Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt, coming right after Cairo. You will find that Alexandria is right next to the Mediterranean sea, and that alone is enough reason to visit it. If you ever dreamt of going to Africa and visiting some of the countries there, you must start with Egypt, specifically Alexandria, Egypt. Stick around and read about the many things to do in Alexandria.
Don’t confuse Egypt’s Alexandria with the USA’s Alexandria. There is a reason why Alexandria, Egypt, was named like this. If you are a history enthusiast, you will be delighted to know that Alexandria was named after its founder, Alexander the Great, in 331 BC. Impressive, right?
On the other hand, those who love literature won’t be disappointed, nor will they feel left out. This is because Alexandria, Egypt, was home to many poets and artists. The most famous poet in Alexandria was the Greek poet C. P. Cavafy.
Tip: If you want to read some of Cavafy’s works, I recommend An Old Man. It is somewhat melancholic, but that does not take away anything from its beauty.
Back to Alexandria. Many buildings in the ancient city of Alexandria were destroyed due to unfortunate events like earthquakes and tsunamis. Despite that, it’s still famous for its beauty and amazing historical and modern places.
Now that we mentioned all of that, you must be excited to know the must-visit places in Alexandria, Egypt, and this is exactly what I’m going to do. But before I tell you about the beautiful places in Alexandria, you should know the difference between Cairo and Alexandria. I prefer Alexandria, and by the end of this article, you will probably prefer it too!
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Alexandria vs. Cairo
This comparison between Alexandria and Cairo has been here forever; even Egyptians still compare the two cities. Both have their beauty, so you can’t pick one of the two and say definitively that this is the best city. Such a choice depends on each one’s personal preference.
While Cairo has more historical places, Alexandria has a view to die for; trust me, when you see it in real life, you will believe me. This view I’m talking about is the beauty of the Mediterranean sea.
The entirety of Alexandria is right next to it, and you can get to enjoy the view by walking down the Corniche; this is the word used in Egypt rather than using promenade.
So what would make you choose Alexandria over Cairo? The quietness. Think of the busy streets in New York because this is what Cairo is like. The Egyptian capital is a very busy and bustling place. So it could be a perfect choice if you don’t mind some loudness now and then. Also, it could work for you if you were an extrovert; I can’t relate, to be honest!
But Alexandria? Alexandria, on the other hand, offers you a calm and quiet experience, but not very quiet. The distance between Cairo and Alexandria, Egypt, is about 3 hours. So, if you were to go to Cairo and then go to Alexandria, you would understand the huge difference in atmosphere.
Sometimes, I complain about traffic in Alexandria, but then I talk to my friends in Cairo, and when they describe what traffic looks like there, I quickly become very thankful!
So now that I told you some background about Alexandria, Egypt, and how it is different than Cairo, I’m going to tell you the best things to do while in Alexandria!
TourTeller’s Pick – Best Alexandria Tours!
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Top Things to do in Alexandria
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Our first suggestion is a must-see for anyone who visits Alexandria, Egypt. Seriously, if you are on a tour of Alexandria and they don’t plan on taking you to Bibliotheca Alexandrina, then they probably won’t give you the best experience of the city.
First, this is the place for you if you love history and books. If you don’t? You would still appreciate Bibliotheca Alexandrina when you see it.
You will find Bibliotheca Alexandrina, located near the old location of the Great Library of Alexandria. Unfortunately, the ancient Great Library was burnt down in the 1st century. It would probably be satisfying to find out who burned the library and keep blaming him for the rest of history, but we don’t know who did it.
There are different theories and guesses, and one of them accuses Julius Caesar. But we can never know the truth. What we do know is that Egypt was quick to replace it by building Bibliotheca Alexandrina in 2002. Despite being somewhat contemporary, it is still considered a historical place.
Inside the library, there is a reading room that contains over 8 million books. Don’t worry; you won’t get lost. The library floors are divided according to book genres, and you will find several signs that help you find the right section for whatever book you are looking for.
If you are more of a see-rather-than-read person, you can still check the museums inside Bibliotheca Alexandrina. For example, you can check The Manuscript Museum, which includes many ancient scripts that professionals have restored.
Libraries are for everyone, no matter what their age is. But if your kids are not fans of books, then there are many activities they can do. Bibliotheca Alexandrina has a Planetarium and also a Science Museum. So you can still enjoy your time with your family. You would be surprised by the number of adults who enjoy the Planetarium.
- Location: Al Azaritah WA Ash Shatebi, Bab Sharqi, Alexandria Governorate 21526
- Admission prices: $ 2.85 for individuals, $0.41 for university students and senior citizens, and $0.20 for school students. Please note that these prices are converted from Egyptian currency and may change according to current value changes.
- Opening hours: Sun–Thu, 10:00 am –7:00 pm. Sat, 10:00 am –2:00 pm.
