Best Things to Do in Alexandria

Alexandria is a city with a rich history that once served as the capital of Egypt from the time of its establishment by Alexander the Great until the Arab conquest almost 1,000 years later. It was once home to iconic landmarks such as the Pharos Lighthouse, the Royal Library, and the obelisks known as Queen Cleopatra's needles. The city was also known for its diverse, multi-ethnic community comprising immigrants from Greece, Italy, France, and the Levant.

Today, visitors can still explore remnants of Alexandria's glorious past. For instance, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, inaugurated in 2002, stands as a modern reimagining of the city's ancient library. Designed by the Norwegian architecture firm Snohetta, the library houses around 1.8 million books and features four museums, including ones exhibiting rare manuscripts and antiquities.

Additionally, the Graeco-Roman Museum, which recently reopened after an 18-year closure for renovation, offers a treasure trove of over 6,000 artifacts, showcasing the city's rich history and heritage.

The Serapeum, a temple dedicated to the Greco-Egyptian god Serapis, and Pompey's Pillar, a 27-meter-high column made from Aswan granite, are also significant historical sites in Alexandria, offering insights into the city's past.

Unlike the museums and other historical sites in Alexandria that close at 4 pm, Fort Qaitbay is open until 7 pm. This makes it a perfect place to visit at the end of the day, allowing you to watch the sunset and admire the views. After your visit, you can have a seafood meal at the nearby Greek Club, and grab an ice cream at Azza for dessert on the walk back from the harbor.