Best Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria, Egypt’s vibrant coastal city, blends ancient history with modern allure along the Mediterranean shore. Once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it offers a treasure trove of archaeological sites, bustling markets, serene beaches, and cultural landmarks for every traveler.

Unveiling Ancient Mysteries Underground

Delve into the subterranean world of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a mesmerizing fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. Discovered accidentally in the early 20th century, this multi-level necropolis features spiral staircases leading to burial chambers adorned with intricate carvings of gods in hybrid attire—Anubis in Roman toga, serpents entwined with Greco-Roman motifs. The main rotunda, capable of hosting funeral banquets, showcases ornate pillars and false doors symbolizing the afterlife journey.

Navigating the three tiers requires caution: the lowest level remains flooded, preserving eerie silence. Entry involves descending 80 steps into cool, dimly lit passages where echoes amplify the sense of timeless discovery. This site stands as one of Egypt’s most unique funerary complexes, drawing history enthusiasts to ponder its evolution from a single-family tomb to a vast communal resting place over centuries.

Roman Echoes in the Heart of the City

The Roman Amphitheater at Kom el-Dikka emerges as a highlight amid urban rubble, the only such structure in Egypt. Dating to the 2nd century AD, its 13 marble tiers seated up to 800 spectators for plays, concerts, and athletic events. Well-preserved mosaics depict mythological scenes, while adjacent baths and villas hint at a once-luxurious residential quarter.

Surrounding ruins include lecture halls and mosaic-floored streets, offering a glimpse into Graeco-Roman daily life. The site’s uncrowded atmosphere allows peaceful exploration, with acoustics still impressive enough for impromptu performances. Pair this visit with the nearby Greco-Roman Museum, housing artifacts like sphinxes and busts that contextualize Alexandria’s Hellenistic heritage.

Iconic Coastal Fortresses and Lighthouses

Perched on the eastern harbor’s tip, Qaitbay Citadel commands panoramic sea views, built in 1477 atop the Pharos Lighthouse ruins—one of antiquity’s Seven Wonders. This Mamluk fortress, restored after 19th-century damage, now functions as a maritime museum displaying cannons, anchors, and naval relics. Climb its ramparts for vistas of fishing boats and the distant cityscape, especially magical at sunset.

Inside, explore honey-colored halls with the city’s oldest mosque, its mihrab niche glowing under arched ceilings. The site’s strategic position defended Alexandria for centuries, symbolizing the city’s enduring maritime legacy. Nearby, the harbor buzzes with ferries and dhows, inviting strolls along the Corniche promenade.

Reviving the Legacy of Knowledge

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern homage to its ancient predecessor, rises as a sunray-shaped marvel on the waterfront. Opened in 2002, this cultural complex houses millions of books, hosts exhibitions, and features a planetarium, manuscript museum, and antiquities hall. Its granite facade, inscribed with global scripts, embodies universal scholarship.

Inside, the main reading room spans 11 cascading levels under a 160-meter glass roof, accommodating 8,000 scholars. Interactive displays on ancient Alexandria’s intellectual golden age—from Euclid’s geometry to Hypatia’s philosophy—captivate visitors. Evening light shows project onto the exterior, transforming it into a beacon of enlightenment.

Temples, Pillars, and Sacred Sites

Pompey’s Pillar, a 27-meter granite monolith atop a Serapeum hillock, commemorates Emperor Diocletian’s victories despite its misleading name. Flanked by sphinxes, it overlooks subterranean crypts once storing Library overflow scrolls. The adjacent Serapeum temple, destroyed in 391 AD by zealots, was dedicated to Serapis, Alexandria’s protector deity.

• Climb for sweeping city views.
• Explore two-level crypts with niches for sacred animals.
• Admire surviving granite columns and reliefs.

St. Mark’s Cathedral, Egypt’s Coptic Christianity birthplace, features ornate icons and chandeliers under a towering dome. Sidi Morsi Mosque dazzles with pink granite pillars, arabesque walls, and stained-glass lanterns, best visited during evening prayers for lively Ramadan vibes.

Palaces, Gardens, and Beach Escapes

Montaza Palace Gardens span 150 hectares of lush greenery, once King Farouk’s summer retreat. Though the palace is off-limits, wander palm-shaded paths, picnic amid flowerbeds, and relax on beaches like Cleopatra or Nefertiti. The Tea Pavilion on Nelson’s Island offers refreshments with sea breezes.

Anfushi’s fishing neighborhood pulses with authenticity: haggle at Al Midan fish market for grilled prawns or kebda Eskandarany—spicy liver wraps. Sandy stretches like Mamoura Beach provide sunbathing and water sports, contrasting urban hustle.

Culinary Delights Along the Waterfront

Alexandria’s cuisine shines seaside, from market-fresh catches cooked on-site to Ottoman-inspired mezze. Stroll the 40-km Corniche for ice cream and people-watching, or join food tours sampling hammam zarda—a sweet semolina pudding.

Practical Planning for Your Visit

Best Time: October to April for mild weather (20-25°C). Summers hit 35°C+ with humidity.

Getting There: Trains from Cairo (2-3 hours), flights to Borg El Arab Airport (45 min drive).

Getting Around: Microbuses, taxis (Uber/Careem), or horse carriages for charm.

Tickets: Combo passes save on sites like catacombs (150 EGP), amphitheater (60 EGP).

Stay: Corniche hotels for views, Anfushi for budget vibes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top must-see in Alexandria?

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina tops lists for its architectural splendor and cultural depth, followed by Qaitbay Citadel for history and views.

Is Alexandria safe for solo travelers?

Yes, stick to tourist areas, use registered transport, and visit sites daytime. Women may prefer modest dress at mosques.

How many days needed?

2-3 days cover majors; add a day for beaches or day trips to El Alamein.

Are there beaches in Alexandria?

Yes, Montaza and Mamoura offer public sands; private resorts provide loungers and watersports.

Best food experiences?

Fish market feasts and Corniche seafood grills deliver authentic flavors.

Day Trip Itineraries

1. History Focus: Morning catacombs, lunch Anfushi, afternoon amphitheater/Pompey’s Pillar, sunset Qaitbay.
2. Culture & Relaxation: Bibliotheca, Greco-Roman Museum, Montaza Gardens picnic, evening Corniche stroll.
3. Markets & Mosques: Al Midan market, Sidi Morsi, St. Mark’s, beach time.

Alexandria captivates with layers of history, flavor, and sea-kissed serenity—perfect for immersive escapes.