Alexandria: Must-See Landmarks
Alexandria, the Mediterranean Pearl, blends ancient roots with seaside charm. Top things to do include visiting the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, exploring the ancient Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and touring the historic Citadel of Qaitbay. You can stroll along the scenic Corniche, relax in the lush Montaza Palace Gardens, and enjoy a plate of delicious seafood right on the beach. Many Egypt tours include Alexandria as a highlight, offering travelers a seamless way to experience its Greco-Roman heritage, vibrant culture, and coastal beauty. With its unique blend of history and leisure, Alexandria is a must-see stop on any Egypt itinerary.
Sitting atop the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, Alexandria is a compelling blend of ancient greatness, beachfront style, and local modernity. Often lost to Cairo and Luxor, this ancient city deserves to be the center of attention all on its own. From Pharaonic and Greco-Roman ruins to sea-worn promenades and family parks, Alexandria is a panorama and an intimacy that are never to be forgotten.
Here is your ultimate travel guide for the top things to do in Alexandria, Egypt, categorized into themes to cater to every type of traveler history buffs to beach lovers to families.
Top 10 Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt
- Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay Situated on the location of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this 15th-century citadel is a historical and cultural treasure. Standing at the tip of the eastern harbor, it provides an impressive view of the Mediterranean and what a more ideal place to start your Alexandria journey.
- Explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina This modern-day resurrection of the ancient Library of Alexandria is not just a library it's an experience. With a host of museums, exhibitions, and beautiful architecture, it's a must-visit destination for history aficionados and curious minds.
- Visit the Catacombs of Kom El ShoqafaThese 2nd-century AD tombs are a mysterious subterranean labyrinth of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art and civilization. The spiral staircase, carved stone coffins, and symbolic sculpture are the attractions that make it one of Alexandria's most renowned sightseeing spots.
- Visit the SerapeumTower and Pompey's Pillar 26 meters above the rest of the ruins, Pompey's Pillar is among the last Roman landmarks remaining in Alexandria. Stop by the Serapeum ruins and the sphinxes standing above history when you are there.
- See a Performance at the Roman AmphitheatreNestled in Kom El-Dikka district, this intact Greco-Roman amphitheater held 800 and still hosts cultural performances. Adjacent ruins of baths and lecture halls provide some insight into Roman city life.
- Relax in the Montaza Palace GardensA haven of palm fronds, flowers, and dazzling architecture, the Montaza Gardens are the perfect place to enjoy an easygoing walk or family excursion. The gardens spill directly onto small, swim-capable beaches perfect for a dip in the ocean.
- Enjoy Seafood Feast in BaharyThe specialty of Alexandria is seafood, and the most enjoyable way to have it is in a sea harbor-side eatery. Fresh fish are plucked from display tanks and cooked to your taste. Grilled mullet, calamari, or sayadieh (rice-topped spiced fish) are to be ordered.
- Shop at Souq El-AttarineThis old market, located close to the historic Islamic quarter, is a riot of colors and smells. You can buy spices, incense, fabric, antiquities, and plenty more. It's an excellent place to get the feel of the city and some unique souvenirs.
- Take a Corniche Sunset WalkThe Corniche, the city's seaside promenade along the Mediterranean, follows an east-west trajectory along the sea. Perfect for couples, singles, and families alike, it is especially enchanting at sunset, when the sea is golden and city lights begin to flicker.
- Visit the Alexandria National Museum It's housed in a restored Italian palace and contains over 1,800 artifacts from ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods. It's an excellent place to understand the city's multilayered history.
Where Pharaohs Meet the Sea: Historical Wonders of Alexandria
Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and evolved into one of the finest of the ancient world's cities. The city boasted the Great Library and the Lighthouse, both of which are among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While most of the city is lost now under modern streets or at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, enough survived so that you might glimpse its glory.
Beach Life and Corniche Nights: Alexandria's Leisure
Alexandria is not a tropical beach holiday destination, but its less rowdy Mediterranean climate is the ideal setting for laid-back beach life. Public beaches like Stanley Beach and Maamoura Beach with sunbeds, cafes, and safe pools to swim in round out the offer. More privately, think of the Montaza complex's private beaches or San Stefano's.
At sunset time, city atmosphere is changed. There are busy seaside cafes with a crowd of locals and the Corniche aglow, and at evening, couples walk hand in hand with a cone of mango ice cream or sahlab (spiced milk).
the top family‑friendly activities in Alexandria
Alexandria, Virginia boasts a wide variety of family-friendly activities suitable for everyone. The family can opt to explore the interactive displays at the Torpedo Factory Art Center or delve deep into history at museums like Gadsby's Tavern Museum and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. There is outdoor enjoyment at Cameron Run Regional Park with its water slides and mini-golf, and bayfront in Old Town with bay views, picnic sites, and casual strolls. Kids enjoy the King Street Trolley tour and surrounding playgrounds like Windmill Hill Park as well. From interactive discovery, historical forays, or just mindlessly strolling along the river, Alexandria has something for every member of your family.
Top Parks, Cafes, and Promenades in Alexandria
- Rest weary sightseeing eyes with: A coffee at Délices or Trianon, old-fashioned European-style cafés with sea view.A walk through Antoniades Gardens, Egypt's oldest landscaped gardens.A rooftop tea at Cecil Hotel for a glimpse of the harbor of Alexandria.
- Whether tracing Cleopatra's footsteps, sipping mint tea by the sea, or strolling in palace gardens, Alexandria is a synthesis of history, elegance, and charm. Explore legendary sites such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Catacombs, and Citadel of Qaitbay, or simply relax on the Corniche and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Alexandria is a city full of history and charm, which offers many attractions and activities. Explore the world-famous attractions like Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and Citadel of Qaitbay. Go for a walk along the beautiful Corniche, relax in the beautiful Montaza Gardens, or explore local markets and cute cafes. From nature to sea to history, Alexandria has something for everyone
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