Things to see in Alexandria Egypt abound in this magnificent coastal city that seamlessly blends ancient history with Mediterranean charm.
When planning your journey to Egypt’s second-largest metropolis, understanding the things to see in Alexandria Egypt becomes essential for an unforgettable experience. From the legendary Alexandria Library, also referred to as Bibliotheca Alexandrina, to the stunning Qaitbay Citadel, the things to see in Alexandria Egypt, range from archaeological marvels to vibrant modern attractions.
This comprehensive guide explores the best things to see in Alexandria Egypt, ensuring you don’t miss a single highlight in this captivating destination where Queen Cleopatra once walked and Alexander the Great left his eternal legacy.
Why Alexandria Egypt is Worth Visiting in 2026
Is Alexandria Egypt worth visiting in 2026? Absolutely. This historic Mediterranean port city offers a refreshing contrast to Cairo‘s bustling intensity, presenting travelers with a unique blend of Greco-Roman World, Islamic architecture, and cosmopolitan culture. What is Alexandria Egypt famous for? The city’s legendary status stems from the ancient lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the unparalleled library of Alexandria that once housed the world’s knowledge, and its role as Cleopatra’s royal capital.
Where is Alexandria Egypt? Located on the Mediterranean Sea coast, approximately 225 kilometers northwest of Cairo, Alexandria stretches along a narrow strip between the sea and Lake Mariout. The city’s strategic position has made it Egypt’s principal port for over two millennia.
Top 10 Things to See in Alexandria Egypt
1. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A Modern Tribute to Ancient Knowledge
The top things to see in Alexandria Egypt, must include the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a 21st-century architectural masterpiece honoring the ancient Library of Alexandria. This cultural complex houses millions of books, multiple museums, planetarium shows, and art galleries. The building’s distinctive tilted disc design symbolizes a rising sun over the Mediterranean, while its granite exterior features characters from 120 different writing systems.
What to see at Alexandria Egypt’s most iconic modern landmark includes the Antiquities Museum, Manuscript Museum, and the impressive reading room with space for 2,000 visitors. The Bibliotheca represents the best things to see in Alexandria Egypt for culture enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
2. Qaitbay Citadel: Guardian of the Harbor
Standing proudly where the legendary Pharos Lighthouse once illuminated the Mediterranean, Qaitbay Citadel ranks among the must see places in Alexandria Egypt. Built in the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay using stones from the collapsed lighthouse, this fortress offers spectacular sea views and fascinating Islamic military architecture.
The citadel’s strategic location makes it perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking the best places to see in Alexandria Egypt at sunset. The fortress walls, towers, and mosque within create an atmospheric setting that captures Alexandria’s layered history.
3. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: Ancient Underground Marvels
Among the ancient things to see in Alexandria Egypt, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa stand out as the largest Roman burial site in Egypt. Discovered accidentally in 1900, this three-level necropolis descends 35 meters underground, showcasing a fascinating fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic traditions.
These catacombs represent the historical things to do in Alexandria Egypt that truly immerse visitors in the city’s multicultural past. The intricate carvings, the eerie Hall of Caracalla, and the blend of pharaonic and Hellenistic imagery make this one of the unique things to see in Alexandria Egypt.
4. Pompey’s Pillar and the Serapeum
This towering red granite column, one of the ancient things to see in Alexandria Egypt, rises 25 meters high and is Alexandria’s tallest ancient monument. Despite its name, the pillar of Alexandria was actually erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian around 300 CE and originally stood within the magnificent Serapeum temple complex.
The site offers historical places to visit in Alexandria Egypt where you can explore underground galleries, sphinxes, and nilometers. It’s among the free things to do in Alexandria Egypt that provide incredible historical value.
5. Alexandria National Museum: Journey Through Millennia
Housed in a beautifully restored Italian-style palace, the Alexandria National Museum presents 1,800 artifacts chronologically arranged across three floors, covering Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods. This is undeniably among the top 10 things to see in Alexandria Egypt, for anyone wanting a comprehensive historical context.
The museum’s underwater archaeology section displays treasures recovered from the sunken Pharos Lighthouse and Cleopatra’s Underwater Palace, making it one of the cool things to do in Alexandria Egypt that combines history with underwater exploration mysteries.
