Nestled along Egypt’s Mediterranean coastline, Alexandria is a city where ancient civilizations meet modern coastal charm. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city once housed the legendary Library of Alexandria and the iconic Lighthouse of Pharos—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, Alexandria continues to captivate visitors with its fascinating archaeological sites, elegant seaside promenades, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
Unlike the desert landscapes of Cairo and Luxor, Alexandria offers a refreshing blend of sea views, colonial-era buildings, bustling cafés, and centuries of history. Whether you’re passionate about archaeology, architecture, literature, or simply want to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, this remarkable city offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Here are seven incredible attractions that deserve a place on your Alexandria itinerary.
1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina – Reviving the Spirit of Ancient Knowledge
One of Alexandria’s most iconic landmarks, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, stands as a modern tribute to the legendary ancient Library of Alexandria.
Opened in 2002, this architectural masterpiece features a striking circular design symbolizing the rising sun and serves as one of the world’s leading cultural institutions. Beyond its vast collection of books in multiple languages, the complex houses museums, art galleries, exhibition halls, research centers, and a state-of-the-art planetarium.
Visitors can spend hours exploring interactive exhibitions, learning about ancient civilizations, or simply admiring the impressive architecture.
Highlights
- Modern architectural landmark
- Museums and galleries
- Planetarium
- Rare manuscripts
- Cultural exhibitions
2. Citadel of Qaitbay – Guardian of Alexandria’s Coastline
Standing proudly on the Mediterranean shoreline, the Citadel of Qaitbay is one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks.
Built during the 15th century by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay, the fortress occupies the very site where the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood. Its thick defensive walls, watchtowers, and strategic coastal position made it one of Egypt’s most important military fortifications.
Today, visitors can explore the fortress while enjoying spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and Alexandria’s harbor.
Why Visit
- Historic fortress
- Panoramic sea views
- Medieval architecture
- Rich maritime history
- Excellent photography opportunities
3. Montaza Palace Gardens – Alexandria’s Royal Escape
Located on the eastern edge of the city, Montaza Palace Gardens offer one of Alexandria’s most peaceful settings.
Although the palace itself is not generally open to visitors, its beautifully landscaped gardens remain one of the city’s most popular attractions. Covering extensive grounds, the gardens feature towering palm trees, colorful flower beds, shaded walking paths, ornamental fountains, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing afternoon away from the city’s busy streets.
Best Experiences
- Garden walks
- Photography
- Picnic areas
- Coastal viewpoints
- Fresh sea breeze
4. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – Alexandria’s Underground Wonder
One of the city’s most extraordinary archaeological discoveries, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa date back to the 2nd century AD.
These multi-level underground burial chambers beautifully combine Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic influences, reflecting Alexandria’s multicultural heritage during the Roman era.
Visitors descend deep beneath the surface to discover elaborately carved tombs, ancient burial chambers, statues, and the fascinating Hall of Caracalla, where archaeologists uncovered both human and animal remains.
This remarkable site is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World.
Highlights
- Ancient underground tombs
- Greco-Roman architecture
- Detailed carvings
- Historical significance
- Unique archaeological site
5. Alexandria National Museum – Journey Through Egypt’s History
Housed inside a beautifully restored Italian-style mansion, the Alexandria National Museum tells the story of one of the Mediterranean’s greatest cities.
Its extensive collection spans thousands of years, featuring artifacts from the Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods. Visitors can admire royal jewelry, statues, ancient coins, ceramics, sculptures, and beautifully preserved everyday objects.
One of the museum’s most fascinating sections focuses on underwater archaeology, displaying treasures recovered from Alexandria’s submerged ancient harbor.
6. Pompey’s Pillar and the Temple of Serapeum
Towering nearly 27 meters above the surrounding ruins, Pompey’s Pillar is one of Alexandria’s most impressive Roman monuments.
Despite its name, the column was actually erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian around 297 AD. Nearby lie the remains of the Temple of Serapeum, once among the largest religious complexes in ancient Egypt and dedicated to the Greco-Egyptian deity Serapis.
The archaeological site also features ancient tunnels, sphinx statues, and stone ruins that provide fascinating insights into Alexandria’s classical past.
Visitor Highlights
- Massive Roman column
- Ancient temple ruins
- Underground chambers
- Historic sculptures
- Archaeological remains
7. Stanley Bridge – A Modern Alexandria Landmark
For a completely different perspective of the city, visit Stanley Bridge, one of Alexandria’s most photographed modern landmarks.
Stretching across the Mediterranean shoreline, the bridge’s elegant towers and arches have become symbols of the city’s contemporary identity.
Whether you visit during the day or after sunset when the bridge is beautifully illuminated, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy panoramic sea views, watch local life unfold, and experience Alexandria’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Nearby cafés and restaurants make it an excellent place to end your day.
Bonus Places Worth Visiting in Alexandria
If you have additional time, consider adding these attractions to your itinerary:
- Corniche Alexandria – A scenic waterfront boulevard perfect for evening walks.
- Royal Jewelry Museum – Showcasing treasures from Egypt’s royal family.
- Roman Amphitheatre – One of the few surviving Roman theaters in Egypt.
- Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque – Alexandria’s largest and most beautiful mosque.
- Alexandria Aquarium – A small but interesting attraction featuring Mediterranean marine life.
Must-Try Local Foods
Alexandria is famous for its delicious seafood and traditional Egyptian cuisine. Be sure to try:
- Fresh grilled seafood
- Sayadeya (fish with seasoned rice)
- Foul Medames
- Koshari
- Hawawshi
- Mahshi
- Egyptian pastries
- Fresh sugarcane juice
- Traditional mint tea
Helpful Travel Tips
To make your Alexandria trip more enjoyable:
- Visit between October and April for cooler weather.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring archaeological sites.
- Carry cash for local cafés and traditional markets.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious landmarks.
- Explore the Corniche during sunset for spectacular Mediterranean views.
- Combine historical sightseeing with time at the city’s beaches and waterfront cafés.
Final Thoughts
Alexandria offers a unique side of Egypt that blends ancient history with Mediterranean charm. From the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the majestic Citadel of Qaitbay to mysterious underground catacombs, royal gardens, and scenic coastal promenades, every corner of the city tells a fascinating story.
Whether you’re uncovering archaeological wonders, enjoying fresh seafood by the sea, strolling through elegant gardens, or admiring centuries of architectural heritage, Alexandria provides an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most historic coastal cities.
For travelers looking to experience Egypt beyond the pyramids, Alexandria stands out as a destination where history, culture, and the Mediterranean lifestyle come together in perfect harmony.