10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Alexandria

Alexandria is a city in Egypt that’s famous for its ancient history and amazing landmarks.

One of the most famous sights in Alexandria is the Great Library of Alexandria, which was one of the largest libraries in the ancient world.

Although the original library no longer exists, a modern library has been built in its place, known as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is a popular tourist destination.

Another famous landmark in Alexandria is the Citadel of Qaitbay, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The city is also home to Pompey’s Pillar, a Roman triumphal column, and the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an ancient burial site.

In addition to its historical attractions, Alexandria boasts beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast, where visitors can relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

The city’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals make it a fantastic destination for tourists.

1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, is a modern library and cultural center built to honor the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the most famous libraries of the ancient world.

The new library, opened in 2002, is a striking piece of modern architecture that attracts visitors from around the world.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is not just a library; it also houses museums, art galleries, a planetarium, and a conference center.

The library’s main reading room is a vast, sunlit space with shelves of books in many languages, making it a peaceful place to study or read.

Visitors to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina can explore its many exhibitions and collections, which showcase the history and culture of Egypt and the Mediterranean region.

The library also hosts cultural events, lectures, and performances, making it a vibrant hub of intellectual and cultural activity in Alexandria.

2. Citadel of Qaitbay

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a famous historical site in Alexandria, Egypt. It is a majestic fortress located on the Mediterranean Sea coast, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Egypt’s rich past.

Built-in the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay, the citadel was constructed on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The purpose of the citadel was to defend the city from potential attacks.

Today, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world.

Visitors can explore the fortress and its various structures, including the main tower, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the city.

The citadel also houses a small maritime museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Alexandria’s maritime history.

With its fascinating history and breathtaking views, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alexandria.

3. Pompey’s Pillar

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a famous historical site in Alexandria, Egypt. It is a majestic fortress located on the Mediterranean Sea coast, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Egypt’s rich past.

Built-in the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay, the citadel was constructed on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The purpose of the citadel was to defend the city from potential attacks.

Today, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world.

Visitors can explore the fortress and its various structures, including the main tower, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the city.

The citadel also houses a small maritime museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Alexandria’s maritime history.

With its fascinating history and breathtaking views, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alexandria.

4. Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt, are a fascinating underground burial site dating back to the 2nd century AD.

This ancient necropolis is a blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles, reflecting Alexandria’s rich history as a melting pot of cultures.

Visitors to the catacombs can explore a series of tunnels and chambers adorned with intricate carvings and artwork.

The catacombs consist of three levels, with the lowest level containing the most impressive features, including a banquet hall where mourners would gather to honor the dead.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa is the unique blend of religious symbols found throughout the site, reflecting the diverse beliefs of the people buried there.

This makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, archaeology, and ancient cultures.

5. Montazah Palace Gardens

Montazah Palace Gardens is a beautiful and historic park located in Alexandria, Egypt, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The gardens are part of the Montazah Palace complex, which was once a summer retreat for the Egyptian royal family.

Visitors to the gardens can enjoy stunning views of the sea, as well as lush greenery, colorful flowers, and peaceful walking paths.

The park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, who come to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the highlights of the Montazah Palace Gardens is the Salamlek Palace, a historic building that now serves as a luxury hotel.

The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a glimpse into Egypt’s royal history.

Whether you’re looking to relax in a beautiful setting, explore historic buildings, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll, the Montazah Palace Gardens are a must-visit destination in Alexandria.

6. Alexandria National Museum

The Alexandria National Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Alexandria and Egypt.

It’s located in a beautiful old palace called the Al-Saad Bassili Pasha Palace, which adds to the charm of the museum.

Inside, you’ll find a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Alexandria through the ages. There are statues, jewelry, and everyday objects from ancient times, as well as items from the Islamic and modern periods of Egypt’s history.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of artifacts found underwater in Alexandria’s harbor.

These include statues, sphinxes, and other objects that were lost to the sea for centuries before being rediscovered by archaeologists.

Visiting the Alexandria National Museum is a great way to deepen your understanding of this historic city and its place in Egypt’s rich history.

7. Corniche

The Corniche is a beautiful seaside promenade in Alexandria, Egypt, known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

It stretches along the eastern harbor of the city, offering a picturesque setting for a stroll or a relaxing day by the sea.

Along the Corniche, visitors can find a variety of attractions, including cafes, restaurants, and shops selling traditional Egyptian goods.

The promenade is also lined with palm trees and colorful flowers, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the Corniche is the Alexandria Aquarium, where visitors can see a variety of marine life native to the Mediterranean Sea.

There are also several beaches along the Corniche where visitors can swim and sunbathe.

Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply take in the beautiful views, the Corniche is a must-visit attraction in Alexandria.

8. El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque

El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque is a beautiful and historic mosque located in Alexandria, Egypt. It is named after a famous Islamic saint, Abul Abbas al-Mursi, whose tomb is located within the mosque.

The mosque is known for its stunning architecture, with intricate Islamic designs and a large dome that is visible from afar.

Visitors to the mosque can explore its peaceful interior, which is adorned with beautiful decorations and calligraphy.

The mosque also has a peaceful courtyard where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

One of the highlights of visiting El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque is the opportunity to learn about Islamic culture and history, as the mosque has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Alexandria for many centuries.

Overall, El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Alexandria.

9. Royal Jewelry Museum

The Royal Jewelry Museum in Alexandria, Egypt, is a fascinating attraction that showcases a stunning collection of jewelry and artifacts from the royal families of Egypt.

Housed in the former palace of Princess Fatma Al-Zahra, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the extravagant lives of the Egyptian royals.

The museum’s collection includes a wide variety of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and tiaras, as well as other precious objects such as watches, clocks, and gifts from foreign dignitaries.

One of the most famous pieces in the collection is the crown of King Farouk, which is encrusted with precious stones and is a symbol of the wealth and opulence of the Egyptian monarchy.

In addition to its impressive collection, the Royal Jewelry Museum is housed in a beautiful palace that is worth visiting in its own right.

The palace features stunning architecture and is surrounded by lush gardens, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside.

10. Stanley Bridge

Stanley Bridge is a popular tourist attraction in Alexandria, Egypt. It is a beautiful bridge that spans Stanley Bay, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city skyline. The bridge is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze.

One of the highlights of Stanley Bridge is its picturesque setting, especially at sunset when the sky is painted with vibrant colors. Many visitors come to the bridge to take photos and capture the beauty of the moment.

Stanley Bridge is also surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the views. At night, the bridge is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

Whether you visit during the day or at night, Stanley Bridge is a must-see attraction in Alexandria, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.