Welcome to Alexandria! Discover hidden columns, mosaics, and a Roman amphitheater tucked away in this coastal city.
Despite being often overshadowed by more popular destinations like Cairo and Luxor, this Mediterranean city beckons those with an eye for culture and history. Is it worth the visit? Absolutely!
<h3>Local Vibes</h3>
Seaside cafés offer mint tea for about $1.50, where vendors serve crispy falafel sandwiches at dawn for under $1. Bright art‑deco facades line quieter boulevards, their pastel hues soft against the Mediterranean sun. Friendly shopkeepers might beckon with spice samples or handwoven textiles, ensuring an authentic welcome.
<h3>Iconic Sites</h3>
The Qaitbay Citadel stands on the very site of the legendary Lighthouse, its sturdy walls commanding a panoramic view of the sea. Admission runs $6, and guided tours ($3 extra) narrate tales of medieval sultans and naval defenses. Sunset atop its ramparts fills sky and water with molten gold, an unforgettable spectacle.
<h3>Practical Transport</h3>
A comfortable West Delta Bus from Cairo’s Turgoman station costs around $7 one way, covering 210 km in three hours. Trains depart hourly from Ramses station, with air‑conditioned seats for $12 and a travel time of 2.5 hours.
Within the city, Careem or Uber rides average $2–$5, offering reliable navigation through winding streets.
<h3>Modern Marvel</h3>
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina dazzles with its tilted roof and glass mosaics, welcoming visitors gratis to its reading rooms. A small museum wing charges $3, displaying medieval maps and rare manuscripts under soft lighting.
Nearby, the Alexandria National Museum showcases pharaonic statues and Coptic textiles for $8, open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
<h3>Hidden Gems</h3>
Stroll the Corniche at dawn to glimpse traditional fishermen casting nets against a pastel horizon. Montazah Palace Gardens lie eastward, where a $6 ticket grants access to lush lawns and hidden pavilions. A short tuk‑tuk ride (about $1) unveils local workshops crafting perfume oils from jasmine and oud.
<h3>Stay Options</h3>
Budget travelers find comfort at Borg El Thaghr Hotel for about $30 per night, including breakfast and free Wi‑Fi.
Mid‑range options like the Steigenberger Cecil Hotel run $70, blending 1920s elegance with modern amenities.
For a splurge, the Four Seasons San Stefano commands $150–$200, complete with seaside pools and spa treatments.
<h3>Culinary Journey</h3>
Morning spoons of creamy koshari cost under $2, mixing lentils, rice, and spiced tomato sauce.
Seaside shacks serve grilled fish platters at $12, paired with pickled lemons and fresh salad.
Sweet kunafa pastries, at $3 each, brim with syrup and shredded dough—an ideal treat beneath palm‑shaded awnings.
<h3>Suggested Itinerary</h3>
Day 1 begins at 9 AM with Citadel exploration until 11 AM, followed by koshari lunch by the library at noon. Afternoon hours (1–4 PM) suit the National Museum, then sunset tea along the Corniche.
Day 2 opens with the amphitheater at 8 AM, Montazah Gardens by 11 AM, and a seafood lunch near Eastern Harbor at 1 PM.
<h3>Safety Advice</h3>
Careem and Uber apps ensure transparent fares for $2–$5 rides. Lightweight scarves and calf‑length attire offer modesty without discomfort in summer heat.
Tuck valuables in front pockets, stay in well-lit areas after dark, and carry bottled water ($0.50) to avoid dehydration.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
Alexandria’s blend of sunlit ruins, seaside charm, and vibrant markets invites every traveler to craft personal discoveries. Whether tracing Homeric myths or savoring local spices, each moment becomes a story waiting to be told. Whether seeking knowledge, tranquility, or culinary delights, Alexandria invites exploration. Why not make it a part of the travel itinerary?
