Alexandria is a historic city located on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. It is known for its ancient ruins, including the famous Library of Alexandria and the Citadel of Qaitbay. Visitors can also enjoy the city's beaches, museums, and vibrant markets.
Attractions
Roman Amphitheater
The Roman Amphitheater is an ancient theater dating back to the 2nd century AD, located in the heart of Alexandria's old town. The amphitheater once hosted gladiatorial contests, theatrical performances, and public gatherings, and today stands as a testament to the city's rich Roman heritage. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the theater, including its seating area, stage, and underground chambers, and imagine the spectacles that once took place here.
Qaitbay Citadel
Qaitbay Citadel is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean coast of Alexandria. It was built by Sultan Qaitbay on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Visitors can explore the citadel's towers, courtyards, and stunning views of the sea. The citadel also houses a maritime museum showcasing Alexandria's naval history.
Souq El Attarine
Souq El Attarine is a bustling market in the heart of Alexandria known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of goods. Visitors can browse through stalls selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs, as well as sample traditional Egyptian street food. The market is a great place to experience local culture, haggle with vendors, and pick up unique gifts and mementos.
Alexandria Botanical Garden
The Alexandria Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis located in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The garden features a diverse collection of plants, trees, and flowers from Egypt and around the world, as well as ponds, fountains, and walking paths. Visitors can explore the garden's themed sections, such as the desert garden, the tropical greenhouse, and the aromatic herb garden, and enjoy picnics, birdwatching, and nature walks.
Montazah Palace Gardens
Montazah Palace Gardens is a historic royal park located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. It features lush gardens, palm trees, and a beautiful beach overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the palace, built in a mix of Turkish and Florentine styles, and enjoy stunning views of the sea. The gardens also offer a peaceful escape from the city, with walking paths, fountains, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Alexandria Planetarium
The Alexandria Planetarium is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to astronomy and space science education. The planetarium features a domed theater with a high-resolution digital projector, capable of simulating the night sky and celestial phenomena in stunning detail. Visitors can attend planetarium shows, lectures, and workshops on topics such as the solar system, galaxies, and black holes, and participate in stargazing events and telescope observations. The planetarium also offers educational programs for schools and community groups.
Alexandria Aquarium
The Alexandria Aquarium is a marine park and research center located on the eastern tip of the city. The aquarium features a diverse collection of marine life from the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, and beyond, including colorful fish, sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the aquarium's exhibits, attend educational programs and feeding sessions, and learn about the importance of marine conservation and biodiversity.
Royal Jewelry Museum
The Royal Jewelry Museum is housed in the former palace of Princess Fatma al-Zahra, daughter of Khedive Ismail. The museum showcases a dazzling collection of jewelry, gemstones, and precious artifacts belonging to the Egyptian royal family, dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and design of the pieces on display, as well as learn about the history and significance of royal jewelry in Egypt.
Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are a fascinating underground burial site dating back to the 2nd century AD. Visitors can explore a series of tombs, chambers, and passageways adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes. The catacombs also feature a unique mix of Roman, Egyptian, and Hellenistic architectural styles, making them a must-see for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts.
Citadel of Qaitbay
The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visitors can explore the fortress's well-preserved walls, towers, and courtyards, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The citadel also houses a maritime museum showcasing Alexandria's rich naval history.
El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque
El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque is a historic mosque located in the heart of Alexandria's old town. The mosque, named after a 13th-century Andalusian saint, features a stunning blend of Moorish and Ottoman architectural styles, with intricate marble carvings, colorful mosaics, and a soaring minaret. Visitors can admire the mosque's beautiful interior, attend prayers or religious ceremonies, and explore the surrounding market streets and cafes.
Stanley Bridge
Stanley Bridge is a modern bridge spanning the Eastern Harbor of Alexandria, connecting the city center with the eastern districts. The bridge offers stunning views of the harbor, the Mediterranean Sea, and the city skyline, especially at sunset. Visitors can walk or cycle across the bridge, enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, or simply relax and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Alexandria Zoo
The Alexandria Zoo is a popular family-friendly attraction located in the heart of the city. The zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and exotic birds. Visitors can explore the zoo's spacious enclosures, attend animal feeding and educational programs, and enjoy leisurely walks through the lush gardens and picnic areas. The zoo also offers a playground, train rides, and other activities for children.
