Things To Do
in Alexandria
Alexandria, Egypt, is a historic port city on the Mediterranean Sea, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It was home to the Pharos, a lighthouse that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Library, a center of learning and scholarship.
Today, Alexandria is a vibrant city that blends ancient history with modern life, attracting tourists with its archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, and bustling markets.
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the awe-inspiring Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library that honors the ancient Library of Alexandria. Enjoy the exhibitions and panoramic views from the rooftop.
Stroll along the Corniche and visit the citadel of Qaitbay, which offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean. Explore its museum to learn about the history of the area.
Dine at a seaside restaurant to enjoy local dishes while watching the sunset. It's a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.
Begin your day at the Roman Amphitheater, an impressive site that showcases ancient architecture. Explore the surrounding area for more ruins.
Discover the Greco-Roman Museum which houses artifacts from ancient times. Spend time learning about the city's rich multicultural heritage.
Attend a live performance at the Royal Jewelry Museum, where you can experience local arts. Enjoy a light dinner at a cafe nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, including ancient landmarks like the Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of Alexandria.
- Beautiful Mediterranean coastline and pleasant climate.
- Cultural diversity with influences from various civilizations.
- Vibrant culinary scene with delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
- Access to various cultural events and festivals.
- High population density can lead to congestion and overcrowding.
- Limited public transportation options compared to other major cities.
- Some areas may face economic challenges and poverty.
- Environmental issues, including pollution and waste management.
- Political instability in the region may affect safety and security.
Best Activities in Alexandria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning modern library complex and its exhibits, including the planetarium and museum.
Enjoy the beautiful gardens and waterfront views at this historic palace complex.
Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and gardens.
Visit this ancient column, part of a Roman temple complex, and explore the nearby Serapeum ruins.
Tours
Uncover the best of Alexandria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Alexandria
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea and beautiful gardens.
Provides a unique and historical backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Boasts a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean coastline.
Food in Alexandria
Alexandria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans, usually topped with olive oil, parsley, and other optional seasonings. Best enjoyed at local breakfast spots like Mohamed Ahmed in Raml Station.
Must-Try!
Seasoned rice, onions, and a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes are stuffed into vine leaves or other vegetables, then baked or stewed. Try it at El Shekh Wafik Restaurant for an authentic taste.
A sumptuous seafood dish consisting of fried or grilled fish served on a bed of fragrant spiced rice. Visit Fish Market in Al Mandarah to savor this local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Alexandria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and busiest markets in Alexandria, offering a wide array of street food, fresh produce, and local snacks, including koshari, falafel, and shawarma.
A bustling spot where you can sample freshly caught seafood prepared in various ways, such as grilled, fried, or barbecued, while taking in stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Alexandria, it's common to shake hands and exchange pleasantries. It's important to address people using their titles and last names as a sign of respect.
When visiting public places in Alexandria, it's respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Women are advised to cover their shoulders and knees, and both men and women should remove their shoes before entering a mosque.
When dining in Alexandria, it's customary to wait to be seated and to compliment the host's cooking. It's polite to accept food and drink offerings, and it's respectful to eat with the right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Alexandria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Alexandria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Alexandria, Egypt, tipping is generally expected for good service in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants, unless a service charge is already included. For taxi rides, rounding up the fare is common practice.
In Alexandria, Egypt, cash is the preferred method of payment in many establishments, although credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. It is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Alexandria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, beautiful flowers in bloom, and less crowded tourist sites.
Hot and dry weather, ideal for beach activities and diving in the Mediterranean Sea.
Warm temperatures, pleasant sea breezes, and comfortable conditions for exploring historical sites.
Cool temperatures, occasional rain, and a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists, but many indoor cultural attractions to explore.
Alexandria at Night
Hiking in Alexandria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large public park with walking paths, beautiful gardens, and coastal views, suitable for leisurely hikes.
Located within Montazah Gardens, offering scenic routes along the beach and beautiful landscapes.
A historic citadel with surrounding pathways that allows for a combination of hiking and exploring the rich history of Alexandria.
A beach area where you can hike along the coastline, enjoying the sea breeze and local scenery.
A natural lake with trails around it providing opportunities for hiking while enjoying views of the water.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Alexandria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Alexandria by plane.
Located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Alexandria, this airport serves as the main international gateway for the region.
The busiest airport in Egypt, located about 220 kilometers southeast of Alexandria, providing extensive international and domestic flight services.
Approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Alexandria, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, particularly to tourists visiting the Red Sea.
Located about 500 kilometers southeast of Alexandria, this airport primarily serves tourists traveling to the Sinai Peninsula.
Situated approximately 600 kilometers south of Alexandria, it caters mainly to tourists visiting Luxor and the surrounding historical sites.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Alexandria, representing the majority of the population, primarily speaking Arabic.
Historically significant community with a rich cultural heritage, though their numbers have diminished over the years.
An important community in the past, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but now largely diminished.
The indigenous Christian population of Egypt, present in Alexandria, contributing to the cultural and religious diversity.
A smaller community with some historical presence, particularly in trade and commerce.
Once a notable community in Alexandria, now significantly reduced in number since the mid-20th century.
Includes various expatriates and foreign nationals residing in Alexandria for work or study, including individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The Soul of Alexandria
Discover the essence of Alexandria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Alexandria, with many local teams and a passionate fan base. The city is home to Al Ittihad and Al Moharram clubs.
Enjoyed by many, Alexandria has several clubs and participates in regional and national competitions.
Both indoor and beach volleyball are popular, with many local tournaments and a strong participation from schools and clubs.
A widely played sport in schools and clubs, Alexandria has a competitive handball scene with both male and female teams.
Track and field events are popular in schools and towards local competitions, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alexandria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian options like stuffed vine leaves, falafel, and koshari. Vegan choices may be more limited, so it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly.
Locally, it may be challenging to find dedicated gluten-free establishments, but some restaurants might offer naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats, salads, and rice-based meals. Always communicate your dietary needs to the staff for a tailored experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Alexandria with these cultural adventures.
