Things to Do in Alexandria: 3-Day Itinerary

Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was the capital of Egypt for nearly 1,000 years. It was home to two of the ancient world's greatest wonders: the Great Library and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Julius Caesar set the library on fire, and earthquakes destroyed the lighthouse.

Fortunately, Alexandria was reborn in modern times as a vibrant metropolis and has become a popular tourist destination in Egypt. The remnants of its glorious past are still here. The lighthouse was replaced by a defensive fortress and a brand new Bibliotheca Alexandrina was built 22 years ago.

Whether you wish to explore Roman ruins and catacombs, visit some of the best museums in all of Egypt, or enjoy a stroll along a beautiful seafront promenade and swim in the Mediterranean Sea, there is so much to do and see in the so-called Bride of the Mediterranean.

This 3-day itinerary will help you plan your trip to Alexandria. Our guide to this vibrant city includes a list of the best things to do in Alexandria, as well as tips on where to stay. We’ve also put together a list of the best restaurants in the city and recommendations for day trips from Alexandria.

Day 1

Qaitbay Fort

This stunning defensive fortress from the 15th century is a great introduction to Alex. You are standing in front of the Citadel of Qaitbay, an impressive structure built to protect the city from invasions. It was actually built right on the spot of the world-famous Lighthouse of Alexandria which was destroyed by several earthquakes many centuries ago. Nowadays, for a small fee, visitors can explore various areas of the well-preserved fortress including its towers, a small mosque, and a few rooms. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city center. It takes about 2 hours to explore the Qaitbay Fort.

Alexandria Aquarium

Located right next to the citadel, the Alexandria Aquarium is a lovely place full of colorful fish. Here, you will find marine life from the Mediterranean Sea, as well as a collection of different fish from the Nile River and the Red Sea stored in small tanks. In addition to the aquarium, there is a museum dedicated to ancient marine artifacts and fossils. A statue of the mythical mermaid, a stuffed giant sea turtle, and a skeleton of an enormous whale are just a few of the extraordinary items on display.

Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque

Your next stop is one of the most important Islamic sites in Alexandria, the iconic Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque. Covered by a magnificent central dome and fitted with beautiful decorations and engravings, the mosque looks amazing. It is named after a Sufi saint called Abu Abbas El-Morsy whose tomb can be found inside the mosque. There is a separate entrance for men and women and you will need to take off your shoes when entering this holy site.

Day 1, Morning - Alexandria Tour Map

Afternoon: Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial

In the afternoon, visit a lovely monument with 4 circular marble columns dedicated to the unknown Egyptian naval heroes who lost their lives at sea. Located along the seafront promenade, the Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial also boasts beautiful inscriptions and decorations. The monument looks truly magical at night because of its fabulous lights.

St. Mark's Cathedral

One of the world’s oldest Christian cathedrals, St. Mark's is a Coptic Orthodox church with wonderful architecture and beautiful icons and mosaics. The cathedral stands on the site of the church which was established by the author of the second Gospel, St. Mark. It is also home to the shrine of Saint Mark where his body is buried. Because of security measures, visitors have to pass a few checkpoints and leave their passports with a police officer at the entrance. No photos are allowed inside this majestic cathedral.

Cavafy Museum

After 2 years of restoration, this fabulous museum dedicated to the Alexandrian-Greek poet Constantine Cavafy has finally reopened its doors to visitors in May 2024. Cavafy spent over 2 decades on the 2nd floor of this residential building in Alexandria. The museum houses a wonderful collection of Cavafy’s portraits, books, manuscripts, publications, and paintings, as well as poems displayed in his original handwriting. There are 6 rooms to explore and the entrance to the museum is free of charge.

Greco-Roman Museum

Situated in one of the country’s oldest buildings, this newly renovated museum in Alexandria is all about the antiquities and civilization of Egypt during the Greek and Roman eras. Visitors will find more than 10,000 artifacts spread across multiple floors and 27 halls. Thousands of precious antiques range from sarcophagi, sculptures of different Roman emperors, and Cleopatra to Coptic art, glassware, funerary masks, and metal coins. It is one of the best museums in all of Egypt and you could easily spend 2 to 3 hours here.

