Alexandria Egypt 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Alexandria, Egypt

This itinerary balances historical exploration with relaxation and modern experiences for a well-rounded trip. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Day 1: Arrival & Alexandrian Charm

  • Morning: Arrive at Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) in Alexandria. Transfer to your hotel in the city center, near historical landmarks like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and enjoy its modern architecture and stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel, settle in, and explore the vibrant streets of Alexandria.
    • Activity: Stroll through the historic Alexandria Corniche along the Mediterranean coast, enjoying the sea breeze and the bustling atmosphere.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hotel Cecil, Cecil Hotel & Apartments, Windsor Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Steigenberger Cecil Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefanos, Helnan Bibliotheca Hotel
  • Luxury: Hilton Alexandria Corniche, Marriott Mena House, Four Seasons Alexandria at The First Residence

Day 2: Ancient Wonders

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel that pays homage to its ancient predecessor. Explore the museum and the breathtaking architecture of this symbol of knowledge and rebirth.
  • Afternoon: Discover the ancient world with a trip to the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an impressive underground necropolis dating back to Roman times.

Things to know:

  • Alexandria is a modern city, but it has a rich history and many ancient ruins and sites of interest.
  • The Alexandria Library (the original) was the largest library in the ancient world and housed knowledge from across the Mediterranean.

Tips:

  • Hire a guide: While you can explore some of Alexandria’s attractions independently, hiring a local guide for historical sites will significantly enhance your experience as they offer insightful context and historical anecdotes.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Bargain at markets: Prices are often negotiable, especially in the souks (markets).

Food:

  • Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the Corniche, or head to the Fish Market in the city center for a more authentic experience.
  • Egyptian Cuisine: Taste the flavors of Alexandria at “Mohamed Ahmed”, a local institution known for its delicious street food and traditional dishes.

Day 3: Egyptian Cuisine & Local History

  • Morning: Explore the Pompey’s Pillar, a Roman monument that offers breathtaking views of the city from its perch on top of a hill.
  • Afternoon: Dive into the history of Alexandria with a visit to the Alexandria National Museum, showcasing the city’s diverse archaeological heritage.

Things to know:

  • The “Alexandria National Museum” is located in the ancient part of the city.
  • Try “Koshari,” a popular Egyptian dish and a must-try for any visitor to Alexandria.

Day 4: Roman History & Modern Delights

  • Morning: Discover the Roman history of Alexandria at the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground necropolis with intricate catacomb chambers and ancient artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, taking in its modern architecture, exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts and historical texts.

Things to know:

  • The Alexandria Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s history.
  • It’s located on a historic site, and you can explore it yourself or with a guide.

Day 5: Exploring the City & Relaxing by the Sea

  • Morning: Explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Amphitheater and imagine the gladiatorial combats and theatrical performances that once took place there.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach at Alexandria’s beautiful Mediterranean coast, taking a dip in the sea and enjoying the sunset over the water.

Day 6: Alexandria’s Historical Heart & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Library of Alexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina) and explore its modern architecture, exhibitions, and stunning views.
  • Afternoon:

Enjoy a taste of Alexandria’s past at the Roman Catacombs, a fascinating underground necropolis.

Day 7: Departure & Lasting Memories

  • Enjoy the last moments in Alexandria with a visit to the Alexandria National Museum.

Things to know:

  • Egypt has a rich history, and the museum showcases artifacts from various eras, including the Roman period.

  • Modern Egyptian culture is vibrant and welcoming.

  • Morning: Explore the ancient world of the city’s historical sites like the Roman Fort Qaitbay, the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, or the Alexandria National Museum.

  • Coastal charm:

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Alexandria coastline, visit the bustling fish market, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Things to know:

The museum houses artifacts from Alexandria’s past, including items from the tombs of Alexandria (ancient) and the Catacombs of Alexandria (modern).

  • Morning:

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at “Cafe Khalil”, a local institution famous for its traditional Egyptian breakfasts.

Modern Alexandria:

  • Explore the Alexandria Bibliotheca, the city’s grand library and cultural hub.

  • Enjoying the Mediterranean Sea:

Alexandria is known as a coastal city, so be sure to enjoy the beaches!

  • Afternoon:

Wander through the historic streets of Alexandria, exploring the ancient ruins and modern architecture.

  • Immerse yourself in history:

Visit the Catacombs of Alexandria (the archaeological site) for a glimpse into the past.

  • Explore the historical downtown:

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture of the Alexandria Fish Market

  • Try “Ful Medames”:

This is a delicious and traditional Egyptian dish made from fava beans, perfect for experiencing the local cuisine.

