EG
Alexandria
Egypt’s Mediterranean city, founded by Alexander the Great, with a seafront Corniche, Roman catacombs and a landmark library
Egypt’s Mediterranean city, founded by Alexander the Great, with a seafront Corniche, Roman catacombs and a landmark library
A striking modern library opened in 2002 to revive the spirit of the ancient Library of Alexandria, with museums, a planetarium and a vast reading room.
Photo: Cary Bass, CC BY-SA 3.0
A 15th-century fortress built at the entrance to the Eastern Harbour on the site of the ancient Pharos lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Photo: Slyronit, CC BY-SA 4.0
A multi-level Roman-era burial complex cut into the rock, with carvings that blend Egyptian, Greek and Roman styles.
Photo: Following Hadrian, CC BY-SA 2.0
Extensive royal gardens and beaches around a former palace of the Egyptian royal family, at the eastern end of the Corniche.
Photo: علاء, CC BY-SA 3.0
Alexandria is known for seafood: choose fresh fish at a seafood restaurant and have it grilled or fried. Also try liver sandwiches (kebda iskandarani) and historic patisseries.
Seafront restaurants along the Corniche and around the Eastern Harbour are popular in the evenings.
Trains from Cairo take about two and a half to three hours. Borg El Arab Airport, south-west of the city, has domestic and international flights. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way around.
Most visitors need a visa. You can apply online for an e-visa (US$25) or buy a visa on arrival at airports (US$30 since 1 March 2026); both allow stays of up to 30 days. The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). The US State Department rates Egypt Level 2 (exercise increased caution), with “do not travel” advice for northern and middle Sinai and border areas. Check current rules and advice before you travel.
Alexandria is good value, with modest entrance fees.
Ancient and modern Alexandria.
Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, walk the Corniche to the Citadel of Qaitbay, and eat seafood by the harbour.
See the catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman theatre at Kom el-Dikka, then relax in the Montaza gardens.
Tipping is expected for many small services; carry small notes in Egyptian pounds.
Alexandria works as a day trip from Cairo, but an overnight stay is more relaxed.
City beaches are crowded in summer; the Montaza area is calmer.
Winters are cool and rainy, unlike the rest of Egypt.
Quick answers for planning time in Alexandria.
Most visitors do: an e-visa costs US$25 online, or a visa on arrival US$30, each for up to 30 days.
About two and a half to three hours by train.
No, it collapsed centuries ago; the Citadel of Qaitbay stands on its site.
Yes, for its Mediterranean atmosphere, seafood, catacombs and modern library.
Spring and autumn; summer is hot and humid, and winter can be rainy.
Google Maps works well in cities; download offline maps for desert areas.
Free
Arabic is the language; English is common in tourist businesses.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Egypt travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.