The 11 essential things to do in Alexandria

On a trip to Egypt? What if you're going to visit Alexandria? The nickname Pearl of the Mediterranean promises a journey that you are not ready to forget.

In the north of Egypt, facing the Great Blue, Alexandria is nicknamed the Pearl of the Mediterranean. Founded in 331 BC by Alexandre Le Grand, the beautiful Alexandria has long been considered one of the jewels of the region.

The second city of the country with more than five million inhabitants, it is now cosmopolitan, enchanting and mysterious. Both modern, rich in history and monuments, Alexandria is exciting to visit. With its charming port city, it mixes various architectural styles, giving it an identity both European, Greco-Roman and Egyptian. Finally, Alexandria is also famous for its coast, which stretches over 70 kilometers, and the beauty of its bay.

Located only 4:30 a.m. from Paris, it is a perfect destination for a change of scenery. Combining history, the beauty of the landscape, the discovery of a culture and a gastronomy, it has everything to please. Now discover our selection of incontournables to visit Alexandria.

1. Visit the Qaitbay citadel

Visiting Alexandria begins with its emblem. Qaitbay's citadel owes its name to sultan Qaitbay , which in 1480 had it built in a medieval style. It is installed at the site of the former Alexandria lighthouse, destroyed by earthquakes. It was part of the seven wonders of the ancient world and its stones served to build the citadel.

2. Walking on the Corniche and the Stanley Bridge

These are the places to relax and admire the bay of Alexandria! The Stanley Bridge on its side, known for its unique architecture, is the ideal spot for shots at sunset.

For a nice walk, go from the citadel to the Alexandrina library.

3. Read a book at the modern library Alexandrina

This building replaces the old library, dating from 300 BC. Completely destroyed since then, the old has left room for a new version of itself, extremely modern. With seven floors and a glass roof, Alexandrina is no other than the largest library in the world. As a result, it can accommodate 2000 people! There are sometimes exhibitions, as well as a museum space, with old manuscripts.

You will have understood it, Alexandrina and its authentic character is one of the must-sees to visit in Alexandria.

4. Visit the gardens of the Montaza Palace

The residence of Egyptian presidents, the Montaza Palace cannot be visited. However, its park of about 150 hectares is open to the public. Magnificent oasis in the heart of beautiful Alexandria, it has the immense privilege of being on the seaside. Moreover, the inhabitants appreciate it very much and they are many to go there on the weekend. The opportunity for travellers to relax in the quiet and to visit Alexandria otherwise!

5. Discover the National Museum: Alexandria National Museum

Looking for a museum in Alexandria? Go to the discovery of the national museum that exposes the various finds of the archaeologists of the region. Located in a beautiful restored palace, you can see objects of ancient times, Greco-Roman times, as well as the Islamic and Coptic period.

6. Discover the Kom-El-Dick amphitheatre

Among the many amphitheatre of the Greco-Roman era, Kom-El-Dick is the only vestige still visible. It is especially well preserved! It is in her breast, on her rows of white marble, that more than 800 spectators could take place.

In addition to its remains, the amphitheatre also houses archaeological objects found at sea.

7. Visit Kom-El-Chouqafa catacombs

Archaeological site worldwide known, Kom-El-Chouqafa is renowned for being one of the seven wonders of the Middle Ages. This would be the largest burial site of the Greco-Roman period. It is also the largest Roman funeral site in the country, which gives it a rather... unique character. Visiting Alexandria without passing through the catacombs would be a shame!

To access the underground galleries, visit the Karmouz district.

8. Observe the column of Pompey

When we go to Alexandria, it is customary to go to discover this impressive monolithic column of 29 meters high. Located in the archaeological park of Alexandria, at the site of the Serapéum, it would have been erected in honour of the Emperor Diocletian.

9. Spread in the Anfushi fish market

Alexandria is the largest seaport in the country. Fishing is therefore an integral part of the life of alexandrins. The Anfushi fish market is therefore to be done in Alexandria and for cause: it promises an authentic and typical experience! A tip: to immerse yourself in places, do not hesitate to get up early to see the fishermen land.

10. Visit the Royal Jewellery Museum

Located in a palace dating from the 20th century, the museum displays the jewels of the families of Vice-roy Méhémet Ali. For the little story, the palace in which the museum is located belonged to Princess Fatma Ali Heider Fadel. Today it is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

11. To see and do also in Alexandria

You thought you were done visiting Alexandria? Not so fast, the one that is surnamed the eternal city is not left! However, other sites deserve the attention of travellers.

• This is the case, for example, of religious monuments such as the Ibrahim Terbana Mosques and Abu el-Abbas el-Mursi, the Coptic Cathedral of Saint Mark of Alexandria, or the Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation.
• Among the museums there is also the museum Mahmoud Said (the famous Egyptian painter of the twentieth century) located in a sumptuous Italian villa.
• Would you like to enjoy the sea? Go to the beach of Mamoura.
• To immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city, towards the Café Trianon. This small, vintage-looking establishment is the venue for dominos players. Without forgetting, of course, the souks, overflowing with life. It is an opportunity to stroll and bring back memories.
• Finally, don't neglect the gastronomy. For example, it is an opportunity to taste houmous, puree of chick peas, or tahina, cream based on sesame. Without forgetting the fish dishes, as well as the tasty oriental pastries.

How to get to Alexandria?

From France

From France, several companies offer flights with stopovers in Cairo or Istanbul. From Paris to Alexandria, it takes about 4h30 to fly. To benefit from the best rates, prefer stays during the hollow season and compare flights in advance on a platform like Ulysses .

Once on site, Alexandria Airport, Borg El Arab (HBE) is 60 kilometres from the city centre, which is about an hour’s drive away. To reach the centre of Alexandria, you can opt for the taxi or private transfer. In fact, check with your hotel: many complexes include for an extra charge, transfer from and to the airport.

From Cairo

Would you like to visit Alexandria from Cairo? To do this, you will have to travel the 225 kilometers that separate the two cities.

Here you have the choice between:

• The train (from Ramsès Station) or the bus. Each day, several buses and trains take the route to Alexandria station. Count three to four hours. Side There are buses and trains every day and they drop the travellers to the city, Alexandria station.
• Taxi : faster (about two hours), the taxi is more expensive.
• The plane : internal flights make the journey even faster, however the cost is also higher.

How to get around in Alexandria?

You can walk the city by taking the buses or trams. Again, it is also possible to take a taxi. They are easily recognized with their yellow and black bodywork. However, it is best to set the price of the race before driving! In any case, whether it is a bus, tram or taxi, the rates remain very reasonable.

Where to stay in Alexandria?

To visit Alexandria, prefer the hotel. First of all, know that it is recommended to book in advance to have a choice, a good value for money and above all, to have the chosen dates! For this, think first of all to gauge offers and prices on one Compare hotels . Take the time to discover the services, analyze the reviews and get the most interesting rates.

On the pitch side, it is best to choose your accommodation in the historic centre, sea front. As a result, the Corniche is an excellent drop point. It is in this area that most hotels are distributed. It is also the ideal location if you want to be close to monuments and enjoy local life.