A sparkling Mediterranean seaport, Alexandria bustles with energy as Egypt’s cultural capital, thriving with its variety of old-world cafes and Belle Epoque architecture. The city is hugely popular with travellers drawn to the water-centric lifestyle, with intriguing museums and history dating back to Queen Cleopatra.
Things to do in Alexandria
With a fabled past that includes renowned figures, such as Alexander the Great and Cleopatra, Alexandria makes history come alive. The Alexandria National Museum harbours almost 2,000 artefacts, while the Royal Jewelry Museum, once the palace of Princess Fatma Al-Zahra, sparkles from ceiling to floor with jewels, medals, stained glass and treasures, such as diamond-encrusted garden tools.
Montazah Palace Gardens overlook the Mediterranean and are perfect for a leisurely stroll past rare and exotic plants, a sandy beach cove and Victorian-style bridge. Are you interested in Egyptian history? Don’t miss the multi-tiered Catacombs of Kom ash-Suqqafa, which has chambers and tombs built in Graeco-Roman style.
The Corniche promenade spans the waterfront for 16 kilometres along Eastern Harbour and offers enchanting sea views and continuous parades of joggers, cyclers, waterfront cafes and shops. For dining and nightlife options, stroll to the 400-metre-long stretch along Stanley Bridge.
Modern malls offer luxurious shopping, but the Souq District the place to experience authentic open-air marketplaces brimming with spices, antiques and traditional clothing. Small cafes dish out Egyptian snacks and specialties, such as kushari, fava beans and kofta kebabs.
Getting around Alexandria
Public buses traverse Alexandria, while double-decker trams run in the inner city. Taxis and microbuses offer convenient options, and rental cars are also available at Alexandria International Airport and various locations throughout the city.