Day 1, afternoon - Alexandria Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Wish to know more about Alexandria's ancient inhabitants? Visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground necropolis filled with tombs, statues, and other archaeological objects. An easy Uber ride from downtown Alexandria, this labyrinth of underground passages was discovered by accident when a donkey fell into a well back in the 1900s. There is a map right outside the site which explains everything about these 1st and 2nd century burial chambers. Enter the site via a circular staircase and you will have an opportunity to see everything from the bones of horses and tombs to many figures carved on the walls.

Serapeum of Alexandria

If you are a fan of archaeological sites, you will want to visit the iconic Serapeum of Alexandria. Once an enormous temple built in the third century BCE for the Greco-Egyptian god Serapis, this archaeological treasure in Alexandria is a lovely area to explore. Although there is nothing left of the temple, a massive 27-metre-high pillar dedicated to the Roman emperor Diocletian proudly stands in the middle in the middle of the ruins. There are also a few other exhibits here, but most of them are currently under reconstruction.

El Emary Mosque

Your last stop in the morning is one of the most important mosques in the city’s Karmouz area. The El Emary Mosque may not look as impressive as the Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque, but it’s a very popular house of worship for funeral prayer rituals due to its proximity to the Pillar Cemetery.

Day 2, morning - alexandria Tour Map

Afternoon: Ancient Roman Theater (Kom el Dikka)

These majestic Roman ruins were actually discovered by accident back in 1959 when the local workers began removing piles of rubble and sand to build new homes. An archaeological mission started in the 1960s and uncovered an ancient Roman theater. Nowadays, you can see well-maintained structures such as Roman baths and villas decorated with mosaics.

Museum of Fine Arts, Alexandria

An underrated museum located in the heart of the Moharram Bey District of Alexandria, the Museum of Fine Arts boasts a few art galleries, an exquisite art library, and a cultural center used for concerts workshops, and training courses. Step inside the art galleries to find a collection of sculptures and paintings by Egyptian artists. The most famous works of art at the museum include “The Capture of Louis IX” by Kamel Mostafa and Mahmoud Saeed’s The Carrier of Tools”. The museum also houses works by German, French, and Italian painters such as Artorobicchi, Sebasti, and Manganares.

Alexandria National Museum

Situated inside a restored Italian-style palace, the Alexandria National Museum is a relatively small museum spread across three floors. The underground floor is dedicated to Pharaonic history including an ancient tomb section, the first floor is all about the Greek and Roman history of the city, while the upper floor focuses on Coptic and Islamic periods. There are nearly 1,800 objects ranging from wonderful statues and pharaonic mummies to stunning mosaics and weapons. It takes about an hour or two to explore the museum.

Day 2, afternoon - alexandria Tour Map

Day 3

Morning: Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The city of Alexandria was once home one of the oldest libraries in the world, the Library of Alexandria. Also known as the New Library of Alexandria, Bibliotheca Alexandrina was built in 2002 to restore the former glory. Designed by Norwegian architecture firm Snøhetta, the 11-story building made of grey Aswan granite, glass, and cement looks absolutely stunning with its semi-circular dome. The new library is located on the seashore avenue of Alexandria and houses nearly 2 million books. Don’t miss the main reading room which can accommodate up to 2,000 people. Much more than a library, Bibliotheca Alexandrina is also an art gallery, a museum, a planetarium, and a cultural center that hosts numerous annual events including the famous Alexandria International Book Fair.

El Selsela Café

For a cup of coffee/tea and to enjoy nice views of the Mediterranean Sea, stop by this cute seafront café in Alexandria. El Selsela Café has a cozy outdoor terrace with plenty of tables just a few steps from the sea. It is also a place where you can get your breakfast fix, enjoy shisha, or unwind with a cocktail or two.

Alexandria Corniche

Alexandria has one of the best pedestrian promenades in all of Egypt. Lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and palm trees, Alexandria Corniche is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The views of the Mediterranean Sea are absolutely stunning, especially late in the afternoon just before the sun sets over the sea. There are also a few cool monuments and statues worth checking out.