6. The Roman Amphitheater (Kom El Deka)
This well-preserved Roman theater is one of the sights to see in Alexandria Egypt that reveals the city’s entertainment culture during Roman rule. Discovered in 1960, the amphitheater features marble seating for up to 800 spectators, beautiful floor mosaics, and remains of Roman baths and villas.
For those exploring things to see and do in Alexandria Egypt, this archaeological site provides an intimate glimpse into daily life during Alexandria’s golden age as part of the Roman Empire.
7. Montaza Palace and Gardens
The sprawling Montaza complex offers some of the best things to see in Alexandria Egypt for those seeking natural beauty alongside history. The royal palace, built in Turkish and Florentine styles for Khedive Abbas II, sits within 150 hectares of lush gardens overlooking the Mediterranean.
Among things to do in Alexandria Egypt with kids, Montaza’s gardens, beaches, and picturesque walking paths provide perfect family-friendly activities. The palace grounds represent places to go in Alexandria with friends for relaxing seaside picnics with spectacular views.
8. Alexandria Corniche
Stretching 15 kilometers along the Eastern Harbor, Alexandria’s Corniche is central to things to do in Alexandria at night. This Mediterranean promenade offers stunning sunset views, seafood restaurants, coffee houses, and glimpses of the city’s elegant architecture from various eras.
Walking the Corniche of Alexandria provides free things to see in Alexandria Egypt, while experiencing local life. The waterfront bustles with Alexandrians enjoying evening strolls, making it perfect for understanding contemporary Egyptian coastal culture.
9. The Royal Jewelry Museum
This opulent museum, housed in the former palace of Princess Fatma Al-Zahra, showcases Egypt’s royal family treasures. Among the unique things to do in Alexandria Egypt, viewing the exquisite jewelry collection, including pieces belonging to the Muhammad Ali Pasha dynasty members, offers insight into royal luxury and craftsmanship.
The Museum of Royal Jewelry in Alexandria itself is architecturally stunning, with decorated ceilings, stained glass, and ornate details that complement the dazzling jewelry displays, making it among the must see in Alexandria Egypt for luxury and history enthusiasts.
Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral is one of the most important things to see in Alexandria Egypt, especially for those interested in Christian heritage. Built on the site where Saint Mark the Evangelist founded Egypt’s first church in the 1st century AD, it stands as a symbol of Alexandria’s city enduring faith and history.
10. Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Alexandria
Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral is one of the most important things to see in Alexandria Egypt, especially for those interested in Christian heritage. Built on the site where Saint Mark the Evangelist founded Egypt’s first church in the 1st century AD, it stands as a symbol of Alexandria’s enduring faith and history.
The cathedral’s architecture blends traditional Coptic design with modern touches, featuring beautiful icons, woodwork, and serene chapels. Open from 6 AM to 10 PM, it offers peaceful morning prayers and stunning evening lighting, making it one of the top must-see things to see in Alexandria Egypt for both spiritual and cultural travelers.
It also houses the relics of Saint Mark, returned from Venice in 1968, adding deep historical and religious significance to one of the most sacred sites and attractions in Alexandria Egypt.
Hidden Gems in Alexandria Egypt
Beyond the major Alexandria attractions, several hidden gems in Alexandria Egypt await curious travelers:
- Attarine Antique District: This fascinating Souk El Attarine in Al,exandria Egypt, located on Attarine Street, offers what to buy in Alexandria Egypt (antiques, vintage books, maps, and curiosities from Alexandria’s cosmopolitan past). The district’s narrow streets and eclectic shops provide authentic local shopping experiences.
- Shorbagi Mosque: An understated architectural gem combining Mamluk and Ottoman styles, perfect for those seeking historical places to visit in Alexandria Egypt without tourist crowds.
- The Graeco-Roman Museum: Currently under renovation, this museum traditionally houses one of the world’s finest collections of Greco-Roman artifacts, representing essential things to visit in Alexandria once reopened.
- Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque: One of the most amazing things to see in Alexandria Egypt, is this stunning cream-colored mosque with distinctive Ottoman architecture offers sites to visit in Alexandria Egypt that showcase Islamic architectural beauty along the Corniche.
