Alexandria Egypt 7 Day Itinerary

Alexandria, Egypt 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

  • Arrival: Arrive at Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) or take a domestic flight from Cairo
  • Accommodation: Check-in to Hotel Windsor Palace or similar
  • Lunch: Try some seafood at Abu Ali Fish Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a subterranean burial site (open 9am-4pm, EGP 80 entrance fee)
    • Explore the Roman Amphitheater, one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the Mediterranean
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Corniche, the waterfront promenade with stunning views of the Mediterranean

Day 2: Ancient Wonders

  • Breakfast: Enjoy Egyptian pastries and coffee at CafĂ© Delices
  • Morning:
    • Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library and museum (open 10am-4pm, EGP 20 entrance fee)
    • Explore the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fort built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse
  • Lunch: Savor Egyptian cuisine at Koshari Abou Tarek
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Greco-Roman Museum, featuring a vast collection of artifacts (open 9am-4pm, EGP 120 entrance fee)
    • Wander through the Anfushi Tombs, a series of ancient burial sites

Day 3: Beach Day and Local Life

  • Morning: Relax at Stanley Beach, one of Alexandria’s most popular beaches
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at Fish Market Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Alexandria Fish Market, a bustling marketplace offering a glimpse into local life
    • Explore the Attarine neighborhood, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere

Day 4: Day Trip to Abusir

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Abusir, a village about 30 km west of Alexandria (approximately 1-hour drive)
  • Visit: The Abusir Necropolis, featuring several ancient tombs and temples
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch or try local cuisine at one of the village’s restaurants
  • Return to Alexandria in the evening

Day 5: More Ancient Wonders

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Pompey’s Pillar, a 25-meter-high granite column (open 9am-4pm, EGP 80 entrance fee)
    • Explore the Temple of Taposiris Magna, an ancient temple dedicated to Osiris
  • Lunch: Try some international cuisine at Byblos Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Alexandria National Museum, featuring a collection of artifacts and exhibits (open 9am-4pm, EGP 120 entrance fee)

Day 6: Leisure Day

  • Morning: Relax at your hotel or explore the city on your own
  • Lunch: Enjoy seafood at La Veranda Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche
    • Visit the Montaza Palace Gardens, a beautiful park with gardens and fountains

Day 7: Departure

  • Checkout: From your hotel
  • Departure: Head to Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) or take a domestic flight from Cairo for your onward journey

Things to Know

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Dress Code: Modest dress is recommended. Avoid revealing clothing and respect local customs.
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions to stay safe in crowded areas and be mindful of your belongings.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Yellow cabs are widely available, but agree on the fare beforehand.
  • Microbuses: Affordable public transportation, but can be crowded.
  • Walking: Alexandria is a walkable city, but be cautious of traffic and uneven sidewalks.

Tips

  • Haggling: Expect to haggle at markets and with taxi drivers.
  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Learn Some Arabic Phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “Shukraan” (thank you) and “As-salamu alaykum” (hello).

Other Things of Interest

  • Alexandria’s Beaches: Enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, such as Stanley Beach, Miami Beach, and Sidi Abdel Rahman Beach.
  • Local Markets: Explore the bustling markets, like the Souk Al Attarine, for a glimpse into local life.
  • Coptic Orthodox Church: Visit the historic church, which dates back to the 3rd century AD.