Alexandria

Alexandria is a Mediterranean port city in Egypt. During the Hellenistic period, it was home to a lighthouse ranking among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World as well as a storied library. Today the library is reincarnated in the disc-shaped, ultramodern Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The city also has Greco-Roman landmarks, old-world cafes and sandy beaches. Its 15th-century seafront Qaitbay Citadel is now a museum.
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Top attractions in Alexandria

Alexandria Bibliotheca
1. Alexandria Bibliotheca
4.6
(9064)
Library
Historical place
8 million books in this vast modernist library with curving facade, plus 4 museums & a planetarium.
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Visiting the Library of Alexandria was one of the most powerful and emotional experiences I’ve had. From the moment I saw the building, I felt something deep. It is modern, bold, and full of pride. But what moved me most was not just how it looks. It was what it stands for. Inside, the library is full of life. It is not just shelves of books. It is a home for knowledge, art, science, and history. There are museums, exhibitions, and even a section for kids. Every part of it is built to welcome people of all ages and backgrounds. It holds books in many languages and offers space for learning, exploring, and thinking freely. One of the highlights for me was the Sadat Museum. It was honestly the best part of my visit. I felt close to history as I looked at President Sadat’s personal belongings, letters, and even the suit he wore on his last day. It was emotional and full of pride. The museum honors a great man in a very respectful and touching way. As I walked through each part of the library, I could not help but feel proud. Proud that something this grand and meaningful stands in Egypt. Proud that we built a place that connects the past to the future. The Library of Alexandria shows the world that Egypt still leads with wisdom and vision. It is more than a library. It is a symbol of who we are and what we can become.
🌟 Bibliotheca Alexandrina – A Modern Wonder Rooted in Ancient Wisdom ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina was deeply inspiring. This isn’t just a library—it’s a symbol of Egypt’s ancient commitment to learning, reborn for the modern world. The architecture is absolutely stunning, with walls carved in over 100 scripts and a massive, light-filled reading room that takes your breath away. Inside, we explored multiple museums, galleries, a manuscript restoration lab, and even a planetarium—all within the same complex. The blend of ancient history and modern innovation is exceptional. Must-sees: 📚 The main reading hall 🌍 The Antiquities Museum 🪐 The Planetarium 🎨 The rotating art exhibitions It’s quiet, calming, and beautifully curated—perfect for slowing down and soaking in thousands of years of human knowledge. 📍 Tip: Plan for 2–3 hours minimum. Bring a guide or look up the layout beforehand—there’s so much more than just books! If you’re in Alexandria, this is an absolute must-visit. — Local Guide & Grateful Traveler
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, is an architectural and cultural masterpiece that beautifully revives the spirit of the ancient Library of Alexandria. From the moment you approach the stunning circular building overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, you can feel the sense of knowledge, innovation, and history that it embodies. Its modern design, with the massive tilted glass roof engraved with letters from hundreds of languages, is truly awe-inspiring. Inside, the library is even more impressive—spacious, bright, and filled with millions of books, manuscripts, and digital archives from around the world. The atmosphere is calm and inspiring, making it the perfect place for learning, reflection, and exploration. In addition to its vast collection, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina houses museums, art galleries, a planetarium, and cultural exhibitions that celebrate Egypt’s rich heritage and global contributions to science and the arts. Visiting this landmark is a must for anyone coming to Alexandria. It’s not just a library—it’s a symbol of human knowledge, creativity, and connection across generations. A truly unforgettable experience that blends the ancient and the modern in the most elegant way.
A must visit if you come to Alexandria. 2.8 Million books in thr library with 80+ languages. About a dozen museums. You need at least half a day. A guided tour in English is included as part of the ticket. Also the gift shop has great books and souvenirs
The most picturesque and visit worthy place in Alexandria. Other than its own rich cultural heritage, the place has something to offer to everyone. A must visit place if you’re in Alexandria. Tickets are 150 EGP for everyone and it’s worth the price. The ticket also includes access to a museum in the basement. Overall, a must go place.
A must-see in Alexandria. The library is impressive, with stunning modern architecture and several excellent museums inside. You can easily combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Greco-Roman Museum.
