Top Tourist Attractions in Alexandria

Alexandria, the second-largest city in Egypt, offers a fascinating glimpse into the influence of the ancient Greeks and Romans on the country's development. The city was founded by Alexander the Great and became a significant cultural center during the Hellenistic era, which lasted from 323 to 31 BC.

Although Alexandria has lost much of its former glory, it remains a popular Egypt destination, away from the hustle and bustle of other Egyptian cities. It is now a relaxed and sophisticated port city with a range of historical attractions, including Roman ruins and subterranean catacombs. It is also an excellent place to dine out, especially if you enjoy fresh seafood.

The following are some of the popular tourist attractions in Alexandria, Egypt:

1. Graeco-Roman Museum: 

This archaeological museum is dedicated to the Roman rule of Alexandria. It showcases a collection of artifacts from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century AD, providing an extensive insight into the time of the Roman Empire and its legacy in the region. It takes about an hour to tour the museum.

2. Pompey’s Pillar: 

This 25-meter-high pillar, made from granite, was built in 297 AD in honor of Emperor Diocletian. It is part of the Temple of Serapis, which was previously used to store manuscripts of the Great Library of Alexandria. The pillar is a popular historical attraction and takes about 30 to 45 minutes to explore. It's worth mentioning that the Pompey Pillar Square is a great place to hang out, and the streets are lined with chic cafes, which provide a refreshing break from the cuisine elsewhere in Egypt.

3. Citadel of Qaitbay: 

This defensive fortress was constructed in 1477 during the reign of Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay. The citadel protects the Eastern Harbour on the northern tip of the Pharos islands. It is one of the best things to do in Alexandria, Egypt, as it played a crucial role in the protection, development, and politics of the city. It takes approximately an hour to tour the historical fort.

4. Mostafa Kamel Hellenistic Necropolis:

 This necropolis dates back to the 2nd century BCE and was discovered when the ground was leveled to make a football field. It is an excellent place to learn about ancient Egypt and features four tombs with intricate carvings and frescoes. Exploring this place takes about 30 to 45 minutes.