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Top 10 Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt This Year

February 25, 2025

Top 10 Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt This Year

Alexandria is a city founded by Alexander the Great over 2,000 years ago, Alexandria has been a center of culture, trade, and intellectual life since its inception.

In this article, we’ll take you through the things to do in Alexandria Egypt and tips that will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Things to Know About Alexandria

Located on the northern coast of Egypt along the Mediterranean, Alexandria is a city that captivates with its blend of ancient ruins and modern allure.

Once the intellectual capital of the ancient world, home to the legendary Great Library and the towering Pharos Lighthouse (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Alexandria remains steeped in history.

Today, visitors can explore world-class museums, historic fortresses, bustling waterfront promenades, and vibrant neighborhoods that showcase a blend of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and modern influences.

Getting to and Around Alexandria

Alexandria is easily accessible from Cairo—just a 2–3‑hour train ride away on comfortable, air‑conditioned services. For those arriving internationally, Borg El Arab International Airport serves Alexandria and its surrounding areas.

Alternatively, private transfers, buses, or rental cars are convenient options if you prefer flexibility and comfort. Once in Alexandria, getting around is part of the adventure. Many of the city’s top attractions lie along the Corniche, making them easily reachable by foot.

Taxis, rideshare apps like Uber or Careem, and the iconic double‑decker trams offer additional ways to explore wider areas. For those who enjoy local culture, don’t miss out on riding a tram—an experience that lets you absorb the everyday rhythms of Alexandrian life.

Best time to visit

Alexandria enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and warm summers. For the most pleasant weather, plan your visit during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) months. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Local etiquette & safety

Alexandria is generally a safe city for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Learn a few basic Arabic greetings—locals appreciate the effort, and it can enhance your travel experience.

Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt

1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina

No trip to Alexandria is complete without a visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina—a modern re‑imagining of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Inaugurated in 2002, this striking 11‑storey building is a beacon of culture and knowledge. Its innovative design features a tilted, disc‑shaped roof of grey granite blocks, evoking the sun’s rays over the Mediterranean.

Inside, the library houses a collection of approximately 1.8 million books, alongside specialized museums, art galleries, and even a planetarium. With its multi‑lingual displays and engaging exhibitions, Bibliotheca Alexandrina isn’t just a library—it’s a cultural center where you can spend hours exploring Egypt’s intellectual heritage

2. Fort Qaitbay

Perched on the very spot where the ancient Pharos Lighthouse once stood, Fort Qaitbay is a 15th‑century defensive fortress that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Built by Sultan Qaitbay using salvaged stones from the ruined lighthouse, this citadel served as a guardian of Alexandria’s coast.

Wander through its stone corridors, explore the cannons and battlements, and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the bustling harbor and azure sea. As the sun sets, the fort’s historic walls glow with a magical light, making it a perfect spot for an evening stroll or photography session.

3. Pompey’s Pillar

Rising majestically in the heart of the city, Pompey’s Pillar is one of Alexandria’s most iconic monuments. Despite its name, the towering red granite column is not directly linked to the Roman general Pompey but was instead built to honor Emperor Diocletian around 297 AD.

This 27‑meter‑high column, surrounded by remnants of ancient temples, stands as a testament to Alexandria’s rich Greco‑Roman heritage. Nearby, you can also explore the ruins of the Serapeum—a once grand temple complex dedicated to the Greco‑Egyptian god Serapis.

4. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Dive deep into Alexandria’s underground history by visiting the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages, these catacombs showcase an extraordinary blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman burial traditions.

Winding through three levels of tombs, passageways, and chambers carved into the bedrock, the catacombs feature intriguing sculptures, intricate reliefs, and ancient inscriptions. Originally intended as a family tomb, the site later expanded to accommodate numerous burials over several centuries.

5. Roman Amphitheatre & Kom El Dikka

History comes alive at the Roman Amphitheatre in the Kom El Dikka area—a site that once served as a hub for public entertainment during the Roman era. Discovered in the 1960s, this well‑preserved amphitheatre is known for its intricate mosaics and impressive acoustics.

Kom El Dikka itself is an archaeological treasure trove that includes remnants of Roman baths, lecture halls, and luxurious villas adorned with beautiful mosaic floors. As you stroll through this ancient civic center, you’ll gain a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of Alexandria’s Roman inhabitants.

6. Graeco‑Roman Museum

Housed in a stately neoclassical building, the Graeco‑Roman Museum is a must‑visit for anyone interested in Alexandria’s multi‑layered past. The museum’s collection spans thousands of years, from the Greco‑Roman period through to later epochs, with over 6,000 artefacts on display.