A Guide for Planning Your Visit to the Best Things to See in Alexandria, Egypt
Essential Planning Tips
Before exploring the things to do at Alexandria Egypt, understand that this destination offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking 5 things to see in Egypt or a comprehensive multi-day exploration, the city Alexandria deserves a prominent place on your Egyptian itinerary. The city’s position as Egypt’s Mediterranean gateway means that what to see and do in Alexandria Egypt differs significantly from inland Egyptian destinations.
Things to See in Alexandria Egypt in One Day
What to do in Alexandria Egypt for a day? Focus on these essentials:
- Morning: Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and Pompey’s Pillar.
- Afternoon: Qaitbay Citadel, Lunch & Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
- Evening: Corniche stroll and seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant
Note: These tourist attractions in Alexandria can be customized according to your preferences and travel plans. Visiting all these sites depends on whether your Alexandria visit is part of a short Alexandria day tour, an Alexandria short break, an overday trip to Alexandria, or an overnight tour to Alexandria.
Each option offers a different way to experience the city’s history, culture, and coastal charm.
What to see in Alexandria Egypt in one day requires prioritizing the most iconic sites while leaving time for the city’s distinctive Mediterranean atmosphere. Many travelers ask about things to do in Alexandria Egypt, about optimal one-day itineraries, and this combination consistently receives top recommendations for first-time visitors.
Things to See in Alexandria Egypt in 3 Days
A 3 days Egypt tour allows deeper exploration of things to see and do in Alexandria Egypt:
Day 1: Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria National Museum, Corniche evening walk.
Day 2: Qaitbay Citadel, Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, Roman Amphitheatre, Stanley Bridge at night.
Day 3: Montaza Palace and Gardens, Royal Jewelry Museum, Attarine district shopping, Abu Abbas Mosque.
This Alexandria tour package covers the top places to visit in Alexandria Egypt while allowing time for spontaneous discoveries.
Alexandria Tours and Excursions 2026
Alexandria Egypt Tours 2026
Professional Alexandria Egypt Tours offer comprehensive experiences led by expert guides who bring the city’s rich history to life. These tours to Alexandria Egypt, usually include transportation, entrance fees, and insightful commentary that deepens your appreciation of the things to see in Alexandria Egypt, making it an ideal all-inclusive Alexandria trip for travelers seeking both comfort and culture.
Alexandria Egypt Day Tours 2026
Alexandria Egypt Day Tours from Cairo are extremely popular, offering convenient roundtrip transportation for those based in the capital. These tours of Alexandria Egypt efficiently cover the top 5 things to do in Alexandria Egypt within a single day.
There are many fascinating things to see in Alexandria Egypt, from ancient monuments to beautiful coastal landmarks, making each tour a memorable experience.
Alexandria Egypt Shore Excursions Tours 2026
For cruise passengers, Alexandria Egypt Shore Excursions Tours are specifically designed to maximize limited port time. These excursions focus on the must see Alexandria Egypt highlights and Perfect things to see in Alexandria Egypt, all while ensuring a smooth and timely return to your shore excursion cruise ship.
Shore Excursions from Alexandria Egypt can also include trips to nearby attractions like the El Alamein war cemeteries or the Rosetta (Rashid) historic town, expanding your Egyptian exploration beyond the city itself.
Activities for Different Alexandria Egypt Tourists
Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt with Kids
Things to do in Alexandria Egypt with kids include:
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s Planetarium and Children’s Library.
- Montaza Palace gardens and beaches.
- Alexandria Aquarium (near Qaitbay Citadel).
- Green Plaza Mall for air-conditioned family fun.
- Beach activities along the Corniche.
Fun things to do in Alexandria Egypt for families balance education with entertainment, ensuring children remain engaged while learning about history. When planning things to do in Alexandria Egypt our first time as a family, these child-friendly attractions provide the perfect introduction to Egyptian culture without overwhelming young travelers.
Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt at Night
Things to do in Alexandria Egypt at night transform the city:
- Evening Corniche promenade walks.
- Dinner at Fish Market restaurant (select your own fresh seafood).