Citadel of Qaitbay
Another thing to do in Alexandria, Egypt, is to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay. You guessed correctly if you thought it was a historical place due to using “Citadel” in its name! Here is another place for history enthusiasts.
Like Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Citadel of Qaitbay was also built near another destroyed historical place. This place is the Pharos Lighthouse. Losing such a place becomes sadder when we learn that the Pharos Lighthouse was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Unlike the Great Library, there are no theories regarding who destroyed it. The Pharos Lighthouse was destroyed after three earthquakes hit it. So even though we lost one of the world’s wonders, we are lucky to have a beautiful replacement with its history and significance.
The Citadel of Qaitbay isn’t modern at all. It was built in 1477 by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay. He built it to protect Alexandria from attacks, but now it’s more peaceful, and thankfully it wasn’t destroyed.
The beauty of the Citadel of Qaitbay is that it’s next to the Mediterranean sea coast and at the Eastern harbor. Inside the fort, you will get the chance to see its chambers. You can also enjoy the Mediterranean sea view by climbing up to the roof.
So if you are up to exploring beautiful historical places, the Citadel of Qaitbay is the right place for you because of its location and architecture.
- Location: As Sayalah Sharq, Qesm Al Gomrok, Alexandria Governorate 5321431
- Tickets: $2.44
- Opening hours: 9 am – 8 pm
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Our next suggestion is to go to the Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa. Yes, it is another historical place, and it is worth mentioning; Egypt has historical places everywhere, be it in Cairo or Alexandria.
Let’s get to know more about it. The Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa were originally built in the 2nd century CE. However, people didn’t get to enjoy the catacombs at that time because we only discovered them in 1900. And it was by accident. Guess being curious is not a bad thing anymore.
For art lovers, the Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqqafa is the perfect example of how Egyptian and Greco-Roman mixed in a way. There are several chambers and tombs there, which are spread across three tiers; the dead bodies of the Pharaohs were lowered there.
So yes, it is somewhat eerie to be inside such a place, but it is worth the experience!
- Location: Kom Al Shokafa, Alexandria 21599, Egypt
- Tickets: $3.25 for individuals. $1.63 for students.
- Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm.
Mahmoud Said Museum
As you can see, Alexandria has many historical places that are related to Egyptian civilization in a way. History is nice and everything, but what if it’s not your scene? What if you prefer artistic places more than historical places like forts and tombs? If you are a fan of art, Alexandria won’t disappoint you!
Anyone who enjoys art and is enthusiastic about learning different art styles worldwide should visit Mahmoud Said Museum.
Before becoming a museum, this Italian-style villa was the home of Egyptian painter Mahmoud Said. It only became a museum displaying his works after he passed away.
Do not worry about not being able to relate to the work because Said is an Egyptian artist. In reality, his art is relevant to our times since his works were modern enough for people to declare Mahmoud Said the father of modern painting.
Inside the museum, you will get the chance to view Said’s art and the different styles of paintings. You will also notice that despite having European qualities, Said’s works still carry elements and indications of Egyptian civilization and influence.
I find Mahmoud Said Museum worth the visit. But if you are still unsure, you can check a website dedicated to Mahmoud Said, which covers his life and provides some of his paintings.
- Website: http://www.mahmoud-said.com/aboutMS.html
- Location: San Stefano, El Raml 1, Alexandria Governorate 5451102
- Opening hours: the museum is open from 9 am – 4 pm. It closes on Friday and Monday.
Montazah Palace & Gardens
Let me tell you that this is the perfect destination for you and your loved ones if you are a fan of natural places and fresh air. You will find Montazah Palace on the eastern side of Alexandria. It’s historically significant, especially because it was built for King Farouk and became the summer house for him and his family.
You would be at a loss for words when you see the palace and its Florentine-inspired towers. Unfortunately, the palace is off-limits, but that does not mean you cannot enjoy the beautiful gardens and natural scenery.
- Location: Al Mandarah Bahri, Montaza 2, Alexandria Governorate 5527001
- Tickets: $1.02
- Opening hours: 8 am – 12 am (after midnight)
Stanley Bridge
This is our last suggestion, and it is one of the most famous places in Alexandria. It may sound like a normal place that no one goes to, but it is the opposite. Not only does Stanley Bridge offer you fresh air, but it also gives you a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean sea.
The bridge is 400m, and it is right above the sea. You can stroll along it and take amazing pictures that will make your trip unforgettable. Or you could enjoy a night walk and bring your loved ones to enjoy the sunset from there with you.
There is also a beach below it which you can enjoy if you visit in the summer. There are also several restaurants and cafes around it, so you won’t be looking for a place to eat after you stroll along.
Of course, there are no opening hours or tickets to walk by it; you can enjoy this amazing view for free!
- Location: Fleming, Sidi Gaber, Alexandria
We have told you about the top 5 things to do in Alexandria, Egypt. All of them are amazing places that deserve a visit. Keep following us to learn everything you need to know about Alexandria and Egypt in general.
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