  • Things to know:

The Alexandria National Museum, a modern museum with fascinating artifacts from the ancient world, showcases the rich history of Alexandria through historical periods.

Things to do in Alexandria:

  • Enjoy the beautiful architecture: Explore the charming cafes and restaurants lining the Alexandria Corniche, a vibrant promenade along the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is a modern building with exhibits on ancient and modern Egyptian history and culture.

  • Experience the local culture:

Enjoy a day trip to the Alexandria Library and soak up the historical atmosphere of the place.

  • Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods: Alexandria has many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Visit the ancient part of the city, with its Roman ruins and ancient architecture.

  • Enjoy the bustling markets: The Corniche is a great place to find fresh seafood and local produce.

  • Experience the history of Alexandria:

Explore the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa - a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman past.

  • Explore the modern city:

Visit the Alexandria Bibliotheca, which is a modern architectural masterpiece and a treasure trove of knowledge.

  • Things to see:

  • The ancient library Alexandria (Bibliotheca): The Alexandrian National Museum has fascinating exhibitions on Egyptian history, from ancient times to the present.

  • Explore the modern Alexandria National Museum:

Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a treasure trove for those interested in the past and present.

  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and enjoy a delicious meal of “Koshari” (a traditional Egyptian dish) at one of the many restaurants on the Corniche.

  • Indulge in culinary delights: Explore the modern and traditional cuisine of Alexandria, including the fresh seafood at the Fish Market.

  • Explore the historic architecture:

The “Alexandria Bibliotheca” boasts stunning architecture and a rich collection of artifacts from the ancient world.

Things to see:

  • Ancient Egyptian relics: Visit the Egyptian Museum, the Pompeys Pillar, or the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa.

  • Explore the ancient catacombs in Alexandria, a reminder of the city’s ancient past.

Other things to enjoy:

  • Alexandria National Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region.
  • The Catacombs of Alexandria:

Explore the historical significance of this ancient burial site.

  • Enjoy the modern architecture:

Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is a modern library with a unique design and exhibitions on the city’s ancient past.

Alexandria’s rich history:

Alexandria offers a fascinating glimpse into Alexandria’s ancient past through its catacombs (the ancient burial site) and the vibrant atmosphere of the historic Alexandria area.

  • Things to see: The Alexandria Bibliotheca exhibits artifacts from the ancient Egyptian civilization, like those found in the Catacombs of Alexandria.

  • Enjoy the modern architecture of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

  • Enjoy a modern experience: Explore the vibrant nightlife and restaurants along the Corniche, the modern waterfront promenade.

  • Try other activities:

Other things to see and do:

  • Explore the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa: This underground museum is an incredible sight to behold, with its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
  • Visit the Alexandria Bibliotheca, a local landmark showcasing the city’s rich history.

Enjoy the beauty of Alexandria:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the “Alexandria National Museum”

  • Explore the ancient and modern architecture of the city.

The “Alexandria Bibliotheca” is a popular attraction with beautiful exhibits and displays.

  • Explore the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa: This ancient site is a must-see for those interested in history, and the “Egyptian Museum” (which you’ll find in Alexandria) offers an excellent way to learn about the city’s rich past.

Enjoy the vibrant “Alexandrian Corniche”:

  • Stroll along the waterfront: The “Corniche” is a beautiful promenade where you can enjoy fresh air and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood meal: Try the traditional Egyptian cuisine and find inspiration in the ancient architecture of the “Bibliotheca”.

The “Alexandrian Bibliotheca” is a modern museum, but it’s important to remember that this is a general description for “Alexandria” as a whole. You can adjust it to be more specific about the exhibits themselves, such as:

  • “The Catacombs of Alexandria” are a historical site, a testament to the ancient city.

The “Egyptian Bibliotheca” features a variety of exhibits and artifacts, including:

  • Ancient Egyptian tombs: Explore the fascinating history and symbolism behind these ancient burial sites.

  • Mummies:

Learn about the process of mummification in ancient Egypt and how it played a role in their religious beliefs.

  • The “Alexandria Bibliotheca” is a testament to the city’s rich history:

Discover the history of Alexandria, from its founding by Alexander the Great to its modern-day significance.

Things to note:

  • The “Alexandrian” artifacts are located in the “Corniche” and reflect the city’s past as a major port city.

  • Modern Egypt has a variety of cultural experiences to offer, including:

  • The Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A stunning modern architectural marvel built on the site of the ancient Bibliotheca Alexandria.

  • The “Alexandria National Museum” offers a range of exhibitions showcasing the historical and archaeological treasures of the region.

  • The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, the ancient city’s vibrant past is reflected in the “Alexandria National Museum”.