Alexandria, Egypt
Alexandria, Egypt: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Welcome to the pearl of the Mediterranean, Alexandria, Egypt! This vibrant city offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning architecture, lively culture, and delicious cuisine. Follow this guide for an unforgettable experience in Alexandria.
Places to Go:
- Pompey’s Pillar: A magnificent Roman column dating back to the 3rd century AD.
- The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: An ancient burial site that combines three different styles of catacomb, Egyptian, Hellenistic (Greek), and Roman.
- Alexandria Library: One of the largest libraries in the world, housing millions of books and offering a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Montaza Palace & Gardens: A beautiful palace and garden complex, featuring several palaces, mosques, museums, and monuments.
- Citadel of Qaitbay: A 15th-century fortress built on the site of the Pharos (Lighthouse of Alexandria).
- El Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque: An iconic mosque known for its unique architectural style and intricate decoration.
- Raml Station & Graeco-Roman Museum: Discover the rich history of Alexandria at this museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, and Coptic periods.
Activities:
- Boat Tour on the Mediterranean Sea: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the stunning coastline of Alexandria.
- Visit Alexandria’s Beaches: Relax at popular beaches such as Montaza Beach, Maamoura Beach, or El Alamein City Beach.
- Explore Ancient Alexandria Underwater: Join a diving tour to explore the remains of Alexandria’s ancient port and city underwater.
- Attend a Whirling Dervishes Show: Experience the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes at one of the performances held in Alexandria.
Where to Eat:
- Abu El Sabag: A traditional Egyptian restaurant offering delicious dishes like kushari, falafel, and shawarma.
- Cleopatra Seafood Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the Mediterranean at this popular waterfront eatery.
- Gabriel’s Feast: Taste authentic Alexandrian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at this family-run restaurant.
- Pierre Loti Café: Sip coffee and enjoy sweets while taking in panoramic views of the city from this French colonial-style café.
Where to Stay:
- Sheraton Alexandria Hotel & Casino: Offering luxurious accommodations, a casino, spa, and multiple restaurants.
- Alexandria Rotana: A modern hotel with a range of amenities including a fitness center, pool, and several dining options.
- Movenpick Alexandra Island: Located on its own private island, this hotel offers stunning views, a beach, and various facilities.
- Hotel El Mena House: A charming boutique hotel with a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of the city.
Things to Know:
- Alexandria is located on the northern coast of Egypt, about 230 km west of Cairo.
- Arabic is the official language, but English and French are widely spoken.
- The best time to visit is from October to April when temperatures are milder.
- Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments.
- Tipping is customary in Egypt and is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxi rides.
Transportation:
- Airport: Alexandria International Airport (ALY) serves domestic and international flights.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available and affordable. Make sure the meter is on.
- Car Rental: Car rentals are also available, but be aware of traffic rules and driving conditions.
- Public Transport: Alexandria’s public bus network can be confusing for tourists, but it’s an economical way to get around.
- Uber/Careem: These ride-hailing apps are widely used in Alexandria.
Tips and Other Things of Interest:
- Haggling is a common practice in Egypt when shopping for souvenirs or services.
- Wear modest clothing to respect local customs and traditions.
- Visit during one of Alexandria’s famous festivals, like the Alexandria Biennale or the Pharaonic Festival.
- Take time to explore the city’s beautiful corniche (seafront promenade).