Alexandria, Egypt-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Ancient History and Vibrant Culture

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress built on the site where the Great Lighthouse once stood. Admission fee is around 100 EGP (6 USD).
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the nearby Bathhouse of the Knights Templar, a well-preserved ancient Roman bath complex.
  • 12:30 PM: Head to the bustling Souk el-Attarine for lunch and some shopping. Try local street food like falafel or shawarma from one of the many vendors.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the National Museum of Alexandria, home to a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other treasures. Admission fee is around 100 EGP (6 USD).
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Koshari Abou Tarek, a popular local restaurant serving traditional Egyptian cuisine. Be sure to try their famous koshari dish!

Day 2: Beaches and Water Activities

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Borg El Arab Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply people-watching.
  • 11:30 AM: Take a stroll along the scenic Corniche, a 7-kilometer-long waterfront promenade lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants, such as Abou El Sid, which serves delicious seafood and other local specialties.
  • 3:00 PM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline from a different perspective.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Fisherman’s Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 3: History, Culture, and Architecture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Alexandria Library, a historic library complex that dates back to the Ptolemaic period.
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the beautiful Abu Kabeer Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Egypt and a great example of Islamic architecture.
  • 12:30 PM: Head to the Alexandria Museum of Fine Arts for lunch and some culture. Admission fee is around 100 EGP (6 USD).
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Egyptian Railway Museum, which showcases a collection of vintage trains and locomotives.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Bodega, a cozy restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine with a twist.

Day 4: Exploration and Relaxation

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Alexandria Aquarium, home to a diverse range of marine life from around the world.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the charming Montazah Palace, a beautiful palace complex that was once the summer residence of King Fouad II.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area, such as The Coffee House.
  • 3:00 PM: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the surrounding streets and shops.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Koshari Abou Tarek, where you can try some of their famous dishes one last time.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Sofitel Alexandria Citadel & Casino: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Hotel Cecil Beach Club: A 4-star hotel situated on the beach, with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
  • Hostel Alexandria: A budget-friendly hostel option, with dorms and private rooms available.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Widely available throughout the city, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any disputes.
  • Uber: Also available in Alexandria, with a range of options including UberX, UberPool, and UberBlack.
  • Public Transportation: The city has an extensive network of buses and microbuses that can take you to most areas.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Egypt is a conservative country, so be sure to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  • Bargain: Haggling is a way of life in Egypt, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices at markets and shops.
  • Try the Food: Egyptian cuisine is delicious and varied, so be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit.

Other Interesting Things

  • Visit the nearby city of Port Said, which was once a major port on the Suez Canal.
  • Take a day trip to the nearby city of Damietta, which offers a range of historical and cultural attractions.
  • Explore the beautiful beaches and coastal towns surrounding Alexandria.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Alexandria, Egypt!