Day 3, morning - alexandria Tour Map

Afternoon: Mahmoud Said Museum

There was this Egyptian judge called Mahmoud Said. After retiring from his duties, Mahmoud decided to share his love for art with the rest of the country and became an amazing painter. Situated inside a beautiful Italian-style villa in which he once lived, the Mahmoud Said Museum houses about 40 of his paintings. There are three sections to explore which include everything from female nudes and cartoon-like paintings to self-portraits.

Royal Jewelry Museum

With its majestic chandeliers, stained-glass windows, mosaic floors, and oil-painted ceilings, this two-story palace is an architectural gem. Also known as El Kobba El Samaweya, the building houses Alexandria’s iconic Royal Jewelry Museum. Visitors will find over 11,000 pieces of jewelry from the ruling Muhammad Ali Dynasty, as well as a gold chess set, coins, watches, portraits of the royal family, and clocks made of gold. Because of the palace’s gorgeous marble floors, visitors need to wear plastic bags over their footwear when visiting the museum.

Tolip Beach

We have to admit that Alexandria is not as popular beach destination as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, but there are a few private and well-maintained beaches in the city worth stopping by. Although the beach is private to the on-site Tulip Hotel and its guests, you can pay an entrance fee and spend a few hours here. There are sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, as well as a restaurant, café, and bathroom facilities.

San Stefano Grand Plaza

If you are in the mood for shopping, this large shopping mall in Alexandria is where you want to go later in the afternoon. At San Stefano Grand Plaza, visitors will find all the world-famous brands, as well as numerous local shops and boutiques offering clothes, shoes, jewelry, handbags, and much more. The shopping mall also has a bunch of entertainment facilities such as an on-site cinema, a hotel, and an amusement park for the little ones. There is a food court in case you get hungry.

Day 3, afternoon - alexandria Tour Map

Other Things to See in Alexandria

• Antoniades Gardens: The oldest garden in Alexandria, Antoniades Gardens is a nice area to spend a few hours and reconnect with nature. Visitors will find a number of entertainment options here, from bike rentals and a kid’s area with a trampoline to small food booths, football pitches, and tennis courts.

• Montaza Palace and Gardens: Located a short drive from the main tourist area in Alexandria, the largest park in the city is known for its sprawling gardens with exotic flowers, artificial lakes, and a picturesque bridge. The royal family’s summer residence until the 1952 military coup, the luxuriously furnished Montaza Palace is unfortunately not open to the public at the moment. You can rent a bike at the entrance, but you can also just walk around the gardens. It will take you about an hour to explore these lovely royal gardens.

• Stanley Bridge: A nice place to take photos, Stanley Bridge is the first bridge in the country built over the Mediterranean Sea. With its four beautiful Islamic-style towers, the picturesque bridge is 30 meters wide and 400 meters long. It is a popular spot to enjoy sunset views.

• El Mamurah Beach: Located outside the city center of Alexandria and just a short walk from the Montaza Palace and Gardens, El Mamurah Beach is a perfect place to get away from the crowds. It is not so busy even in the summer season, but has all the necessary facilities including showers, chairs, sun umbrellas, and a restaurant. El Mamurah Beach is also a good spot to enjoy water activities like jet skis and banana boats.

• Scuba Diving: One of the most popular water activities in Alexandria is scuba diving. You will find dozens of companies that offer dives of this type along the Corniche. There are many cool dive sites in and around Alexandria. Divers can look forward to discovering ancient ruins and shipwrecks at places such as Cleopatra’s Underwater City and Abu Qir.

• Ras El Tin Palace: Once a grand royal retreat, Ras El Tin Palace stands as one of Egypt’s oldest palaces, built in the 19th century during the reign of Muhammad Ali Pasha. This majestic white palace, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, was once a symbol of power, witnessing key moments in Egypt’s history, including King Farouk’s abdication in 1952 before he sailed into exile. Though the palace remains closed to the public, its grand façade, ornate domes, and seafront location make it an impressive sight from the Alexandria Corniche.

