Alexandria

الإسكندرية

Egypt's second-largest city and ancient Mediterranean port founded by Alexander the Great, featuring the iconic Citadel of Qaitbay built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. The city blends Greco-Roman history with Hellenistic culture, offering museums, beaches, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere unmatched elsewhere in Egypt.

Things to do

• Citadel of Qaitbay — Explore this 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, offering panoramic Mediterranean views and displays of maritime history.
• Alexandria National Museum — Tour this mansion filled with Greco-Roman statues, mummies, and artifacts spanning 3,000 years of Egyptian and Hellenistic civilization.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina — Visit the modern revival of the ancient library with millions of books, manuscripts, and rotating exhibitions celebrating Mediterranean scholarship.
• Corniche waterfront walk — Stroll the seafront boulevard lined with cafes, beaches, and colonial architecture while watching fishing boats and cargo ships pass.
• Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa — Descend into this underground burial complex showcasing a fusion of Egyptian and Roman funerary practices with intricate carvings and sculptural details.
• Pompey's Pillar — Visit this towering red granite column erected in 292 CE, standing amid temple ruins and offering insight into Roman-era Alexandria.
• Montaza Palace and Gardens — Wander through lush royal gardens surrounding this early 20th-century palace on a peninsula, combining Ottoman and modern architecture.

Food to try

• Sayadiya — A coastal specialty of fresh fish baked with fragrant rice infused with cumin and topped with crispy fried onions, reflecting Alexandria's seafaring heritage.
• Calamari and shrimp grilled — Freshly caught squid and prawns seasoned simply with lemon, garlic, and olive oil, best enjoyed at waterfront fish restaurants along the Corniche.
• Alexandrian mixed grill — A plate combining kebab, kofta, and grilled liver served with baladi bread, tahini, and fresh salad—a hearty local favorite.
• Falafel sandwich — Crispy chickpea fritters stuffed into pita bread with hummus, pickled vegetables, and tahini sauce, sold at street stands and casual eateries throughout the city.
• Om Ali — A warm, creamy dessert of layered pastry, milk, coconut, and raisins baked until golden, commonly served at the end of meals.
• Fresh juice and sugarcane — Vibrant seasonal juices of mango, guava, or orange, and freshly pressed sugarcane juice served ice-cold from street carts as refreshing local drinks.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly at religious sites — When visiting mosques or conservative areas, wear loose clothing covering shoulders and knees to show respect for local Islamic customs.
• Bargaining is expected in markets — Haggling over prices is a normal and enjoyable part of shopping in Alexandria's souks and bazaars, so engage with vendors in a friendly manner.
• Evening social culture — Alexandrians gather at cafes and along the Corniche after sunset to socialize, drink tea or coffee, and smoke shisha—joining this relaxed evening rhythm is welcomed.
• Respect during prayer times — Be aware that Muslims pray five times daily; shops may close briefly and the atmosphere quiets, so avoid disturbances and show consideration during these hours.