I like this library very much ,it's so good architecture and so creative statues art.I'm so glad visited this library and so proud of Egypt- Their culture is so amazing. We were inside more than 2 hours and we still want stay more :)
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is the glow-up of a tragedy. Now we have a shiny modern tribute to the ancient library that burned down before any of us had iPhones. They say it’s the largest library in the world but I’m thinking the Library of Congress is bigger. You walk in learning that Alexander the Great basically did everything before age 33, while you’re here proud you managed to survive a bathroom break without paying for toilet paper. The building is stunning. Don’t forget to Instagram because the @bibalexofficial feed probably lives for this. Arabic reads right to left and that is mind blowing to me.
Qaitbay Citadel
2. Qaitbay Citadel
4.5
(4945)
Sights & Landmarks
Castle
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Visiting the Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria was an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of my trip to Egypt. This impressive fortress sits proudly at the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, built on the exact site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The combination of history, architecture, and breathtaking sea views makes it a must-visit destination. As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the citadel’s grand stone walls and towers. The structure is remarkably well-preserved, and walking through its halls feels like stepping back into the 15th century. Inside, there are several chambers, narrow passageways, and lookout points where you can almost imagine soldiers standing guard centuries ago. The museum displays inside give a good overview of the citadel’s history and its role in protecting Egypt’s coastline. The highlight for me was climbing to the upper levels and taking in the panoramic view of the sea and the city of Alexandria. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below creates an incredible atmosphere of peace and strength. The site is clean, well maintained, and easy to explore at your own pace. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon to catch the sunset — the light reflecting off the stone walls and the water is absolutely magical. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a beautiful coastal view, Qaitbay Citadel is a must-see.
The Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria, Egypt, is one of the most magnificent landmarks in the city and a true symbol of its glorious past. Standing proudly on the Mediterranean coastline, this historic fortress offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city, making it a perfect blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Built in the 15th century on the exact site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the citadel carries immense historical significance. Its strong stone walls, towers, and courtyards transport visitors back to a time when it served as a guardian of Egypt’s northern coast. Every corner tells a story of strength, strategy, and pride. Inside, the citadel is beautifully preserved, allowing visitors to explore its chambers, corridors, and observation points while enjoying the cool sea breeze. The panoramic views from the top are absolutely stunning, especially at sunset. Visiting Qaitbay Citadel is a must for anyone coming to Alexandria—it’s not just a fortress, but a living monument that connects Egypt’s ancient glory with its enduring beauty.
The castle is under maintenance so i suggest you wait until it is fully refurbished. We had fun but it is so exhausting, not recommended for elder people, pregnant women, people with injury in legs. Weather was good in October but not recommended during summer time.
The citadel tour is closed by 6 pm sharp. It is close to fancy restaurants with sea view and boat trips are provided. It is very ancient breathtaking place.The sound-light show has 2 timings check online on their website.It was amazing and catchy but it has to be paid online in advance. It is open air with lots of stray cats.
Great Citadel on the spot of the Alexandria Lighthouse. Well maintained and restored. Always busy, best buy tickets online beforehand or you will wait in line forever at the tiny booth, as every egyptian will try to squeeze in in front of everybody...
Nice fort constructed using the remains of the Alexandria Lighthouse. The Qait Bay Citadel is an impressive structure, perched on the edge of the Mediterranean, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline. Walking through its walls and towers, you can imagine the strategic importance it had in protecting the city. The stonework is remarkable, and the history behind the fort is fascinating, as it was built using materials from the famous lighthouse that once stood here. Visiting this site gives a real sense of the layers of history that Alexandria holds.
The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria is simply breathtaking. Standing on the same spot where the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood, this 15th-century fortress feels alive with history. Walking through its stone corridors, I truly felt as if I was breathing the past. The highlight for me was standing by the second-floor window, looking out at the endless Mediterranean Sea — the sound of the waves, the salty breeze, and that vast blue horizon gave me real goosebumps. It’s one of those rare moments that stays with you long after you’ve left. The citadel is extremely well-preserved and beautifully located. A must-visit in Alexandria — calm, powerful, and timeless. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tourists BEWARE!!! The tourist police siting at the entrance will follow you and begin providing a guided tour if you do not stop them. Then, of course like every other monument in Egypt, they will expect a tip. Literally this police officer was as far as to give us his hat to take photos in without even asking to do so. They know how to play the game. Two stars because this type of behavior is incredibly detestable and uncomfortable when you are out visiting any destination. The Citadel itself is magnificent. Actually, one of my favorite aspects was seeing how intelligent the engineers were, having added palm trees into the walls to absorb earthquakes and cannon fire. That was a first and I have been in many castles and forts similar to this one. Seriously though, the amount of corruption in the Egyptian police force is enough to keep you away from Egypt forever. I would not visit again.