Stroll through 27 themed halls featuring sculptures, mosaic floors, coins, and everyday objects that illustrate the fusion of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian influences. One highlight is an impressive statue of a Ptolemaic queen, which reflects the opulence and artistic excellence of ancient Alexandria.

7. Alexandria National Museum

For a comprehensive overview of Alexandria’s history, the Alexandria National Museum is an essential stop. Housed in a beautifully restored Italian‑style palace that once served as the U.S. consulate, the museum presents an eclectic collection of around 1,800 artefacts.

Divided into three floors, the museum takes you on a journey from the Pharaonic era through the Greco‑Roman and Islamic periods to modern times. Highlights include intricately decorated funerary chambers, exquisite jewelry, and relics that shed light on the city’s evolution over millennia.

8. Montazah Gardens & Palace

Escape the city at Montazah Gardens, a sprawling 150‑acre royal park located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. Once the private gardens of the royal family, today the park is a verdant oasis where locals and visitors alike enjoy leisurely picnics, bike rides, and walks along scenic pathways.

The gardens offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and feature lush landscaping, ancient palm trees, and charming pavilions. Adjacent to the gardens, you can catch a glimpse of the Montazah Palace—a former royal residence that now adds a touch of regal elegance to the coastal landscape.

9. Alexandrian cuisine

No travel experience is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and Alexandria is renowned for its delicious seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes. Here are some culinary highlights and tips to savor the flavors of this coastal city:

Seafood specialties: Fresh fish, shrimp, calamari, and crabs are abundant along Alexandria’s Corniche. Local restaurants, such as those near Fort Qaitbay or along the Fish Market Marina, serve up grilled and fried seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
Liver (Kebda): A beloved street food in Alexandria, thinly sliced liver sautéed with onions and spices is a must‑try for adventurous eaters.
Café culture: Stop by historic cafés like Trianon and Delices for a cup of Egyptian coffee or tea and sample sweet pastries and desserts.
Local markets: Wander through the bustling souks and markets to sample fresh juices, spices, and local delicacies that reflect Alexandria’s multicultural heritage.

10. Explore Alexandria by the sea

The Mediterranean coastline is one of Alexandria’s greatest assets. Here are a few ways to enjoy the city’s maritime charm:

The corniche: This waterfront promenade stretches along the harbor and offers spectacular sea views, lively cafés, and street vendors selling souvenirs. It’s the perfect place for an evening walk as the sun sets over the water.
Felucca rides: Step aboard a traditional felucca—a wooden sailing boat—and glide along the harbor. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the sea breeze and see Alexandria from a different perspective.
Beach outings: While Alexandria is primarily known for its historical attractions, its beaches (like Mamoura Beach) provide a relaxing retreat. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm Mediterranean waters, and enjoying fresh seafood by the shore.

Sample Itinerary for a Day in Alexandria

Morning

• 8:00 am: Start your day with breakfast at a local café along the Corniche. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast of ful medames (fava beans), fresh bread, and local cheese.
• 9:00 am: Head to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Take a guided tour to learn about its architecture, collections, and cultural significance.

Midday

• 11:00 am: Drive or take a taxi to Fort Qaitbay. Explore the fortress, climb the towers, and snap photos of the panoramic harbor views.
• 12:30 pm: Enjoy a seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant with views of the Mediterranean—try the grilled fish or fried calamari.

Afternoon

• 2:00 pm: Visit Pompey’s Pillar and then continue on to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Spend an hour exploring the underground passageways and ancient tombs.
• 3:30 pm: Head over to the Roman Amphitheatre at Kom El Dikka. Marvel at the mosaics and imagine the ancient performances that once graced this space.

Late Afternoon

• 5:00 pm: Stop by the Graeco‑Roman Museum for a quick tour of its extensive artefact collection.
• 6:00 pm: Return to the Corniche for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront as the sun begins to set.

Evening

• 7:00 pm: Cap off your day with a visit to Montazah Gardens. Relax on a bench, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and perhaps pick up an ice cream from a local vendor.
• 8:00 pm: If time allows, dine at one of Alexandria’s traditional restaurants before heading back to your accommodation.

Family-friendly Activities

Alexandria is an excellent destination for families. In addition to historical sites, the city offers several activities that cater to younger visitors:

Planetarium shows: The Bibliotheca Alexandrina hosts engaging planetarium shows that are both educational and entertaining for children.
Parks and gardens: Montazah Gardens is ideal for a family picnic, with open spaces for kids to run around and play.
Interactive museums: Some museums offer interactive exhibits designed for younger audiences, making learning fun and engaging.

Don’t forget to share your own experiences and tips in the comments below.