Présentation et ambiance
Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, is Egypt’s Mediterranean jewel. A cosmopolitan and melancholic city, it still breathes the air of its glorious past — Cleopatra, the Great Library, the ancient Lighthouse. Today it retains a unique atmosphere, poised between the Orient and the Mediterranean.
Meilleure période pour visiter
April to June and September to November. Summer is warm but tempered by sea breezes. Winter can be rainy (December-February).
Points d'intérêt et sites
- The Bibliotheca Alexandrina — modern library on the site of the ancient one
- The Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the ruins of the Lighthouse
- The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
- Pompey’s Pillar and the Serapeum
- The Alexandria National Museum
- The Greco-Roman Museum
- The Corniche: seafront promenade along the Mediterranean
- Ras El Tin Royal Palace
- El Montazah and its royal gardens
- The bohemian Bolkly neighborhood and its historic cafés
Excursions et activités
- Guided tour of the Catacombs and Pompey’s Pillar
- Boat tour of Alexandria’s Eastern Harbor
- Seafood tasting at the Abu Qir fishing port
- Excursion to Abu Mena (UNESCO site, early Christian basilica)
- Visit to Montazah Palace and its gardens
- Scuba diving to discover sunken Alexandria
- Day trip from Cairo (3h by fast train)
Accommodation
Seafront hotels on the Corniche (Four Seasons San Stefano, Hilton), or sea-view apartments in Stanley or Gleem for a more local experience. Avoid the city center for accommodation.
Practical Tips
- Take the fast train from Cairo (2h, very comfortable)
- The city is cooler than Cairo — bring a jacket for evenings
- You must try the seafood — Alexandria is famous for it
- Best traditional café: Café Athineos on the Corniche
- The Bibliotheca Alexandrina offers excellent guided tours
- Plan at least 2 days to enjoy the city at a leisurely pace
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