• Al-Mursi Abu Al-Abbas Mosque: Towering over the Anfoushi district, the Al-Mursi Abu Al-Abbas Mosque is Alexandria’s most iconic mosque and a masterpiece of Andalusian architecture. Built in 1775 over the tomb of Sheikh Al-Mursi Abu Al-Abbas, a revered 13th-century Sufi scholar, the mosque is a place of pilgrimage and admiration. The intricately carved façade, towering minaret, and sweeping archways lead visitors into an interior adorned with elegant arabesque patterns, marble columns, and a grand central dome. 

• Alexandria Opera House: A cultural gem hidden in the heart of Alexandria, the Alexandria Opera House—also known as Sayed Darwish Theatre—is a legacy of the city’s golden age of the arts. Built in 1921 and named after Egypt’s legendary composer Sayed Darwish, this beautifully restored theatre showcases elegant Italian-style architecture, complete with grand balconies, intricate carvings, and a stunning chandelier-lit auditorium. Today, the Opera House hosts ballet performances, classical concerts, and theatrical productions.

Day Trips from Alexandria

• El Alamein War Memorial Cemetery: Located in the town of Alamein approximately 110 kilometers from Alexandria, El Alamein War Memorial is one of the most popular day trip options among history buffs. This is where the famous WW2 Battle of El Alamein took place. There is a nice war museum fitted with weapons, models of soldiers, and cannons that you can visit. The outdoor area of the museum houses a few armored vehicles, planes, tanks, and artillery. In addition to this historical museum, the town of Alamein is known for having some of the best beaches in this part of the country.

• Rosetta: Also known as Rashid, Rosetta is a picturesque town with adorable Ottoman-style architecture. Admire the beauty of Fort Julien, a small fort built in the 1st century by the Arabs. There is also the newish Rashid Museum where you can see a replica of the Rosetta Stone, perhaps ”the most famous piece of rock in the world” according to the British Museum. You can visit a few mosques, as well as the town center which is known for its Ottoman-style mansions and houses. It will take you about an hour by car to get from Alexandria to Rosetta.

• Wadi El Natrun: Most people go on a day trip from Alexandria to Wadi El Natrun to see the famous ancient Christian monasteries. Nowadays, there are four monasteries remaining and they are the main attraction for tourists and religious pilgrims. The distance between Alexandria and Wadi El Natrun is 140 kilometers.

• Cairo: The capital of Egypt, Cairo is a must-visit destination. With its world-class museums, majestic mosques, archaeological ruins, and desert dunes, this vibrant metropolis has everything needed for a memorable day trip. Spend an hour or two at the fabulous Egyptian Museum, do your shopping at the 14th-century Khan el-Khalili marketplace, and enjoy panoramic views from the Cairo Tower. If you are planning to go on a day trip from Alexandria to Cairo, it is best to leave early in the morning, as the drive is about 3 hours long.

• Giza Pyramids: We suggest combining a day trip from Cairo with a visit to the world-famous Pyramids of Giza. One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, these majestic structures built for Egyptian kings are part of the Giza Plateau. There are 3 main pyramids to explore (Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure), as well as a few smaller ones. While you are in Giza, you can also visit other tourist attractions such as the Pharaonic Village, the Orman Garden, and the Agricultural Museum.

• St. Mina Monastery:  We recommend taking a trip 50 km southwest of Alexandria to visit St. Mina Monastery, one of Egypt’s most important Coptic pilgrimage sites. Built in honour of Saint Menas, a 3rd-century Roman soldier turned Christian martyr, the monastery houses his ancient relics and a stunning modern cathedral. Beyond its spiritual significance, the complex is an architectural marvel, featuring golden domes, serene courtyards, and intricate mosaics that tell the story of the saint’s miracles.

• Taposiris Magna: Visit Taposiris Magna, an ancient Greco-Roman temple shrouded in mystery and legend. Some believe it to be the final resting place of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, though no evidence has confirmed this theory. Built during the Ptolemaic era, its towering limestone ruins, including a partially standing pylon and intricate reliefs, offer a fascinating glimpse into the fusion of Greek and Egyptian culture. Perched on a hill 45 km west of Alexandria, the site also boasts stunning views of Lake Mariout and the Mediterranean coastline.