Montaza Palace
3. Montaza Palace
4.5
(18396)
Castle
Nature & Parks
A grand 1930s royal palace in Turkish & Florentine styles, with large gardens, now a public park.
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One of the best gardens I’ve ever visited! The place is absolutely amazing—beautifully maintained and filled with greenery. You can walk around or hop on a cart with a tour guide who will show you the most interesting parts of the palace. You can also enjoy a picnic there, making it the perfect destination if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Really worth a visit! Impressive views, palace architecture, and lush greenery. Entry is 50 EGP per adult, free for kids, but price might vary. Walking is not recommended — the park is huge and would take easily half a day on foot and mostly under the sun. Electric golf carts with a guide are available and absolutely worth it : 200 EGP for 15 minutes, 400 EGP for 30 minutes 600 EGP for 45 minutes. We took the 45 minutes tour with an excellent guide who showed us everything and gave us time for photos. Cars are not allowed inside (except for hotel guests), so the best option is to get dropped off and picked up at the main entrance gate.
Enjoy visiting this historical palace and explore the stunning architecture and history. You can stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the beautiful views. If you would like you can grab a bite at the palace café or a nearby restaurant that has a very beautiful sea view.
The Gardens and Queen Palace are lovely breathing in that ocean air. You can practically feel the ghosts of kings rolling their eyes as modern Egyptians hover around tourists like it’s an Olympic sport. The tiny king’s palace, now a presidential getaway, sits there looking cute and important, and the only real clue you get that the president is actually in town is that they slam the garden gates shut. It becomes like Area 51 I guess. The grounds are beautiful on peaceful. We walked around a bit appreciating the change in air quality having come from bustling Cairo. The bathrooms here are not clean and you will have to purchase toilet paper. Be prepared.
The ambience is so calm and beautiful I absolutely love it! Great for walks especially when you want to get in those steps plus the breeze from the sea is so refreshing and the sunset was so beautiful to watch
An average place with good landscape. The palace is not open for visitors. One can visit the vast and open gardens and access the beach. The entry price of 10 USD for foreigners is too much, and certainly not worth the price. The place is very vast, so one needs to rent an electric golf cart inside. The absence of signage/markings makes it even more difficult, if you don’t speak Arabic. In absence of your guide/cart, one can not visit on its own. If you’re a foreigner, most likely you’ll find the place more chaotic unless you get a tour guide. Certainly, not worth the price.
Amazing place, with wide gardens and beautiful views it's a real escape from the city noise, and a must-see destination for the family
The castle itself is beautiful, but the park entrance feels for foreigners is 10 dollars which is exorbitant. Castle is not open for public. Garden consists of palm trees that give no shadow, so in the afternoon it's hot. And hardly you find any benches to sit and relax. Local people sit on the grass.
Corniche Parking 20 L.E.
4. Corniche Parking 20 L.E.
4.5
(2)
Parking garage
Sights & Landmarks
Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
5. Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
4.5
(5820)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
The tombs of 2nd century Antonine emperors are among the graves in this ancient necropolis.
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I would recommend going with a guide. We didn't and we also didn't look at what to expect, so everything was a surprise 😅 On the one hand, it have us a rush of Indiana Jones every time we found a new passageway. On the other hand, I'm sure we would have gotten a lot more out of it with a guide. We went before the crowds (huge recommend, especially if you want good pictures) and even explored places other groups seemed to skip over. If you're going in the summer - the catacombs get very sweaty very fast.
