Explore Alexandria, Egypt: A One-Day Sightseeing Itinerary

Alexandria, Egypt

1 days

Citadel of the Qaitbay
Alexandria seafront
Ruins of the Greco-Roman bath walls and arches
Modern time library of Alexandria
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi mosque

About Alexandria, Egypt

Experience the enchanting blend of history and modernity in Alexandria, Egypt. This Mediterranean city, founded by Alexander the Great, is a treasure trove of ancient wonders like the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and Pompey's Pillar. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a tribute to the ancient Great Library of Alexandria, and explore the Montaza Palace gardens. Enjoy the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and bustling markets. Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade offering stunning sea views. Dive into the underwater archaeological sites, or relax on the city's beautiful beaches. Alexandria's rich history, combined with its warm, welcoming atmosphere, makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Cultural and Historical Highlights of Alexandria

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a major library and cultural center located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a commemoration of the Library of Alexandria that was lost in antiquity and is a significant architectural marvel.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. Try some local delicacies like Ful Medames, Koshari, and Shawarma.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Alexandria National Museum which houses more than 1,800 artifacts that narrate the story of Alexandria and Egypt. Later, visit the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Egypt.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Try some seafood dishes, a specialty of Alexandria.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade running along the Eastern Harbor. Enjoy the cool breeze and the beautiful view of the illuminated Qaitbay Citadel.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

1
Bibliotheca Alexandrina

A major library and cultural center located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is both a commemoration of the Library of Alexandria that was lost in antiquity and an attempt to rekindle something of the brilliance that this earlier center of study and erudition represented.

Attractions
Museums
Architecture
Alexandria National Museum

2
Alexandria National Museum

Houses over 1800 artifacts that narrate the story of Alexandria and Egypt.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Roman Amphitheatre

3
Roman Amphitheatre

The only known Roman amphitheater in Egypt.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Corniche

4
Corniche

A waterfront promenade corniche in Alexandria, Egypt, running along the Eastern Harbor.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Qaitbay Citadel

5
Qaitbay Citadel

A 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ful Medames

Ful Medames

A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans, olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon. It's a staple food in Alexandria and is often eaten with bread.

Koshary

Koshary

A popular Egyptian dish made from rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce and caramelized onions. It's a common street food in Alexandria.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A Middle Eastern meat preparation, where lamb, chicken, turkey, beef, veal, or mixed meats are placed on a spit, and may be grilled for as long as a day. It's a popular fast food choice in Alexandria.

Molokhia

Molokhia

A traditional Egyptian soup made from the leaves of the jute plant, chicken broth, garlic and coriander. It's a common home-cooked meal in Alexandria.

Mahshi

Mahshi

A traditional Egyptian dish made of vegetables like peppers, cabbage, tomatoes, and grape leaves stuffed with a rice mix. It's a popular dish in Alexandria.

Ta'meya

Ta'meya

Egyptian version of falafel made from fava beans instead of chickpeas. It's a common breakfast and street food in Alexandria.

Shish Tawook

Shish Tawook

A popular Middle Eastern chicken skewer dish. It's commonly found in restaurants and street food stalls in Alexandria.

Baba Ghanoush

Baba Ghanoush

A Levantine appetizer of mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahina, olive oil, and various seasonings. It's a popular starter in Alexandria.

Om Ali

Om Ali

A traditional Egyptian dessert made with puff pastry, milk, and nuts. It's a popular sweet treat in Alexandria.

Sugarcane Juice

Sugarcane Juice

A refreshing drink made from the juice of sugarcane. It's a popular street drink in Alexandria, especially during the hot summer months.

Shai

Shai

Egyptian tea, often served with mint or other herbs. It's a common drink in Alexandria, enjoyed at any time of the day.

Sahlab

Sahlab

A warm, creamy drink made from the tubers of the orchid plant, milk, and sugar. It's a popular winter drink in Alexandria.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Alexandria, Egypt is during the spring months from March to June or during the fall months from September to November. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history. The summer months can get quite hot and humid, while the winter months can be a bit chilly, especially at night.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 7

Sun

Coptic Christmas Day

January 25

Thu

Revolution Day January 25

April 10

Wed

Eid el Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid el Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid el Fitr Holiday

April 25

Thu

Sinai Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 6

Mon

Spring Festival

June 16

Sun

Arafat Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 19

Wed

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 30

Sun

June 30 Revolution

July 4

Thu

Day off for June 30 Revolution

July 8

Mon

Muharram

July 23

Tue

Revolution Day July 23

July 25

Thu

Day off for Revolution Day July 23

September 16

Mon

Prophet Mohamed's Birthday

October 6

Sun

Armed Forces Day

October 10

Thu

Day off for Armed Forces Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Alexandria's tram system is one of the oldest in the world, and it's a popular way to get around the city. It's a slow but scenic way to travel, especially the route that runs along the Corniche.