- Stanley Bridge illuminated viewing.
- Coffee house culture at traditional ahwas.
- Sound and light shows at historical sites (seasonal).
- Beachfront club entertainment.
The things to do at night in Alexandria reveal the city’s social culture and Mediterranean nightlife that differs significantly from other Egyptian destinations.
Alexandria Egypt Attractions by Theme
Best Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt for History Buffs
History enthusiasts seeking the best things to do in Alexandria Egypt should prioritize:
- All Greco-Roman sites (Catacombs, amphitheatre, Pompey’s Pillar).
- Alexandria National Museum for comprehensive chronological context.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s Antiquities Museum.
- Walking tours of the historic downtown architecture.
These Alexandria Egypt attractions provide deep historical immersion that reveals the city’s multicultural legacy.
Cool Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt for Adventure Seekers
Cool things to do in Alexandria Egypt for adventurous travelers:
- Diving the underwater archaeological sites (requires licensed operators).
- Kayaking along the Corniche.
- Exploring lesser-known neighborhoods beyond tourist zones.
- Food tours sampling Alexandria’s unique coastal cuisine.
Unique things to do in Alexandria Egypt extend beyond standard tourist activities, offering experiences found nowhere else in the country.
Sites to Visit in Alexandria Egypt for Architecture Lovers
Architecture enthusiasts will find numerous sites to visit in Alexandria Egypt:
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s contemporary design.
- Greco-Roman fusion at the Catacombs.
- Ottoman mosques along the Corniche.
- Colonial-era European buildings in downtown.
- Montaza Palace’s eclectic royal architecture.
Why Alexandria Should Be on Your Travel List
Alexandria Egypt things to see encompass millennia of human civilization compressed into a vibrant Mediterranean metropolis. From the ancient things to see in Alexandria Egypt that connect us to Alexander the Great’s vision, to the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina representing humanity’s eternal quest for knowledge, this city offers unparalleled historical depth alongside contemporary Egyptian life.
The top things to see in Alexandria Egypt, extend beyond monuments and museums; they include the sunset over the Mediterranean from the Corniche, conversations over mint tea in a seafront café, the taste of fresh seafood prepared in traditional Alexandrian style, and the gentle sea breeze that has attracted visitors for over 2,300 years.
Whether you’re exploring things to see in Alexandria Egypt in 3 days or squeezing highlights into a single day trip, whether traveling with kids or seeking solitary historical contemplation, Alexandria rewards every visitor with its unique blend of ancient grandeur and modern Mediterranean charm.
Conclusion: Why Choose Things to see in Alexandria Egypt
The must see in Alexandria Egypt ultimately depends on your interests, but every traveler leaves with memories of a city unlike any other in Egypt, or the world.
Alexandria Egypt Tours, Alexandria Egypt Day Tours, and Shore Excursions from Alexandria Egypt make experiencing this remarkable city accessible to all travelers, ensuring that the things to see in Alexandria Egypt remain within reach, whether you’re arriving by Egyptian cruise ship, train from Cairo, or as part of a comprehensive Egyptian journey.
What to visit in Alexandria Egypt becomes clear once you understand the city’s incredible diversity—from things to visit in Alexandria’s ancient sites to places to visit in Alexandria Egypt’s modern attractions, this destination truly has it all. From top 10 things to do in Alexandria Egypt to unique things to see in Alexandria Egypt, every moment in this coastal gem creates lasting memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Ready to Experience the Pearl of the Mediterranean ( Alexandria, Egypt) ?
Don’t let Alexandria’s wonders remain just a dream. Contact reputable tour operators specializing in Alexandria Egypt Shore Excursions Tours and Alexandria Egypt Tours today to create your perfect itinerary.
Whether you’re seeking the best things to see in Alexandria Egypt, hidden gems in Alexandria Egypt, or comprehensive historical places to visit in Alexandria Egypt, professional guides ensure you experience the city’s magic thoroughly and safely.
Start planning your Alexandrian adventure now, and discover why this legendary city continues to captivate visitors just as it captivated Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and countless travelers throughout history.
The things to see in Alexandria Egypt are calling you! Will you answer the call?
