Alexandria

It is one of the most beautiful cities in Egypt, famous for sharing a border as seaports. Major buildings of modern times are present there, from clubs to museums. The city is also known by the nicknames “Bride of the Mediterranean” and “Pearl of the Mediterranean Coast. “It is a famous city and tourist hub in Egypt, located on the eastern coast of Egypt, along the Mediterranean Sea.  

Ancient alexandria

In Egypt, it’s the second-largest city after Cairo and serves as an industrial hub due to its busy seaport. One of the most loved and interesting facts about this city is that it was founded by Alexander the Great around 331 BCE; even today, the city buildings and every corner of the city show a strong influence of the Romans. It was also the ruling hub for Alexander the Great, and the Romans expanded during that time in Egypt. 

The city is both a global city and a religious hub. Here’s why: it was home to Egyptians in the early times and then ruled by Greeks, Romans, and Jews in the modern era, and the city was expanded and has become a major center of attraction in Egypt.  

During the regime of Alexander the Great, Christianity was widely spread and also became a major center for Christianity. Later on, when Egypt was ruled by an Arabic majority, it also became a major religious hub for Islam. Alexandria was also home to the great library known as Bibliotheca Alexandrina. 

Alexandria, Egypt, map

The map of Alexandria shows where it is located on the map. It was situated on Egypt’s coastline, positioned west on the Nile delta, about 220 km from the north of Cairo. The city has a long stretch where there are two ports, one on the western side and another on the eastern side. It is close to Lake Mariout, an important inland water body that serves as a key gateway between Egypt and Europe. Also, it is easy to spot on the map due to its coastal location.

Alexandria, Egypt, weather

The city has a mild Mediterranean climate compared to the rest of Egypt. Summers are warm but cooler than Cairo, and winters are mild with occasional rain. Sea breeze, as it is a coastal city, keeps temperatures pleasant. The warmest months in Alexandria are July and August; the coolest are February and January. 

The city rarely experiences extreme scorching heat; the best months to explore the city are from October to April, which are also the peak months for traveling in Egypt. Tourists can see the rush on Nile cruises and at the ancient monuments as well. If you also pair a Nile cruise in Egypt with the land tour to Alexandria, then you can make the best out of your trip. 

Things to do in Alexandria, Egypt

• Visit the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
• Explore the historic Qaitbay Citadel by the sea.
• Walk along the scenic Corniche waterfront.
• Relax at local Mediterranean cafes and enjoy authentic food. 
• Discover underground tombs like Kom El Shoqafa.
• Shop at traditional shops and markets.
• Try fresh seafood at coastal restaurants.
• Watch sunset views over the sea and feel the fresh breeze of the Mediterranean Sea.

​Cruises to Alexandria, Egypt

The city is also a popular Mediterranean cruise destination; also, it is also a port city for international cruise ships. Often included in Europe–Middle East routes are multi-day tours offered directly from the harbor on sea cruises. Visitors explore Alexandria and sometimes Cairo, where the cruise passengers visit historical landmarks; it offers a mix of culture, history, and sea views.

​Alexandria, Egypt, Beach

Alexandria is a port city; it has around 35 beaches, including business ports. From a tourist point of view, the famous beaches are Stanli Beach, one of the most famous and iconic beaches usually visited by tourists. The historic Cleopatra Beach, named after a famous Egyptian queen, and the royal Montazah Beach are also among the popular tourist locations.  

​Other beaches in Alexandria, such as Miami Beach & Sidi Bishr Beach, are popular for locals as well as for their unique spots. The beach water there is so clear and offers a lot of opportunities  for water sports and activities on some specific beaches. You will get clean beaches with crowds; beaches here seem cooler and calmer than the beaches near the Red Sea. One of the reasons people visit Alexandria in Egypt is to explore the seaside and modernization in the city.  

What to see in Alexandria, Egypt? 

Alexandria is not just famous among international tourists; millions of Egyptians plan summer vacations on the seaside. A very small percentage of people plan an Alexandria visit exclusively; most go directly to the pyramids, Luxor, and Aswan. Well, why should you also visit Alexandria, whether it is not in the package or in the tour package? The reasons are mentioned below. 

• Explore the blend of ancient history with modernization, and feel the influence of Christianity in an Islamic-dominant state. 
• Visit the Alexandria church and explore the early Roman-era architecture. By visiting places like Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Amphitheatre (Kom El Dikka). 
• It is a city that stays awake; tourists can find a number of good cafes and restaurants offering multicuisine dining at the restaurants with vibrant dining. 
• Vast beaches with multiple locations to witness magical sunrises and sunset points to see the sun touching the horizon. 
• Earlier it was a Christian religious hub, which still reflects its remarks, but tourists also can also explore the mosque and learn more about the Arabic and Egyptian culture in-depth. 

​How to plan an Alexandria trip? 

The trip to the port city, across the coastline, is usually included in the packages of Egypt river cruises, in which packages city-like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan exploration are included. It is also preferred to take the Egypt river cruise package differently and the Alexandria trip differently; it can help you enjoy the vacation for an extended period and also offers a relaxing getaway. 

For exploring any city in Egypt, it is advised to explore it only with experienced travel guides, whether you are exploring the northern or southern part. Middle Eastern lingual barriers can be a big strain if you think of managing the trip without a travel agency or partner. From planning to exploring, a certified and reputable Egypt-based travel agency can make the wandering easy and more relaxing. 

Travel Advice: You can pair the exploration of Alexandria after the Nile cruise trip from Nile Cruisen, as these cruises on the river have fixed schedules and itineraries. If you explore cities like Hurghada and Alexandria after river cruising, then you will have ample time to explore these coastal cities of Egypt. 

Now some major queries that people usually have about Alexandria while planning the trip are answered below.  

Faqs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is Alexandria, Egypt, safe?

Yes, Alexandria is completely safe for tourists. From resorts and cafes to even local restaurants, there are proper regulations for serving the tourists; rules in the city are properly managed and closely monitored. Crimes against tourists are rare in this coastal city; it’s safe, peaceful, and full of experiences that tourists take back with them about the culture and history of the diverse Mediterranean city. 

How are the hotels in Alexandria, Egypt? 

Alexandria offers a wide range of hotels, from international luxury brands overlooking the Mediterranean to mid-range and budget accommodations in the city center. Many hotels are located along the Corniche, providing easy access to major attractions and sea views. 

Where is Alexandria, Egypt?  

Alexandria is located around 220 km away from Cairo, at the Mediterranean coastline, where the city of Alexandria is situated, which was once established by the great Alexander and has ruled over the state for a long period. Still, the city has remnants of Greek-Roman culture that were beautifully adapted by the Egyptians and are now well-preserved as well. 

How many days are enough to visit Alexandria? 

To explore the beaches and famous places in Alexandria, around 2-3 days are enough. If you are a tourist to Egypt and have 3 extra days in your trip, then exploring the majestic coastal city would truly be worth it. From the point of view of an experienced traveler, I must prefer to include the Alexandria experience in your Egypt tour. 

​What is Alexandria known for?

One of the unique cities, just like the pyramids, Alexandria is also famous for its historical blueprints and diverse cultural approach. This coastal city has Egyptian and Greek-Roman architecture, and also now the Islamic buildings, so exploring such a diverse city is an experience in itself. Also, the city offers amazingly delicious Mediterranean food that travellers must try.