Taxis are plentiful in Alexandria and can be hailed from the street. They're a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group. Make sure to agree on a fare before you start your journey.

Uber is available in Alexandria and can be a convenient and reliable way to get around. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone, and the fare is automatically charged to your credit card.

Careem is a ride-hailing app similar to Uber that's popular in the Middle East. It operates in Alexandria and offers a reliable and convenient way to get around the city.

Microbuses are a common form of public transportation in Alexandria. They're small minibuses that run fixed routes around the city. They can be crowded, but they're a cheap and efficient way to travel.

If you prefer to drive yourself, you can hire a car from one of the many car rental companies in Alexandria. Remember that traffic in Egypt can be chaotic, and you'll need an international driving permit.

Cycling is a popular way to get around in Alexandria, especially in the more touristy areas. There are several places where you can rent bicycles.

Many of Alexandria's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be aware that pedestrian infrastructure may be lacking in some areas.

Boats are a fun and scenic way to travel in Alexandria. You can take a boat tour of the harbor, or use a ferry to cross the Eastern Harbor to the district of Bahary.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency£ EGP

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 123; Fire: 180; Police: 122

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Alexandria, Egypt as a first time visitor

1

Alexandria is located on the Mediterranean Sea, so it has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.

2

The official language is Arabic, but English and French are widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small vendors.

4

Tipping is customary in Egypt. It's common to tip waitstaff, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.

5

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

6

The tap water in Alexandria is generally safe to drink, but many visitors choose to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach upset.

7

Public transportation in Alexandria includes trams, buses, and taxis. It's also easy to walk around the city center.

8

Alexandria is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

The standard voltage in Egypt is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F.

10

Alexandria is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).

11

The peak tourist season in Alexandria is during the summer months of July and August. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider traveling in the spring or fall.

12

Alexandria has a variety of cuisine to offer, from traditional Egyptian dishes to Mediterranean and international fare.

13

It's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive in Egypt.

14

If you're a U.S. citizen, you'll need a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain one upon arrival at the airport, or in advance through the Egyptian consulate.

15

Alexandria is known for its bustling markets. Remember to haggle when shopping, as it's a common practice in Egypt.

16

Smoking is very common in Egypt, and many restaurants and cafes have smoking and non-smoking sections.

17

The summer temperatures in Alexandria can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C).

18

Egyptian law requires that everyone carry identification at all times. As a tourist, it's a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport.

19

Egypt has strict laws against drug use and possession. Even small amounts can lead to long prison sentences.

20

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Egypt, especially between people of the opposite sex.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

مع السلامة

Ma'a as-salama

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Making a request

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Expressing gratitude

Yes

نعم

Na'am

Agreeing or confirming

No

لا

La

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asif

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

Not understanding something

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna al-hammam?

Asking for directions

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking the price of something

I need a doctor

أحتاج إلى طبيب

Ahtaj ila tabib

In case of emergency

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musa'adati?

Asking for help

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Food

طعام

Ta'am

Talking about food

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Asking for or talking about accommodation

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Transportation

Airport

مطار

Matar

Transportation

Police

شرطة

Shurta

In case of emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Swimsuit (if planning to swim)

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter for Egyptian outlets

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Travel guidebook for Alexandria

  • Map of Alexandria

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel pillow for the journey

  • First aid kit

Weather Conditions

Alexandria, Egypt, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The city's weather is generally pleasant and predictable, making it a great destination for tourists year-round. If you're planning to visit Alexandria during the summer months (June to August), be prepared for high temperatures. The average high can reach up to 87°F (30.5°C) during the day. It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and use sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. The winter months (December to February) in Alexandria are quite mild compared to other regions. The average temperature during this time ranges from 48°F to 66°F (8.8°C to 18.8°C). It's the rainy season, so it's a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Despite the rain, winter can be a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Alexandria. During these seasons, the weather is typically warm and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.6°C). These are perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's historical sites. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriately. Enjoy your visit to Alexandria!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

18° / 9°

January is the coldest month in Alexandria, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rainfall.

February

19° / 9°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a mix of sunny and rainy days.

March

22° / 11°

March marks the beginning of spring, with warmer temperatures and more sunshine.

April

25° / 14°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

May

29° / 17°

May sees a significant increase in temperature, but the weather remains comfortable for outdoor activities.

June

32° / 21°

June marks the beginning of summer, with hot days and warm nights.

July

33° / 23°

July is the hottest month in Alexandria, with high humidity and little rainfall.

August

34° / 24°

August continues the trend of hot and humid weather, with high temperatures throughout the day.

September

32° / 22°

September marks the end of summer, with temperatures gradually decreasing.

October

28° / 19°

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

November

24° / 15°

November marks the beginning of winter, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall.

December

20° / 11°

December is a cool month with moderate temperatures, perfect for enjoying the city's indoor attractions.

Did you know?

Did you know that Alexandria, Egypt was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC?

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