Alexandria
Photo by Nader MoHammed on Pixabay
Updated, Jun 2023
City
Alexandria, located in the north of Egypt, is a city with a rich history and cultural significance. It was once the center of the Hellenistic world and the capital of Egypt during the Ptolemaic dynasty. The city has a unique blend of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Some of the top attractions in Alexandria include the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Montazah Palace, and the Alexandria National Museum. The city is also home to some beautiful beaches and a bustling market scene. Visitors can experience traditional Egyptian hospitality and indulge in local cuisine while exploring the vibrant streets and landmarks of Alexandria.
Best time to visit Alexandria is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months from June to September can be very hot and humid, and are also peak tourist season. Overall, winter is the most convenient and comfortable time to visit Alexandria.
Getting In & Around
Getting in
Borg el Arab Airport
45 km South East from city, Bus: 10 – 20 EGP, Public buses run regularly from the airport to Alexandria. Taxi: 200-250 EGP, depending on the distance and traffic conditions. Shuttle: 100-150 EGP per person
Alexandria Railway Station
Connected by Public transport, waiting rooms, food and beverage options, luggage storage(typically the cost is around 10-15 EGP per bag per day), restrooms, ATMs and currency exchange, Wi-Fi, an information desk, car rental, and taxi services. shops and restaurants nearby
Getting around
Public Transport
Alexandria has affordable and convenient public transport including buses, trams, and microbuses. Bus and tram rides cost 3 EGP while microbuses charge higher fares. Travelers can buy a refillable “Alexandria Card” for discounted fares at the Alexandria Bus Company.
See & Do
In Alexandria, there are several attractions and activities to explore. Begin your journey by visiting the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library that pays homage to the ancient Library of Alexandria.
Stroll along the picturesque Corniche and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an underground burial site showcasing a fusion of ancient Egyptian and Roman art.
Immerse yourself in history at the Qaitbay Citadel, a majestic fortress overlooking the sea. Finally, indulge in the vibrant local cuisine, savoring traditional seafood dishes at the lively restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the city.
Some of the places are:
Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A modern library and cultural center, paying tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was renowned for its vast collection of manuscripts and scholars.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: An underground necropolis dating back to the 2nd century AD, blending ancient Egyptian and Roman architectural styles, and serving as a burial site for both cultures.
Qaitbay Citadel: A 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, guarding the entrance to Alexandria’s harbor and offering panoramic views of the city.
Montaza Palace: A lavish palace complex surrounded by stunning gardens and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, originally constructed in the early 20th century as a summer retreat for the royal family.
Alexandria National Museum: Showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts that depict the rich history of Alexandria, including ancient statues, coins, and everyday objects from various periods of the city’s existence.
Activities
Shop & Dine
Alexandria’s shopping scene is diversified, featuring both busy marketplaces and contemporary malls. For traditional crafts, spices, and mementos, peruse the vivacious Souk El Attarine, or visit the modern San Stefano Grand Plaza for an array of multinational brands.
As far as dining goes, Alexandria has a fantastic culinary scene. Enjoy tasty Egyptian street food, indulge in fresh seafood at neighbourhood seafood eateries, or dine on foreign cuisine at posh restaurants with a view of the water. The city offers a delicious fusion of traditional tastes and contemporary cuisine.
Nearby Places
Rosetta (Rashid): Rosetta is a coastal town located 65 kilometers west of Alexandria. It can be reached by a 1.5 to 2-hour taxi or private car ride, or by a 2-hour bus journey. Explore its Ottoman-era architecture and visit the renowned Rosetta Stone, an ancient artifact that helped decipher hieroglyphics.
El Alamein: Situated 105 kilometers west of Alexandria, El Alamein is a historic site of World War II battles. It is accessible by a 1.5 to 2-hour taxi or private car ride, or a 2 to 3-hour bus journey. Explore war cemeteries, museums, and memorials commemorating the war’s impact.
Borg El Arab: Located 45 kilometers southwest of Alexandria, Borg El Arab offers beautiful beaches and resorts. It can be reached in approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour by taxi, private car, or public transportation like minibusses or shared taxis. Enjoy sandy shores, resorts, and water activities in this coastal retreat.
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