Best Golf Courses in Alexandria

• Alexandria Sporting Club: The only golf course in Alexandria is situated inside one of the oldest sporting clubs in the country, the Alexandria Sporting Club. This 18-hole course is flat and can be played by both beginners and seasoned golfers. There is a nice restaurant, a golf club, and a pro shop where you can get caddies, trolleys, and golfing equipment. While you are at the Alexandria Sporting Club, you can also play tennis, basketball, and football.

Things to Do with Kids in Alexandria

• Alexandria Zoo: If you are searching for things to do with kids in Alexandria, the city’s Zoo first comes to mind. You will find the second-largest zoo in the country within the historical Antoniadis Gardens. The zoo contains a lot of animal species such as zebras, leopards, Bengal tigers, lions, elephants, hippopotamus, bears, and monkeys. There are also interactive experiences that the kids love like the petting zoo area where the little ones can touch some of the smaller animals. You can also watch the feeding of the giraffes and check out the on-site museum which houses mummified animals. If your kid gets tired, you can always relax on one of the many benches and shaded areas.

• Kids Station: Visit this indoor play area for kids. It’s a large space with a great variety of activities, from slides and trampolines to toy games with cars and dinosaurs. There is also a small café inside so that the parents can relax, and enjoy drinks and snacks while watching their kids play. The staff is friendly and assists both kids and parents when required.

• Kouta Park: Located on the outskirts of Alexandria and just a short walk from Montaza Palace and Gardens, Kouta Park is a very entertaining outdoor amusement park suitable for both kids and adults. There is a small section with interesting games for the youngest kids and a bunch of rides for older children and adults. Don’t miss the amazing Ferris wheel. A few food stands are located on-site where you can get cotton candy, ice cream, popcorn, drinks, and other refreshments.

• Aqua City Taverna: This aqua park with water games in Alexandria is a great place to take your kids too. There is plenty to look forward to when spending a day at the Aqua City Taverna, from swimming pools to 3 slides for older children. Aqua City Taverna offers a few restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy drinks and food.

Where to Eat in Alexandria

• Mohamed Ahmed Restaurant: Opened over 60 years ago, Mohamed Ahmed is a legendary dining establishment that serves traditional Egyptian cuisine. It is probably the best place in the city to try local delicacies such as falafel and a dish called full which is made with fava beans. The restaurant also serves dishes like roasted eggplant, baba ganoush, and tahini. If you are looking for a place where the locals come to dine, wish to try traditional Egyptian cuisine, and don’t mind the simple décor, book a table at Mohamed Ahmed. Did we mention that everything on the menu is reasonably priced and that the portions are huge?

• White & Blue - Greek Nautical Club: You will find one of the most famous restaurants in Alexandria just a short walk from the Citadel of Qaitbay. The locals call this seafood institution the Greek Club. The restaurant is known for its upscale vibe, elegant décor, a mix of Greek and seafood dishes, and the most amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and the boats docked in the marina. We recommend getting a table on the outdoor terrace and trying Greek specialties like the Greek tzatziki dip, keftedes, feta cheese with honey and sesame, and souvlaki. Seafood and fish options at the Greek Club are plentiful and include grilled octopus, clams, and catch of the day. The restaurant serves alcohol and offers an extensive wine list.

• Délices Patisserie Alexandria: Foodies in Egypt will tell you that the city of Alexandria is best known for its patisserie culture. One of the best dessert shops in the city, Délices Patisserie Alexandria dates back more than 100 years. If you are craving something sweet, look no further than this fabulous Greek café with a lovely outdoor area. Try the signature cassata ice cream, as well as the San Sebastian cheesecake with pistachio sauce and the Greek baklava with cinnamon and honey.

