian bread is common, many places can accommodate gluten-free requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Alexandria includes public and private hospitals, with private facilities generally offering better services and shorter wait times. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses. Pharmacies are widely available for basic medications.

Discover Egypt

Read more in our Egypt 2025 Travel Guide.

Egypt Travel Guide