🌟 Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – A Fascinating Journey Below Alexandria ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As a Local Guide and someone who loves exploring ancient wonders, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa were a highlight of our time in Alexandria. This site is truly one of Egypt’s hidden treasures—layered with mystery, beauty, and history. Descend a spiral staircase into a multi-level underground necropolis carved from solid rock. What makes this site so unique is its blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences—you’ll see Pharaonic motifs sitting right alongside Greco-Roman columns, statues, and reliefs. 🪦 What Stood Out: • The main burial chamber, with stunning carvings and sarcophagi • The Hall of Caracalla, believed to be a mass burial site for soldiers and horses • Intricate mosaic details and unexpected artistic fusion • The air of mystery—you feel like you’ve stepped back 2,000 years underground 📍 Tips for Visiting: • Wear sturdy shoes—some areas can be damp and slippery. • If you can, bring a guide or read up ahead of time—the signage is minimal, and the stories are worth knowing. The site is well-preserved, less crowded, and offers something different from typical temple visits. If you’re in Alexandria and love ancient history, this is an absolute must-see. — Local Guide, seeker of ancient places & underground wonders
The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria are an absolute wonder and one of the most fascinating historical sites I’ve ever visited. Hidden beneath the bustling city, this ancient necropolis offers a mysterious and captivating journey into Egypt’s Greco-Roman past. As I descended the spiral staircase into the underground chambers, I immediately felt a sense of awe. The combination of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles is truly unique — intricate carvings of gods, sphinxes, and mythological figures blend together beautifully. The craftsmanship is incredible, especially considering the site dates back nearly two thousand years. The catacombs are surprisingly extensive, with multiple levels of burial chambers, statues, and wall reliefs. The central tomb, known as the Hall of Caracalla, is especially impressive and beautifully preserved. Although photography is limited in certain areas, just walking through the dimly lit passageways gives you a deep appreciation for the ancient world and how people once honored their dead. The site is well maintained and easy to navigate with guides available at the entrance. I highly recommend taking a guided tour to fully understand the symbolism and history behind the carvings. It’s cool underground, so it’s a great place to visit even on a hot day. The atmosphere is quiet, mysterious, and deeply moving — a true testament to Alexandria’s rich and layered history. If you’re in the city, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are an absolute must-see attraction.
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is an incredible underground complex where Egyptian and Greek cultures beautifully intersect. Walking through the catacombs, the experience isn’t just about admiring the statues and carvings—it’s about imagining how people built such a place centuries ago. Above ground, you can also see stones and sarcophagi that were excavated from the site. One disappointing thing, though: seeing cement bags stored in ancient burial chambers really shows how little attention is given to preserving such historically significant places. Fun fact: According to story, the catacombs were discovered when a donkey accidentally fell into a hole leading to the site!
Incredible catacombs in the heart of Alexandria. Kom el Shoqafa is a fascinating labyrinth of underground tombs and chambers that blends Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. Walking through its narrow passages and seeing the carved statues, reliefs, and burial niches gives a real sense of the skill and artistry of ancient craftsmen. The atmosphere is eerie but captivating, and it’s amazing to think about the history hidden beneath the city streets. A must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology and the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are genuinely fascinating. So much history. This moody underground mash-up of Roman and Egyptian afterlife energy is evident and interesting. They were trying to blend afterlife cultures. The carvings are stunning and the stonework is impressive. Our guide went over the different types of burials and most of the tombs throughout the catacombs. Fun fact: you know how they found these tombs and catacombs? A donkey fell through the ground for the discovery.
If you are in Alexandria, a visit to the catacombs is a must. It has wonderful architecture showing how Greek and Egyption culture and practices intertwined and connected. Please make sure to have a guide with you.
Fascinating catacombs bringing together many different cultures over the years. You can walk all the way to the bottom. Fascinating. Bring a guide.
Stanley Bridge
6. Stanley Bridge
Sights & Landmarks
Bridges
Iconic bridge with Islamic-style towers & popular angling spots overlooking a gulf coast beach.
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Other notable attractions

Serapeum of Alexandria
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
This famous Roman-era red-granite column with sphinxes was once part of the Serapeum temple.
Alexandria Ancient Roman Theater
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Archaeological site featuring the remains of an ancient Roman theater, baths & a villa with mosaics.
Alexandria National Museum
Archaeological museum
Museums
Restored Italianate palace offering exhibits & artifacts exploring Egypt's history through the ages.
Royal Jewelry Museum Alexandria
Museum
Specialty Museums
Historic palace museum housing jewelry pieces, paintings & sculptures from the Muhammad Ali dynasty.
Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque, alexandria
Mosque
Sights & Landmarks
This sizable mosque with notable architecture is home to the mausoleum of a 13th-century saint.
Lighthouse of Alexandria
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial
Memorial estate
Sights & Landmarks
El Mamurah Beach
Public beach
Outdoor Activities
Popular sunbathing beach with seafront eateries & a broad promenade for strolling & cycling.
Alexandria Aquarium
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Aquarium & sea life museum with regional species, plus research institute.
Serapeum of Alexandria
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
This famous Roman-era red-granite column with sphinxes was once part of the Serapeum temple.

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Q&A about Alexandria

I preferred Luxor over Alexandria. I liked Valley of the Kings and seeing the tombs, and all the different temples in Luxor.
T
Theron Luettgen
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Weather in Alexandria

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