Alexandria Corniche
The Alexandria Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade stretching along the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views of the sea, the city skyline, and historic landmarks. Visitors can stroll, jog, or cycle along the corniche, stopping to enjoy the sandy beaches, parks, and cafes along the way. The corniche is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, socialize, and take in the beauty of Alexandria's coastal landscape.
Montaza Palace
Montaza Palace is a royal palace and gardens located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. The palace, built in a blend of Turkish and Florentine architectural styles, served as a summer retreat for the Egyptian royal family. Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens, admire the palace's ornate façade, and enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea. The palace grounds also feature a beach, a royal yacht club, and a casino.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern library and cultural center built to commemorate the ancient Library of Alexandria. Visitors can explore its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and artifacts, as well as attend lectures, exhibitions, and performances. The library's stunning architecture and waterfront location make it a must-visit destination for book lovers and history enthusiasts.
Corniche
The Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean coast of Alexandria. It offers stunning views of the sea, the city skyline, and iconic landmarks like the Citadel of Qaitbay. Visitors can stroll along the palm-lined boulevard, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants overlooking the water.
Pompey's Pillar
Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column standing at over 25 meters tall in the ancient Serapeum of Alexandria. Despite its name, the pillar has no connection to the Roman general Pompey and was likely erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian. Visitors can marvel at the column's sheer size and intricate carvings, as well as explore the ruins of the ancient temple complex that once surrounded it.
Alexandria Beach
Alexandria Beach is a popular seaside destination for locals and tourists looking to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The beach features soft golden sands, clear blue waters, and a range of amenities and activities, including beachfront cafes, water sports rentals, and sun loungers. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or take leisurely walks along the shore, and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city skyline. The beach is a vibrant and lively spot for socializing, people-watching, and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Montazah Palace
Montazah Palace is a beautiful royal palace and gardens located on the Mediterranean coast of Alexandria. The palace was once a summer residence for the Egyptian royal family and is surrounded by lush gardens and beaches. Visitors can explore the palace's ornate rooms, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the scenic views of the sea.
Alexandria National Museum
The Alexandria National Museum showcases the history and culture of Alexandria and Egypt. The museum's exhibits include artifacts from ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Islamic periods, as well as displays on Alexandria's maritime history. Visitors can explore the museum's collections of statues, jewelry, and mummies, providing insight into the rich heritage of the region.
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is a historic mosque located in the heart of Alexandria's old town. The mosque, named after a 13th-century Andalusian saint, features a stunning blend of Moorish and Ottoman architectural styles, with intricate marble carvings, colorful mosaics, and a soaring minaret. Visitors can admire the mosque's beautiful interior, attend prayers or religious ceremonies, and explore the surrounding market streets and cafes.
Graeco-Roman Museum
The Graeco-Roman Museum showcases artifacts and artworks from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods of Alexandria's history. The museum's collection includes statues, mosaics, pottery, and jewelry, as well as architectural fragments and inscriptions from ancient temples and tombs. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to different aspects of Graeco-Roman culture, such as religion, daily life, and art, and gain insight into the city's multicultural heritage.
Alexandria War Memorial
The Alexandria War Memorial is a historic monument dedicated to the memory of Egyptian soldiers who fought and died in various wars and conflicts. The memorial features a central obelisk surrounded by statues, plaques, and inscriptions honoring the fallen heroes. Visitors can pay their respects, reflect on the sacrifices made by the soldiers, and learn about Egypt's military history and heritage. The memorial is a solemn and poignant reminder of the cost of war and the importance of peace.
Alexandria Sporting Club
The Alexandria Sporting Club is a prestigious sports and social club located in the city center. The club offers a wide range of facilities and activities for members and guests, including swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a day of sports and recreation, attend social events and cultural activities, or simply relax in the club's lush gardens and lounges. The club also hosts international sports tournaments and championships throughout the year.
Alexandria Opera House
The Alexandria Opera House is a cultural and performing arts center located in the heart of the city. The opera house hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances, including opera, ballet, classical music, and contemporary dance. Visitors can attend concerts, recitals, and other events in the grand auditorium, which features state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting. The opera house also offers educational programs, workshops, and outreach activities for aspiring artists and performers.