Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria was once one of the ancient world’s greatest cities — home to the legendary Library of Alexandria and the towering Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, Egypt’s “Pearl of the Mediterranean” blends this deep history with a genuinely different atmosphere from Cairo — coastal, cosmopolitan, and shaped by centuries of Greek, Roman, and European influence.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
A striking modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, this vast, tilted disc-shaped building houses millions of books, several museums, and a planetarium — a symbolic revival of antiquity’s greatest centre of learning. Read our full Bibliotheca Alexandrina guide →
The Citadel of Qaitbay
Built in the 15th century on the very site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks, its coastal fortress setting offering sweeping Mediterranean views.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
One of the largest Roman-era burial sites in Egypt, these underground catacombs blend Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles in a genuinely unique combination — a fascinating look at how cultures merged in ancient Alexandria.
Pompey’s Pillar
A towering 20-meter red granite column, originally part of a temple complex dedicated to Serapis, and one of the largest ancient monolithic columns still standing in Egypt outside of Karnak.
The Corniche and Mediterranean Coastline
Alexandria’s long seafront promenade, the Corniche, offers a completely different pace from inland Egypt — a place to relax by the Mediterranean, dine on fresh seafood, and take in the city’s coastal charm.
Visiting Alexandria
Most visitors combine Alexandria with a Cairo-based trip, either as a full-day excursion or an overnight stay, given the roughly 2.5-3 hour drive between the two cities.
Explore our Alexandria tour packages →
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Alexandria?
A full day is enough to see Alexandria’s main highlights — the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel, and the Catacombs — though an overnight stay allows for a more relaxed pace.
How far is Alexandria from Cairo?
Approximately 2.5-3 hours by road, making it a popular day trip or overnight addition to a Cairo-based itinerary.
What is Alexandria known for?
Alexandria is known for its ancient history as home to the legendary Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), as well as its Mediterranean coastal charm.
Can I visit Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo?
Yes — Alexandria is a popular full-day excursion from Cairo, easily combined with a private guided tour.
