Traveler's Toolkit

Essential Guide

Everything you need to know before you go.
Daily Cost
$25 - $65
Best Time
Mar - May / Sep - Nov
Visa Policy
On Arrival / e-Visa
Time Zone
GMT+2

Alexandria covers 32 kilometres of Egypt's Mediterranean coast. Alexander the Great founded the city in 331 BC. The city features a cosmopolitan character, anchored by the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina which honours the ancient Great Library. The architecture reflects early 20th-century European influences.

The waterfront Corniche offers extensive sea views. The Citadel of Qaitbay occupies the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Pompey's Pillar and the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa highlight Roman-era ruins. The city has a distinct Mediterranean climate, making it cooler and slower-paced than Cairo.

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Alexandria is 220 kilometres north of Cairo. The ALEX express train from Cairo's Ramses Station is the fastest route. First-class train coaches take 2.5 hours and cost under $5. Private buses take 2.5 to 3 hours. Borg El Arab Airport handles limited international flights. Most visitors fly into Cairo and transfer by train.

The Corniche is the prime location for hotels, offering sea views and proximity to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The Montaza district features quieter beach resorts near the Royal Montaza Palace gardens. Downtown offers budget accommodation near the historic tram line. Quality hotels range from $30 to $80 per night.

A vintage tram network covers the city from Raml Station to Victoria. Rides cost EGP 2 to 3. Uber and Careem operate reliably for longer distances. Yellow street taxis require fare negotiation, with most trips costing EGP 30 to 50. The 5-kilometre Corniche promenade is ideal for walking between major sights.

Alexandria serves exceptional seafood. The fish market at Anfushi allows diners to select fresh catch to be cooked to order. A grilled fish platter typically costs EGP 200 to 500. The city also features bakeries offering Egyptian-Greek fusion pastries, including baklava and European-style cakes.

Traveler Handbook

Smart Tips for a Better Trip

Avoid common mistakes and travel like a local with these actionable insights.

  • Tour the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Must Do

    The modern library holds 8 million books, four museums, and a planetarium. The main reading hall is massive. The building's exterior features characters from global writing systems. A complete visit requires 2 to 3 hours.

  • Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay Iconic View

    This 15th-century fortress stands on the former site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria. The battlements offer excellent Mediterranean views. Entry costs EGP 60 for foreign visitors. A small naval museum operates inside the complex.

  • Travel by Train from Cairo Travel Tip

    The ALEX express trains are air-conditioned and reliable. First-class tickets cost EGP 100 to 150. Trains depart Ramses Station hourly and arrive at Misr Station in central Alexandria. This method is vastly superior to the bus services.

  • Descend into the Catacombs Hidden Gem

    The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are a 2nd-century underground tomb complex. The site blends Egyptian, Greek, and Roman burial art across three levels. Mid-morning visits avoid the largest crowds.

  • Relax at Montaza Palace Gardens Relaxation

    The Montaza Palace complex spans 370 acres of gardens overlooking a private bay. The grounds are open to the public for EGP 25. The Al-Haramlik palace operates as a small museum. The gardens provide a quiet retreat from the city centre.

  • Culture
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    Alexandria
    Alexandria Private Full-Day Tour of Historical From Cairo Alexandria Private Full-Day Tour of Historical From Cairo
    Culture

    Alexandria Private Full-Day Tour of Historical From Cairo

    $70.00 USD
    / PER PERSON

Walk Through the Timeless Streets of Alexandria

From ancient landmarks and seaside cafés to historic libraries and Mediterranean views, Alexandria brings together Egypt’s rich history and relaxed coastal charm in one unforgettable destination.

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