• Jeeda’s: Welcome the first Spanish dining establishment in the city, Jeeda’s. With slick décor and a chef who worked in a 3-Michelin star restaurant in Spain, this restaurant located just a few steps from the Roman Amphitheater is all about mouthwatering Spanish cuisine. The menu includes seafood soup, authentic Spanish tapas, seafood paella, veal risotto, tapas shrimp, and other tasty dishes. You can also choose something from their pasta and pizza menu.

• Fish Market Marina: This is probably the largest fish and seafood restaurant in Alexandria. Located on the waterfront, the Fish Market is for all you seafood lovers visiting the “Bride of the Mediterranean”. The views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Citadel of Qaitbay are amazing and the fish and seafood are always fresh and delicious. Try to sit at a table by a window and choose something from their extensive fish and seafood menu. From clams, lobster, mussels, eel, and crab to fish of the day priced by kilogram, hot fish balls (kofta), and sehlia, there is something for everyone. The restaurant also offers rice and pasta dishes, as well as good wine list. If you are craving something sweet, we definitely recommend ordering the fish market ice cream or crème caramel.

• Sidra By The Citadel: This authentic Lebanese restaurant is located close to the Citadel of Qaitbay. With both indoor and outdoor seating and nice views of the marina and the Mediterranean Sea, Sidra by the Citadel focuses on Lebanese cuisine with a modern twist. On the menu, hungry travelers will find dishes like chicken shawarma, fattoush with pomegranate molasses, tabbouleh, and grilled shish tawooq. If you are visiting with kids, there is a small children’s playground area for the little ones to have fun after the meal. Over the weekends, there is live music in the evenings.

• Sea Gull Restaurant: Restaurants in the Alexandria city center are known to get very busy, especially during the peak season. If you wish to avoid the crowds of fellow tourists and have a pleasant dining experience by the sea, go to the Sea Gull Restaurant. Located on the outskirts of the city and just a few steps from the sea, Sea Gull offers a wide range of fish and seafood dishes cooked to perfection. Whether you are craving seafood tagine, want to try the restaurant’s signature juicy shrimp, or wish to choose fresh fish from the tank and have it cooked the way you like, we highly recommend this seafood restaurant. The décor with plenty of antiques inside looks amazing.

• Chez Gaby Au Ritrovo: A cozy Italian pizza joint close to the Alexandria Opera House, Chez Gaby Au Ritrovo has been serving Italian delights to hungry patrons for more than 40 years. It is a small family-owned restaurant with a 80s vibe. Think red and white tablecloths, dim lighting, and old memorabilia decorating the walls. There is an extensive menu of pasta, soups, salads, and main dishes, and desserts. However, the star of the show is their wood-fired pizza. Some pizzas at Chez Gaby are named after the owner’s friends and family. For dessert, choose between Creme Caramel and Tiramisu. The restaurant also serves beer and Italian wine.

• Santa Lucia: You will find this beautiful restaurant with marble floors, white tablecloths, antique furniture, and a piano in downtown Alexandria. Opened way back in the 1930s, Santa Lucia is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. It’s a place romantic dinners and family gahterings. The menu focuses on Italian, Greek, and French cuisine with favorites such as French onion soup, Greek salad, salmon tartare, foie gras, and chicken cordon blue. Meat lovers can order the delicious Italian oven-baked and topped with demi-glace sauce, osso bucco. If you prefer fish and seafood, the grilled salmon steak is spectacular. There are also delicious desserts such as tiramisu, chocolate flan, and the classic French crème brulee. Pair your meal with a glass of Italian/French rose or sparkling wine.

• Teatro Eskendria: Located in downtown Alexandria, Teatro Eskendria is a restaurant, coffee shop, and cultural/arts center that hosts exhibitions, film screenings, and live music performances. It’s a nicely decorated space with Egyptian décor and paintings from local artists on the walls. The menu is written on a piece of paper and includes dishes like fried chicken plate with rice and potatoes, waffles, and barbeque chicken pizza.

