Historical archaeological site considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, located in Alexandria, Egypt, is a historical archaeological site that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It's a multi-level labyrinth featuring dozens of chambers adorned with carvings and frescoes that reflect the city's rich and diverse history. The catacombs are a testament to the blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures that defined Alexandria in ancient times. /n The site is divided into three levels, the lowest of which is submerged under water. The catacombs were originally used as a burial site, with the capacity to hold up to 300 bodies. The intricate carvings and frescoes that adorn the walls of the catacombs depict scenes from Greek mythology, a reflection of the city's Hellenistic influences. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture vultures, offering a unique insight into the city's past.

A historical archaeological site, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a significant symbol of Alexandria's rich past.

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

The Alexandria National Museum, located in a restored Italianate mansion in the city's downtown, is a treasure trove of artifacts that showcase the city's rich history. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from different eras, including the Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods. /n The museum's exhibits are arranged chronologically, offering visitors a comprehensive overview of the city's history from ancient times to the modern era. Highlights include a collection of Graeco-Roman statues, mummies, and a replica of the Rosetta Stone. The museum also features a section dedicated to the underwater archaeology of Alexandria, showcasing artifacts recovered from the city's harbor. The Alexandria National Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the city's past.

The Alexandria National Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts showcasing the city's rich history.

A 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast, which was established by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay. The Citadel is situated on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island at the mouth of the Eastern Harbour.

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast. It has been known as one of the most important defensive strongholds, not only in Egypt, but also along the Mediterranean Sea coast. /n The Citadel is situated at the entrance of the eastern harbour on the eastern point of the Pharos Island. It was erected on the exact site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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

A beautiful palace surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The palace and gardens are a great example of early 20th century architecture.

Montaza Palace and Gardens is a beautiful complex located at the eastern edge of Alexandria. The complex features a royal palace, which was the summer residence of the Egyptian royal family, and expansive gardens that stretch over 150 acres. The palace, built in a unique blend of Turkish and Florentine styles, is a testament to the city's architectural grandeur. /n The gardens are a haven of tranquility, featuring a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The complex also includes several beaches and a historic bridge. A visit to Montaza Palace and Gardens offers a glimpse into the city's royal past and is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking to enjoy some peace and quiet amidst beautiful surroundings, Montaza Palace and Gardens is a must-visit when in Alexandria.

Montaza Palace and Gardens is a beautiful complex featuring a royal palace and expansive gardens.

A venue for music performances and cultural events.

The Alexandria Opera House, also known as Sayed Darwish Theatre, is a hub for cultural and artistic events. It was named after the famous Egyptian singer and composer Sayed Darwish and is a part of the Egyptian National Cultural Institutes. /n The theatre is a multi-purpose hall that can host up to 1,500 attendees and offers a variety of performances, including opera, symphony concerts, and ballet. The building itself is a beautiful example of the neo-classical style, with a facade featuring columns and intricate decorative elements. The interior is equally impressive, with a large stage, luxurious seating, and excellent acoustics. The Alexandria Opera House is not only a place to enjoy high-quality performances but also a monument to the city's rich cultural history.

The Alexandria Opera House, also known as Sayed Darwish Theatre, is a hub for cultural and artistic events.

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.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major library and cultural center located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in Alexandria. It is a commemoration of the Library of Alexandria that was lost in antiquity. /n The library has shelf space for eight million books, with the main reading room covering 70,000 square meters on eleven cascading levels. It also houses a conference center, specialized libraries for maps, multimedia, the blind and visually impaired, young people, and for children.

A major library and cultural center located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea.

The only known Roman amphitheater in Egypt.

The Roman Amphitheatre in Alexandria is an ancient site that was discovered by chance while foundations for a new building were being dug. /n The amphitheatre has twelve semi-circular marble tiers and is the only Roman amphitheatre found in Egypt. It is a testament to the city's rich history and the influence of Roman architecture and culture in Alexandria.

An ancient amphitheatre discovered in the city of Alexandria.

A modern landmark and popular viewpoint in Alexandria.

