Mediterranean coast
Alexandria
Known as the Pearl of the Mediterranean, Alexandria offers a refreshing coastal breeze and a deep dive into Greco-Roman history. Explore ancient catacombs and grand fortresses, then wander through vibrant local alleys to enjoy the city's legendary fresh seafood. Mediterranean coast
Alexander the Great founded Alexandria in 331 BC, and it served for centuries as the intellectual hub of the ancient Mediterranean world. Much of the city is lost-either submerged beneath the sea, covered by modern streets, or vanished along with the library- but what remains makes for one of the most enriching day trips from Cairo.
The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are the most unusual attraction here: a Roman-period burial complex carved three levels into the rock, where Egyptian, Greek, and Roman funeral customs are interwoven in the same sculptures. Pompey's Pillar is located on the grounds of the Serapeum. The Qaitbay Citadel stands at the harbor entrance, built on the site of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the original seven wonders of the world.
The contemporary Bibliotheca Alexandrina intentionally mirrors the ancient library and is worth visiting for its reading room alone. Beyond the historical sites, Alexandria is known for its seafood, a long corniche, dilapidated colonial architecture, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the capital.
The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are the most unusual attraction here: a Roman-period burial complex carved three levels into the rock, where Egyptian, Greek, and Roman funeral customs are interwoven in the same sculptures. Pompey's Pillar is located on the grounds of the Serapeum. The Qaitbay Citadel stands at the harbor entrance, built on the site of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the original seven wonders of the world.
The contemporary Bibliotheca Alexandrina intentionally mirrors the ancient library and is worth visiting for its reading room alone. Beyond the historical sites, Alexandria is known for its seafood, a long corniche, dilapidated colonial architecture, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the capital.
Main attractions
- Alexandria Bibliotheca
- Citadel of Qaitbay
- Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa
- Stanley Bridge.
- The Mediterranean Corniche
- Alexandrian seafood
- The Corniche and the fish market
Things worth doing
- Visit the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
- Visit Qaitbay Citadel
- Walk the Corniche in the late afternoon
- Descend all three levels of the catacombs
- Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina reading room
- Eat fresh grilled fish
- Try the best Alexandrian dessert & ice cream
On the map
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