Where to Stay in Alexandria

• Hilton Alexandria Corniche: A luxurious 5-star hotel located a stone’s throw from the beachfront promenade and within walking distance from the Alexandria National Museum, the Hilton Alexandria Corniche is a great place to stay in Alexandria. You will have access to a wonderful rooftop pool, a wellness center, and a few on-site restaurants and bars. There is a shuttle bus that transfers guests to the hotel’s private beach and excursions and day trips can be organized at the front desk. In the evening, choose between Greek, French, and Egyptian cuisine and unwind with a cocktail or a glass of wine at the Jazz Bar. Guests speak highly of the wellness center which has a sauna, steam bath, and a whirlpool.

• Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano: With ornate couches, gorgeous statues, and marble floors, this 5-star hotel is one of the most beautiful hotels that you will find in Alexandria. The hotel’s list of guests is quite impressive and includes everyone from Hollywood celebrities to Mo Salah from Liverpool F.C. Stay in one of the bright seafront suites with private balconies and amazing views of the cornice and the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can go for a dip in the outdoor swimming pool on the fourth floor, enjoy treatments at one of the best hotel spa centers in the country, and have a memorable dining experience at one of the 5 on-site dining establishments.

• Steigenberger Cecil Alexandria: If you prefer historical hotels with a boutique vibe, we recommend booking your stay at Steigenberger Cecil Alexandria. The hotel is situated inside a historical building that once served as the residence of a war commander. This beautifully restored hotel has welcomed many famous guests over the decades including Al Capone, Elizabeth Taylor, and even Winston Churchill. You will be staying right across the street from the sea and close to the famous Saad Zaghloul Square. With original wooden elevators, nicely decorated suites with private balconies, and a grand lobby with beautiful mosaic floors, the hotel itself looks amazing.

• Paradise Inn Le Metropole: Situated inside an 18th-century building, this elegant 4-star boutique hotel offers a range of nicely furnished rooms and suites and a lovely rooftop restaurant where guests can enjoy refined French cuisine and listen to live piano music. What makes Paradise Inn Le Metropole stand out from other hotels in Alexandria is the magnificent Art Nouveau design which can be seen throughout the property. Breakfast is also one of the reasons why people stay at the Paradise Inn Le Metropole. The pitas and croissants are baked to perfection and the cheese omelette is delicious.

• Tolip Hotel Alexandria: This modern 5-star hotel with stylish rooms facing the Mediterranean Sea has everything you need for a family vacation in Alexandria. The beach is just a 5-minute drive away and a shuttle bus leaves every hour from the hotel. If you don’t feel like going to the beach, you can swim in the outdoor pool, enjoy different treatments at the spa center, or work out in the fitness center. The Tolip Hotel Alexandria has 9 dining outlets to choose from, a few areas designed for kids, and an enormous lobby with blue and white marble floors and a giant chandelier.

• SUNRISE Alex Avenue Hotel: With its secluded private beach, 2 lovely outdoor pools, and a variety of restaurants serving basically anything you can think of, the SUNRISE Alex Avenue Hotel seems to tick all the boxes when deciding where to stay in Alexandria. Whether you wish to unwind at the full-service spa and get chocolate therapy treatments, drink cocktails at Lounge Bar and Montreal, try to stay in shape at the state-of-the-art gym, or play tennis, there is so much to do at this 5-star resort in Alexandria. The only downside of the resort is that you will be staying 3 kilometers from the downtown area.

The Best Time to Visit Alexandria

Alexandria has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild and rainy winter seasons. The good news is that Alexandria is not as hot and humid in summer as Cairo, so you could easily visit the city from June to September. During this time of year, the temperatures often reach 30°C which makes it ideal for water activities like swimming in the sea and scuba diving. If you wish to explore the city’s cultural attractions and are planning to walk a lot, we definitely recommend visiting Alexandria during the shoulder seasons, in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During this time of year, the temperature is pleasant, making it a good time to explore the museum, ruins, and galleries.

Alexandria Festivals

• Bibliotheca  Alexandrina International Summer Festival: Held every August, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Summer Festival is a wonderful festival that includes a wide range of events, from workshops and dance performances to theater plays and comedy shows. The highlight of this festival is the music program which typically features both international and renowned Egyptian musicians.