Mediterranean Coast
Alexandria
Egypt's Mediterranean 'second city', founded by Alexander the Great, with a breezy Corniche and Greco-Roman heritage.
Why visit
The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Citadel of Qaitbay, catacombs, and fresh seafood.
Top sites
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina
- Citadel of Qaitbay
- Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
- Montaza Palace gardens
- Roman Amphitheatre
Best time to visit
April to October for the coast; milder than Upper Egypt in summer.
How to get there
Borg El Arab Airport (HBE); ~2.5–3 hours by train or road from Cairo.
Suggested length of stay
1–2 days.
Best for
City & culture · Seafood lovers · A break from the heat
Local transport
Ride-hailing apps and trams. The Cairo–Alexandria train is frequent and comfortable.
Cultural etiquette
More liberal than Upper Egypt but modest dress is still appreciated away from beaches.
Safety notes
Relaxed and walkable along the Corniche. Standard city precautions apply.
Scams to watch for
- Taxi meters 'broken' — agree fare or use an app
- Inflated restaurant bills — check the menu prices
Emergency & medical
Emergency numbers
Police 122 · Ambulance 123 · Tourist Police 126 (verify locally)
- Alexandria has large public and private hospitals — Ask your hotel for the nearest.
Source
Egyptian Tourism Authority (reference) · view source ↗
Last fetched: 2026-07-15Confidence: mediumStatus: needs review
⚠️ This is independent, general information — not official advice. Verify with the relevant authority before you act.