Things to Do in Alexandria

The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a stunning architectural masterpiece and tribute to the legendary ancient Library of Alexandria. Opened in 2002, this 11-story circular building can house up to 8 million books and features walls carved with symbols from 120 different human scripts. Inside you'll find multiple museums including the Antiquities Museum, a planetarium with 3D shows, art galleries, and the main reading room that can accommodate 2,500 readers under its dramatic sloping roof. The complex hosts international performers and cultural events year-round, making it one of Egypt's premier cultural venues.

This imposing 15th-century fortress was built by Sultan Qaitbay on the exact site where the legendary Pharos Lighthouse once stood - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The citadel dominates Alexandria's Eastern Harbour with its massive defensive walls and towers, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Inside you'll find a small naval museum and can explore the atmospheric chambers and passages. The fortress played a crucial role in defending Alexandria from Crusader attacks and remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Egypt. Best visited at sunset for magical golden-hour views.

Discovered accidentally in 1900 when a donkey fell through the ground, these extraordinary catacombs represent the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt. Descending the spiral staircase into the underground chambers reveals an incredible fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles rarely seen anywhere else in the world. The main tomb features elaborate carvings showing Egyptian deities wearing Roman attire with Greek artistic details. Multiple levels of burial chambers, a banquet hall for funeral feasts, and mysterious passages await exploration. The site can get humid, so dress appropriately for the underground environment.

Rising 30 meters high from the ancient settlement of Rhakotis - the original Egyptian township from which Alexandria grew - this massive red granite column is one of the largest ancient monoliths still standing. Despite its name, the pillar has nothing to do with Pompey; it was actually erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in 297 AD. The column stands amid the atmospheric ruins of the Serapeum temple complex, once home to a daughter library of the great Library of Alexandria. Two sphinx statues guard the base, and underground galleries can be explored. The hilltop location offers good views over the surrounding city.

Housed in a beautifully restored Italian-style palace, the Alexandria National Museum presents over 1,800 artifacts spanning from Pharaonic times through the Graeco-Roman period to the Islamic era. The chronologically arranged collection across three floors tells the complete story of Alexandria's 2,300-year history. Highlights include underwater archaeological finds from the ancient royal quarters, mummies, Hellenistic sculptures, and Islamic artifacts. The intimate setting allows close appreciation of the exhibits, and the building itself is worth admiring. English descriptions throughout make this an accessible introduction to Alexandria's rich heritage.

The stunning 150-acre Montazah Palace gardens were the summer residence of Egypt's last king, Farouk, who assumed power at age 16 in 1936. While the main palace is off-limits, the lush Mediterranean gardens are prime strolling territory with manicured lawns, palm trees, and beautiful flower beds overlooking the sea. The grounds include an attractive sandy cove beach, the Al-Haramlik Palace (now a hotel), and numerous gazebos and shaded areas perfect for relaxation. The gardens are especially popular with local families on weekends but remain peaceful on weekdays. A perfect escape from the urban bustle of central Alexandria.

Built in the 2nd century AD, this remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre features 13 semicircular tiers of white and gray marble that once seated around 800 spectators. It's the only Roman amphitheatre discovered in Egypt and was part of a larger complex including bathhouses, lecture halls, and villas - evidence that Kom Al Dikka was a prosperous residential area in Graeco-Roman times. The theatre likely served as a venue for musical performances and public assemblies. Beautiful floor mosaics from nearby villas have been uncovered at the site. The acoustic properties remain impressive even today.

The iconic 32-kilometer Corniche promenade stretches along Alexandria's entire Mediterranean waterfront, offering one of the most scenic urban walks in Egypt. This glorious walkway is dotted with restaurants, cafes, historic buildings, and entertainment venues, coming alive especially at sunset when locals gather to enjoy the sea breeze and watch fishermen cast their lines. Key landmarks along the route include the Citadel of Qaitbay, Stanley Bridge, and numerous belle-époque buildings. The Corniche captures the essence of Alexandria's romantic past as a cosmopolitan Mediterranean city. Walking here at sunset is a quintessential Alexandria experience.