Stanley Bridge is a modern landmark in Alexandria, Egypt. This 400-meter long bridge, built over Stanley Bay, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city's skyline. The bridge is beautifully lit up at night, making it a great spot for evening walks. /n The bridge is also a great spot for photography, with its elegant design and stunning views. It's a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy the cool sea breeze. The area around the bridge is also worth exploring, with its beautiful beaches, restaurants, and cafes. Stanley Bridge is not just a bridge, but a symbol of Alexandria's modernity and progress.

Stanley Bridge is a modern landmark in Alexandria, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

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.

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Alexandria National Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a historical site that combines Roman, Greek, and Egyptian styles. It's a fascinating glimpse into the past and a great way to kick off your adventure in Alexandria.

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like koshari, molokhia, or ful medames for an authentic taste of Egypt.

After lunch, head to the Alexandria National Museum. This museum houses over 1,800 artifacts that narrate the history of Alexandria from ancient times to the present.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant offering a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Try seafood dishes for a taste of the local cuisine.

End your day with a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It's a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Exploring the Historical Sites of Alexandria

Citadel of Qaitbay

Montaza Palace and Gardens

Alexandria Opera House

Begin your second day with a visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast. It's a great spot for photography and offers panoramic views of the sea.

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the local specialty, Alexandrian liver, a dish that is unique to this city.

Spend the afternoon exploring Montaza Palace and Gardens. The palace is a beautiful example of late 19th-century architecture, and the gardens are a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the sea.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the local dish, sayadeya, a fish and rice dish that is a staple in Alexandria.

Spend the evening at the Alexandria Opera House, where you can enjoy a performance of traditional Egyptian music or dance.

Discovering the Architectural Marvels of Alexandria

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Roman Amphitheatre

Stanley Bridge

Start your final day with a visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a major library and cultural center. It's a modern architectural marvel and a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria.

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the local dish, shawarma, a popular street food in Alexandria.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Egypt. It's a fascinating glimpse into the city's past.

For your final dinner in Alexandria, enjoy a meal at a restaurant with a view of the city. Try a variety of Egyptian dishes to round off your culinary experience.

End your trip with a visit to the Stanley Bridge, a modern landmark of Alexandria. The bridge is beautifully lit at night and offers stunning views of the city and the sea.

Immersing in the Cultural and Modern Landmarks of Alexandria

UTC+2

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.

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.

Ful Medames

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.

Koshary

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.

Shawarma

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.

Molokhia

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.

Mahshi

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

Ta'meya

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

Shish Tawook

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

Baba Ghanoush

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

Om Ali

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

Sugarcane Juice

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

Shai

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

Sahlab

Coptic Christmas Day

Revolution Day January 25

Day off for Revolution Day January 25

Spring Festival

Eid el Fitr Holiday

Eid el Fitr

Sinai Liberation Day

Labor Day

Day off for Labor Day

Arafat Day

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 30 Revolution

Day off for June 30 Revolution

Public Holiday

Muharram

Day off for Muharram

Revolution Day July 23

Prophet Mohamed's Birthday

Armed Forces Day

Day off for Revolution Day July 23

Day off for Armed Forces Day

Famous for Rosetta Stone, a granodiorite stele inscribed with a decree issued at Memphis in 196 BC.

Rosetta (Rashid)

Known for its military museum and war memorials from World War II.

El Alamein

A city that lies in northeast Egypt extending about 30 km along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Port Said

Egypt's sprawling capital, set on the Nile River, known for its own history, preserved in the fabulous medieval Islamic city and Coptic sites in Old Cairo.

Cairo

Famous for its water wheels and lush agricultural lands, it's a great place to experience Egypt's rural life.

Fayoum

A seaport city in north-eastern Egypt, located on the north coast of the Gulf of Suez.

Suez

Known for its preserved pharaonic monuments including Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the nearby Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.

Luxor

A resort town between the desert of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea, known for its sheltered sandy beaches, clear waters and coral reefs.

Sharm El Sheikh

A beach resort town stretching some 40km along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, known for scuba diving, and has numerous dive shops and schools in its modern Sekalla district.

Hurghada

Aswan

Siwa Oasis

Ruins of the Greco-Roman bath walls and arches

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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3-Day Local Adventure Experience with Friends in Alexandria, Egypt

About Alexandria, Egypt